When I first started working for the L.A. Times, just shortly after I joined the LDS Church back in 1973, I was disconcerted to discover that I was followed by several of my co-workers whenever I went on break. This continue for several days until, exasperated, I turned around and asked, “Is there something I can do for you?” Taken by surprise, they stood mute for about two seconds, after which their response took ME by surprise, “We know you’re a Mormon, so why are you drinking Coke?” I put their dear little hearts at ease, by telling them (truthfully) that I was in fact drinking root beer, not Coke. I would like to point out that drinking Coke or other similar beverages is not prohibited, but only suggested that we not drink them.
Other foods and drinks that are warned against include alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea, tobacco and stimulants. It is also advised to eat meat sparingly, in times of winter or famine. There are many foods which we are encouraged to eat including herbs, grains, cereals, fruit, etc.
A number of people have tried to get me, and others, to drink wine, saying that it is nothing more than fermented grape juice and that grape juice is good for you; they also like to point out that it was used all over in the Bible. I like to show them these verses found in the Bible:
“Now therefore beware, I pray thee, and drink not wine or strong drink, and not any unclean thing.”2
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.”3
As a result of keeping these commandments, we are are promised that we will be free from bonds, and that we will “find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures”4
1Doctrine and Covenants 89:4
2Judges 13:4
3Proverbs 20:1
4Doctrine and Covenants 89:19
Interesting - I thought caffeine beverages were prohibited by your church, Mary. Can't say I understand these types of restrictions (and wine is a normal part of my life), but I do enjoy learning new things.
ReplyDeleteI once read an article where it said that it wasn't just the caffeine per se that was so deleterious for our health, but the method in which the beverages were prepared that caused a somewhat toxic chemical reaction when heated. I tend to search for caffeine-free beverages whenever they're available, like root beer, 7-up, ginger ale and cream soda. When I was in Italy I aimed towards Chinotto, which I can't find here.
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