We Were Rebuked

They told us be like your Father who art in heaven.
They told us follow the example of your brother Jesus.
They told us be made perfect in Him.
They told us we are made in His image.
They told us listen to the Spirit, He will confirm the truth.
They told us come follow me, so we did.

Yet, we were rebuked.

We were rebuked for following His example.
We were rebuked for believing we are made in His image.
We were rebuked for calling on His priesthood power.
We were rebuked for claiming our divine nature.
We were rebuked for believe all are alike unto God.
We were rebuked for believing the Spirit confirmed truth.

Who knew obedience to the patriarchs
was a punishable offense?

Mother, forgive them,
for they know not what they do.

*Published in We Hold Your Name: Mormon Women Bless Mormons Facing Exile, 2019, pg 13.