Sunday in Outer Blogness: Getting Along Edition!!

Was that eclipse amazing or what? (If the eclipse alone is not awe inspiring enough, please see these beautiful art photos of naked men in the light of the eclipse.)

In Mormon culture news, BYU released an interesting study of profanity use that some people are taking seriously, sort of. Other items include the need for indoctrination, the peace denial brings, and keeping the Sabbath Day holy. Valuable tips: be careful who you take advice from and (if you want to stop masturbating) pretend you’re normal. Mormonism can present special challenges for families. On the positive side, Kevin Barney describes a really cool Mormon idea for building community.

I think the “culture wars” are really depressing. I mentioned the “culture wars” to a German friend who wanted to discuss American politics, but he’d never heard the term, and I was at a bit of a loss to explain it. I wish I’d had this poll handy. Maybe I’m just becoming one of those get off my lawn people, just imagining that things are getting worse, but people inventing a whole divisive psychological profile for people on the other side of the political divide is so unfortunate (and it’s not just about the chain-email-style professors — read the comments here about modern parents). Aren’t we all capable of living in a society together and (if people can’t get along) at least giving each other the benefit of the doubt?

It’s not easy when women’s bodies have become a battleground.

In related news, the American Family Association and Bill Donahue give you lists of which companies to support. In Pleasant Grove another person-corporation proves that he who smelt it, dealt it.

In church history, Mormon Heretic has been transcribing some interviews with my brother on the subject of what happened after Joseph Smith died, and Zomarah provides a very interesting chart showing that — by its own definition — the CoJCoL-dS is in a state of apostasy. Or read the same general idea out of the mouths of babes.

In Theology, there’s some confusion over which things are the small stuff that you’re not supposed to sweat. Other mysteries include what happens after you live a full life and how is the Bible like the Australian Postal Service? Also noted about the CoJCoL-dS: Runtu’s once-favorite faith-promoting tale is false, but fortunately another Mormon has found new proof of the gospel. Ben is filling in the details of the top 10 smoking guns. On the positive side the New Testament may contain some Humanist values, and scientists are working on communication strategies.

And, no SiOB would be complete without the grab bag of not-Mormon-related topics by former-or-borderland-or-whatever Mormon bloggers! Like jealousy, difficult Algebra problems, forgiving yourself, the amazing Island of Socotra, relationships, the joy of gardening, and an adorable girl turns 4!! Also, I had the pleasure of meeting Jana Remy in person!! Plus, as a flip side to last week’s piece making fun of gay culture, Dad’s Primal Scream describes what’s great about being gay and out.

So, this is another Monday-morning SiOB — partially because all of Saturday was devoted to one of the most amazing exmo get-togethers I’ve ever had the pleasure of participating in!! Four families gathered for a scenic river cruise and then a delicious BBQ — under the most beautiful sunny weather we could have asked for! Given how random the weather in Switzerland tends to be this time of year, it was almost like divine intervention!! Then, all day Sunday was devoted to my son’s birthday party (he turned 9), so I didn’t quite get this column done before bed. Fortunately, it is some kind of Catholic holiday here in Switzerland, so I have time in the morning to finish it up. I hope it’s a holiday where you’re at as well, so you have time to read all these great links!!!

Have a great week!!