Part II (Sorry for the wall of text): In short, marriage that does not comply with God's law is a plan-stopper. How we conduct our earthly relationships can prevent us from having all that the Lord has promised - Eternal life with him. With the principle of revelation and the revealed plan of salvation firmly in mind we can, all of us, understand and as well as explain why we believe as we do; why we act as we do; and why we view the world as way we do. Our doctrine is not nefarious, but we need to be sure that our actions are not bigoted and that we do not treat any with hatred or intolerance. This tolerance is imbedded in and clearly stated in one of our Articles of Faith. "We Claim the privilege of worshipping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, [where], and what they may."
We may on occasion, find ourselves in uncomfortable situations where we differ in doctrine with our acquaintances, friends, and family members. But the doctrine can never be used to justify treating others with anything less than respect and dignity. We can stand firm in our beliefs and have a loving relationship with those who hold differing opinions. It is never an either/or choice. We love and live our doctrine and we love those who do not live it. We need not create false dichotomies. The question - do I love and support my church or do I love and support my child who has a same-sex partner or any other child who is engaging in plan-stopping behavior represents a false dichotomy. We can do both. The late Elder Marvin J. Ashton shared this insight from an inspired leader: “The best and most clear indicator that we are progressing spiritually and coming unto Christ is the way we treat other people.” If we do not treat others well we are engaging in plan-stopping for ourselves.
I believe drinking alcohol is a violation of God's law. So what do I do when I'm hosting friends who do not believe as I do? My wife and I arranged to go to a restaurant with them where they can order as they choose to and when they order wine with their meal I don't get in their faces and call them out as sinners. Similarly, can I be friends with individuals who are living together without the benefit of marriage? Absolutely. And when I am with them do I stand up in great indignation and call them to repentance even though they're presently engaged in plan-stopping behavior? No, of course not.
My Wife was a plaintiff’s attorney for 23 years. She was always working with others who strongly held different opinions than she. I was impressed by how two lawyers who were fierce adversaries in the courtroom could sit down calmly together and eat lunch. She said that she had learned early in her career to disagree without being disagreeable. She might say to opposing counsel something like, “I can see we are not going to agree on this issue. I like you. I respect your reasoned opinion. I hope you can offer me the same courtesy.” Most often, this allowed for mutual respect and friendship.
Our doctrine doesn't lend itself well to sound-bite debate and argument. But if we are allowed the opportunity to provide the short answer establishing our belief in living prophets, and explaining the Plan of Salvation and the ultimate destiny of all of Heavenly Father’s children, others will at least understand why we believe as we do, even if they disagree. After offering such an explanation and respectfully listening to another’s opposing viewpoint, it might be wise to say to someone who disagrees something like, “I can see we are not going to agree on this issue. I like you. I respect your reasoned opinion. I hope you can offer me the same courtesy.”
The Plan of Salvation offers the love and mercy of our savior Jesus Christ to all. It sweeps across all time, from the pre-mortal existence to the final state of immortality and eternal life. But the Plan also requires something on our part, our willing choice to follow the commandments of God. This is what brings happiness now and in eternities. Brothers and Sisters, what we have been taught today is true. I'm grateful for the testimonies of the atonement of Jesus Christ and the eternal nature of the actions that we take. I know that Jesus Christ lives. I have a sense of his great compassion and mercy for all of Heavenly Father's children. I've had President Monson's hands on my head and I know more than ever before that it is the Lord Jesus Christ who directs this work today. I know it. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.