Mormons Love Extra Rules

This episode features a conversation between hosts about "fence laws," which are rules or practices learned in childhood aimed at protecting individuals from breaking core commandments.

Fence law: Refers to a personal rule designed to create boundaries around a core commandment or law from God.
Example: Different rules surrounding the law of chastity, meant to protect individuals from breaking this commandment.
Importance of distinguishing between a core commandment and a fence law.
- Fence laws are personal interpretations aimed at keeping oneself and family safe.
- Not all fence laws are universally agreed upon, leading to potential judgment between families.

Hosts: Lauren and Tanner.
- Tanner has his own perspectives on how families should implement these rules and interact with children regarding faith and morality.

The significance of discussing personal rules parents had regarding upbringing and the influence of the church.
Introducing the discussion of fence laws as a public conversation as the hosts prepare to implement similar rules for their family.

Submission of creative and unusual fence laws by listeners will be discussed throughout the episode.

No Blankets Rule: A listener grew up with a rule that no blankets were allowed during movie nights with friends (regardless of gender).
- Tanner finds this rule extreme, questioning the necessity for such a rule.
No Swimming on Sundays: A listener’s grandparent claimed that Satan was present in the water on Sundays, thus prohibiting swimming.
Dress Code Rules:
- Participants frequently discussed modesty and dress codes, such as being required to try on dresses to ensure covering garments.
- Some listeners had restrictions on watching certain media, such as TLC wedding shows, to avoid secular influences before marriage.

Fence laws are often made with good intentions, aiming to protect children from societal harms and temptations.
Both hosts acknowledge how difficult parenting can be and understand the rationale behind these rules amidst their pre-children perspectives.

Importance of teaching the rationale behind fence laws to children.
Tanner emphasizes teaching truth and avoiding hypocrisy in enforcing rules (e.g., parents watching Rated R movies while forbidding children).
Connections made between the effectiveness of parenting rules and the trust/communication level established within the family.

Discussions about common misunderstandings in familial interpretations of rules, judgment from peers, and societal perceptions of faith-based practices.
How past generations perceived teachings and the importance of promoting healthy discussions about faith and morality with children today, encouraging open dialogue about “why” certain rules are set in place.

The concept of maintaining a good image within the church community, such as not drinking coffee or soda to avoid the appearance of impropriety.
Commentary on how communities adapt their fence laws based on the evolving societal context surrounding them, emphasizing parents understanding their children's needs and an evolving understanding of morality.

The hosts reflect on their own upbringings and the balance between laying down rules and allowing children freedom to grow.
Tanner suggests that teachings focus on principles while respecting children's agency.
Scriptural References: Stories highlighting the importance of loving guidance and nurturing in parenting and the essential belief that, while parents provide instructions, children ultimately have agency to make their choices.

The hosts conclude by re-iterating the importance of understanding both the impact of fence laws and the necessity to establish a respectful, nurturing parental relationship.
Encouragement for listeners that no matter the challenges, their efforts in guiding their children are worthwhile, encouraging emotional openness and the importance of communication with children.