Double Standard
I was reading an interesting blog the other day from an opinionated individual who thinks the community they live in has a double standard when it comes to the definition of modesty. I was amazed how that has been a topic of conversation as of late at the temple as well. Not that there is a double standard, but that leadership has been asked to be a little more specific about modesty.
After reading this blog, I have started to wonder if maybe we should not start focusing more on this matter. Is there any reason to believe that immodest dress is any less provocative if it is a male verses a female? Are women able to resist immoral thoughts that maybe be the result of viewing others dressed immodestly better than men? These are good questions.
However, following the instruction received in the temple, we must remember that we cannot be judgemental of how others use their agency. In today's world, the definition of modesty varies not only between men and women, but within each individual group as well. What is immodest to one person, may not be view as immodest to another.
There are guidelines, standards, suggestions, but when it comes right down to it, it is a personal choice. Some may choose to jog in sweats, while others choose to jog topless in Daisy Duke type shorts. Does that mean one is more right or wrong than the other? I don't think so, because each of these people have made choices and the consequences of such choices.
The focus should be on the principle. A wise man once said that if we teach the people the correct principles, they will govern them selves in righteousness. The challenges is getting them to listen to, accept, and then live by those correct principles. Think about it.
After reading this blog, I have started to wonder if maybe we should not start focusing more on this matter. Is there any reason to believe that immodest dress is any less provocative if it is a male verses a female? Are women able to resist immoral thoughts that maybe be the result of viewing others dressed immodestly better than men? These are good questions.
However, following the instruction received in the temple, we must remember that we cannot be judgemental of how others use their agency. In today's world, the definition of modesty varies not only between men and women, but within each individual group as well. What is immodest to one person, may not be view as immodest to another.
There are guidelines, standards, suggestions, but when it comes right down to it, it is a personal choice. Some may choose to jog in sweats, while others choose to jog topless in Daisy Duke type shorts. Does that mean one is more right or wrong than the other? I don't think so, because each of these people have made choices and the consequences of such choices.
The focus should be on the principle. A wise man once said that if we teach the people the correct principles, they will govern them selves in righteousness. The challenges is getting them to listen to, accept, and then live by those correct principles. Think about it.
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