Wow such an inspirational story! Never judge a book by its cover or in this case a real soul and convert to the church whose heart is bigger than life. I had a rough patch in my life as well and have a few tats to show for it. I was brought back through the recovery addiction program. The Lord gave me a second chance. I have been sober for 23 years and my children have served missions and married in the temple. The Lord in due time will do that for too!
RobSeptember 16, 2013
It's the small victories that lead to winning the battle. Something - in different ways - that I'm working on most every day. Way to be strong.
noryne mossAugust 30, 2013
Loved this article and glad you didn't give up, we all have battle scars from living in this world some are on the outside some on the inside but we all have. Thank you for not giving up and being a pioneer for others who may feel out of place and hopefully after reading this we will realize that we are all Heavenly Fathers children no matter how we look :)
AnaAugust 30, 2013
I lived in Salt Lake for two years while attending the U of U. I want to say this: for every judgmental Mormon you may meet, there are ten more who will love you and accept you for trying. I love you and I accept you, tattoos and all. I think you have courage and are an example to many others who seek to better their lives with the gospel. You go, girl. I'm on your side and I'm cheering you on! :-)
By the way, my two daughters are temple-worthy women with children and great husbands. They are also covered with tattoos. They're a couple of great women!
TimAugust 30, 2013
He wasn't being offensive at all. I think you missed the irony in his comment.
Great article though otherwise!
JenAugust 28, 2013
You rock! You are beautiful!
Mary JurgaitisAugust 27, 2013
Oh Sigh. (That's what I say when something is so special to me.) And hearing and seeing what the gospel has done for Al boosts my spirit by 1000%.
BritneyAugust 27, 2013
I love this story!!! Thank you so much for sharing and for being the sweet spirit that you are! You are an inspiration. :)
Becky HamsharAugust 27, 2013
Thank you for your post. Oftentimes I feel totally feel singled out because I am different. I have a tattoo, just one, on my leg (just an itty bitty one) but I still get disgust looks from devout Mormons. What these people don't know, or even care to ask, is "why" I have the tattoo. I think it is sad that people judge you on your appearances and not on your character. I will continue to be me no matter how others view me with their temporal eyes. Again, thanks for the post. I am happy to read it and get to know a piece of your history.
WGCAugust 27, 2013
I love this girl! but I am puzzled: why is Mark Albright's name on this piece? I can't find anything here that isn't from Al Fox!
Vi August 27, 2013
Thank you for following the path that was shown us by The Lord Jesus Christ when He was on earth.
If only more of us would really just love and not judge, life would be much so much easier to live each day.
To take offense is a very hard way to go through life but when we are not sure of the love our Heavenly Father has for us we can get lost in the things that are happening each day in the world.
So, sweet dear little sister, keep following our Saviour and all will be well in the end.
I have found that when we do that, we are the most happiest and blessed people on earth.
Lots of love from me to you.
Helen DawsonAugust 27, 2013
Well done Sister Fox - hope your wedding day is wonderful. Thanks for your example and wisdom.
Diane CookAugust 27, 2013
I loved this blog and video! Now I know I will be so happy when I see someone in church or in the temple with tatoos.
Sylvia August 26, 2013
A wonderful story! Following the Spirit is always best. And He does let us know what He wants us to do if we will just listen. I am very thankful for the Gospel and that my Father in Heaven loves me. I sure do love Him!
Gary EAugust 26, 2013
I have followed her story from the time she appeared on the cover of "LDS Living". What a remarkable person! The gospel was made for people like Al Fox. It is really gratifying that she has found someone who will love and cherish her. She deserves it!
Annette LeeAugust 26, 2013
I think you are a very worthy and courageous sister! Thanks for sharing your story. You are my sister in the gospel.
CarenAugust 26, 2013
Bless her heart for sticking to her covenants. This is a perfect example of not judging. Heavenly Father knew what was in her heart, now we do too. What if every choice we made growing up (good and bad) was permanently visible to everyone. Would we speak at firesides? This (absolutely beautiful) young lady is so mature! Great story!!!
TonyAugust 26, 2013
Al has fit in because she is darn good looking woman. People over look her tattoos for not only her outer beauty but her inner beauty as well. She is a sweetheart.
Cornell ThomasAugust 26, 2013
Congratulations, you are a true saint! I loved your presentation.
JanetAugust 26, 2013
Hi Al, Let me tell you that I think you are wonderful! You have done a courageous thing and I am positive that Heavenly Father and the Savior and the Holy Ghost are so proud of you and pleased with you that they just beam with heavenly love for you. I am a descendent of pioneers and still had to gain my own witness that this church is true, and yet through the years I and my family have been ostracized and shunned because we were poor (because I had a serious illness) and not counted as "real" as others also because I am also a divorced mother. There have been other problems we have had to go through, but I still know with all my heart that this is the most beautiful gospel on earth and is the way back to personal association with Deity for eternity. I find joy and peace in the gospel daily, and I cheer for you for holding onto your faith. You are wonderful - never let someone else make you think otherwise! You are loved.
Ruth J. ChristensenAugust 26, 2013
A beautiful awakening for you. I'm so happy to have heard your story! May the Lord continue to bless you!
CalAugust 26, 2013
Met and talked to Al at BYU Education week, a very charming and nice young lady. She will go far.
RubensAugust 26, 2013
Sister Fox,
I welcomed you into the fold of God with open arms and an open heart. You radiate the beauty of the gospel and continue to demonstrate a sincere desire to seek and obtain the riches that the restored gospel offers. How wonderful you will be joined eternally in matrimony! Please continue forward, dear friend, with faith and hope. You are a very special addition to the kingdom of God on earth. Sincerely, your brother in the gospel.
Anna PattenAugust 26, 2013
Thank you for your honesty. Thank you for being vulnerable, and sharing that with me. I take this article personally, as if you were talking just to me. And, again, I thank you. Whether a person is newly converted, or has fallen away, and working their way back...as I am.... this article gives me more strength to face the fears of judgement, and discrimination. <3 Thank you.
Ethelyn DwigansAugust 26, 2013
We are here to love and not to judge others, something that we need to remember everyday. Look at ourselves and remember we may have a mote in our eye.
Thank you for your courage.
LindaAugust 26, 2013
Al, I follow you on facebook. I have heard your story before. Thanks for sharing it again. My daughter who is 21 was treated unkindly yesterday in Relief Society. She handled it well on the outside and cried inside. I cry on both sides for her. Your story teaches 2 lessons. One of acceptance 1 of choosing God. thank you.
ScottAugust 26, 2013
What an amazing young woman. All too often I find myself on both sides of what she is talking about...either the offender or the offended. Thank you for this message.
Cindy August 26, 2013
Dear Al, you go girl!!!! I am so proud to call you sister! The Lord will bless you for you efforts. Think of the people out there who think their not good enough because of a tattoo. Your example gives me hope and gives me strength. Thank you for your example.
Les Wood`August 26, 2013
This is really worth sharing and shows how important it is to wake up and smell the roses, no matter what your circumstances.
LindaAugust 26, 2013
I am so proud and happy for her! What a great reminder to NOT JUDGE and to resist taking offense.
Janel NelsonAugust 26, 2013
What a wonderful story. I sent it to my grand daughter that is going to serve a mission when she is 19...
Milt BradfieldAugust 26, 2013
It was special the first time I heard her story and even more so now. The guy she is marrying must be special also. Heavenly Father knows how to move a soul!
KittyAugust 26, 2013
thank you for reminding us that we are all God's children, no matter what our circumstances we should treat others as such and also how to be positive in a negative situation
Renaissance NerdAugust 26, 2013
My great grandfather had such a bad reputation in Provo (and he earned it) that when my grandfather went to church when he was 16 some little old ladies sniffed 'what are YOU doing here?' He ended up joining the Church 10 years later, but wow what a difference that could've made for my family. I always keep that example in mind when I run into somebody who doesn't appear to fit the stereotype. After all, God wants EVERYBODY, and none of us has any right to say Him nay based on our own stupid prejudices.
MikeAugust 26, 2013
Good for you, Al!!! All of us are sinners and cannot "earn" our way back to Heavenly Father. We are all in the same boat called, "Reliance upon Him who is mighty to save, even Jesus Christ." It was our savior who said that when we judge another, there remains in us the greater sin. Keep shining! You're a great example to us all.
Gregg SheppardAugust 26, 2013
Great article!! I am forwarding this to my "less active" daughter who has been offended by members, and is using it as an excuse to be "excused" from Heavenly Father's commandments which bring us hope & happiness. I am so happy for you and your new life. I would love to subscribe to your blog. How can I do that? Sincerely, Gregg Sheppard
Marsha MarkhamAugust 26, 2013
Great article with many things to think about...so important for us not to judge others. As a convert of just over 40 years, my church membership is more valuable to me every day. This young woman has grasped that already and there will be a wonderful young man who will see her worth, fall in love with her and take her to the temple one of these days, I'm sure.
FrankAugust 26, 2013
Interesting. About 10 years back, during an endowment session at the Oakland Temple, my wife and I were the witness couple at the altar. The officiator was a middle-aged Polynesian man, and in the web of his right hand, between the thumb and the next finger, was a small gang tattoo. Here was a Brother who had obviously turned his life around and come a long way. You need to be careful when you judge.
larry DaughertyAugust 26, 2013
I am so impressed with your story would love to here your continuing blessings, thank you for your story and the strength you have EVERY day.
BeverlyAugust 26, 2013
Good for you!!!
Enough of narrow-minded judgementalism already! But let's give the guy the benefit of the doubt and hope he was just making an observation (though better left unsaid) and not an indictment.
kennyAugust 26, 2013
look -- just remember 90% of everyone in or out of the church are idiots. You seem like a great person -- stay strong and ignore the haters! The tats won't keep you out of heaven (they are actually kind of cool)!
AdrianaAugust 26, 2013
Amazing story. Thanks for sharing it.
Ana Belen SierraAugust 26, 2013
Im proud of you. Thanks for your example and for your courage.
Comments | Return to Story
RandyMay 8, 2014
Wow such an inspirational story! Never judge a book by its cover or in this case a real soul and convert to the church whose heart is bigger than life. I had a rough patch in my life as well and have a few tats to show for it. I was brought back through the recovery addiction program. The Lord gave me a second chance. I have been sober for 23 years and my children have served missions and married in the temple. The Lord in due time will do that for too!
RobSeptember 16, 2013
It's the small victories that lead to winning the battle. Something - in different ways - that I'm working on most every day. Way to be strong.
noryne mossAugust 30, 2013
Loved this article and glad you didn't give up, we all have battle scars from living in this world some are on the outside some on the inside but we all have. Thank you for not giving up and being a pioneer for others who may feel out of place and hopefully after reading this we will realize that we are all Heavenly Fathers children no matter how we look :)
AnaAugust 30, 2013
I lived in Salt Lake for two years while attending the U of U. I want to say this: for every judgmental Mormon you may meet, there are ten more who will love you and accept you for trying. I love you and I accept you, tattoos and all. I think you have courage and are an example to many others who seek to better their lives with the gospel. You go, girl. I'm on your side and I'm cheering you on! :-) By the way, my two daughters are temple-worthy women with children and great husbands. They are also covered with tattoos. They're a couple of great women!
TimAugust 30, 2013
He wasn't being offensive at all. I think you missed the irony in his comment. Great article though otherwise!
JenAugust 28, 2013
You rock! You are beautiful!
Mary JurgaitisAugust 27, 2013
Oh Sigh. (That's what I say when something is so special to me.) And hearing and seeing what the gospel has done for Al boosts my spirit by 1000%.
BritneyAugust 27, 2013
I love this story!!! Thank you so much for sharing and for being the sweet spirit that you are! You are an inspiration. :)
Becky HamsharAugust 27, 2013
Thank you for your post. Oftentimes I feel totally feel singled out because I am different. I have a tattoo, just one, on my leg (just an itty bitty one) but I still get disgust looks from devout Mormons. What these people don't know, or even care to ask, is "why" I have the tattoo. I think it is sad that people judge you on your appearances and not on your character. I will continue to be me no matter how others view me with their temporal eyes. Again, thanks for the post. I am happy to read it and get to know a piece of your history.
WGCAugust 27, 2013
I love this girl! but I am puzzled: why is Mark Albright's name on this piece? I can't find anything here that isn't from Al Fox!
Vi August 27, 2013
Thank you for following the path that was shown us by The Lord Jesus Christ when He was on earth. If only more of us would really just love and not judge, life would be much so much easier to live each day. To take offense is a very hard way to go through life but when we are not sure of the love our Heavenly Father has for us we can get lost in the things that are happening each day in the world. So, sweet dear little sister, keep following our Saviour and all will be well in the end. I have found that when we do that, we are the most happiest and blessed people on earth. Lots of love from me to you.
Helen DawsonAugust 27, 2013
Well done Sister Fox - hope your wedding day is wonderful. Thanks for your example and wisdom.
Diane CookAugust 27, 2013
I loved this blog and video! Now I know I will be so happy when I see someone in church or in the temple with tatoos.
Sylvia August 26, 2013
A wonderful story! Following the Spirit is always best. And He does let us know what He wants us to do if we will just listen. I am very thankful for the Gospel and that my Father in Heaven loves me. I sure do love Him!
Gary EAugust 26, 2013
I have followed her story from the time she appeared on the cover of "LDS Living". What a remarkable person! The gospel was made for people like Al Fox. It is really gratifying that she has found someone who will love and cherish her. She deserves it!
Annette LeeAugust 26, 2013
I think you are a very worthy and courageous sister! Thanks for sharing your story. You are my sister in the gospel.
CarenAugust 26, 2013
Bless her heart for sticking to her covenants. This is a perfect example of not judging. Heavenly Father knew what was in her heart, now we do too. What if every choice we made growing up (good and bad) was permanently visible to everyone. Would we speak at firesides? This (absolutely beautiful) young lady is so mature! Great story!!!
TonyAugust 26, 2013
Al has fit in because she is darn good looking woman. People over look her tattoos for not only her outer beauty but her inner beauty as well. She is a sweetheart.
Cornell ThomasAugust 26, 2013
Congratulations, you are a true saint! I loved your presentation.
JanetAugust 26, 2013
Hi Al, Let me tell you that I think you are wonderful! You have done a courageous thing and I am positive that Heavenly Father and the Savior and the Holy Ghost are so proud of you and pleased with you that they just beam with heavenly love for you. I am a descendent of pioneers and still had to gain my own witness that this church is true, and yet through the years I and my family have been ostracized and shunned because we were poor (because I had a serious illness) and not counted as "real" as others also because I am also a divorced mother. There have been other problems we have had to go through, but I still know with all my heart that this is the most beautiful gospel on earth and is the way back to personal association with Deity for eternity. I find joy and peace in the gospel daily, and I cheer for you for holding onto your faith. You are wonderful - never let someone else make you think otherwise! You are loved.
Ruth J. ChristensenAugust 26, 2013
A beautiful awakening for you. I'm so happy to have heard your story! May the Lord continue to bless you!
CalAugust 26, 2013
Met and talked to Al at BYU Education week, a very charming and nice young lady. She will go far.
RubensAugust 26, 2013
Sister Fox, I welcomed you into the fold of God with open arms and an open heart. You radiate the beauty of the gospel and continue to demonstrate a sincere desire to seek and obtain the riches that the restored gospel offers. How wonderful you will be joined eternally in matrimony! Please continue forward, dear friend, with faith and hope. You are a very special addition to the kingdom of God on earth. Sincerely, your brother in the gospel.
Anna PattenAugust 26, 2013
Thank you for your honesty. Thank you for being vulnerable, and sharing that with me. I take this article personally, as if you were talking just to me. And, again, I thank you. Whether a person is newly converted, or has fallen away, and working their way back...as I am.... this article gives me more strength to face the fears of judgement, and discrimination. <3 Thank you.
Ethelyn DwigansAugust 26, 2013
We are here to love and not to judge others, something that we need to remember everyday. Look at ourselves and remember we may have a mote in our eye. Thank you for your courage.
LindaAugust 26, 2013
Al, I follow you on facebook. I have heard your story before. Thanks for sharing it again. My daughter who is 21 was treated unkindly yesterday in Relief Society. She handled it well on the outside and cried inside. I cry on both sides for her. Your story teaches 2 lessons. One of acceptance 1 of choosing God. thank you.
ScottAugust 26, 2013
What an amazing young woman. All too often I find myself on both sides of what she is talking about...either the offender or the offended. Thank you for this message.
Cindy August 26, 2013
Dear Al, you go girl!!!! I am so proud to call you sister! The Lord will bless you for you efforts. Think of the people out there who think their not good enough because of a tattoo. Your example gives me hope and gives me strength. Thank you for your example.
Les Wood`August 26, 2013
This is really worth sharing and shows how important it is to wake up and smell the roses, no matter what your circumstances.
LindaAugust 26, 2013
I am so proud and happy for her! What a great reminder to NOT JUDGE and to resist taking offense.
Janel NelsonAugust 26, 2013
What a wonderful story. I sent it to my grand daughter that is going to serve a mission when she is 19...
Milt BradfieldAugust 26, 2013
It was special the first time I heard her story and even more so now. The guy she is marrying must be special also. Heavenly Father knows how to move a soul!
KittyAugust 26, 2013
thank you for reminding us that we are all God's children, no matter what our circumstances we should treat others as such and also how to be positive in a negative situation
Renaissance NerdAugust 26, 2013
My great grandfather had such a bad reputation in Provo (and he earned it) that when my grandfather went to church when he was 16 some little old ladies sniffed 'what are YOU doing here?' He ended up joining the Church 10 years later, but wow what a difference that could've made for my family. I always keep that example in mind when I run into somebody who doesn't appear to fit the stereotype. After all, God wants EVERYBODY, and none of us has any right to say Him nay based on our own stupid prejudices.
MikeAugust 26, 2013
Good for you, Al!!! All of us are sinners and cannot "earn" our way back to Heavenly Father. We are all in the same boat called, "Reliance upon Him who is mighty to save, even Jesus Christ." It was our savior who said that when we judge another, there remains in us the greater sin. Keep shining! You're a great example to us all.
Gregg SheppardAugust 26, 2013
Great article!! I am forwarding this to my "less active" daughter who has been offended by members, and is using it as an excuse to be "excused" from Heavenly Father's commandments which bring us hope & happiness. I am so happy for you and your new life. I would love to subscribe to your blog. How can I do that? Sincerely, Gregg Sheppard
Marsha MarkhamAugust 26, 2013
Great article with many things to think about...so important for us not to judge others. As a convert of just over 40 years, my church membership is more valuable to me every day. This young woman has grasped that already and there will be a wonderful young man who will see her worth, fall in love with her and take her to the temple one of these days, I'm sure.
FrankAugust 26, 2013
Interesting. About 10 years back, during an endowment session at the Oakland Temple, my wife and I were the witness couple at the altar. The officiator was a middle-aged Polynesian man, and in the web of his right hand, between the thumb and the next finger, was a small gang tattoo. Here was a Brother who had obviously turned his life around and come a long way. You need to be careful when you judge.
larry DaughertyAugust 26, 2013
I am so impressed with your story would love to here your continuing blessings, thank you for your story and the strength you have EVERY day.
BeverlyAugust 26, 2013
Good for you!!! Enough of narrow-minded judgementalism already! But let's give the guy the benefit of the doubt and hope he was just making an observation (though better left unsaid) and not an indictment.
kennyAugust 26, 2013
look -- just remember 90% of everyone in or out of the church are idiots. You seem like a great person -- stay strong and ignore the haters! The tats won't keep you out of heaven (they are actually kind of cool)!
AdrianaAugust 26, 2013
Amazing story. Thanks for sharing it.
Ana Belen SierraAugust 26, 2013
Im proud of you. Thanks for your example and for your courage.
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