Letter to the Editor: LDS should get to know those they are trying to convert

Dear Editor,

I was recently given a gift-wrapped copy of The Book of Mormon by a fellow classmate, whom I have never really conversed with before. While I am sure this is a common occurrence to those people who are not members of the LDS faith, I felt that this gesture was inappropriate, disrespectful and offensive. I have personally talked to the people who gave me this literature and this editorial is not meant to be a personal attack on them. Instead, my intentions are simply to let people know how some non-LDS people feel about receiving the Book of Mormon.

I know this book was given to me with kind intentions. However, to me, it felt more like a personal attack on my faith. For one, I never asked for this information, nor did I ever give an inclination to wanting it. Second, I proclaim my religious beliefs very openly to the people around me, yet it was still ASSUMED that I would want (or would benefit from receiving) this book. What bothered me the most however, was the fact that these people knew nothing about me before doling out unsolicited literature. I am not sure if it was taken into consideration that I might know a great deal about the LDS faith (from years of research and deep consideration of it) or that I already have 6 other copies of The Book of Mormon. I have talked to other “non-members” and they had similar feelings and reactions. They also expressed feelings of being constantly pressured by the surrounding, missionary driven, LDS majority.

I would like to urge all members of the LDS faith to get to know people before approaching them with your agenda. Find out if they even want information! Remember, this is still America and we have the right to believe and practice our own faiths! Please respect that. God Bless.

Amy Montuoro