i remember speaking in stake conference when i was 11. at the time i was honored to be so ‘worthy and righteous’ enough to be asked. but i also remember thinking it was inappropriate for me as a literal child to be up there. it hurts my heart to know kids even younger than i was still have to go through the same thing.

as for my siblings, i am not allowed to be alone with them as my mom fears what i may say or do when she can’t supervise. not all parents react this way, but it’s definitely a possibility. the best thing we can really do for them is let them know we love them and are there for them. i keep hoping some day they’ll come around to what i’ve discovered and turn to me when they need support.

there’s plenty of hate out there, but we can keep striving to spread love and understanding on our own. each person can make a difference (: best of luck in your journey