A Single Pair

Fifteen years ago, when Gordon B. Hinckley gave his famous "Six Be's" talk, he addressed the growing trends of tattoos, body piercings and multiple sets of earrings.  This caused quite a stir.  He was talking to young adults, but his comments were clearly intended for everyone.

"Did you ever think that your body is holy? You are a child of God. Your body is His creation. Would you disfigure that creation with portrayals of people, animals, and words painted into your skin?

"I promise you that the time will come, if you have tattoos, that you will regret your actions. They cannot be washed off. They are permanent. Only by an expensive and painful process can they be removed. If you are tattooed, then probably for the remainder of your life you will carry it with you. I believe the time will come when it will be an embarrassment to you. Avoid it. We, as your Brethren who love you, plead with you not to become so disrespectful of the body which the Lord has given you.

"May I mention earrings and rings placed in other parts of the body. These are not manly. They are not attractive. You young men look better without them, and I believe you will feel better without them. As for the young women, you do not need to drape rings up and down your ears. One modest pair of earrings is sufficient."

His talk was both direct and conversational, and it may seem difficult to misinterpret his meaning.  Several friends determined to follow the prophet's counsel and removed earrings to allow their extra piercings to grow together. 

A neighbor told me of a group of women in an assisted care center who wanted to follow the prophet's direction.  They sorted through their clip earrings and eliminated all but a single pair.  It is hard to imagine that they understood why God would want them to put decades worth of memory laden jewelry away, but the fact is that they obeyed to the best of their ability.  I am sure they recognized blessings in their lives for what they did.

The way in which we receive counsel from God qualifies us for His blessings.  The example of these grandmas reminds me to listen and obey with joy -- even when I do not fully understand.

Spirit of Africa earrings from stylehive.com.  Photo of President Hinckley from lds.org.