MR says: It's important to remember that everyone follows a different path--everyone's conversion is different. We should not judge or label others based on a title or a name tag. We should look at who the person is now and who they are striving to become in the future. And we should help them achieve that potential whenever possible.
While lists like these are a good reminder of the different paths our lives can take, it's also good to remember it is not a comprehensive list. There are many who--whether RM's or not--have become devoted disciples of Jesus Christ. The are many who have used the atonement to repent, change, and grow close to our Heavenly Father.
I have heard way too many people, male and female, say “I only date RMs.” Whenever I hear of anyone saying this I always have to wonder why. I think it may be an idea that has been ingrained in our minds since we were young. Young Women always make the list, “Traits I Want in a Future Companion.” Almost every list has “RM.”
Now after years and years of creating lists about traits I want in a future companion, I have had a realization.
I won’t exclusively settle for an RM. Here are four of my reasons why:
A mission is just a part of a lifelong conversion. Going on a mission can teach someone great life skills like how to really study the scriptures and how to pray with real intent. Sometimes people go on missions and come back but they don’t keep up the mission habits. . . .