They describe institutions of self gratification here:
(772.8) 69:1.5 3. The institutions of self-gratification. These are the practices growing out of vanity proclivities and pride emotions; and they embrace customs in dress and personal adornment, social usages, war for glory, dancing, amusement, games, and other phases of sensual gratification. But civilization has never evolved distinctive institutions of self-gratification.
This is puzzling. I would think that we now have an extremely large institution of self-gratification in the media industry. Is Facebook an institution? I think it is, and I also think it’s all about self-gratification. I suppose this deserves a separate topic. Mara, let us know.
Would such institutions not include fashion, celebrity, make-up, jewelry, beauty, porn and sex promotion related, etc…..as determined and marketed by those who profit by such industry? Body shaming is one result as are many other forms of personal priorities and choices related to “vanity proclivities”….but there are many forms of suffering, domination, and victimization related thereto. I think social media reflects these proclivities but is only a tool….it’s a poor craftsman who blames their tools for their bad results.
Back to gender identity!
Having known, worked with, and befriended many gay people in my life, I’d like to add my 2 cents here. First let me express my admiration for how many of you demonstrate such a sensitivity and sound objectivity to the topic (although not all). I would add that regardless of one’s gender identity or sexual choices in partners, we all face the same challenges regarding the sex act itself. If it is not part of a caring and sharing intimacy by willing and mutually attracted people then it is shallow and dangerous (in many regards) and becomes merely gratification. But when two people share intimacy within love, then procreation is not a required nor holy obligation for such sharing….if so, I’ve been sinning for some time now for I’ve procreated no children for decades….and neither have I been celibate.
Anyone who claims gay people are going against God’s will (because of being gay, etc.) has a personal problem for their own attention (and is going against God’s will – hahaha). God’s will and way is LOVE and SERVICE. I’ve met many a kind, warm, generous, loving, and serving LGBT persons….many who proclaim faith in God and who exemplify the values and ideals given us in the UB….as individuals, couples, and families. So for those inclined to pigeonhole and stereotype….it is embarrassing, please stop. All of us are entitled to consideration as an ‘each’, unique and with full potential to grow in the spirit.
Jesus went to Rome! Sexual indulgences of all sorts were common in the streets, bath houses, and homes of Romans. I recall Jesus avoided all such dens of self gratification and debauchery. But he did not declare such people as lost or doomed….misguided is all. Casual sex is an error….no matter who is involved or what their gender identity might be. Leisure and wealth brings both opportunity and tragedy to the world….it’s up to each to choose wisely from all the choices available. But it is not the choice made but the motive and reason for the choice that measures our spirit identity….which transcends all gender issues of every kind. Or so I believe.
A theory of mine regarding the gender identity issue: Each person has a unique and very personal gender identity and does so regardless of sexual orientation. Manly men have feminine attributes and girly girls have masculine proclivities. On a scale of 1-10 for each gradient of masculine traits/preferences and feminine traits/preferences, each of us will score differently on each scale. I like to cook and arrange flowers and play with small children….my wife claims I’m on the masculine side for sure but just “gay enough”….hahaha. I think I’m all John Wayne…cowboy way by nature. Evidently, I’m both. And who isn’t? My wife is as feminine as any woman I know but she grew up a tomboy with older brothers and can call a baseball, football, or basketball game better than any man I know! And can she throw a ball!!!!
Those unfamiliar with gay people might not know but in most couples I’ve met, one partner is more masculine and one is more feminine (gay and lesbian couples both). To claim such couples do not enjoy or express strength of integrated but differing perspectives delivering balance and harmony in family functionality only shows one’s lack of experience….and should bring caution regarding declarations and assumptions related to such couples and families. There are very masculine gays and very effeminate lesbians and every combo in between.
I have no idea the source of such self-identification issues. I am certain of the ideal but where does the ideal exist in our world related to so many failures, weaknesses, and faults of so many kinds….most of which are far more important than who loves who and how?
Thanks everyone….lovely. 
"Live loyally today—grow—and tomorrow will attend to itself. The quickest way for a tadpole to become a frog is to live loyally each moment as a tadpole."
