I have over 12 pages to read before I'll be caught up on the thread. But I have something to say at this time that I feel is important: in one or two prior threads and in this one, I feel some here may have crossed a line when describing some of the beliefs of Chad and Lori, et al.
Firstly, let me say that I am not defending ANY of their beliefs - nor do I share any, for that matter. I also know that we aren't to discuss any religious beliefs; I respect that rule and very much welcome it. I do hope the mods will understand and not delete my post. If it is deleted, or even if I am banned, so be it - I feel strongly enough to risk it.
Given the recent documents released, I feel safe saying that CD and LVD's beliefs clearly stray far from any real, or known, religious or spiritual beliefs. However, in looking at their views as a whole, there actually are some things they believe that many would consider legitimate. For instance, reincarnation. Just as it is incorrect to describe their views as simply "Mormon", it is also wrong to describe their beliefs as simply "new age". Religious and spiritual beliefs are much, much more complex and far-ranging than that, and should not be compared to what CD and LVD are into. In another place online, not here, I've seen meditation, yoga and mindfulness described as crazy and dangerous. However psychiatrists, therapists, addiction counselors and other medical professionals recommend these to people suffering from depression, anxiety and even chronic pain.
As someone who has worked in healthcare 20-some years (and benefited from learning mindfulness and doing yoga), it is real a shame that some will continue to see yoga or meditation that way. But what is far more upsetting to me is to see certain spiritual or new age practices, or beliefs like reincarnation, described here as crazy, wacky voodoo or BS - even if you think they are. Some people think that Christian and Mormon beliefs are unbelievable, crazy BS, but they would never be allowed to post that opinion here - as well they shouldn't. Ideally we should allow others to believe whatever it is we want to believe, though we may not like it. From what I've read about the PaP type groups, there are hundreds or even thousands of people who share some of the beliefs as LVD and CD. Not all of these people believe the same specific things. And, no matter one may feel about where they belong in regards to the LDS church, these people are not murderous psychopaths.
Chad and Lori's beliefs are fair game. The ideas they have put forth (and have used to manipulate their friends and family members) are dangerous and murderous and sick. These beliefs have led to violence and specific harm that cannot be undone. I have a feeling, actually, that it was far less their beliefs that brought out their revolting behavior, and much more that they are greedy and callous, delusional and sociopathic.
I am a fan of every poster here. There is no one here that I disagree with all the time. I would never want to insult or start any issue with someone here, nor would I judge someone (a stranger on the internet) because of one post. I'm not asking anyone to change their opinions or beliefs. And I don't make the rules here; please feel free to ignore any and all of this if you disagree. Everything I've stated is my opinion only.
The crimes we are discussing here are harrowing and heartbreaking. I'm so grateful that I have been able to experience following this story with such a fantastic group. I hope we can all find some comfort in that. And no matter what you believe or don't, I wish you all peace and joy.
