Hello.

[AmericanBulldog]

Hello everyone, I have visited this site on and off for a little over a month now. I would like to tell you a little about myself. I was born in Utah and have lived here my whole life. I have a beautiful wife and two wonderful little boys, we have had our ups and downs, but who hasn't. I was not raised in the church, or with any religion to be honest, but at the age of 18 I joined the LDS church. I had a few good experiences, but had many negative experiences as well, I could not believe the way some of the members treated me shortly after joining. I have been through many phases since joining, but I believe that He has always looked out for me and my family, I also believe He has forgiven me for wrong doings (I have a couple experiences to prove it). To make a long story short I have been away from the faith for about 10 years, until recently when I received this very strong "urge" to get prepared for very bad times ahead and to protect my wife and children. I have been on here reading a lot of posts from everyone and feel that you are true, caring, and helpful people. Thank you.

[Original_Intent]

Welcome sir. I was raised in the church, served a mission to Japan, but also went thru several years of challenges/loss of testimony/employment challenges. Coming up on two years ago I got the same feelings you are having now - or at least very similar. Essentially, I got the feeling that "kinda" being a member was not going to cut it and it was essentially time to grow up and do what I always deep down knew was right. I am grateful for the time I have had to both prepare both temporally and spiritually. Actually, I was always into studying and defending the Constituion, preparedness and provident living, etc. - but it was the church attendance and anything else to do with the church that I was not participating in. (I still studied the scriptures and did a pretty good job of keeping the spirit somewhat close.

Anyway, I am so glad to have you with us and hope we have a long and strong friendship!

[[email protected]]

Hi American Bulldog - I'm pretty new to this forum myself. I was not born and raised in this church but did join at 12 years old (am now 49) I went inactive at about 18 till 23. It was hard for me (my family drank, smoked and alot had long hair - cousins - in the 70's you know!) but they were nicer and had better hearts than a lot of the members I met but my foundation is strong and I have no doubts. I literally had to ask Heavenly Father to help me see them the way He saw them and to love them like He loves them and guess what - it works if we ask - most of the time - I still have 1 or 2 people I REALLY have a hard time loving - hehehehehe!

I'm grateful for those missionaries who knocked on our door!

Glad to meet you - I pop in and out of here, don't have alot of time but I enjoy it!

[durangout]

Welcome! I look forward to your comments. I'm guessing you have a lot to offer so please don't be shy.

[mes5464]

Welcome. I hope we all live up to your assessment of us.

[kathyn]

Welcome, American Bulldog. Glad you have listened to the still small voice and are getting prepared. I've noticed that more and more LDS are feeling the need to prepare.

[Songbird]

Welcome, you will find lots of good stuff here. Follow those promptings and let us know how we can help. BTW this site is addicting, so pace yourself. I'll be first in line to say we are not perfect....(Looking back) Am I the only one in line????? =)) =))