I had written a long reply. But, upon reflection,
DadinSW
said it more succinctly, and eloquently, and with greater generosity then I did, so instead I'll just say amen to what
DadinSW
said.
I'll add my definition of naturism, however.
My modified definition of naturism is it is a
tool to help me overcome some of the unhealthy aspects of the cultural views I've been taught about my body and the human body in general. It is a tool to help me learn to love myself and my fellow man. For me, nudity isn't the point, being naked isn't the goal of the philosophy, it is a tool. In the same way that many other aspects of our church life and practice are tools to help us become better people, to help us become more righteous, to become more like our savior. Naturism is a tool, that I find very effective in helping me become a better man, to be a more open, accepting, and loving (read agape and charity forms of love) man.
For me, I
know it is a good, and just, and righteous endeavor. I know this in the same way, and to the same degree that I know that the Book of Mormon is true and that God exists. I don't know that for you, or for everyone. But I do
KNOW that for me and my family.
The ways of God, government, & girls are all mysterious & it is not given to mortal man to understand them. - LazarusLong