This might be one of the most famous passages in the Book of Mormon. While it's true, it could be read to be many things in my view it's a reminder to be happy and have joy in our hearts. So often religious people are severe, serious and sometimes even cruel. That's a horrific way to live your life, and it's a terrible way to show others how religious people live. Ask yourself-would you join a church where the members are all grumpy or sad?
I can still see why this passage is confusing. The fall of Adam led to eternal sin for mankind, but the coming of Christ led to eternal joy. Happiness is the farthest thing from being "shallow" or "naive" in fact, it a world that often seems dark and cruel-it takes a great effort not to succumb to the misery that can surround you. This little passage is a wonderful reminder that all of us should have joy in our hearts.
Well, I think this goes along with the whole "if not for the shadow you would not recognize the light for it's brightness" metaphor. They were completely innocent in the Garden. It'd be one thing if they were in paradise but could make choices and sin because I believe that is what the second coming will be like; paradise but with agency. Adam and Eve couldn't because they had no knowledge of the difference so even if they made a bad choice they could not be held accountable, right? How then could they truly know happiness without anything to compare it to? Happiness without a contrast is stagnation, imo. So, I definitely think there is a lot to be thankful for with our forerunners Fall.
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