Starfish
Please no sarcasm
I must say something here.You're doing a great job, we're just in the minority on this one, which shouldn't be the case, but it is.
My wife and I have had tons of oppostition, because she doesn't work, It's ridiculous...I've stopped caring, I still pay tithes and offerings but have quit going to church, but I literally work 7 days a week, so I can't go anyway and I don't see any change in that situation soon. For now my wife goes alone, like I did for years, I'ld rather see her going, rather than myself, she needs it desperately, I'm secure enough in my testimony I can take a break.
Read the parable of the "wheat and the tares" and the parable of the "ten virgins" again...
There is corruption within the church, as is the case with any religion, however, the restored gospel found in the LDS faith is true without a doubt of course. We need to stick to the basics and not make it so complicated, I've been sealed in the temple to my wife, that's all I really care about. Nothing can or will take that away from us. Hell may rage against us and try to seperate us but in the end they lose we win.
If there is corruption, it is with those members who have yet to be discovered and corrected. In our area, as far as the leadership is concerned, there is no corruption beyond human weaknesses. And the leadership concerning the 1st Presidency, apostles, and other GA's, I absolutely don't accept the concept of corruption. There will always be the exceptions, and there have been in history, but these are rare, and are because we are human and we have weaknesses. I completely trust the leadership in this church in all matters of doctrine.
For me, staying away from church is one step towards losing my covenants. I believe the Lord wants me in church. I believe that there is always something I need to learn there, plus I need the support of the other members. My children need to know that every Sunday they can count on their parents being in church. If I ever come away dispirited, then I need to examine myself in how I can come better prepared next time. I'm talking about myself here. I don't know you at all. But your words are concerning.
I can't afford that one step. I don't have the confidence in myself to do it alone. I am not strong enough.