Why We Left the Mormon Church: A Coming Out Story
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- Опубліковано 25 січ 2025
- This is the most vulnerable thing we've ever posted. We know that some people will have strong feelings about us leaving the church--but if you will open your heart to our family's unique journey, we believe we can build bridges of understanding. At the end of the day, we're all just here to walk each other home. Sending love to you all!
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“What is sacred to some, comes at a cost of trauma to others who do not fit the privileged narrative.” This line hit me so hard. An explanation of how I’ve been feeling since coming out and leaving the church. Thank you for such a strong and beautiful message.
Thanks for your courage. God bless. God is about Love in Action. All religions are man made.. all false gods.. The LDS is a fraud.. very money-centric. The LDS Church is a major Vendor of Salvation.. one must pay tithes to LDS church in order to receive salvation and exaltation ordinances.. The True JChrist condemns all Vendors of Salvation .. see 3 Nephi 27:32 in the Book of Mormon
Yes it was trauma for me and my kids especially me and my teen daughter they don't see what trauma they cause I been out since last year they made my twin sister go no contact with family who left it hurts she my twin sister and I feel like I missing something
@katielouisecunninghamsmith4312 Under no circumstances would anyone require your sister to “go no contact.” If she did … that would be something with her and your family personally.
@yofred2023
You'll probably never see this cuz your comment is a year old, but NO, not all religions are man made!! Read the Bible!! Such a silly statement you wrote.
@@mlynnkole448It's not silly, it's just somebody else's opinion based on their experiences in life.
My very soul resonated with this, I cried watching and listening to this testimony. You see, my husband and I and our 4 children have a very similar testimony and are on the same journey, just from a different religion. We left the amish in 2019, lost all our extended family and friends and started over , with Jesus Christ as our center, and only Him, not a bishop, nor the many rules. Thank you so much for sharing and I pray blessings upon your family.
This sounds so incredibly difficult and I wanted to let you know how brave you are. ❤
A good friend of mine left the Amish. She told me that it was tough, but she now has a happy and fulfilled life! I wish you the best on your journey ❤
Ours is a similar story of leaving a cult, just a different one but making Jesus Christ the centre and Him only in our lives. We are in South Africa but same story.
We are so blessed to be Latter-day Saints. Covenants are there for us to guide us in our eternal journey to return to Christ. All roads don't lead to Christ. Very thankful living prophets are here to guide us through perilous times.
@@blizzard2oo I respectfully want to ask how you resolve the problem of the obvious sin within the life of Joseph Smith...the founder of your faith...and how its contradicts with the teachings of Jesus Christ and His word? How has this sinful man been given authority to change the gospel message? And challenge the authority of scripture?
I am a muslim woman! I cried and cried so much watching this! It doesn’t matter which religion, but there is “man’s hand” in most everything they say “it’s divine”! Nothing that breads hatred, division and gives privilege to only “chosen ones” could be divine! What’s divine is that we are all created equal - men, women, nations, queer or straight! Love to all 🙏🏼
If only more Christians could show the love you demonstrated here 🙏❤️
It took me a lot of years to understand all that I now understand, and I’m half afraid of what more there is to learn! But that which underlies divine creation is love. And whatever we do really does need to be done in love. 💕
Yes!!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
this is beautiful!
perfectly said!
I know you speak English but I need to write this in my language so I can express what I really feel. Es difícil explicar lo que siento al verlos, se siente tanto amor, sufrimiento, esperanza, belleza, perseverancia, tantas cosas. Los admiro con todo mi corazón, que bueno que hagan estos videos para que el mundo se dé cuenta que la representación más pura de lo divino es el amor sin juicios, el amor con entendimiento y compasión (aunque piense de una forma diferente), con el respeto que todos los seres vivos merecemos. Gracias por mostrar y enseñar lo que han vivido y permitirnos entender y sentir desde sus ojos lo que ha significado este proceso. Siento una enorme admiración por el amor que se tienen como familia. Me siento afortunada de haberme encontrado con su instagram y poder aprender. Gracias! 🙏🏼
"A faith that can't be questioned is probably not a faith worth having" - that's so true.. thank you for sharing your story, It's both heartbreaking and heartening! I hope you two, AND your beautiful family, find joy and happiness and experience all the wonders and infinite diversity that this world has to offer.
Yet this isn’t true. Our faith teaches you to question and pray with an open heart and contrite spirit for an answer. Yes we do believe in accountability.It’s apparent this family is suffering emotionally and spiritually right now. It’s much easier to turn to the world than to live differently than the rest of the world.
The only way to have joy is through JESUS CHRIST.
READ GENESIS and John, in the Bible.
Except that it can be questioned! They are so wrong about that, and that's the fault of their leaders and parents for making them think there is no room to question. James 1:5 will be true for everyone, Always! "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God"
❤
@@wesbyEric only blind faith. Understanding faith is actually something that gets it stronger, because you learn the reason behind the beliefs and traditions. Take Saint Thomas Aquinas, one of the greatest philosophers and theologian of Catholic Church, yet he was one who made some of the most complicated questions regarding faith, the harder the question was to answer, the greater his faith became.
Not sure how YT's algorithms led me to this video, but I'm glad they did. I'm a non-religious person who moves between atheism and agnosticism. You're both incredibly courageous. Your children will have parents who love and support them, while encouraging intellectual curiosity and religious exploration. I sincerely hope that the kindness and generosity you give to the world will return to you tenfold.
I originally came to look for a crochet legwarmers tutorial and ended up here!
“The nearly 17-million member, Utah-based faith said in a statement that church doctrine would continue to consider same-sex relationships to be against God’s commandments. Yet it said it would support rights for same-sex couples as long as they didn’t infringe upon religious groups’ right to believe as they choose.” - Associated Press
ua-cam.com/video/FrqkaKz_SSg/v-deo.html
You sound like a true atheist
I've been watching and listening to street preachers since 2017 (Gabe the street preacher, Cleveland street preachers, David Lynn, Dorre Love)... they all were preaching on 'pride parades'... it was sad to see the hate and rejection of the word of God... Jesus Christ is the truth, the way and the LIFE !!! Man and man cannot produce life, woman and woman cannot produce life... btw -> there are many former homosexuals, transgenders who say that they were abused as children, but Jesus healed them! pray to God, that he may help you find the identity that he has prepared for you!
"Going through a faith deconstruction is like standing at the edge of a cliff that you've been told all your life that you would die if you jumped from. " I also like your analogy of going through a year that was a dark night of the soul. A faith crisis is so traumatic. This was beautifully done. Thank you both so much for opening up and sharing your story; it is a very important one to share. And I am so glad you also are able to remember some of the good things that you took from your upbrining while being able to change.
..
How do we know right side up is not upside down?
Live our Heaven now❤️ I loved that part about this beautiful video ❤️
Yes I agree first bit be doing for last year I like standing in kitchen with my gf and little girl who is 4 I randomly singing a children's song from the church I am for goodness sake growing up church you have songs in bloody head it hard for sure
It's amazing how genuine and caring of a person Amanda is. You can just see the hurt in her eyes, when she realizes there are others hurting. That, is what makes a human being special for me
Beautiful sentiment 🙏💕I totally agree
❤ I left Mormon church at 47 and am now 55. I finally feel peace. I don’t feel like I am constantly falling short. I now believe as a woman I have the right and am even smart enough to make my own life decisions. So grateful that I left and have been able to experience this!! I now love myself and am ok with not having all the answers and am ok with not being perfect. If you’re doubting, do it!! Find your truth it’s the best!!
Jesus is always calling to His sheep. And His sheep know His voice.
There are many sheep caught up in religion, in Mormonism etc.
You are the sheep of the Lord as you listened to His call and came out of that religion.
Those that don't know the Lord's voice will remain in religion. They love their religion more than the truth, and that truth is Jesus.
God bless you!!
Praise Jesus, forever and ever.
Thanks for your courage. God bless. God is about Love in Action. All religions are man made.. all false gods.. The LDS is a fraud.. very money-centric. The LDS Church is a major Vendor of Salvation.. one must pay tithes to LDS church in order to receive salvation and exaltation ordinances.. The True JChrist condemns all Vendors of Salvation .. see 3 Nephi 27:32 in the Book of Mormon
I left at 32 I almost 34 I had my son and adopted a child in the time I left single handedly I glad I did
@@yofred2023 exactly I see that now as divorced from the men who kept me there with abuse .
Thank you for the truth.
I've accidentally watch your first three coming out videos backward, but they've lost none of their beauty. God, I love this amazing family. Please send them all your love and light. ❤❤❤❤
"a faith that can't be questioned isn't worth having" prophetic indeed.
Jesus answers All your questions, if you are sincere in asking……..
You can question the faith. The church can't change to except everyone's selfish desires.
@@kevinwright8524 Read Second Class Saints. Without people questioning Mormonism, both within and out of the Church, it wouldn't have changed.
@@laurahall645 BULLSHIT!!!!!! Stop blaming the victims!
My goodess, when you said "maybe the point of all of this is just to experience heaven right now", what a revelation , thank you!
Turns out, your parents were right about you becoming a prophet, Shaye. You making this video, that was certainly hard to make, will bring comfort to many and make them feel they are not alone. Who knows how many people will not commit suicide because of you.
You can be proud of yourself. And of your supportive spouse.
True that , I also thought as much ... they are both prophets of the highest order 👆😁
Your confusing people and trying to lead them away. Sounds like your dad had some mental health issues. Should have gotten help for the mental health issues.
@@bjtaylor4360 Are you ok?
I was thinking the same thing. A prophet is a teacher and a truth teller. It may be a word with too loaded a religious meaning. But I think people with prophetic wisdom upset the status quo and bring other people into a deeper level of spiritual enlightenment.
Yes, and being a circuit breaker for your family history so you aren't passing on this psychological damage
It's heartbreaking to me that you went to your parents and they were unable to help you. That must have been absolutely terrifying to both of you to speak that truth out loud, and to have to sort through all of the church documents on that. I'm so sorry. You both have had to go through so much.
I left Mormon church 18 years ago. It was not easy to leave all good sisters and brothers. But this was the right decision I had made in my life. I am glad my kids grew up in Christian church.
You didn't leave them. They left you. That's what cults do
❤❤❤❤ the grass is definitely greener on this side 😊 😍
This video is a gr8 reminder of the power of brainwashing. Glad this couple saw the light and have been liberated.
@@hearsay516 In Christianity, It’s not up to the church to decide how you live your life, they just preach the word. If you are around people condemning you and judging you at church, you’re in the wrong church. That is not what we are called to do as Christian’s. But just as with everything else, there are parts that are corrupted by greedy selfish people… sadly
I am sorry you left. I am glad you ate still going to church and I am glad you are happy. This is a Christian church and always will be. I hope your new found church isn't teaching you this. Not a Christ like attribute
This is terrific. So glad you got out of that church and live lives that are authentic and your own. What you are teaching your children today is precious. I hope this video opens other churchgoers' eyes.
I don't know you, but I'm really, really *proud* of you :-)
I’m ExJW and my family and I escaped in 2017 after being born and raised in it. Mormonism is quite similar to what, and how we were taught. I’m so glad you’re out! And I’m so GLAD you are sharing your story!
Same here, and the creepy old "Quorum of 12 Apostles" dudes remind me of the JW "Elders"... Projecting their own shame and guilt on the congregation as a means of control and manipulation.
From my understanding two men set out to create their own religion. After being un-able to agree, one created JW and one Mormonism in the late 1800's. I'm ex JW myself. I love how they talk as if they were at the table with Jesus himself.
“Escaped” lol.
@@cindyyanetta5510 I was raised as a JW and like the Mormon religion they looked down on black people and thought less of them. JW's are not like that today but the founder of the religion had the belief and had followers believe the same for a long time.
@@tndyamond2 yes they do and I seen they say they cursed as someone who is 89 baby born into with twin sister my family left accept her and husband and my ex when. Born into this you know different the first thing drank was coffee I took my name and my kids name of record's now so we no longer members
I’m actually a direct descendant of Fanny Alger. And I love the history behind my family. But leaving the church has been one of the hardest processes. I’m only at the beginning and scared. This video gave me courage. Thank you.
YOU GOT THIS!! it took unimaginable courage to take that first step. If you just keep that same energy towards your new life, then there is nothing you can't do, or achieve. You are going to do great things in life, so please don't feel scared or anxious. You decided to jump into the drivers seat and take the wheel in your life, and in what direction you choose to go is all yours 🙏✌️💕
you are strengthened in Jesus name
Satan wants you to be scared, don't satisfy him.
@@skybee001 God will direct your path. He is faithful.
Start listening to people who have experienced NDE'S .. they can tell you the truth. And it has everything to do with your own divine self and your birthright of making your own choices. And it has nothing to do with institutions and (white) men placing themselves in between tge you of this incarnation and your divine all knowing grand soulself
“What a miracle it is to exist at all”
This is something I’ve thought very often since leaving the Mormon church. I am so much more grateful for my life than I ever was as a member. It’s interesting that since ‘loosing’ my eternal perspective, I’ve gained such a rich, full, & present perspective on life. This video brought me to tears. Thank you!
Same here❤
This song captures that sentiment better than any other I've heard.
ua-cam.com/video/dzNvk80XY9s/v-deo.html
I couldn’t have said this better myself!!!!!!! ❤️❤️
@Riley Allen Exactly! In fact my very devoutly LDS Step Dad would say "Some People are so "Heavenly Bound They were no Earthly Good!" 😁. I never forgot that. Life here is so full of wonder, so full of wonderful experiences. Even all my loved ones who have already passed on, have left me their love and I feel it everyday. 😊
@@howieroarke No. We are born to live life with Jesus helping us on this earth so that we can help others on their journey home - their eternal home - which is heaven.
As Jesus told Nicodemus, 'I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water & the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh but the Spirit give birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at me saying " You must be born again " '. If you miss this very important cue you have missed everything that Jesus taught. There is no heaven for J.W.'s or L.D.S.'s sadly. - You MUST be born again.
As a 17yr old female, i was taught that men could be sealed to multiple women. That was all i needed to hear to leave the church.
Thank you for sharing your story to the world.
You were taught incorrectly and did not do your research IF this is true.... which is doubtful.
I agree with Steve. Rowena, you were taught incorrectly or maybe you misunderstood
It's actually the opposite, in the LDS church a man can have multiple women sealed to him (eternal polygamy) but a woman can only be sealed to one man. So if the wife passes away, the man can marry another woman and they will both be his wives in the afterlife according to LDS theology. If the man passes away and the woman wants to remarry, she has to get the sealing to her first husband annulled by the leaders of the church then she can remarry.
Haha sorry guys. How embarrassing. I meant men can be sealed to multiple women. Have corrected. Not sure why so many people have liked my poorly-worded comment!
@@dalebrimhall1071nasty
the conclusions you have come to, as tortuous as the process must have been, are truly beautiful. good luck to your family and much love.
1. Thank you for sharing your journey. I feel very honored to have come upon it.
2. When the Family Proclamation came out, I knew one of my best friends would eventually leave.
It took him 18 years, and I'm happy for him.
He finally realizes that God really is just.....LOVE and God is not confined in an institution, a proclamation, or a book. That LOVE is infinite and eternal.
So very proud of Shay for living his honest truth! You have a beautiful family and I’m praying for all of you!
Cults don't feel like Cults, when everyone you know is in the Cult. It's all consuming
All religions are just modern day cults
Most members of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints have multiple members of their families that attend other Christian faiths. It's not a cult it's just not your brand of Christianity
The world is a cult. You live in that. It teaches a bunch of lies to everyone. I don't see you complaining about that
@@ChristianErwin-zl2xtnah it's a cult.
@@ChristianErwin-zl2xtthat might just be one of the most untrue things I have ever read.
“At the end of the day, we are just here to walk each other home.” 💕💕
Hummm.... well if truth doesn't really exist is that really what we are suppose to be doing? How are we suppose to know that we are suppose to be walking each other home or taking advantage of each other or worse?
I would like to answer your question. I have wondered the same thing, I mean without a Church community or some religious belief, how can you know how to behave? Did you know elephants feel grief at the loss of other elephants their close too? A Mother mourns the loss of her baby and doesn't want to leave it. The elephants are close knit. They weren't taught these things, and it goes beyond just instinct. Why should we lack any less empathy or want to exercise good behavior even if we didn't sit in church for most of our lives? So yes in the end, we can walk home together, if we choose to.
John 4:33
But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him.
Let us know Him as He is not as everyone labels Him to be. There is A Way, there is A Truth and there is A Life.
Spread the Light and be ye sinless, depart from it. Sin is a fight, but Life has its challenges.
May God have mercy and may we be steadfast. In Jesus Christ's name Amen!
@@livingmombirth4005 exactly
Amen
This was refreshing to watch. When you said "On our journey my heart has almost just broken open with love that I didn't know existed" .... you had me in tears. Imagine if religions would bring people to that same conclusion every time. Our world would look nothing like it does today. Thank you so much for having the courage to share your story and your journey. You are a beautiful family.
What I also saw there was a sense of the very joy that foolish, foolish man said no one outside the LDS church could have or know.
I think at base level most religions do end up the same place. And I think that says a lot about human beings
I have no connection to the Mormon religion and only minimal knowledge about it. I am heterosexual but have family and friends who are not. I've seen their struggles. I'm not sure how I stumbled onto this video but am so glad I did. What a beautiful, honest, loving family you are. I am of the age where I am evaluating the life I have led and that which I have left. Your statement about experiencing Heaven here on this earth touched me so deeply it brought tears (of joy) to my heart. You two are inspiring to all.
I think many people mix up sexuality with gender. A gay man or woman is not the same as a person dealing with transgender dysmorphia. A gay man is comfortable in his male body. However, he is sexually attracted to men. A person with transgender issues, literally does not agree with the image in the mirror. Imagine looking in the mirror and seeing yourself with a face and body of the opposite gender. It must be terrifying!
Also, a man can be trans and still be sexually attracted to women. Caitlin Jenner is an example. She is still attracted to women.
I am so proud of you. For years I wondered how LGBTQ community in the Mormon religion survived. It's so sad watching the things that church does and it's called indoctrination. The conservative communities scream that it's happening in the schools but it's actually the religious cults that indoctrinate their children through the church and their homeschooling. I don't blame just Morman religion I blame all Catholic, evangelical, Scientology they are all cults. They use their religion to hide behind their bigotry.
So proud of you and I know you will have a long happy life the way you feel the most comfortable I will never judge you.
@@bflogal18 thank you for bringing this up. I think the confusion many people have is because trans people are part of the queer rights LGBTQ+ movement, I think a lots of people don’t realise that the T is for trans. I had this with my x husband and our youngest child, when they came out as trans a year ago they asked me to tell there Dad and he just couldn’t seem to grasp that being trans is not being gay! I am thankful that I as their Mum have a good amount of knowledge (have still learned a ton in the last 16 months!) due to me fact I am a lesbian (who struggled with this for way too long due to growing up and educated Catholic through the 80s and early 80s. ‘It’s complicated’ is the best fit why I didn’t accept and come out until my very late 30s) and I am blessed to have a few trans friends, one of whom is a close friend (she is a lesbian trans woman the same age as my Mum who has been an amazing support for me learning how to support my youngest and helped me to get the right help for them and give the best support. However for the longest time I had no idea where their sexuality sat on the spectrum because as I have to tell people way to often, gender identity is not sexuality! It is also none of my dam business until they chose to share that with me.
@@bflogal18 thats so sick,
@Carol Bassant Regardless of a person's sexuality or gender the person is still a child of God. Instead of making judgmental and hurtful remarks try following God's Commandments. Love thy neighbor as thy self. Not judge. Listen to the individuals experience with an open mind. I spent the late 80s through 2000 working in the HIV field. I started working with at risk youth in 2000 who identified as LGBTQ and still do work in the community today. If I have learned anything over the last 30 + years it is the beauty of God's Grace. I have witnessed the evils of hate and I have seen the personal relationships with God comfort those dying from HIV/AIDS. It is through God's Grace that we can find tolerance, understanding, acceptance and love for all God's children.
Proud of you both!!!! I'm fortunate to have realized organized faith didn't work for me at 12 years old and work with others to find their path of truth, love and authenticity
I’m from St. George too! Watching this was like feeling a big warm hug of understanding. I left the church for all the same reasons also. At first my family was nicer to me than ever (which, honestly it was a relief to be treated nicely after growing up experiencing parentification, neglect, and abuse. As one of 8 kids, I’m the oldest girl in my family and have severe ADHD that I was punished and ostracized for, but was also expected to help take care of younger siblings and always be home to help my mom with the never ending housework), but after my family realized the niceness wasn’t achieving the goal to re-convert me it has gone back the other way. It’s pretty disheartening when all my siblings get together to laugh about how we were raised and I’m over here in therapy still healing from it.
Anyway sorry to ramble. Thanks for making this. It’s exhausting and re-traumatizing trying to explain myself to members who genuinely want to know “why”. This helps tremendously.
I get it, I've got similar trauma from my upbringing as well. I've learned to couch it in general statements rather than give any details, especially to friends and strangers. If you give details, people somehow feel like they have the skill and the right to judge you on whether or not you deserve to feel traumatized by what happened. They do not. Just tell them you are recovering from trauma (don't even tell them what kind!) and then tell them how much you appreciate the fact that they haven't pressed for details. If they don't take the hint, time for smarter friends.
I was never a Mormon; but I am a Christian. I'll pray for God to heal you completely., and that He will open the eyes of your family members to the true Gospel of Jesus Christ. May God bless!
I totally understand the Parentification and ADHD aspect as a youth. We weren’t raised in any sort of church unless they were handing out food baskets! I am the 4th of 6 children and the only child who has graduated on time, with honors, went through college for teaching and always made the Deans List for excellence in grades. I held a teaching career until retirement. I’ve never been caught up in drinking, drugs, bar hopping, sexual fortification, etc.
I got married young, 19, had our first daughter at age 21, second daughter at age 23.5. I was done with having children. I never wanted my own children to be put into the place I was placed as a child growing up.
Thanks for your courage. God bless. God is about Love in Action. All religions are man made.. all false gods.. The LDS is a fraud.. very money-centric. The LDS Church is a major Vendor of Salvation.. one must pay tithes to LDS church in order to receive salvation and exaltation ordinances.. The True JChrist condemns all Vendors of Salvation .. see 3 Nephi 27:32 in the Book of Mormon
I am so very sorry for all you have had to endure. Praying for you. Always remember that Jesus is there for you and loves you beyond all measure. Sending love, hugs and prayers.
You two have a very bright future in making documentaries /films. This was extremely well done, VERY professional and interesting to watch.
I wholeheartedly agree. It was just unfortunate and sad to see that they missed the point of their entire upbringing and so easily fooled.
How did they miss the point of their entire upbringing?
@@livingmombirth4005 They escaped to the truth of God, and left the worship of the false profit and child abuser, Smith.
@@christinedunn5709 exactly
@@zebeart8808 you are absolutely correct, they left a big ring pedophile church ⛪️
This… should win an award. I have no words.
Meghan I couldn't agree more. I tried to write a comment but I was speechless. So, so good.
I changed the likes from 666 to 667, ha. 🤪 (I'm an estranged Christian-adjacent adult, but for some reason that previous number is still a bit scary. 😅)
@@miak4006 It should be scary 😳. The devil 👺hates us. The good news is God is not a God of fear but of love ❤, forgiveness 😪, mercy 😇, hope ✝️ and wisdom beyond our understanding . And so much more. 💖.
So we’ll done I agree .Beautiful family .
@@francisgalton2678 This was sad, but eye opening. I agree I, deserves an award
Gosh, I have loved you both from the first time I saw you - but, I'd never gone back through your videos before - until tonight, when I stopped - where I thought it would be really important to see who you were, before the Amanda and Shaye I met after Shaye's first surgery and have followed ever since. This has been a masterpiece of telling your story in the most compelling possible way, leaving absolutely no stone unturned, and coupled with absolutely incredible sequencing, and enmeshing of voices, past and present, music, and ohh so much emotion. I have been in tears for most of it, because in all of this was your underlying pain, BUT, so amazingly - your determination - both of you to try to seek the truth, and the solution from your church in every possible way before coming to the inescapable conclusion that your church spouted direction without obeying it themselves.
Gods, I absolutely LOVED this new facet to you both. So so SO privileged to have borne witness to this part of your lives tonight.. Bless you both!
As a boisterous individual, there was no room in this society for me. Not the way I was made. The focus today is on the LGBTQ+ community and the absolute unacceptance of them by the devout. I was also excluded - there isn't a choice between conformity and something else, the ONLY option available is conformity.
I left long ago, and when I discovered the FACTS that Joseph Smith was a confessed and convicted con artist, I felt betrayed, but also vindicated. The entire church is structured to oppress women, AND men, who don't fit into the narrow definitions it allows. I'm so glad I found the strength to leave when I did.
As an ex-Mormon queer woman, thank you for making this. Leaving the church can be such an isolating experience. The Truman Show mention startled me, because watching that movie for the first time was unexpectedly emotional as someone who grew up being taught to be in the world but not of the world. Though the process can be long and difficult, leaving has taught me how to love, trust, and support people in ways I didn't realize I could not before. I'm proud of you and your family for speaking out about your experiences and choices.
@@Lbhacksaw Did you watch the video? She mentioned it as a point of understanding and relation to Shaye and that they had to deal with the way the church speaks about gender. They would have the same in relation to queerness. You may not like it but it is relevant to the topics brought up so no need to react like that. Are you also commenting like this on the posts of people mentioning that they don't understand as they are straight and cis but are happy for them or is it just queer people that get this response?
@@Lbhacksaw because it's important to the video? Also people can talk about what they want. Sexuality is an important thing. It isn't hurting anyone. People like you make it hard to be open. This comment wasn't necessary at all.
@@Lbhacksaw - I understand you, BUT let me try to explain something.. I have a transgender granddaughter & niece! They didn’t talk about their gender but it was very OBVIOUS! If we don’t talk about these things, their struggle will continue, nothing will change. Everyone has a right to be who they truly are, to love who they love without judgement. Hopefully, someday, no one will have to talk about it, but that will be because of all the brave ones that have paved the way! 🤞🏼
@@Lbhacksaw I never made any assumptions about your sexuality in my comment so that is a non sequitur. Not sure why you decided to bring that up. Do you like saying how you are *not* talking about it? What do you mean with manners? If you mean me, just because I don't go out of my way to be obsequious in how I speak doesn't mean I am rude. I have flat affect in how I speak and write. It is what it is. Read my comments with a straight face and a shrug and you will have a basis for where my reaction lies.
Also people do make allusions to their sexuality or assumptions about the sexuality of others all the time. Just because it isn't blatantly said don't mean subconsciously it is not there. Simply stating a orientation doesn't need to be a 'private matter' or do you immediately start thinking inappropriate things when someone makes a statement of fact like that? I agree it would be nice to live in a world where people don't have to bring up things like that but we don't, because there is a lot of marginalisation and baggage that can be associated with that, which many people do need to talk about to unpack. I am very happy that is not the case for you and the people you know.
And I had no particular reaction. I wondered why you said what you said is all. I don't care if you stand by your words as I don't begrudge you them. But you decided to complain that someone brought up something relevant and related to the topic of the video so I asked why. You are entitled to make your comment so I am entitled to mine as well right? I just was curious as to why you decided to say what you said to someone stating they were queer and not on one of the comments stating they were straight (there are several) and wondering if you considered why you picked this one over the others. It comes over as sexualising everything a queer person does even though you say you apply it universally, whether that was the intent or not. Also people are allowed to talk about what they want to talk about it. Discourse is good. It's how we grow and learn and relate to each other. If it is not for you you don't have to be a part of that particular conversation but I hope you get to have fun and stimulation conversations you do enjoy.
@@Lbhacksaw thats your own opinion, about GOD, but you will find out soon, hope you are ready,
I am in awe of the courage it took you to both leave the church and share this video. Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing your story. Inspirational!
Trust me, it takes more balls to be attacked than to move over to the attacker.
They are weak furryw
Don’t know how I got here, but I’m so thankful your children have you as parents. So much love to you all!
appreciate you guys sharing your story. i think its extremely important that there are resources like this- where people can go and see and really feel that the forces that cause people to leave are not sinister, not entrenched in that darkness and vitriol that the church frames them as. that people who leave find far more capacity for love and peace and joy than they ever had before, that people who leave are normal, are exactly like friendly good people you would expect to meet at church. not hateful, not miserable.
i left mentally when i was a sophomore in high school. its one of the hardest things i've gone through and yet i so cherish having been able to do it, am so deeply grateful for it. the sad irony is that life outside the church is where is found the highest joys one can experience, and the high standards for love and compassion, that the church asserts itself as the source for. i have the capacity to be such a better and fuller person than i ever did in the church, i'll be a better father, neighbor, husband, citizen. i don't have to reign in my moral impulses to conform them to someone else's boundaries, i can be the best version of myself that i could ever be
So happy for you. I left the Mormon church years ago.and found the lord Jesus as my savior . I married a non Mormon person and went through some confused and difficult times so I prayed for god’s direction in my life and which way I’m to go. And the scripture in 1 Corinthians it says do be unevenly yoked and to follow my husband who was a Christian. I lost my first baby and the Mormon women told me it was because I married a non Mormon. And we’re so negative towards outsiders of the Mormons. But my husband church family prayed for me and with me and just loved me and showed me Jesus. All we can do is tell our stories to others and pray for them to know Jesus in their hearts and except him.
Oh wow Stephanie, that's an amazing testimony. I'm a Christian too and I'm so happy to see that someone who used to be Mormon, turned to the true Jesus. God bless you!
@@kelilah492you’re a Christian and your support the LGBT?
Of course not @@blak238
Wow! I am so proud of you guys for the courage to speak out your truth. These are the first steps to heal your wounds/traumas.
“When I held up this fragment of my shattered testimony, I concluded that it had the fingerprints of men on it, and NOT the fingerprints of the divine”
This is such a beautiful sentence. It is exactly how I have felt in my faith transition. Thank you. This is incredibly worded.
I want to applaud the courage it took for you to create & post this video. Pretty sure my husband & I taught you in primary many years ago. To me it feels like another lifetime. We too have left the church, not long after the time we taught you. This video brought tears to my eyes. I’m so happy you guys have followed your hearts & found a path of truth for yourself.
Mormons is one of the SYNAGOGUES OF SATAN. Hope that many will come out fr them.
Nicely said - bless you for sharing & speaking the truth to this young man. Im so glad you know the truth. Blessings & love to you!
🙏✨💙
When you have problems with your own testimony, that's one thing! But when you're trying to take others with you, that's just Evil!
@@stardustgirl2904 I invite you to seek out a real Christian church based on the bible.
@@Number4lead I'm not sure what you're missing, we have prophet's and apostles, we have Temple's we have baptism by immersion, we pray in Jesus Christ name to our Heavenly Father! We have the Book of Mormon another testament of Jesus Christ, we have priesthood authority, we have the laying on of hands for blessings, and being set apart! The prophet holds the keys we have patrichal blessings, we have personal revelation, we have the power to bind families together for all eternity! We teach about the three degree's of glory written in the Bible! We believe in the God head! We just had the most spiritual conference with the prophet and apostles, God's words we're spoken along with his truth! You have free agency to believe in whatever you want to, it's your life and your choice! But for me the church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints is the true church upon the Earth ❗🙏🏻 I have been all over the world 🌎 and never felt the spirit of God in any of them. Instead of feeling the spirit,I only felt everything that was missing in those churches! As a Temple worker I have performed the sacred ordenances and witnessed the miracles of the Temple and I have felt the spirit of God in the Temple. May the Lord 🙏🏻 bless you in the path you take!
I’m still reeling from my reaction to my emotions after watching the video a few days ago. I was born and raised in Utah and punched all the tickets with my husband before leaving the state in ‘ 84. I had never seen the videos you included as I became inactive for nearly 30 years and recently came back to worship for a time and recently “ quiet quit “ for lack of a better term. I’m on my own journey to really dig deep and find answers I can live with. I find that the closer I get to Utah culture the more uncomfortable I feel. This video was amazing beyond words and I wish you nothing but the best on your journey forward ❤️
I was in the mormon church for 41 years, and I've been out for 1. This is a beautiful story of evolution and love while moving away from a church that claims to be all about family, but ignores the individuals in each family. Bravo, thank you!
You won’t find a perfect church anywhere on this earth because man is imperfect. Well wishes on your journey.
@@babymoon5282 You won’t find a perfect cult….
@@tedgarrison8842 you can leave the Mormon church safely and at will . Can’t say the same about a cult though.
@@babymoon5282 it is a cult. Not only was I a card carrying cult member for five decades, served a mission, temple marriage 27 years, I worked protecting their leaders and property. When I went to my bishop saying that I lost my faith, I was told that I better quit my job or they would fire me. When I told my wife, she said I needed to leave our home..
Safe?
F your cult!
Baby moon is very triggered by this video and that people resonate with it, so please disregard their invalidating comments.
My spouse and I left in 2020/2021 and you're so right. My spouse felt they had to endure their burdens in silence, and their family was shocked when they found out. Ot wasn't a shock of emotion and coming to their aid, it was shock they would have the audacity to voice their pain.
"If you chance to meet a frown change it to a smile" all happy compliance and no time for real compassion. The church is lonely for those who suffer from the othering.
I'm so sorry for the pain you've undoubtedly experienced and still experience.
Thank you. Truly. My now son is experiencing this struggle. Im open with live support and most of all kindness. So many are quick to judge. I tell them Just BE YOU. You are the most amazing person. I prayed to have you. What a special joy that is. To have a mighty spirit. Thank you both for your truth. ❤❤
As someone who also left the church I really appreciate how well this was done. As a woman, I really appreciate the touching of the roles of women and men in the church and how it’s entirely limiting in different ways for everyone. Also lol at the images of you as one of the dead prophets in the last days. I understand it was a real fear at the time but I hope it kept coming up as comedic relief. Thank you both.
Your story is a gift and I thank you for it. I am hopeful that your story finds everyone who has ever needed it and gives them strength
💚
"What is sacred to some comes at the cost of trauma to others who do not fit the privileged narrative." - This hit me really hard Shaye. I'm going through something similar in a protest church right now. It's really painful. Thanks for sharing, there's comfort in hearing about what others going through and their thoughts and feelings.
Hello, what about your particular Church are you struggling with? Is it affecting your faith in God or merely the Church?
“What a miracle it is to exist at all. And maybe the point of all of this is just to experience heaven right now.” 🥺😭❤️ Just absolutely so brave and vulnerable of you to share. Thank you.
That one hit me in the most glorious of ways. So often we work hard for the future and don't fully appreciate the now. So eloquently said. Thank you for repeating.
This is such a sad sad story…to leave a life long religion, and to still be deceived by the enemy of your soul😢
Seek a relationship with Christ Jesus, and be born again✝️ John 3:3
As an Ex- Mormon this is one of the most powerful and moving videos I have ever seen. Thank you for using your platform in such a raw and comforting way. Wow. I am blown away.
But, I didn't hear about what they believe now.
I pray that they will find the truth. JESUS CHRIST, ALONE.
THERE ARE NO OTHER GOD ONLY ONE.
Read the Bible.
Genesis, John e more.
The Bible is the only book
Ephesians 2:8-10., John 14 and more.
God bless u!
What scripture says there is only one God only one ? You mean when Paul is teaching pagans not to worship idols . He is the only God not their pagan idols . Let’s read the whole complete story and why that was said .
@@lena.reyesreyes3512the surf
I un-liked this post several times only to be able to hit the thumbs up button again. Great quality video and insane testimony!
They don't need to "believe" in any god or religion.
As someone who went through a faith transition around the same time, I can’t tell you how grateful I am to you for sharing your story. It’s so scary to loose so much of your community, and this makes me feel a little less alone.
Amanda, you are truly one of the most beautiful hearts to witness. A selfless human that rises above the natural failures of humans and societal pressures.
Thank you and ygank you both for helping so many others by being such heroic and brave friends.
I’m blown away by how similar our experiences of Mormonism has been. I’m Gay, and being gay and Mormon has basically been the challenge of my entire life. It’s been a long-fighting 30 years of struggle, but I have finally made the decision to leave the church. But I leave it, thankful for all the beautiful and positive moral standards that I’ve built my entire life around. I’m still a God-loving son of God and I will do my best to spread good around the world. My belief in God is stronger by making this decision, and I hope that when I pass on, that God will be happy with how I chose to live my life. Separating God from Mormonism felt strange at first, but has brought a lot of peace to me in the after-math. Thank you both for sharing your beautiful story, and it’s great to know that I’m not the only one going through this transition. ❤
Beautiful!! Institutions are MANmade. And we are all one, and one with the divine. We came to this incarnation to experience. Experience what? That which you chose with your own council before coming into this incarnation. All for your own Soul's Purpose
This was truly a great testimony to how we should always question and look for the answers that help us stay close to the Lord. I am a Christian, and was taught that the Morman faith was a cult. I am not sure about that, but no one is perfect, nor lives a perfect life, therefore, there is no perfect religion. And if there are no answers, you should question your faith, as you did.
I am a 70s girl, and love the Osmonds, and Donny is still my teen idol even now! But I pray for the entire Osmond family to seek the truth from the Holy Bible, not some secondary Bible book. There is only one faith and one Bible. That is all that is needed to seek our salvation with the Lord.
@@sherrie2tube no perfect religion you say? With that said, do you believe that there can be good in other religions other than the one you currently belong to?
So inspired by you both! Grateful to have you in my family. Love from your shorter and slightly older brother. - Skyler 😊
Skyler I'm so thrilled to see your support for them! ❤ my daughter was born within a week of your 5, and my daughter has grown up watching your kids grow alongside her! I found Shaye and Amanda's channel through yours, and when they were quiet for a while, I was worried something big had happened! Luckily it turned out to be a positive change ❤(though not without challenges). As I watched this video, I kept thinking how much I hoped they had the support of their family, especially you guys. I was so glad to see this comment from you ❤ keep on being awesome, all of you!
I've begun to love them as much as I love you, Skyler. "Great Scotts", thank you for your courage and sharing your journey with us. I have always been fascinated/interested in exploring or understanding Mormonism. This gives great insight. God Bless you all(or whatever higher being you ascribe to)
I'm so happy to see your comment here! That means a lot, family is still family with love and compassion. Kisses from Argentina
If you are in the same boat, I wish you came out with your own video too Skyler. Or at least make us understand a little bit what you and your family goes through too. It breaks my heart you have broken up, and gone your separate ways. That must be so hard for all of you too, whatever happened. Love from Marte in Norway 🇸🇯❤️
Skyler thank you for showing how much you love your brother.
I love your story. I left the church after 30 years of being raised in it and trying to conform to it and I couldn't do it anymore. Now I'm trying to find my place without it
🙏 Love and prayers to find a Blessed Life.
@@brendabrownen6684 Consider finding a solid Bible-teaching local church! But first find out who God/Jesus is by reading the bible. I left the LDS after 23 years and wandered a long time. A lot of opportunities and joy squandered, and bad experiences. God is real and wants relationship with you, unless a man is born again he will not see the kingdom, John 3.
I am having this same problem. I left after 40 years. I’m afraid to go anywhere else. I can’t bear lies anymore. It’s just me, my Bible and my prayers.
I second Teejay. Find a Bible teaching church. A church that preaches verse by verse chapter by chapter. Keep it simple! Find a church that prunes you and directs you to the truth. Also stay away from"Spiritual experience" and churches that guilt you into giving money all the time.
Thanks for your courage. God bless. God is about Love in Action. All religions are man made.. all false gods.. The LDS is a fraud.. very money-centric. The LDS Church is a major Vendor of Salvation.. one must pay tithes to LDS church in order to receive salvation and exaltation ordinances.. The True JChrist condemns all Vendors of Salvation .. see 3 Nephi 27:32 in the Book of Mormon
I was 3rd generation Mormon…
I feel this so much! I pray for the masses of the church to find Jesus
Right now I'm 17 and my parents think that once I graduate High School, I'm going to go on a mission. I've heard many stories like yours where people who left the church were scolded by their closest friends and family. I always thought the church was about loving everyone no matter what. But after seeing how people treat others who leave the church, gay and transgenders, it has changed my perspective to realize that the church really doesn't care about everyone. The part of the video where Gordon B. Hinkley said gay people are a problem that need to be fixed, that one just hurt so bad. And the Clip where Kevin W. Pearson made fun of young men who questioned whether or not they should go on a mission, really showed me how we don't have freedom of agency even though the church claims we do. Thank you for making this video! It has helped me in my struggles. Best wishes to both of you and your family! :)
I was baptized into the Mormon church when I was 15 years old. Before I was baptized, there were 2 missionaries who came to my home on a regular basis and spoke to me about the gospel. I loved how supportive and family oriented the church was and at the time that was what I needed.
Shortly after being baptized I noticed a little bit of a shift in demeanor in people. I remember vividly hearing the story, that was mentioned in your video, of the couple who were killed after being married in a civil ceremony and I was devastated. Even at 15-16 years old, I couldn’t see the correlation between not being sealed in the temple and death. Not long after that I began to have questions about the teachings. I never got any answers. I felt there was a lot of judgement being thrown around but yet we’re taught that only Jesus or God was permitted to lay judgement. I was very confused and disappointed, so I left the church almost as quickly as I came. From then on I decided I wanted to live my life accepting and trying to understand all walks of faith and focus on being the best person I could be.
Thank you so much for sharing!❤️
I love how you've included the church movies and music in your video. It really had a huge impact on my life. I think coming to terms with the emotions and truth can be hard.
@enchantinglysimple Only they cherry picked random, unrelated clips with no context to steer the narrative. You can splice almost anything to make it sound favorable to your point of view.
I'm a year late on this one but wanted to thank you so much for sharing your experiences with us. 🙏 The unconditional love and the vulnerability you both demonstrate in your videos is beautiful and inspiring, and your voices benefit this world more than you know. Wishing you and your wonderful family the best! ❤
This is the most beautiful, well thought out, respectful video I have ever seen.
My family is Mormon. I was born and raised in the church. Recently my more and grandmother were speaking of this video and how sad it was that you guys were lead astray. I knew I absolutely wanted to watch it. So finally, today I did. I was amazed. As someone who is trans and in a queer relationship, this was the most seen and heard I have ever felt. The message at the end about life being a gift was really beautiful. Because I agree. I have spent my entire life panicked, just trying to keep from ending it all and trying so desperately to meet church standards and make it through to eternity that I haven't enjoyed life at all.
I was homeschooled to prevent being lead astray by worldly ways, so the only thing I had in life was the church. And I have endeared so much pain and judgment from it. I Recently aged out of the youth program, but at the time when I was in it I came out (at 16 or 15) and told my leaders my chosen name. I didn't tell them I was trans. But after I stopped wearing dresses, they refused to use my name and act like it's a big deal, which my mother excuses. Being in the church and not agreeing with something is the most trapping, most suffocating feeling I have ever known. I just want to be me and be happy. Not held down by thousands of "loving" hands.
In short, I want to say thank you. Thank you for this beautiful video. Thank you for making me feel seen. Thank you for doing this. God bless you. I know your kids will be great people and will be so happy one day because of the understanding and care you two have worked so hard to learn.
It is difficult to know which denomination is the one true church as they all sound like the right one when you understand each of them. I sincerely believe that christ is in every church there are sincere people who love God in every faith and likewise hypocrites also. I believe to some extent that the better people are found outside the church sincere people that are not hiding their sins behind the church
@@seanizad7684 I've listened to hundreds of people share their near death experiences. Their experiences aren't all the same but there are two common messages that they return with. That there is no religion in Heaven and the most important thing that we can do that gives glory to our creator is to Love one another ♥️
I am a part of the LDS church. Watching this made me feel so much for your struggles. As I was not raised in Utah, I have noticed that Utah LDS people and those who are outside of it are a whole different ballgame. When I lived in Utah for a small time, it was difficult to see how different it was and how others in the church treated each other. I wish you and your family well. Thanks for sharing your truth.
@@robynwyall4668 Sadly this is so true, growing up in Idaho which is pretty much growing up in UT. I have seen and heard people be literally insane just to keep a temple recommend. They'd rather lie and be in denial over reality even if it costs others wellbeing or their own, just to not be ashamed or feel guilt from dealing with their sins. They lie to keep their temple recommend. There's a competition of who has perfect lives and who has the best church callings. It's disheartening💔
i was raised catholic.I think
their is faults in all religion
& churches.God accepts
anyone.. just how they are..
its society that doesnt.. god
never abandons.. its people
that do.In life.. here on earth,
NO ONE is perfect,everyone
has their ups & downs &
struggles... everyone goes
through experiences good
or bad.. Life is full of ups &
downs & experiences...
this is what were here for..
& we each have our own
path to go down... no one
is perfect no one is better
then anyone.. no religion
or church is better then
the other... u dont need no
ones approval.. only gods
approval.U dont need a
religion or a church etc to
speak 2 god.Everyone on
this earth sins.. -no 1 on
earth is perfect.How is someone
2 say they.. are a prohet etc
when then themself are not
perfecrt.U dont need any
religion or church.. all u need
is god.. god is the way..
god hears & sees all never
abandons.. god does things
& answers on HIS time not
ours.He or she.. how u are
u should be proud of ur self
& how god made u.. u dont
have to be a follower of society
or be what society wants or u
2 be or how 2 be.. u are ur
own person with free will..
2 learn & do u & make ur
own choices... any family
member that doesnt love u
is wrong..they cant tell u
how 2 life ur life they need
2 live their own.. & not
judge anyone.. 4 they dont
know all answers like the
rest of us dont.. they dont
also know where they will
end up in the after life..
if a friend or family member
abandons u.. they were their
for u to learn or learn lessons
2 make u better & stronger...
not everyone is ment to stay
in ur life...good or bad,everything
happens for a reason... no 1
has the right to look down
on anyone or judge... the
only person anyone should
have to answer to is god.
"Maybe the point of all of this is to experience heaven right now."
Ugh. That really hit me. All this time we put off "true" happiness for the next life. Missing the miracle of this life. Thank you for this.
Beautifully made video and a great message. As a person who has also left the Mormon church, i felt so much comfort watching this video knowing that others felt exactly how i do. Wishing you all so much happiness and peace.
Thanks for your courage. God bless. God is about Love in Action. All religions are man made.. all false gods.. The LDS is a fraud.. very money-centric. The LDS Church is a major Vendor of Salvation.. one must pay tithes to LDS church in order to receive salvation and exaltation ordinances.. The True JChrist condemns all Vendors of Salvation .. see 3 Nephi 27:32 in the Book of Mormon
Well done guys ! I was a sixth generation Mormon who left 19 years ago for similar reasons. Live your best life!
I am a queer Latter-day Saint going through the same cognitive dissonance. Thank you so much for laying out your reasons in such a beautiful, thoughtful, and respectful way. While I still see myself remaining a part of this church, stories like this are incredibly valuable to me. I feel seen, validated, acknowledged, but also not pressured to abandon something that still means too much to me to let go. Your family should be commended for your integrity and faith to jump off that cliff of belief and dive into a life that is healthier and happier for you. More people need to hear stories like this so that they can more clearly decide for themselves how they want to proceed with their faith. Leaving doesn't make you evil. Leaving doesn't mean you've been led astray by lies and deceit. Leaving does have very valid reasons.
@@JimofTheLionKings That's a really interesting question. Short answer: yes, I believe I would be accepted into heaven.
Long answer: I believe that Jesus cares about each and every person, deeply and individually. I believe that God looks on the heart of every person. My intentions have always been to learn and follow God's commandments. Even though I'm struggling with aspects of my faith, I still live up to every promise I have made to God to the best of my ability, and I repent when I do wrong. None of us mortal beings will ever achieve perfection, and I believe that God knows my intentions. I believe that I am doing what I can, and because of my faith and actions, I am loved and welcomed by Him and Jesus Christ.
@@roftherealm3418 correct that's when Jesus' plan. The Jews were told to sacrifice animals for a temporary covering for our sin until the Messiah came and He would then be the Lamb of God who's blood will take away our sin permanently. He is the blood atonement. Our redeemer. He random Himself for us. The debt was paid for our sin in full. He said His last words on the cross it is finished.
Well said
So much pain and heartache in your faces.
I wish I could reach out and hug you both.
Thank you for sharing. I know things will never be the same, but maybe they aren’t supposed to be.
This was an extremely well made heartfelt vlog.
This is beautiful. Thank you. Loving our authentic selves, and finding God within us, and within others, without being ruled by religious dogma and intolerance, is so important. Your children will grow up knowing they are loved for who they are, whoever that is, which is the greatest gift parents can give their children. And well done to both of you for bravely finding and following your own truths. I wish you both well.
It's so interesting to hear other people describe what I went through 40 years ago. Back then I felt very alone and lost in the world (I left my country and travelled alone for years so i really was). But i didn't have the perspective to understand what was happening to me. It has taken decades to heal from the trauma of growing up with a questioning mind and free spirit in a strict fundamental family and church. Thanks for sharing your story. I think I need to share mine.
please, share yours! wish you blessings and healing. I was a mormon too.
This is such a beautiful video, and I applaud you for looking into things on your own instead of remaining passive. Your family will thrive; I have no doubt of that!
This was so important, and I’m so thankful that you guys were honest with yourselves and came to the conclusion that you did. Love really does make everything work - love wins!
Ironically, I started having severe panic attacks a year ago. Nights became the worst for me. The only thing that soothes me and helps me get through to the morning are the UA-cam videos like the music Shay is playing in the very beginning of this video. Those who make those videos are such a blessing to people like me.
PAUL WILBUR,'S. ALBUM, " JERUSALEM ARISE" IS BEAUTIFUL ANOITED, WORSHIP MUSIC, THAT WILL GIVE YOU PEACE IN YOUR HEART!!! I CAN ATTEST TO IT!!! ❤
Thanks for sharing your journey of awakening. Loving all people and celebrating the good within them is the pinnacle of humanity. Your children are so fortunate to have parents that will love them, without exception or expectation..
“Maybe the point of all of this is just to experience heaven right now” THAT♥️
@@stephtimms1776 That’s again.. not true.
Nope.
Amén! That’s what we Christians believe ❤️ we are here for a reason and God’s will and joy is to see us enjoy the life He has given us; that we are happy and wise, and that we do on earth as it is in heaven! Why wait until we get to heaven to love one another and live a peaceful life? His word says: Matthew 6:10 “your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” ❤
Thanks for your courage. God bless. God is about Love in Action. All religions are man made.. all false gods.. The LDS is a fraud.. very money-centric. The LDS Church is a major Vendor of Salvation.. one must pay tithes to LDS church in order to receive salvation and exaltation ordinances.. The True JChrist condemns all Vendors of Salvation .. see 3 Nephi 27:32 in the Book of Mormon
Oh my Goodness this world is not Heaven!!!! But yes everyday is a gift and a chance to be a light to shine for others and to try to make this world a better place.
Thanks for sharing. This is Huck Stewart, my brother Tel knows Shay. Hi! I really truly appreciate how brave and open yall are. My family (my wife and I) are transitioning out as well. Been a few year process. Just know you have a support community here in Souther Utah if you need it.
This is one of the most bravest heartfelt videos I’ve seen on UA-cam. Your story was deeply moving. God bless.
The fact that Shaye had the strength to tell his parents, be made to feel less than, and then muster up the strength again to tell Amanda is amazing. The fact that Amanda’s initial response was devastation that Shaye was suffering in silence is so heartwarming. I’ve seen bits of your story on instagram, but this is the first video I’ve watched. Your family gives me faith in humanity and I hope you’re both so happy.
I'm a never-mormon from Germany but I found the Mormon Stories Podcast and got interested in your lifes and struggels. I just want to thank you for your open telling your Story. Maybe someday you will tell your story on Mormon storie podcast. Be your way in life be blessed!
Thank you for being so brave to tell your story, especially when there are so many Mormon UA-camrs who have obvious cliques in the industry. I remember finding you when you said you were apart of the church a couple of years ago and thought “another mormon UA-cam family”. So proud that your family has had the courage to see things as they are and become open-minded. Your last line gave me goosebumps.
What an inspiring video. I’m a British atheist so lots of this was extremely eye opening. Much love to you and your children xx
Thank you for posting this. It has taken me two years to figure something out! But you said it at the 15 minute mark and it just changed my paradigm. You said “you did not know when you had done enough” thank you for finding articulation for a part of my wounded soul that I am looking to heal. I see you my friend.
You two traveled through darkness that some people will never experience. I'm so happy that you have come out on the other side and expanded in your love for yourselves. Growing in your love for all people is a beautiful side effect. I wish you and your children all the best.
Thank you for sharing your story. I am not really great at putting my thoughts down but I also have a story of why I left the Mormon church.
I became a member in 1991 at the age of 19. I was the only member of my family that joined. I always felt extreme sadness going to church and being surrounded by the perfect Mormon families.
In 1997 I met my husband. He was serving in my ward as a missionary. I was 26 years old and he was 22 years old. We had an immediate connection and couldn't hide it. Everyone knew.
His mission president moved him 3 hours away from me but we couldn't stay away from each other. I would drive the 3 hours a few times per week to see him.
One day my bishop called me in his office and basically told me I was a horrible woman and was leading a missionary to break covenants and taking his commitment to the gospel and Jesus away and putting his attention on myself.
I left that meeting feeling worthless and thinking I should kill myself.
Much later it came to light that that bishop had been having an affair with his best friends wife and had gotten her pregnant. They were all members.
I still have a hard time thinking back on the things he said to me in that meeting while he was doing much worse.
Today and my missionary have been married for 25 years and have 4 beautiful children who are all adopted. I also was infertile but never had biological children. Another part of my story that led me away from the church.
So to the Scott family.
I stand with you! ❤
❤
I feel like the more perfect it seems, the more secrets are hidden. So you have to be even more wary. And I feel like a lot of people, that they can’t unsee it, when something terrible then does happen. But that in this case a lot of people just don’t see it. To me it kind of seems like a fake dreamworld. So like is mentioned in the video, a Trumann-show. So I’m hoping you’ve found your peace and happiness, because who knows what’s actually going on behind those church walls. If people learned the whole truth beforehand, some/ a lot might have never entered one. Though I feel like often it goes hand in hand with family/ friends and you don’t want to leave them I guess. And I especially get that it’s difficult, because technically you don’t know if you’re decision was right until “you’re up there”. I’ve always have had a lot of questions (mainly confusion) about faith/ religion myself (technically I’ve never not been confused). But/ so thank you for sharing your story.
Well said; I know of so many hypocrites in Christianity that judge small insignificant ‘sins’ all the while they commit way worse…. wolves in sheep’s clothing…. God warned us about these 😂
@Larrisa Swinkels I have also pondered about Faith. It seems to me that whatever religious community you belong to, that's where you will find a certain Faith. These two young People are finding their own path, and that is freeing.
@@gabbyg561 I totally agree with you!
Thank you for being so vulnerable. Thank you for being so honest. I think what I took away from this very moving story is how much you both attempted to hold on to your faith and have the LDS church stand behind you. Hold you, and to guide you. My heart is broken that you were not able to get this when you needed it most. You have made a wonderful life for you and your family since leaving and have gained such a more sincere love for each other. Thank you again for posting.
I grew up Baptist and grew up christian. When I left the church a lot of people talked badly about me. I have a strong relationship with God now but I don’t need to go to church to do that.
Your video shows your courage and bravery, as well as your love for each other. I do want to follow your story. You are a shining example of the search for TRUTH, not faith. Faith, in religion, is accepting what you’re told without knowing its truth.
Faith is believing without seeing and the Truth is the Bible
It’s much more difficult to make your own path than to take the one that is already marked out for you. Thankyou for the courage of your choices and for your sharing! Love is great! ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
Wow this was a really powerful watch all around but I had to comment that while it isn't the core message being shared, I got teary-eyed at sensing the love between you two! The love between you is palpable. I have to imagine that a lot of Mormon couples may have similar stories except when one partner shares a "struggle" they've had that doesn't align with church values, their partner may stick with the church and turn away from their partner. The fact that your love for each other allowed you to walk through this together is really beautiful.
This is a beautiful video that tells a beautiful story, thank you for sharing. I know it will help many others who may make the similarly difficult, but rewarding, journey that your family has made!
I grew up in Panguitch so I get your small town situation.
I just wanted to tell you that this is so well done. I shared it on my social media and I hope lots of others to also.
I left the church in the early 90s. I walked away and didn't look back until recently. (And that was only to expose CSA in the church- because I am a survivor)
Anyway, just want to send you some encouragement and tell you WELL DONE.
I never leave comments, but this was so beautifully made and as an ex-Mormon, this made me feel more seen than I have in a very, very long time. Thank you for your words, truths, and work of art you have created here. Much love. You have done more than you can imagine.
I shed a few tears at the end of the video. I love what Amanda said at the end. It's truly sad how some people use religion for self serving reasons and mask it as a will of God. It takes a lot of courage to speak your truth. I know some people lose their family when separating from their church and I hope you are doing okay. Thank you so much for sharing this video. I love you guys!💗
This is an example of an evolutionary leap. Well done! Your children are blessed and life can now share so much more with you and through you both.
This was beautiful, and so validating for so many people. Your courage and love for each other is an inspiration. Astoundingly well done.
Amanda - Just watched your mormon stories apperance! This just made me so happy! I had no idea you got free too! So happy for you and your whole family! Much love from a dixie alumni gavroche!
Thank you for this. It’s been 12 years since I broke from the LDS church and I can’t express how much my life has been enriched by understanding and accepting real truth and experiencing the myriad of wonderful people that would otherwise be persona non grata by the mormon community. I wish you all much love and joy on your new path.
I read lsd church and got excited
Thanks for your courage. God bless. God is about Love in Action. All religions are man made.. all false gods.. The LDS is a fraud.. very money-centric. The LDS Church is a major Vendor of Salvation.. one must pay tithes to LDS church in order to receive salvation and exaltation ordinances.. The True JChrist condemns all Vendors of Salvation .. see 3 Nephi 27:32 in the Book of Mormon
Thank you for sharing your painful yet most powerful story. I know that you will help many who are struggling through their own personal pain. I hope that you can find comfort in knowing that by sharing your story you have aided others along their difficult paths. Thank you. I want to hug your entire family!
You are loved. Don’t allow yourself to be completely disillusioned about God. I was raised Pentecostal myself. Like super charismatic. What I went through made me question my faith. However since I was a child I felt like I had a wonderful friendship with Jesus Christ and I still do. I never cared what others had to say about my personal journey because I was more interested in my one on one time with God. I’m grateful that I’m still here today and you’re completely right. Love makes a family ❤
Wow! What tremendous courage it took for you to make this video. So well done and sincere. Your gentleness and authenticity shine through. I too was a member of the church from birth in 1954 until 1992 when my husband and I and our three children left the church. We did this after years of research within church documents and realized the church is NOT true and we had to leave. Our lives have been SO much better since we left. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you take this journey together. Thank you for sharing.
I was also raised in the LDS church.
I left at 21. I am 52. My entire family was LDS in 1991 when I left. Most have left now including my parents who are now in there 70’s.
Like you I had an ideal childhood.
I believe in a relationship with GOD not any religion.
I know it is very very difficult in the beginning of this journey out of this tangled web of Mormonism.
I understand and support where the divine takes you.
Sending my love and support.
I have been LDS since I was born 76 years ago. I never miss meetings or attending the temple. I love the Book of Mormon. So many marvelous aspects of the Restored Gospel. Eternal families is a teaching I love.
@@blizzard2oo as a follower of Jesus I would say.....A book of false prophets but either way you kind of proved that declaring your love of the book of Mormon and not mentioning the bible.
Openness and honesty are our obligations. You are living up to them. What a beautiful, blessed couple you are, and your children are lucky to have you both as parents, teachers and role models. God bless you all!
Thank you for sharing your story with the world! I left the church in 2008 during the prop 8 debacle, and also came out as gay. You two have an incredible journey ahead, and I am excited to see where you end up.
Shaye, you mentioned the darkness of the soul, I know the place well. I've been through my own. I can only tell you that the darkness prepares you to live a life in the light, and the light is good.