Duck Dynasty: Drawing the Line

I have always been a huge Duck Dynasty fan, there is no denying this fact. News about Phil Robertson’s suspension from the A&E network has flooded new’s feeds across the world. At first I was impressed by Phil because he stood up for what he believed in, which is not always an easy task no matter the belief. As I delved deeper into the GQ article (which is not super appropriate) I was shocked at his delivery of his sentiments rather than his beliefs. His beliefs are similar to mine, I am a Christian, I am a Mormon, I am a straight American girl, I have had many friends who are gay, and have studied the culture at Utah State University while receiving my Women’s and Gender Studies Certificate. I  personally believe that being homosexual was not what God intended our purpose to be, but He sent us to earth to procreate, to multiply and replenish the earth. Physically, a homosexual couple can not do that in God’s natural way. I understand that everyone has their beliefs on this subject and I want you to know I respect that. I think the way Phil expressed his views about the difference in the “anus” and the “vagina” was not done in the most appealing or appropriate way. His statements about gays has created havoc in the cyber world that has created more animosity in our world. This sparked something in my mind that I have been fighting with for months. Homosexuality is not only about the physical intimacy, it is about the emotional connection. When you make a blanket statement like that it infers that it’s the only part of a homosexual relationship, from a LGBT standpoint that can come off demeaning… Like any heterosexual relationship there are many levels. With that in mind it has been hard for me to draw the line.

Learning to draw the line. It is hard to live in a torn world, one who wants to accept gay people and the now cultural norm and ones who do not  support it at all because of their respective beliefs and values that they are entitled to. It’s true that I do not believe in supporting gay marriage, but that doesn’t mean I don’t love, respect and appreciate those who identify that way. Phil Robertson said “I would never treat anyone with disrespect just because they are different from me. We are all created by the Almighty and like Him, I love all of humanity. We would all be better off if we loved God and loved each other.” His words couldn’t ring clearer, because I do care about everyone. So when is it okay to draw the line? In our society I think everyone should respect each other and treat each other with a genuine kindness, just like our Savior Jesus Christ would and our Father in Heaven. Just because you do this does not mean you support their lifestyle choices. According to my religious beliefs it is not in line with God’s plan to be homosexual, however that is not for me to judge, it is for God to judge and he is a kind and all knowing God. I have realized that my role in all of this controversy is to hold onto my testimony of what I believe, to not let it falter at the ways of the world, and to constantly strengthen it.

Questions on Gays in the Mormon church check the website out

Questions about the Mormon Church in General check this website out