This was the apex of my disappointment initially.. I joined in 1969 when Joseph and Oliver 'sat together physically translating the golden plates'. What a shock to learn it was a total fabrication...the nascent truth about most of the story to come later ( lds.org/Essays). Perhaps he suffered from hypoxia from his head remaining in his hat too long...hallucinations would excuse outright fraud perhaps.

Then came the rest of the story...Book of Abraham folly, polygamy and polyandry. The Priesthood being given to all men at last; oh how I cried for joy until I learned it was a political maneuver to retain the Church's tax exempt status.

As a Bishop's wife my pain at having to play my part in a charade was palpable...also my fear...my marriage, my entire extended family..what would happen if I disclosed my total doubt in the myth?

Luckily my husband still respects and adores me although we have discordant beliefs . Our kids
understand...grandkids remain faithful returned missionaries of readying for calls. Perhaps we raised them as freer thinkers than I believed. My Siblings remain close. I'm even asked to ask a "blessing on the food", of course it isn't like theirs. Mine thanks the Tao for providence and requests sufficient for all and gives thanks for the plants and animals which provided our bounty.
no amens in anyone's name either.

I'm free, finally free from fear and guilt at not seeing the' Emporer's New Clothes'.'

respectfully,
Sue