As a 19 yo going to the temple for the first time before I left on my mission, I had zero clue what to expect (despite all the “temple prep” classes I was required to take). I was a very devout and obedient member, so I was excited for this next step.

All in all, I didn’t mind most of the aspects of the temple, and I actually really liked the celestial room. It was a positive experience. But there was one aspect of one of the “covenants” that really never sat well with me.

The command to “avoid loud laughter” just seemed so unusual and lifeless. But as a good member, I tried to take it to heart and obey. Like everyone else, I enjoy a good hearty, healthy laugh, but since then, I felt like I was breaking my covenants every time I was having a good time.

Eventually it wore off and I stopped caring, but it’s so frustrating that the church had to control so many aspects of my life, including how I was supposed to have fun! Anyway, just wanted to share some old trauma. Fully out and fully out (wink) nowadays and couldn’t be happier. Lots of loud laughs and good company for the rest of my life!!