Developing a personal belief system after giving up the LDS ideology has been an evolutionary process for me. At some point in my intellectual development, I discovered that the concept of an anthropomorphic god who created universes and intervened in the lives of human beings was not logical. I really had nothing to replace the certainty provided by the LDS gospel, and began the search of a philosophy that would make sense of the nonsense we call life. The search has been long, and at times painful. The longing for certainty and meaning at times make a return to the LDS faith almost desirable. But today, at age 67, I feel comfortable with the knowledge that uncertainty is the only certainty, and that honest relationships with people is rewarding. Sharing my feelings, being of service, and giving others opportunities to develop their talents are some of the rewarding spiritual aspects of life. The philosophies expressed in Humanist Manifestos I and II are excellent guidelines for the continuing development of my personal belief system.

I continue to admire the social and community ideals of the LDS church. The concepts of freedom of choice, personal responsibility, concern for the poor, community involvement, and the many individual and social concerns of the LDS religious philosophy are secular ideals that I support. But I endorse such ideals because they will result in a better life on this earth, not some reward after death in another sphere.

I believe it is unfortunate that the religious fears of punishment, rather than intrinsic rewards of self realization, are major motivators of many peoples.

--Flo Wineriter