https://www.mormonchronicle.com/homosexuality-and-the-gospel-a-scriptural-refutation-of-modern-propaganda/

A correct understanding of the scriptures should precede any commentary on this issue, whether or not one’s brother is a General Authority. Judging by most of the comments on this page, few people have turned to the scriptures to seek guidance on this issue, yet we know that the Lord does not give new revelation on issues that He has already addressed elsewhere. I have many more things to say on this issue, but they have basically all been said in the article. I hope you will read it.

But I agree with your larger point that we need more detailed data to draw conclusions.

Ted, there’s no doubt there are homophobic people who conflate the law of chastity into a fear or loathing of those who are gay. How many people do that I’m a bit more skeptic. But of course you don’t need many people doing it for people to encounter it. On the other hand there are many people who do love unconditionally as well. Part of the problem though is that some demand as love full acceptance of the act, which most members are not willing to do given their commitments to the law of chastity. I’d fully agree that we, as members, still struggle here and still could definitely do a better job. But I also think, as past discussions here have attested, there’s a certain unbridgeable gulf as well between expectations.

Are we talking about the same “policy” here? – b/c I have no idea what you’re talking about.

I think it is nice that this book was published by Deseret Book. However, how does this square with the separating policies of the church concerning LGTBQ couples and their children? Also, the church still looks down on these individuals as sinful and clearly less than. E. Oaks validated these policies and attitudes recently in Conference. So, publishing the book seems to be more about the church wanting to be seen as “lovingly” and condescendingly putting the LGTBQ community on restriction. The church still “loves” these poor wretched souls that are still lost. It puts out its hand but still has the other hand clenched in a fist.

As much as I like many of the themes in his book and appreciate the caveat he repeatedly gives that he does not advocate his path for others (leaving a partner/spouse, etc.), I can’t help but be annoyed at the fact that this is more of a white-washed faith-promoting story as opposed to a true memoir. His is a rose-colored story of finding opportunities and of being quite blessed and frankly, lucky. I think it would have been more valuable if he had drawn out more of the pain, more of the ostracism and experienced more of a typical response from neighbors, PH leaders and ward members. More realistic struggles would have made the narrative more relatable. I wonder whether having a close GA relative makes a difference in his life experience. Who’s going to throw darts at a GA’s brother? I don’t think that he is the “norm” and additionally, I think he has high emotional intelligence and looks past the pain to focus on the goal. He didn’t “go dark” in his book by describing the psychological/social torture in vivid detail. He instead focused on the “helpers” in his life, the outcome, and the steps he took to get there. Ok. Fair enough, but the epic looses value without the trauma. The end result of this approach is yet another super positive example held up to the saints that many/most are not capable of obtaining. If people find solace, inspiration, and value to it, then great, but I think that it lacks the emotional vulnerability to help LGBT people who have been far less fortunate in our midst. Maybe another way of saying all this is a guy talking matter-of-factly instead of someone writing with their heart on their sleeve. His action and intent were extremely vulnerable and admirable, but I’m not convinced that his writing or narrative is.