Important announcement of mine. (please read the whole thing)

[XUNUSEDXXX 3,459]

Aww. I never really talked to you, but your topics and posts were always interesting and your story about how you donated to the site was really touching. Have a good time on your mission trip, and we will be eagerly awaiting your return!

[TheEngineer 188]

Oh man, I've been thinking the past several days how I was going to write this thread. I wish to make this as clear as possible. Please read the entire post before asking questions or making judgements. But first, why am I telling you this? You guys have treated me, and pretty much everyone here very well, so deserve to know, unlike other internet communities I am a part of.

 

If you haven't already figured it out, this is a good-bye thread, but a little different. Of course, let me explain.

 

I am a member of the LDS church, otherwise known as the "Mormon church" (a common nickname). Every young man of around 20 has the opportunity and duty to serve full-time for two years as a missionary for the church. Crazy huh? Well, I've made my decision about this a while ago, I'm just telling you that's why I'm leaving the forums.

 

Every person who gets called to a mission receives a letter from the leadership of the LDS church telling him where he will serve, and what date he will start. I'm called to serve in Boise, Idaho, but people get called almost everywhere in the world as well as the US. Feel free to ask about this process if you wish.

 

Most importantly to this forum, is when I am leaving; November 7th of this year. So I have about two months before I leave. The next question you may have is so what? Can't I come on the forums on my mission? Here's your answer: I cannot. What I mean is, I do have access to the internet but it is against Church missionary rules to do so. Anything pertaining to entertainment is disallowed for missionaries because it will distract from the purpose of sacrificing two years of our time.

 

This means no television, no radio, no internet (for entertainment), and yes this includes MLPforums and watching MLP:FiM. Part of making a decision to serve a mission like I am, involves sacrificing our time, possessions, and money for a two year period.

 

When I finish my two year mission, I will resume my life hopefully the same way I left it, just two years older. Perhaps things will change during this time, but that's life. My point is, I consider this mission, as we call it, a blessing and a tremendous opportunity to serve God. I wouldn't do this for just a church, I'm doing this because it's what I believe in.

 

Alright, with all this said, my purpose in letting you know does not involve trying to shove my religion in your face and down your throat. Although I would LOVE for you guys to go to http://www.mormon.org and read about my church, this thread's real purpose is to merely inform those of you who know me on this board. What I don't want is people to think I left for good without explaining why. Without this thread, some of you might be wondering, "Hey, where did that My little pwny guy go? I haven't seen him in 15 months."

 

Oh... and another thing... I look like an attention whore huh? With my donation (which I haven't regretted for a second) I seem like a very volatile person. To be honest, the two year mission thing is not uncommon. Some of you may already be aware of this concept, in fact, I bet some of you may even be a part of the LDS church.

 

Another reason why I was willing to tell you guys about this is because I know the brony community is very loving and tolerating. Some communities out there would make fun of me, my religion, and my decision but you guys are very mature and understanding. I thank all of you in advance.

 

So starting November 7th 2012, you will not be hearing from me until November 8th, 2014. I look forward to seeing you guys then, as well as all the movies, t.v. shows, and all the new MLP episodes I will miss during that time. I hope that the brony community will still be going strong in 2014, so keep the seat warm for me!!! I love you guys, and if I don't get a chance to say it before I leave, consider this my....

 

See ya later MLPforums! I love you all!

 

-My Little pwny

__________________________________________________________

 

A few side notes about this thread. Once again, please read everything before you post. I know some of you won't but it's worth mentioning. I will not be discussing this topic outside of this thread or on PMs, so please treat me like a regular poster in the meantime.

 

Please do not hijack this thread into a religion discussion, I'm not here to have my mind changed, or to convert you. I ask you to respect that. You are free to ask any question you like, but if it has something to do with the LDS church's doctrine or my personal beliefs, I will only respond with a link and a short sentence, if I respond at all. PM's are welcome if you have questions, I'll be more likely to answer them if you do that. Thank you all

 

No offense, and I hope you find the path to peace for yourself in all sincerity and compassion, but I'm concerned about you. I don't expect you to respond to this, but look at your situation from an outsider's point of view. What would you think if you were the one looking in on your religion? Ponder that question seriously.

 

Listen, I'm just really concerned. This seems like something that might make you a little too religious afterwards. I can certainly understand a 1-2 week mission trip; but two years? Obviously there is a purpose in this, which is to cement your loyalty, which, remember, you and you alone determine, to the church.

[Creamy Arty 6,252]

In a day where many people say "there are no absolutes," (except for the absolute that there are no absolutes) I can appreciate a man of conviction, whether or not I share all of his beliefs. I hope everything goes smoothly for you. A few good friends of mine are Mormons (just got off the phone with them), so I know exactly what you're going through. One of their sons just finished his mission last year. Thanks for the heads up. Though we haven't spoken at length I feel that I know you pretty well, or at least understand what kind of a person you are. I'll miss you, but I'll keep you in my prayers and think of you every time I come around these parts, and I'll be waiting for you when you're able to return; please do come by just to let us know how you are, even if for whatever reason you determine that you don't want to stay. If you forget your login credentials or something, make a new account, pester the Feldster, or whatever you have to do, but make sure you drop in.

 

As for the show and fanbase: I don't think we're disbanding anytime soon, and the episodes will be easily obtainable, this being the internet and all. You won't miss anything. And who knows how many seasons the show will last?

 

 

Oh, and since you aren't leaving for nearly two months yet, don't be surprised if I end up shadowing you around the forum until then so as to enjoy what time remains.

 

 

[My little pwny 1,392]

No offense, and I hope you find the path to peace for yourself in all sincerity and compassion, but I'm concerned about you. I don't expect you to respond to this, but look at your situation from an outsider's point of view. What would you think if you were the one looking in on your religion? Ponder that question seriously.

 

Listen, I'm just really concerned. This seems like something that might make you a little too religious afterwards. I can certainly understand a 1-2 week mission trip; but two years? Obviously there is a purpose in this, which is to cement your loyalty, which, remember, you and you alone determine, to the church.

 

Those are completely valid questions, but I make no apology for my decision. Since I am obviously not an outsider, I don't have the same perspective because I've been taught about this for as long as I can remember. The only way I can answer your first question is by saying its a sacrifice worth making. There are thousands and thousands of missionaries serving right now and hundreds more like me are waiting to start. It's no accident that so many of us are willing to give up 2 years.

 

Your second question, why two years? Well, this will sound a bit odd to and 'outsider' (as you put it) but believe it or not, the missionary program is a two edged sword. While we are preaching to those who will listen, what is happening at the same time is we are improving ourselves as individuals.

 

Lastly, about your final comment, I'm not serving a mission for my church, I'm serving a mission for God. Yeah, that sounds freakishly religious huh? lol, your right, but that's how I feel. Thanks for your concern by the way, not many people in your position would give a flying crap about this. Honestly, thanks.

[SilverHeart 741]

Well...I don't think we have ever really posted in the same threads together, you have my utmost respect for taking your denomination/religion as seriously as you do. I can only hope that more Catholics/Christians (Including myself) can take our faith as seriously as you do yours.

 

I hope you stay a Brony during those two years and that I will see you on the forums then.

[TheEngineer 188]

Those are completely valid questions, but I make no apology for my decision. Since I am obviously not an outsider, I don't have the same perspective because I've been taught about this for as long as I can remember. The only way I can answer your first question is by saying its a sacrifice worth making. There are thousands and thousands of missionaries serving right now and hundreds more like me are waiting to start. It's no accident that so many of us are willing to give up 2 years.

 

Your second question, why two years? Well, this will sound a bit odd to and 'outsider' (as you put it) but believe it or not, the missionary program is a two edged sword. While we are preaching to those who will listen, what is happening at the same time is we are improving ourselves as individuals.

 

Lastly, about your final comment, I'm not serving a mission for my church, I'm serving a mission for God. Yeah, that sounds freakishly religious huh? lol, your right, but that's how I feel. Thanks for your concern by the way, not many people in your position would give a flying crap about this. Honestly, thanks.

 

Sure, it's just that I care a lot about ya. You were one of the most awesome people who befriended me here and I'm not trying to insult your religion or anything. Just going to miss you, seriously.

Edited September 12, 2012 by TheEngineer

[My little pwny 1,392]

Sorry for this bump, I just wish to show more people this. Thanks for everybody's support, I am very happy that I received such a positive response from you guys.

[Ink 191]

Poor people in Idaho who will get you at their door.

 

In all seriousness, see you in 2014 if this forum is still running by then. Don't really know what else to say since I haven't really talked to you, but ehh, good luck and stuff! The whole "no entertainment" thing sounds extremely strict, I've no idea how I would have managed it.

Edited September 13, 2012 by Shaoni

[Dusty Soul 2,613]

I have a lot of respect for you man... I know I definilly couldn't take 2 years out of my life to do something like that, so you have gained A LOT of respect bro. Good luck on your mission!

[Gone for good 1,593]

Ajfsd;lfsdaj;lkaslkhow did I miss this thread.

 

I'm a mormon myself, and you don't know how many times I thought I was the only mormon brony. Anyway, good luck on your mission dude.

[Jokuc 8,174]

>Joins site

>>Donates $650

>>>Leaves

 

wait, what..?

 

I would never do something like this.. Though I'm an Atheist who doesn't know much about religion at all.

 

Being without internet.. It's like.. Impossible..!

Well I'll be sure to tell you goodbye before you leave

[Glaceon 793]

That's a big sacrifice. Hopefully the forums will still be around when you get back. Add me on Skype if you wish. (So we can keep in contact.)

Another question, what will happen to your Twi plushie?

[aperture_tech 56]

Well, I just joined these forums a little more than a week ago, and I must say, your post about why you donated $630 to the forums was one of the most inspiring things I have ever read. I'll miss you. We will all miss you. Just please, don't forget about us. Can't wait to see you on again. Hope you have a great experience.

[RockinRarity 1,605]

Ah, a nice "goodbye forums" thread.

 

Blessings on your mission! I know a Mormon who left a forum I was active on also for 2 years. He came back, and we were all happy to see him return. A lot can happen in 2 years though, so best of luck to you!

[My little pwny 1,392]

That's a big sacrifice. Hopefully the forums will still be around when you get back. Add me on Skype if you wish. (So we can keep in contact.)

Another question, what will happen to your Twi plushie?

 

I can keep small things with me like pictures, so the only MLP thing I'll have will probably be a Twilight Sparkle trading card so I can feel better when I'm feeling down. As far as the plushy goes, she will have to wait for me too

[Steel Matt 250]

Lastly, about your final comment, I'm not serving a mission for my church, I'm serving a mission for God.

 

This was the response I was looking for! As long as you are doing it because the Holy Spirit has led you, and not leadership in the Church, you are doing the right thing. I am not of the Mormon denomination, but I am a fellow Christian, and I wish you the best of luck on your journey!

 

But then again, luck hasn't really gotten us anywhere. So, I would like to rephrase: I wish you many blessings, and that the Lord would lead and guide your paths, and that no situation will be of coincidence, but all a part of God's plan. I shall be praying for you, and will note to pray for you monthly on your 2 year journey. That would be about a total of 24 times, and for some reason, I find that number significant. Maybe because of a song called "24" by Switchfoot?

 

Not good luck, but rather, God speed! May He lead and guide your paths. Think about the things you have learned here too! Such as the importance of loyalty, kindness, generosity, laughter, honesty, and a little magic in our lives. But the most important one of all:

 

"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love" 1 Corinthians 13:13

 

God Bless!

 

-Steel Matt

[Evilshy 5,091]

I can keep small things with me like pictures, so the only MLP thing I'll have will probably be a Twilight Sparkle trading card so I can feel better when I'm feeling down. As far as the plushy goes, she will have to wait for me too

 

My friend is serving in Brazil right now, and he has his sister mail him pony stickers and book marks and stuff

 

Ah, here I sit, a secret atheist sitting in a BYU dorm, terribly afraid of the consequences of my parents finding out I stopped believing in God and religion in general 5-6 years ago. I've been coming up with ways to put off a mission for as long as possible, the plan being to have a job and a decent amount of money saved up before droppin the bomb and risking getting kicked out :/

 

I have nothing against religion, though, and I still have a lot of respect for the LDS church and it's members. Especially missionaries, since I don't think I could do without my computers and my science and my friends and my books and my games etc for 2 months, let alone 2 years. I hope you enjoy your time serving (you probably will, I haven't met a single RM who regretted going. They were just all a lot more religious than I am. Which isn't hard )

Edited September 14, 2012 by Possibly Evilshy

[Critical Hit 69]

We'll miss you, brah.

I may not agree with your church's doctrine, (I'm a Christian, no denomination.)

but I respect you for using 2 years of your life for this.

[Sunny Fox 5,952]

I admire your dedication to your beliefs and the courage to make an active decision to live it in truth rather than just talk about it. Still, one thing did make me a little sad, this sentence:

"Since I am obviously not an outsider, I don't have the same perspective because I've been taught about this for as long as I can remember."

To me (and please correct me if I am misunderstanding) this implies that your religion is the result of your upbringing, and is best described as "childhood indoctrination". I find that harder to respect than a conscious decision made in adulthood to ascribe to a particular religion (or none). Be that as it may, this decision to dedicate 2 years of your life to missionary work is yours and yours alone, and I respect that. Well, best of luck and all that. As Rainbow Dash would say, see you at the finish line.

[Kapi 215]

I don't know you all that well, nor have I really talked to you much, but reading this, I can see you've put a lot of thought into the subject, and made the right decision, and I respect you for that.

 

I'm sure it'll take a little getting used to, but I know you'll make it through 2 years, and its even better that you will be helping other people.

 

All I can say is good luck, and I hope you enjoy the experience! I don't think I could ever do that, lol.

[My little pwny 1,392]

This was the response I was looking for! As long as you are doing it because the Holy Spirit has led you, and not leadership in the Church, you are doing the right thing. I am not of the Mormon denomination, but I am a fellow Christian, and I wish you the best of luck on your journey!

 

But then again, luck hasn't really gotten us anywhere. So, I would like to rephrase: I wish you many blessings, and that the Lord would lead and guide your paths, and that no situation will be of coincidence, but all a part of God's plan. I shall be praying for you, and will note to pray for you monthly on your 2 year journey. That would be about a total of 24 times, and for some reason, I find that number significant. Maybe because of a song called "24" by Switchfoot?

 

Not good luck, but rather, God speed! May He lead and guide your paths. Think about the things you have learned here too! Such as the importance of loyalty, kindness, generosity, laughter, honesty, and a little magic in our lives. But the most important one of all:

 

"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love" 1 Corinthians 13:13

 

*snip*

 

God Bless!

 

-Steel Matt

 

Thanks bro, your words ring with truth and love. I really appreciate your support and prayers. Thanks for recognizing God's plan in it as well. Your kindness really makes me happy!

My friend is serving in Brazil right now, and he has his sister mail him pony stickers and book marks and stuff

 

Ah, here I sit, a secret atheist sitting in a BYU dorm, terribly afraid of the consequences of my parents finding out I stopped believing in God and religion in general 5-6 years ago. I've been coming up with ways to put off a mission for as long as possible, the plan being to have a job and a decent amount of money saved up before droppin the bomb and risking getting kicked out :/

 

I have nothing against religion, though, and I still have a lot of respect for the LDS church and it's members. Especially missionaries, since I don't think I could do without my computers and my science and my friends and my books and my games etc for 2 months, let alone 2 years. I hope you enjoy your time serving (you probably will, I haven't met a single RM who regretted going. They were just all a lot more religious than I am. Which isn't hard )

 

The problem with a lot of members of the LDS church is we can be judgmental... especially the ones in Utah. The members are generally good people, but when someone in the ranks goes 'astray', sometimes others overreact and think the world is going to end for them. I totally understand why you wound't tell anyone. Earlier this year when I was severely depressed and secretly suicidal, I didn't tell anyone because my family looks down on depression like its a sin. VERY luckily for me I found My Little Pony and the rest was history, but still, I came 'this' close to doing the deed because I couldn't tell my family.

 

The point is, people in the church want the best for us "youth" even if they approach it the exact wrong way. Everyone's human and we can't control what others choose. If only everyone could be like the Bronys and "love and tolerate", that way I think a lot more people would be happier. I respect your decisions whatever they may be, I'll always be your friend. Even if you don't believe God, just know there's a higher power that is unseen that loves you very much no matter what.

 

I admire your dedication to your beliefs and the courage to make an active decision to live it in truth rather than just talk about it. Still, one thing did make me a little sad, this sentence:

"Since I am obviously not an outsider, I don't have the same perspective because I've been taught about this for as long as I can remember."

To me (and please correct me if I am misunderstanding) this implies that your religion is the result of your upbringing, and is best described as "childhood indoctrination". I find that harder to respect than a conscious decision made in adulthood to ascribe to a particular religion (or none). Be that as it may, this decision to dedicate 2 years of your life to missionary work is yours and yours alone, and I respect that. Well, best of luck and all that. As Rainbow Dash would say, see you at the finish line.

 

This is a common question, even inside the LDS church. There's two answers to this. We teach to the youth that as they grow up, they have to have another 'conversion' in their life. So when we get baptized at an early age, we still have to come to a personal decision later in life if we really do believe for ourselves. I.E. the second conversion.

 

The second answer addresses the childhood indoctrination thing itself. We never force people to stay in our church if they choose to leave. Only a cult forces you to stay. Everyone is free to choose their path and no one else can tell them otherwise (although there are many who think they can). So sure, at a very young age we don't know anything else, but once we get older and can think for ourselves, some people leave and others stay. Of course, it's always hard to see people leave and we'd rather see them stay, no one can force religion on another. Hope that answers your question

Edited September 14, 2012 by My little pwny

[moneyshredderofdeath 414]

I wish you the best with your duties. I don't know much about Mormonism so the two-year missionary process is new to me, but restricting yourself from many of the pleasures in life we take for granted today certainly sounds like something requiring a lot of willpower and dedication. Your choice to partake in this is a decision I have a lot of respect for.

[Flicker Sweet 3,391]

wow, what more can one say other than props to you bro!

If you feel called to do this, then I support you 157%! I hope you get alot out of it while you're there!

[My little pwny 1,392]

wow, what more can one say other than props to you bro!

If you feel called to do this, then I support you 157%! I hope you get alot out of it while you're there!

 

I will, thank you! Thank you for everyone's support, I've never felt so accepted in my life as I do in the Brony community. Its a real honor

[Arcanel 3,041]

Wow...that's a lot of commitment from one person my good sir, and I can totally respect that . I wish you luck from here on on your future journey, and may the people that you serve with and that are upon the the doors you reach, may be blessed. It's strange...I'm not an actual Christian per se. As in, I was born and raised Christian, but a while ago, I stopped believe because of...le'ts just call them "serious" resons. Truth is, I think I am still a Christian in my heart, but I don't really know by now. I DO believe in that there's a higher power out there which tries to upkeep the balance of the world. So, kinda like a god, but not THE God, meaning, the biblical God. But I shall by no means disrespect others religions because of it. I think that religion right now has lost a bit of its original meaning, and that, much like Love and Tolerance, it's a more...well..."meh" subject, than something that should mean something stronger. I will always reapect others on any aspect, and if its people like you who make such a serious commitment (I'm gonna be honest here, I don't think I'd be able to sacrifice two years of my life even if they PAID OR FORCED me to. Forever the PC and the Playstation shall stay with me ). But I do wish you luck, and that you are able to bless those who come upon you, and you make the Mormons proud . Besides, it's always nice to see someone who can maturely, and in a more light-hearted manner, explain their reasons to follow their religion, and why do they choose to do such and such. That I commend you for it

 

Wow...I think I ranted more about myself than you...sowwy . Next time, I just LOTS of funny goodbyes and a good see you later than all this .