I didn't intend to bring this up, but I have been thinking
about a video a saw on youtube a few months ago.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4XykyYefPQ
It is a recording of two elders coming to an apostates door
to tell him he is being disfellowshipped.
(If you want to form your own opinion about the incident,
watch the video before continuing to read my rant)
First off, I would love to know the rest of the story...
Any idea who and where this is? Some have claimed it is fake,
setup with actors, but as a witness I can totally imagine
this scene, and if they are acting, they are VERY good.
Next, although I realize the man is trying to garner
sympathy to his side, I don't think he succeeds.
I see the elders as being stuck doing a really unpleasant
thing that likely deeply bothers them, and I see them bending
over backwards trying to be civil to this guy, who in response
offers them a repugnant dose of sanctimonious patronization.
I realize he likely feels he slighted by the elders, and he
might have a good case, especially if he is telling the truth
about never having received a letter...
But the thing is, because of his painfully obvious act of
"playing dumb" I go away with the impression he is LYING about
the letters just to be a jerk.
I can't help thinking that this kind of acting out is simply fueling
irrational hated of all "apostates", even those who are doubting
from a place of sincerity, kindness, and honesty.
Someone who delights it seeing others squirm in agony on his doorstep
is being far more nasty than those he is trying to criticize.
If I am totally misreading this, please correct me.
[inkling]