Awk, while I think we can be overly critical, I also think we should be self-reflexive and see if we could be doing more. That kind of self-evaluation is healthy and important. Certainly if someone were to say, “Mormons are bad because of self-indulgent praise of how they are doing” I’d agree that’s overly critical. Some critics certainly do make silly criticisms of that sort. However I do think being careful to balance portraying what Mormonism means with humility is important.

I am grateful, however, the Church and its talented people respond to these kinds of disasters. It brings out the best in us even if we don’t miss the opportunity to very publicly pat ourselves on the back for it.

“Faced with the dilemma between publicizing the good works and results of its worldwide humanitarian efforts on the one hand and appearing self-promotional on the other, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints attempts to find a balance and walk that fine line.”

It’s very difficult line to walk. Having worked in Houston this past weekend, I can tell you that the sheer numbers of members helping was impressive (10,000 that weekend, throughout Southeast Texas), and I found myself hoping it would be reported to some extent (I don’t think any national publications have picked up the story, however). I’ve got to think as an organization, we are by far the largest contingent of volunteers, and “letting that light so shine” — at least internally with other members–is a positive thing.

It’s on display in so much of what I do as well, so this is not a holier than thou moment. But rather a realization, that no matter what we, our neighbors, our church, etc. does, wherever we have some small axe to grind we don’t hesitate to let that color our perspective in every way.

Now imagine the approach the Brethren take at conference in their various addresses. How often do they speak well of others and look on the bright side and encourage the church members based on the good we’re doing rather than nit pick. I think they are setting the better pattern to follow, because it’s clearly the pattern the Lord desires for us to improve.

I realize it would be a challenge to take a step back and stop comparing and contrasting what others are doing wrong, and instead focus on what they are doing right. But I think society would be so much better off. Again, I realize this means that we turn the other cheek when we see something offend our sensibilities, and instead focus on the positive. But maybe that’s where wisdom comes in. Surely, we can all acknowledge that posting about yellow shirts won’t change anything for the positive, but instead thanking so many for being willing to serve and encouraging others to do so, would be a positive effort.

Jimbob I think the key is letting light shine in such a way that God and not you end up illuminated. In this sense while I agree with Clark that self-molding is the right way to see and interpret our stories, I’d sure like to see the newsroom catch more of this spirit. Their current orientation–though I believe it still has Clark’s intended effect–is very much that of typical marketing and self-promotion.

While helping clean out homes, some other groups also came and helped. Some were very unorganized and started working on a home without really even talking with the homeowner or even verbally getting their consent. I *think* the folks were honestly just trying to help, but the homeowner got very nervous and when and hid her jewelry just in case. Being a bit more open about being Mormon helping hands and (almost) all having a yellow shirt gave some comfort to others. I still would rather do it more anonymously.

I had to laugh where you said, “so we mold ourselves”. Actually right now in Houston, we are working in the middle of MOLD