Thank you for helping me break free from the foolishness of giving so much materially to fill the 'heavenly storehouse' while neglecting the hardships of my own life.

Beyond tithes and Sabbath offerings, I felt obligated to place even a small amount every month into an envelope with my name on it (was it called a 'Talent' envelope?) for thanksgiving offerings, special offerings, and more. Despite having a job and no need to eat meals at church, I dutifully paid the women’s association fees. I was swayed by subtle suggestions from the church, foolishly believing I needed to buy things for the church whenever prompted, provide extra snacks for the nursery, or make special offerings.

While I could barely give my own mother proper pocket money, whenever a special occasion came around, the church would suggest putting money and a letter in an envelope to give to 'that person.' I questioned why God would need money, yet I still gave it.

There was also the act of writing a reduced amount on tithing envelopes or 'Talent' envelopes, subtracting a digit from the actual amount, supposedly to avoid causing conflict with family members who didn’t share the same faith. This practice implicitly suggested that being less than 100% honest about tithes and offerings was acceptable if it prevented friction with one’s physical family. This contradiction deeply bothered me.

At some point, I found myself lying to my family about church tithes while speaking about family harmony and mutual trust between spouses—an entirely hypocritical stance.

Now, I’ve chosen to prioritize my physical family. Instead of giving away the savings I had worked hard to accumulate to 'that person,' I used it for my family first.

I no longer feel the need to fear judgment from zealous members who might express disappointment. I can now joyfully give tithes without guilt and use the remainder to provide for my family with a clear conscience and genuine happiness.

I am truly thankful to live a life that is normal, balanced, and focused on what truly matters.