You may have noticed that many of the more controversial entries here at barnson.org have been removed. They still exist in the database, but have had their “publish” tag removed. Click “read more” below to read more about this.
It all started with a call to my mother as I was returning from the zoo with my two sons Saturday evening. I phoned my mother to ask if we could stop in. She said we could.
During our visit, I finally revealed to Mom, more than a year after I’d revealed this to my wife, that I was no longer a “believer” — I’m pretty firmly non-religious, and have come across enough evidences in Church-sponsored materials regarding the LDS church that, should I ever change my mind regarding organized religion, I’m fairly certain the LDS church is not where I’d want to go. Too much baggage, y’know?
That started the snowball. I encouraged her to read more about me on my weblog. She did, and ran across the one really negative entry regarding the Church here. Silly me for posting.
I won’t go into too many details, but the rejection, anger, and hyperbole flew quickly as she called my two sisters-in-law to commiserate. At least two then called my wife, newly returned from vacation, to complain about me. Which meant she was not happy dealing with irate in-laws, and that unhappiness translated right to me.
During our discussion last night, of my own accord I simply yanked them. Pulled them. They still exist, and if any individual wants a print-out, or digital copy emailed to them, feel free to request it and I will help you out. They will no longer be published on the main barnson.org site — instead, this main site will simply be neutral news about the Barnsons. I will be maintaining my own personal weblog at http://barnson.org/matthew/ which will contain my more personal and intimate thoughts and journal.
Thanks for your understanding; I apologize for yanking this without any notice. The family pressure was just too much to bear, even if I think I’m doing the right thing presenting the truth and my opinions.
I’m sorry, but comments are not allowed on this weblog entry. I have no desire to further stir the pot. Thank you. If you are a Barnson and wish to post news to the front page of this site, just sent me an email (it’s pretty easy to figure out my email address) or else a private message via this site if you’re logged in, and I can promote you to a “Barnson” on the site with ability to post front-page news.
CORRECTION: my mother did not call either sister to commiserate; apparently, they called her.