Yes, it is that time again, when I rant and rave about the pathetic casualization of members of my faith. Once again Emily and I attended what should have been a nice, church dress, New Beginnings program (and I use the term program loosely). I worked all day, Emily had to stay after school, so we had to hurry home to change and get back into the chapel. Now, I will admit, I was tempted to just wear what I had on, but in all good conscience I couldn't do it. So "suited up" Emily asked me on the way in if I thought we would be the only ones there in church dress, I told her, "I'm afraid so, but just because they have lowered their standards doesn't mean I will lower ours."
Sure enough, they stared dazedly at us, as if we were the confused ones. However, I was soon justified when--- glory be...the stake leaders showed up in dresses!! Don't worry, I'm sure all the ward young women and their leaders still felt right at home in their skin tight jeans, athletic shorts and yes...even some sweat pants.
In fact one of the leaders in front of Emily and I (slouching in her tennis shoes and fleece jogging jacket) was commenting to another leader "I'm glad I only have boys, I just couldn't get into the whole girl thing." And my only thought was, "I'm glad you only have boys too, at least they won't learn how to dress from you". I know that sounds pretty mean, but I don't care. They all own dresses - I've seen them wearing them on Sunday.
There are two major programs each year associated with the Young Women's Program, New Beginnings and Evening of Excellence. Neither of these programs are surprise parties- aka they should be planned well in advanced, not..."hey you're here! Want to read a part in this skit I just downloaded from the Internet? I don't have the props, in fact I only have one copy of the skit and it requires 4 girls, but hey let's all have a goofy fun time."
Gee...I wonder why they have such a hard time getting girls to earn their Young Womenhood Award.
