Why I Left the Mormon Church (& Why I’m Talking About It)
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- Опубліковано 23 тра 2019
- “To avoid criticism, say nothing, do nothing, be nothing.”
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UPDATE: This video got a lot more attention than I ever expected it to. I did start making videos consistently and the quality gets better after the first few.
Email me: exmolex@gmail.com
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an organization's true character is revealed not by how they treat you when you join, but how they treat you when you leave.
actually they don't do anything...and that's a fact, I've seen a couple millennials leave and they basically feel awkward and distance themselves and some are angry and from then on talk badly, it's sad
Good point Nico... "You've chosen Satan's path instead. How dare you! Don't worry--We'll keep nagging you night and day until you see the error of your ways and come back. You're so lucky that you have us to look out for you."
You could say that the Church of Jesus Christ which ever one you believe it to be so is true and perfect. But the members will never be perfect because of human nature. Therefore if humans were perfect there would be no need for a church or organization to guide people to christ. Here is a good short story to show what I mean.
"A lady went to her Pastor/Bishop and said 'Pastor, I won't be going to your church anymore.'
The Pastor responded 'But why?'
The lady said 'Ah! I saw a woman gossipping about another member; a man that is a hypocrite; the worship team living wrong; people looking at their phone during service; among so many other things wrong in your church.'
The Pastor replied 'OK. But before you go, do me a favor: take a full glass of water and walk around the church three times without spilling a drop on the ground. Afterwards, leave the church if you desire.'
The lady thought: too easy! She walked three times around the church as the Pastor had asked. When she finished she told the Pastor she was ready to leave.
The Pastor said, 'Before you leave I want to ask you one more question. When you were walking around the church, did you see anyone gossipping ?'
The lady replied 'No.'
'Did you see any hypocrites?'
The lady said 'No.'
'Anyone looking at their phone?'
'No.'
'You know why?'
'No.'
'You were focused on the glass, to make sure you didn't stumble and spill any water. It's the same with our life. When we keep our eyes on Jesus, we don't have time to see the mistakes of others. We will reach out a helping hand to them and concentrate on our own walk with the Lord.'"
@@donnavaughn9409 wasn't my experience.
When I left, the woman who was my YW leader told others “she must have sinned pretty bad” a lot of people I was close with shut me out of their lives. It hurt but I did what I thought was best.
We Ex-Mormons understand believing and faithful Mormons because we have have been there once ourselves.
But they don’t understand us.
They have never been where we are now.
That is spot on. I do try to respect the orthodox and true-believing Mormons for their faith. I wish they would do the same for me.
Well said
@@angelenapulis9083 I am a believer. And you, no. You are free to live your life, and I am free to live mine. But when as a church, we are attacked through falsehoods and half-truths or truths taken out of context, we have a right and obligation to defend it. Sorry that you feel bothered by the faithful. When someone shares their faith with you, especially if they are family or friends, it is a sign that they care for you. I have catholic family that tries to convert me to catholicism all of the time. They care about me. I have evangelical friends who say I will go to hell if I continue believing in the restored church. They care for me. Don't take somebody sharing their faith with you personally. Just my thoughts
Do you not think that us faithful do not understand doubt? Do you think that Jesus doesn't understand doubt? "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" Us faithful have experienced doubt, and our personal Gethsemane's. We have experienced the "midsts of darkness" spoken about in 1 Nephi 8. Many have chosen to keep running our hands along the rod of iron, in faith. Faith is more than a feeling. It is more than a belief. Faith is also a choice. I've been a member since age 18, and for the last 15 or so years. Served a mission. Read all pro and all anti literature out there. It wasn't until a couple of years ago where I started to learn about what "faith" really is. And why faith? It led to many thrilling discoveries in both the Bible and BofM. It also led to about 5-7 great talks from Elder Anderson. Keep your head up. Whether you come back to church, or remain distant, your life is important, and has value. You are a VIP to our great Creator. You are not some accident of the cosmos.
@@Ether-pb5gb I appreciate you reaching out. I can tell you are devoted to the church, and I remember being on that side of that. You want to share your faith and you do it (I assume) out of the goodness of your heart. I used to do that, too. To the faithful, inactive, non-members, you name it.
Here’s the thing. Unless you have gone through a faith crisis that has shattered the way you viewed yourself and the world, you can’t quite understand what we mean when we say we don’t feel understood, respected, listened to, or supported for our choice to leave the church or for our change of beliefs. Not by everyone. There are some amazing people in the LDS church, and sometimes they shower us with love and acceptance. It’s not always the case, though. We get judged, we get shamed, we get labeled as sinful, faithless, ignorant, angry, offended, and so on. Mormons value the conversion process so much for investigators that join the church, but they tend to act the opposite for people who investigate elsewhere and have a faith transition OUT of the church.
I know what you mean about people of any faith trying to share their beliefs or convert you, etc. There’s nothing inherently wrong with that, but it can be done for the wrong reasons, or it can cross a line. For me, I have a necessary boundary for my Mormon friends and family: I don’t want to be preached to. It feels unsafe and uncomfortable. Leaving the church emotionally and mentally and even physically has been painful and scary. The things I learned about church history devastated me. I felt lied to and betrayed. I am allowed to feel this hurt-and I am allowed to tell people to stop trying to bring me back, because I don’t want to go back. It’s a toxic place for me. It’s not a good spiritual fit anymore. People should be kind enough to respect that, in the same way that you would respect the wishes of a soldier with PTSD or an abuse victim or an eating disorder survivor to NOT talk about the things that trigger them if they ask you not to. I mean, you wouldn’t tell them to go back into a harmful situation, would you?
I’m 18 and last night I told my parents I don’t believe in the church anymore. It was truly heartbreaking and hard but I feel so good. Yes, my parents are gonna judge me and be confused for a long time, but I no longer have to hold onto this deep secret and pretend to have a connection to a church that I know isn’t true and has done horrible things. I watched your tiktoks yesterday, and you’re the reason I could come forward. Thank you so much for being honest and sharing your truth. It helped me so much.
Just tell them they worship a pedophile. It worked for me.
@@kennethgorman5524 bro they already know lmao I wish I could get them to leave
I left the Baptist , then the non denominational churches @21 because I knew the Joseph Smith testimony was true. I knew it and I wont ever recant my testimony. Im forever grateful that I believe. I died in April 1973 and when I was told by a being who looked similar to Angel Moroni, that it was not yet my time and that i had a mission yet to fulfill.
I was deathly ill in the hospital for 30 days and I refused surgery because id have an ostomy and was proud. Im grateful i listened to the big guy cause I'm 71 yrs. old now and have had really amazing blessings and seen miracles for 50 yrs. The most important miracle is the infinite atonement of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and his infinite love and mercy to all of his children. God be with you dear one. Candy
@@robertwiley3098 it is legit proven that the Book of Mormon is fake, that Joseph Smith created multiple “first vision” stories all contradicting each other, that he didn’t translate the book of Abraham, etc. Joseph Smith was a fraud. God be with you, Robert, but the Joseph Smith we’re talking about is definitely not a prophet.
I just joined but for the members and wife . They trained to be good . More educated. To pushy and religious jealous. To fast.. middle man jesus or god they do ... your journey ... my church is open to other aspects... basically book mormon is more testimony...
Just yo help you spiritually, avoid contention and trouble ...
We all blessed and teaches to accept opportunities and focus on relationships healthy ones ...
You learned enough . Temple pamphlet and information I loved ... learned a lot ...
Ever get married you go back to religion so be less stress trauma . They be committed not drinking at bars and cheating. Lol.
I've never been Mormon, but have lived in Utah for 16 years. Your videos provide education for me to better understand my Mormon friends and neighbors. I hope you find much happiness and peace in your new journey.
Not a Mormon here either, christened catholic, did my communion and confirmation. I felt like my ancestors and God were watching my every move, through a looking glass from above. It kept me awake at night but I never found any answers
By the time I was 12/13 I couldn’t get rid of the thought that if I was born in the Middle East, I’d be Muslim. If I was born on a different street in Northern Ireland, I’d be Protestant. Doctrine is ridiculous. Who tf needs religion to be a good person?
Who cares about what comes after when there are so many different ideologies. Being a good person on earth is all that matters. Who cares what comes after if there is no definite answer? Love those around you
My personal experience has been that "the Church" cares a heck of a lot less about what I have to say . . . than what I have to PAY.
I'm so glad you and your husband discovered it at the same time. That is a blessing. In so many marriages only one person will find out and it destroys the relationship. :-(
Thank you so much for creating this video. I was raised Mormon and, as my mother put it, lived and breathed the gospel. I am right smack in the middle of my faith transition now, and it is so healing to hear other people speak up about this. I hate it when members tell ex-members to keep silent. It’s hypocritical and rude.
I'm not Mormon but I have two friends that are. I don't understand why they won't tell me things when I ask. They just say "it's sacred." If they truly wanted to convert somebody it seems to me they would want to share everything with you. Keeping secrets just makes the whole thing seem shady. Also, telling people who leave that they have to keep silent just tells me they know they are steering people wrong. Just my opinion from an ex-Catholic. Lol.
@@roxannebowers4955 I hear you. I have been feeling that way, too, for the past several weeks. There are so many things that don’t get talked about in the LDS church, and that includes its problematic history and the covenants that you’ll be told you have to make in order to get into the highest part of heaven-and let’s not forget they will have you commit to keeping the covenants before you know what they are... There are so many kind Mormons that I know, and I had a lot of positive, meaningful experiences in the church... and I want to respect other people for their religion/faith... but I also need safe spaces like this to be able to express my anger and confusion about my experiences, too.
Thank you for making this video,a lot of people are leaving the Church.It is business,a billion dollar Corporations in one with many more off of it.It is not a Church,
@@roxannebowers4955 but you wouldn’t understand without study first
The Bible reveals Joseph Smith as the solution for the 666 beast He had to be a true prophet to have known this! .ua-cam.com/video/CYcqAL4KTRQ/v-deo.html and also this video likewiseua-cam.com/video/qQkeXB4qisg/v-deo.html
I am a direct descendant of Parley P Pratt, my dad left and as I grew up I saw why. Leaving is so hard and talking about it openly is so much more difficult. Thank you, the truth sets us free ❤️
I too am a direct descendant of Parley P Pratt. I guess we're cousins. I come from his 4th wife, Mary Wood; Mathoni Pratt; Harold Sheets Pratt; and my father Harold Anderson Pratt. All of my immediate family, 7 siblings and mother are still active and believers. I've been inactive for over 30 years but am just now truly considering whether it's true or not. Nice to 'meet' you cousin 🤗 what a history we have...
"When I was leaving the church, one of the biggest things for me that helped was listening to other people talk about it. So I hope that this can help someone else out there that's going through the same thing."
Believe me, it has.
The Bible reveals Joseph Smith as the solution for the 666 beast He had to be a true prophet to have known this! .ua-cam.com/video/CYcqAL4KTRQ/v-deo.html and also this video likewiseua-cam.com/video/qQkeXB4qisg/v-deo.html
I have been ex-mo for over 20 years now. Was born into it and always felt something was off about it. I totally get how you felt because even though I didn’t believe it fully, my whole life still revolves around it and it was a shock and heartbreaking to lose this piece of your identity. I just wish I could wake others up out of this Mormon fog. I didn’t have any support group going through it, I was on my own, I didn’t even consider that those were a thing.
I agree 100%. There was definitely something off about it. I remember even as a kid when when I first found out about Joseph Smith's vision in the woods, I was thinking "Oh no, we don't really believe that--Do we?" I wanted to believe in a fair God, and that out of all of the billions of people who have lived, he's only gonna give that special treatment to ONE person? And then you find out that he was only 14 when he had that vision, and I remember red flags going up non-stop in my head. If I was a 14-year-old having that experience, I'd be looking around and thinking "Me? Are you sure you want ME to restore this gospel? Surely, there's got to be many people older and more qualified than I." And yet did Joey Baloney ever ask this question? No, because putting any seeds of doubt into the validity of his claim would have completely gone against his plan to brainwash everyone, and I don't think he had any idea at the time just how successful his con would be almost 200 years later.
Coming back after 3 years out to say that this very video is what finally snapped me out the drone mindset of Mormonism and I began to study and study and study.
So glad for you sharing your story when you did.
Your bravery and intelligence at such a young age is inspiring. I just stumbled on this video and I’m thankful for you sharing your story.
Kai gang 😎😎
The Bible reveals Joseph Smith as the solution for the 666 beast He had to be a true prophet to have known this! .ua-cam.com/video/CYcqAL4KTRQ/v-deo.html and also this video likewiseua-cam.com/video/qQkeXB4qisg/v-deo.html
She seemed honest by telling why she left the Church. I didn’t get what her beliefs are now. Has she joined another church or has she turned atheist?
@@jimbomanzano5743 Atheist or something along the Atheist to Agnostic spectrum. She has described herself as an Atheist. The world needs positive role models that believe in tolerance and acceptance as well as having no need for organized religion. It’s not an easy road because people are, on average, more willing to accept having beliefs in god and magic than having a willingness to believe that an Atheist can be a moral and loving person. We all have to believe in something because that is a way of simplifying the overwhelming need of consciousness to have a focus and an override to suppress all of the sensory input coming from our bodies and interactions with other people. She believed that simply being honest about her journey and tolerant of her friends and family still in the church that she could continue to have loving interactions with practicing church members. The church makes that impossible, in my opinion, and she has been severely tested in holding onto that belief. I call that a belief because it isn’t logical or practical to continue loving people still in the church because they are propagandized and pressured into rejecting anyone that doesn’t conform and it is heartbreaking to see it happen to her. It is however totally predictable from my perspective and experience.
A belief in god is a ascribing tangible qualities to something that isn’t present in reality. The unknown and indescribable nature of being is a constant journey and infinitely revelatory no matter what you believe or don’t believe. The main problem that I see with the church is that it uses petty and arbitrary rules to reveal a path to enlightenment that actually only comes after death. I want to seek enlightenment in the here and now. For me that necessitates rejection of the church and its members because it is just too painful for me but I can also imagine why someone would believe that it is possible. I once did and I can also vaguely remember the free thinkers and spiritual seekers, that I once knew as a church member, but since the seventies the church has become increasingly authoritarian and inflexible. I only care about the issues of religion because christians are a minority that are increasingly demanding political power and they are getting it. Every intelligent and ambitious person that I ever knew in SLC, who isn’t a member or a believer, has had to leave the state because of the intensity of social ostracism that one must endure in mormon Utah. I watch the ExmoLex channel because I like her positive post mormon attitude. Personally I don’t have any love for the church because it has broken my relationships with my brothers and even till the end of my working days I was haunted by it’s presence because I lost work opportunities, even in Hawaii, because the HR person in charge of staffing jobs was mormon and showed preference to other mormons when recruiting for the best jobs. I get why people stay in the church whether they believe or not. It keeps them in the club. For someone who believes that spirituality matters it is particularly painful to stay in a church that believes in conformity and authoritarianism above all else. Above family, above love, above community and above the intellectual traditions of thousands of years of human evolution. I believe that people can change but that is as crackpot a belief as anything. People don’t want to change anything and they aren’t built for it so humanity plunges headlong into one disaster after another because we can’t change to a paradigm where we love ourselves and others equally. Isn’t that what the Jesus of the Bible wanted? It was impossible for his lifetime and it remains impossible now. Still, I have to try and I take some comfort in knowing that I am not the only person who is willing to change everything and risk everything in order to strive for a better world. That is why I appreciate ExmoLex. She is trying with all of her heart.
You articulated so well what so many others have / are going thru. So great you and your spouse out together. Thank you!
This was so perfect.Thank you so so so much for sharing.
The definition of irony: When a beautiful young woman is pouring out her heart on why she left the Mormon church only to have a commercial from the Mormon church explaining to people why the temples were closed during this pandemic and that they are opening soon.
What a wonderful message! You are so genuine and sincere! You really touched my heart and I had tears in my eyes watching you open your heart. I am an old man who has left the church decades ago and I was amazed with the maturity of your thoughts, feelings and moral stance. You are wise well beyond your age. Lucky is your husband and truly blessed are your children. I bookmarked your video because I will be passing it to many others.
Good for you Lexi. I started asking questions when I was 13 and the elders would get mad at me and try to intimidate rather than explain. That is why I left at 14. Everything I have learned since, has just solidified my early knowledge.
I left when I was 14 as well!
@@Jeanskirtsgirl you wernt old enough to understand the church you were just a dumb teenager
Thank you ♥️
I'm an ex mormon from Italy. I left at the age of 18 and now that I'm 21, I'm happier than ever.
Very heartfelt and on the mark video. You express very well what so much of us have come to feel and know over the years.
I saw you on Mormon Stories. I think you’re doing really good things! I left the church in 2005 when I was 32 and pregnant with my 5th child. I had 3 callings at the time. I had read “An Insider’s View of Mormon Origins” that was sold (at the time) at the Desert Book store. I was in an abusive (temple) marriage, and when I left the church I lost 90% of my friends, including my childhood friends, because I tried to share what I had learned with them. I am glad that you and others are speaking out. In 2005 I didn’t have any online support groups, and I didn’t know about Mormon Stories until quite a few years after I left. I am happily divorced and I am doing well now on my own. I have never regretted leaving the church, in fact it saved my life to do so because I was able to change my beliefs around divorce. It was really hard - I am not trying to sugar coat anything. However, I can truthfully say that it was all worth it. Keep sharing your videos and speaking out! ♥️♥️♥️
@Amber R. Thurman the closest short answer is Agnostic.
Did you get to keep your children when you left the church?
@@marjoriecheadle6052 It’s a long story. I left the abusive ex in 2007. He stalked & terrorized me until 2012. We technically have joint custody of our daughters & I have primary physical custody. He hasn’t been here to see our girls since June of 2016, which is a good thing for all of us. (He abused all of us.) He’s been remarried now for several years & lives in another state… thank goodness. He needs to stay away from us. He caused a lot of damage. (Our 2 youngest ones are now a Sophomore & a Senior in high school for age reference.)
My name is Heidi. This is actually my husbands account. I really wanted to comment on your story. Just saying I totally feel your pain. I’m 58 and was completely immersed in the LDS church. It is so painful leaving and finding out the truth. It was my whole life
Sorry to hear that Heidi. Can I give you a hug.
"My name is Heidi. This is actually my husbands account. I really wanted to comment on your story. Just saying I totally feel your pain. I’m 58 and was completely immersed in the LDS church. It is so painful leaving and finding out the truth. It was my whole life"
I may be speaking out of turn but just wanted to say - it wasn't your whole life - you have much life to live in your new found existence - enjoy it!
Thank you for your amazing courage and vulnerability! I myself have had to do a lot of deconstructing from the religion of my grandparents. It's hard, and when you talked about being heartbroken by it, I felt that so strongly. God bless you and your family! You're awesome!
I have been told to watch this video for a while now by a friend of mine and I’m glad I finally did! Your story is sooo similar to what I’ve been through, although I wish there was more get together with exmo groups! (Damn COVID!) anyways, thanks for sharing!! I loved hearing your story and I feel supported without even speaking to you or knowing you !
I left the church too and I completely understand. Thanks for sharing.
Just found your channel. And wow... you get it. You get EXACTLY how I feel. I want to speak up and I want to share my story because I feel like it’s the only way I can truly move on from all the trauma. But I’m so scared, because I know I could lose people. I know how everyone would react. I wish I could show them what I’m really trying to say without the veil (ba dum tsss) of judgement being placed over me. I’m hopeful one day I’ll be brave enough to share my story. Thank you ❤️
Get yourself a good support group that can help& encourage you & when you are ready then speak
I just found you & I love your videos. Your story is so interesting and brave. Thank you for sharing ❤️
I just watched this AFTER seeing your more recent videos. I cannot believe how you have grown in confidence since making this video and I still think this video is amazing. You have blossomed since leaving that church. Just wow!
I love this !!! Thank you for sharing your story. I look forward to many more of your videos
You're so very brave to share and to make such a big life change. Best wishes to you and your family.
Thank you so much for sharing. Well spoken. You have courage my friend. Keep being a beautiful soul. ❤
She thought that Joseph Smith had done one bad thing, and then found out every single little thing. That CES stuff is like undeniable
Where can I find that CES stuff?
@@uzielvazquez8001 type on Google "CES Letter"
I just love you! I stumbled upon your channel doing some research looking for resources to send to a dear friend that I’m trying to get out of the Church. I’ve watched a lot of your videos and am just now seeing this one. It’s just so heartfelt and sincere. So funny to hear you say “maybe I’ll do another video. IDK, it’s really not my thing.” 😂 This is SO your thing and I’m so glad you’re doing it. I can’t wait to send this link to my friend (trying to space it out) and I’m just hoping that she’s looking at some of it and that it resonates. Keep it up. You’re wonderful!
Not a mormon but I have been reading the CES letter since I watched this video. It is an absolutely astounding document
Thank you for opening my mind and soul, God Bless
Thank you for sharing with us. It's very helpful and I truly appreciate it.
I left the church more than a year ago and found so much joy in finding spirituality my way. I no longer have to hide who I am. You can tell me I'm misguided or miserable but I'm happy I left.
there is more to life than fornication and sexual fulfillment. I don't see anywhere in the scriptures where it says "thou shalt orgasm". If you want to follow the Burger King Bible, and "have it your way", that's your choice. But remember, "wickedness never was happiness" Alma 41:10
@@Ether-pb5gb ????? i know that????? I'm not constantly having sex i just don't have to hide the fact that I'm gay. I'm happier just doing my best to be a good person. BTW Burger King Bible is my band name now.
@@michoasalways6762 I am happy that you don't feel like you have to hide it. I deeply sympathize with you. I know what it is like to have skeletons in the closet, and then bring them to light. I am happy for you in that regards. Just because you have gay inclinations, doesn't mean you have to choose that path. You can still choose the path of faith. And if your band ends up being successful, I want 10% royalty on all sales/concerts ;) Burger King might want a piece of the pie too.
@@Ether-pb5gb And just because you think have the right to go around sitting in judgment thinking you know how people are supposed to live their lives, doesn't mean you have to choose that path either. I don't think the hereafter is going to go the way you think with that piss poor attitude... You may want to work on that log in your own eye instead of worrying about the lives of others, Physician heal thy self. I always find it funny how people like you who think they speak for God, seem to always have a God who hates the same things they do. Also, the so called skeleton is in the closet because of people like yourself. So in the end you're the cause of the problem, you may want to ponder that and pray about that. I must have been absent that day when they discussed Jesus stating go forth and make others lives as difficult as possible. What chapter is that from?
@@cheetahman859 I don't speak for Christ. But Christ is the way. Learning to trust in Him is the quest of a lifetime...and we all have various degrees of trust and faith in Him. One theme that seems to prevail over and over again as I read the New Testament is that He is constantly trying to encourage us to believe in Him. That alone tells me how much doubt/distrust we have to battle through. I don't try to be a part of the problem. I am sorry that you viewed my comments that way. Personally, I think it is better that we put our trust in God instead of in own understanding.
Thank you for doing this video. As I listened to you, i was reliving what I went thru during my journey out of the church. I was a member for 35 yrs. I, like you was so grateful to know that my family was eternal ( I’ve lost a lot of loved ones through illness and accidents) That is why I loved the church, did Temple work. It was heartbreaking when I found out the truth. I went through a grieving period. I felt like someone kicked me in the gut and I lost my breath for sometime. It’s been close to 5 yrs now since my husband and I left. A lot of our extended family don’t know. Our grown children know, one daughter and her family are active and don’t have a lot to do with us. We’re apostates😉. Our other 3 children aren’t active either.. But like you mentioned, I’m a better person, not judging people or trying to make everyone a Mormon any longer. I was a good person as a member and I’m a good person now. I agree that we should talk about it when people ask. I wish I would’ve had someone to visit with during my faith crisis. Life is wonderful, lots of weight off our shoulders and my self esteem is back. It’s hard to live always striving to be perfect.....when that’s impossible in this life. God Bless you and thank you again.❤️
Lexi: I have been listening to your interview with John Dehlin. I am so sorry for your pain and so grateful for how you have turned your pain into compassion and support for people going through this journey. Thank you!
PS - I left the church 23 years ago and am still processing the pain. I accept that this process may go on for me the rest of my life... the deception hurt that bad.
Deception confusion reblion. So sad i once
thought the church of jesus christ. Was hard work.. but i have never been a mormon..
But do have a testimony that jesus christ was the son of god.and will come again .. a second time. To issure in the millennium.peace...
Babylon will fall..
I'm 57 years old, and only found the courage to examine all of the things about the Church that have bothered me all my life. I haven't gone to church for a couple of years, but felt guilty about it. Thank you for sharing your experiences. I have chosen to "not be Mormon" anymore, and I'm OK with that now.
Thank you for sharing your story. I am sure it will help others.
I feel like this video was one giant hug that I needed. Thank you. ❤️
Thanks for sharing your story. I’m going through it right now and can relate to so much of what you felt. It’s just really lonely because my husband doesn’t even want to hear why I left. It helps to hear from others who have left.
I’m praying for you and the truth will set you free
You're very sweet and I truly admire the very difficult road you've chosen and the decency with which you tread it. My heart goes out to you and, as someone who struggles with many of the same issues, I wish you well.
Lex, I really congratulate you. One of your latest videos (July 2020) fell on my Facebook timeline. You talked about your hate mail. And at the end, UA-cam sent me to this one, that it's a lot older. I can tell you, the change is amazing! In the first, newest video I heard, you look so much merrier and fresher and more comfortable in your own skin than in this one. I'm so happy to notice so obviously how your life changing decision has worked for the best. You have great intelligence and great courage. The best for you and your family! Greetings from Mexico!
I think it's really admirable that you read the CES letter because you wanted to help lift someone up and be a friend, despite the fact that they believed different than you and I'm sure it was uncomfortable to explore. Your videos are really great, thank you for having the courage to share your perspective to help people again.
Then you will know the truth and the truth will set up free. So wonderful of you to share your story. You should share it on Mormon stories as well:)
The Bible reveals Joseph Smith as the solution for the 666 beast He had to be a true prophet to have known this! .ua-cam.com/video/CYcqAL4KTRQ/v-deo.html and also this video likewiseua-cam.com/video/qQkeXB4qisg/v-deo.html
Thank you for sharing. Your story resonates with all who has awakened from the mormon slumber⁰
This is the first video I encountered after recently discovering the CES Letter. Thank you for sharing your experiences. Your channel has helped me navigate this excruciating experience of leaving behind the only "truths" I've ever known.
hey lex! i watched the series ‘under the banner of heaven’ and have since come across your page and i love what you post, and keep up! i’m learning a lot about mormonism and being an exmo
Thank you for sharing!! 💗
Your a strong very brave person doing a video like this i really admire you for speaking how you feel. You have a bunch of supporters stay strong
Thank you for your cander. This one video has probably moved mountains of faith struggle towards authenticity 🙌🙌
Hey Bryce. I've seen some of your videos, and they're pretty good!
@@mylesmarkson1686 Hey thank you! It's so therapeutic to get all of this out in the open. The other route is silence cause i can't talk to anyone else about it. lol
So sweet to share your story. I’m so sorry. Hang in there. You are so loved. God Bless. ♥️
Thank you so much for sharing your testimony. I use to be a ex Jehovah witness and I enjoy hearing stories like these from ex jehovah witness and ex Mormons. These types of videos do help people out there. I know UA-cam videos have helped me a lot and it’s nice to hear about people’s experiences that make me feel like I am not alone. Thank you so much. Keep doing what you are doing. ❤️
Wow, proud of you.
I was baptized Catholic but later to the LDS church at 8. I cannot believe that they allow 8 year olds to make such a big decision! When I was 8 I could barely tie a shoe and write legibly. “Accepting the savior” at 8 such a big responsibility.
Don’t get me wrong, the church has helped my family throughout the pandemic but they have become extremely pushy. I’m still in high school and feel a great responsibility in everything despite explaining my situation various times.
I have a plan to leave when i’m 18 because I cannot be in a church with homophobia, racism, and guil tactics to keep their members to stay. Whenever I tell my parents I don’t want to go to church they said it’s because I can’t to do what the devil does but it’s because I don’t want to be around superficial people who do not care about my well being!
I am the only mormon in my school and cannot talk to my other friends because they aren’t Mormon nor active so they wouldn’t get it. I feel sad because when I leave I don’t want people to think it’s because I want to live a sinful life, leaving the church does not mean renouncing God or Jesus, to me it means leaving a toxic place. I hope one day I’m as strong as you!
Much love ❤️
You’re already doing pretty well. Hang on to the Jesus of the BIBLE. Get one and read it, prayerfully. The structure of the Mormon Church actually comes from Freemasonry. That’s why their rituals, handshakes, constant works and the like, you will not find anything like that in the Biblical Jesus. Rock on. Prayerfully. Wisdom will come
The REAL Jesus is not in the Mormon church. Get a bible that is easy to understand. Jesus is excited to meet you! He is love. He is kind.
One of my neighbors is a part of the LDS. I subbed to you hoping that I could find ways to help them, and what to look for and when to start worrying. Their whole family is wonderful, and I care about them a surprising amount, and I hope just knowing more and more could help me possibly help them. I know better than to shake the boat right now, we're still new out here, but I know eventually I might have the chance to help.
Excellent testimony. You have help me with my testimony to the missionaries I come in contact with.
It takes a lot to have the strength to leave things you spent your whole life believing, but the truth is important.
"It takes a lot to have the strength to leave things you spent your whole life believing, but the truth is important."
A popular analogy is the sparrow is never afraid when the twig it is resting on breaks, because it puts its trust in its ability to fly, rather than the relative safety of the branch.
I understand you and support you! I discovered that Islam was wrong when I was 20! My family kicked me away, friends hated me, police arrested me... spent days eating rubbish and sleeping in parks, ... truth prevails!
So brave
You’re very brave. I hope you’re safe. I have heard terrible things about what happens to people when they leave Islam. May God protect you.
May God bless and keep you ❤️
I disagree. History is proof lies have frequently prevailed.
What Mormons go through to leave their religion is nothing compared to what you had to go through. I honor you for your courage and integrity to follow truth in spite of the great price you had to pay to do it.
I love that you talk about how speaking up about this experience is something you can do for others who are going through what you have gone through. I can understand the compulsion you feel to right the wrongs of something you wholeheartedly believed and gave to. I know this was posted a few years back I can see you are continuing to learn and grow from more recent videos you have posted. It is awesome. It is helping me to understand my own experience. Thank you!
Thank you for your eloquence, honesty and your commitment.
I found out the truth even before the CES letter, had the same emotions, keep speaking the truth, you are doing great
Thank you so much for talking about this... I was raised in a different cult, and the process of coming out of it and recovering is so similar to what your journey has been. Thank you for sharing.
One of the best explanations on this topic I've ever come across. Well articulated and courageous.
I saw you on Mormon Stories & now I’ve saved a lot of your videos to watch later. I also just ordered the purple version of your WORTHY t-shirt. 💙💙💙
“Last thing I remember, I was
Running for the door
I had to find the passage back to the place I was before
'Relax' said the night man,
'We are programmed to receive.
You can check out any time you like,
But you can never leave!'”
With a TBM wife and daughters!
THANKS for sharing your story!!👍
Greetings from Amsterdam.
My heart goes out to you
greetings from New Mexico !!!
Church is true
www.churchofjesuschrist.org/bc/content/ldsorg/media-library/ebook-pdf/Saints-v1-English-PD60001624.pdf?lang=eng
My dear friends we are living in the last days of this old sinful world, Just remember that we told that Jesus said I have sheep in the other fouled:But when they hear my voice they will follow Me,Jesus looked toward Heaven and prayed: FATHER THE TIME HAS COME TO GLORYFY YOUR SON, THAT YOUR SON MAY GLORYFY YOU. FOR YOU GRANTED HIM AUTHORITY OVER ALL PEOPLE THAT HE MIGHT GIVE ETERNAL LIFE TO ALL THOSE YOU HAVE GIVEN HIM. NOW THIS IS ETERNAL LIFE: THAT THEY MAY KNOW YOU, THE ONLY TRUE GOD, AND JESUS CHRIST, WHOM YOU HAVE SENT. I HAVE BROUGHT YOU GLORY ON EARTH BY COMPLETING THE WORK YOU GAVE ME TO DO. AND NOW, FATHER, GLORYFY ME IN YOUR PRESENCE WITH THE GLORY I HAD WITH YOU BEFORE THE WORLD BEGAN. "Jesus Prays for His Disciples"I HAVE REVEALED YOU TO THOSE YOU GAVE ME OUT OF THE WORLD. THEY WERE YOURS; YOU GAVE THEM TO ME AND THEY HAVE OBEYED YOUR WORD. NOW THEY KNOW THAT EVERYTHING YOU HAVE GIVEN ME COMES FROM YOU FOR I GAVE THEM THE WORDS YOU GAVE ME AND THEY ACCEPTED THEM. THEY KNEW WITH CERTAINLY THAT I GAME FROM YOU, AND THEY BELIEVED THAT YOU SENT ME. I PRAY FOR THEM. I AM NOT PRAYING FOR THE WORLD, BUT FOR THOSE YOU HAVE GIVEN ME , FOR THEY ARE YOURS. ALL I HAVE IS YOURS AND ALL YOU HAVE IS MINE. AND GLORY HAS COME TO ME THROUGH THEM. I WILL REMAIN IN THE WORLD NO LONGER, BUT THEY ARE STILL IN THE WORLD AND I AM COMING TO YOU HOLY FATHER. WHILE I WAS WITH THEM I PROTECTED THEM AND KEPT THEM SAFE BY THAT NAME YOU GAVE ME. NONE HAS BEEN LOST EXEPT THE ONE DOOMED TO DESTRUCTION SO THAT SCRIPTURE WOULD BE FULFILLED.
I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them. I HAVE GIVEN THEM YOUR WORD AND THE WORLD HAS HATED THEM, MY PRAYER IS NOT THAT YOU TAKE THEM OUT OF THE WORLD BUT THAT YOU PROTECT THEM FROM THE EVIL ONE. THEY ARE NOT OF THE WORLD EVEN AS I AM NOT OF IT.
I think we always need to study the Bible ourselves the real truth. John 17:17 SANTIFY THEM BY THE TRUTH; YOUR WORD IS TRUTH . The Truth will set you free.Because the Bible said; if they speak not according to the Bible, it is because there is no light in them. The Bible JESUS PRAYED AND ASK GOD TO PROTECT ALL THOSE WHO WILL BELIEVE IN THE TRUTH AND MAKE THEM HOLY. AND LET THEM ONE WITH GOD, AND BRING THEM TO HEAVEN TO SEE JESUS GLORY. IF YOU BELIEVE IN JESUS THIS PRAYER WAS FOR YOU TOO.John17:20
THIS IS JESUS PRAYER FOR ALL THE FAITHFUL BELEIVERS I SEND THIS MY DEEPLOVE MY ONLY PRAYER AND TESTIMONY IN JESUS NAME AT THIS END TIME OF HISTORY WITH THE TRUTH OF THE BIBLE LOL.AND GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR CHOICE...
You are a beautiful soul -- full of light!
Your an inspiration to me! Thank you for your story. I’m still Mormon and don’t know yet if I have the courage to take the steps you took to leave. But I feel it’s coming. Thanks again for sharing
Jesus Divides Families
Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn ‘a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law - a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.’ (Mat 10:34-36)
The God of truth (Isa. 65:16) is the God of the Bible. Since truth divides, then Jesus would naturally divide his followers away from those who reject and hate God’s truth, even one’s natural family members. Remember, Jesus divides families:
Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.” (Luke 12:51-53)
To be worthy of Jesus and eternal life, one must side with God’s truth even though it divides his own family.
I know the pain and the struggle. You are doing right! Thank you! "Let your light so shine".
Im sorry u had to go through that. I went through same thing. But my experience is being native. I give it a double axe to it (rateing). Its very painful i know. I can really feel your anguish. And betrayed feelings. Nothing in this world is like it. I can tell my story but would be a long time to cover. Anyways i feel you. The lord will hear u and to start the healing. But i know for a surety u doing the right thing to broadcast and tell people that need u. keep up the good work. I feel your spirir, awsome 👍
Thank you for sharing! I too have been through so many of those feelings as I’ve left the Mormon church. One of the best things, is I am more authentically myself, and I don’t feel as much guilt in all aspects of my life!
I thought there was something wrong with me to feel this way. It's been 4yrs we have left the church but I struggle to let go, my garments hold me back, I got used to them and bonded with gospel principles. It's a purely programming that is so deep. I cry a lot and feel depressed sometimes, even when I know the truth, it's all been a lie. Finding your video makes me see it is normal to feel this way, I will need to seek for help to attend to this as any other trauma like loosing a loved one etc. Thank u so much for this message.
Thanks for this video. I appreciate hearing this.
By the way. Your story just helped me. Thank you and goodnight.
Ruth Smart I’m so glad!! Thank you for watching ♥️
doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith. Can the blind lead the blind? Don't you know that the 3 witnesses saw an angel of God? Haven't you read about all of the miracles surrounding this latter-day work? Don't you know that the mountain of the Lord's house has been established in the "tops of the hills" (Isaiah 2 prophecy) !!!!!!!!!!!
@@Ether-pb5gb If you think Lexi is blind then it is you who are afraid to see and seek the truth. I am praying for you, Ether 12:27
@@janetspiritofthelivinggod6328 thank you for praying for me. I need all of the prayers that I can get. Please include my wife, my children, and my physical health. Thank you and God bless you. I am not afraid of the truth. The truth shall make us free.
@@Ether-pb5gb I will indeed! I've been in a prayer and healing ministry and do a bit of armchair research for what ails me, so if you want to share any details I'm here, but God knows, most of all. Glad that you are interested in having eyes open to the Truth, most importantly He who is the Way, the Truth and the Life, the great "I AM" which is the same as Jesus saying He is God - that's why the Jews wanted to kill Him! Jesus was God incarnate while on earth, not a man willing to show us how to become a god, as I believe the LDS church believes.
Hey, thanks for posting this. I just read the CES letter 2 days ago, and it’s been so hard. I don’t even know what to do now. It’s good to hear other people talk about it, and say it gets easier!
Kylee Maestas it is so hard in the beginning, but it definitely gets better with time! Explore your world without those limits and you’ll start to realize you can be more your authentic self than you’ve ever been. I’m enjoying my life happier than ever! I hope the same thing happens for you, too ♥️
Please look at my post in the main thread. The CES letter has so much wrong. I just covered a few things but others have made more full responses. One is here: ..ua-cam.com/video/ynmMW4wnTFU/v-deo.html
Kylee- Be patient with yourself. You don’t have “to know” what to do now because in essence you’ve lost your bearings. The key is that this loss is only temporary. You’ll come out on top with greater understanding of yourself and the world around you. You’ll be going through the grieving process so brush up on the steps involved. That way you’ll understand the anger and processing required to come out a healthier person. There are plenty of people supporting your journey just make sure you’re supporting yourself along the way too with forgiveness and patience.
Hey Kylee, conflictofjustice.com is a really good source for looking into responses that the CES letter imposes. Since you are looking into church history, it's important to look really deep and not just the tip of the iceberg like anti's like to do if you wish to do so. Good luck in your quest and remember that you aren't alone!
Nothing on the ces letter is new or revelatory. Very old old arguments about the church. Do your hw, and stop thinking gods gift comes in a perfect box with a red bow., it doesnt make it any less of a gift cause its not what you expected. The jews didnt expect jesus as a babe born in a manger. What happens to these members testimonys? Stay close to the spirit and dont let someone ever convince you that the spirit is false or some chemical reaction akin to adrenaline. Its nothin like that its a connection to your creator that is unmistakable unexplainable and otherworldly. It burns so hot so intensely and only comes when we testify of christ or our thoughts are centered around him or he is encircling you about with love and reassurance. Come back! We need u god needs the work needs you. Many are falling by the way side and its heartbreaking to see. Develop your faith each and everyday put god first and build upon his son. We all sang it the wise man and the foolish man but did you enternalize it or plant it and see what tree it sprouts into. Foolish generation so easily misled and untrusting of the god who gave them life. Smh man. Sad emoji.
Thank you for the courage to share
I have just discovered these truths myself and I’m shocked. Thank you for putting out this video. You found out a year before me. As I’ve been researching our world during The pandemic our reality isn’t going to be what we think. God bless you and thank you!!
definitely would like to hear more from you, if you have anything more you want to say, or would like to share, exmo lex! you're a really genuinely nice person, whole-hearted and honest-hearted, with a really good soul- and it should be my pleasure to hear anything further you might wish to say, in any future podcasts--- I can just envision it in my mind, heart, and soul, just what kind of whole and pure-hearted and really good Mormon you were--- makes me want to spit sometimes, watching all these various podcasts, listening to all these ex-mormon accounts, by really fine and good people, of what happened to them---
Thank you for sharing! Such a relatable story!! My story is really similar! For me it started with the gospel essays, lead to fair Mormon and eventually “Letter to My Wife” when fair Mormon couldn’t answer my questions. So hard to find out the things you were taught you whole life were all a lie!
Well done. I have been away from the LDS church for 25 years. I is liberating. I also try to teach my children to still be kind and not speak with anger or hatred toward the church. There are many good people in the LDS church. And I enjoy them. I just don't believe as they do. I also have opened up to exploring all kinds of philosophies regarding life. I have decided that I don't want to spend my days trying to prepare for the next life. I prefer to enjoy this life. I actually am beginning to better understand the Muslim religion. I don't agree with it but I am better educated. My current philosophy is one spoken by Thomas Paine where he said, "My country is the world, all mankind are my brethren, and kindness is my religion." It gives me peace not to dismiss others. I still enjoy many of the teachings of the Bible. Life is worthwhile. I enjoyed your comments and am happy for you. Don't let people discourage you or censor you. Be happy.
You’re the sweetest girl. Thank you for helping us understand.
I'm glad I found you on UA-cam, I've been watching all your videos, it's really nice to know there is a community out there. One question I have for anyone reading this, being agnostic, how do you deal with not getting anxiety about us not knowing what actually happens when we die? I'd still love to believe there is peace and we can be with our loved ones, what do you all think? This is something I've been struggling with and it would be comforting to know how you guys handle this, thanks so much for any replies!
You just have to accept the cold harsh truth that when we die, we just rest in peace 6 feet under. Is an after-life really all that exciting of a prospect anyway? I don't know what it would even look like. No one does. Would we have bodies? Would we get hungry? Would we get tired? Would it be a better existence than what we have now? I sure don't want to live forever if it's anything like life on earth. I would definitely get tired of living with my loved ones eventually. Forever is one helluva long time!
I am 4 years out of the flds plegimist group. 3.5 into lds church. I just wanted to say,
"THANKS"!!! I have and I am still struggling with trust and belief. I am so glad You took the time to tell me, or us, Your story. THANKS!!!!
Thank you for sharing your story. You are so articulatec and authentic.
Thank you for being so brave and honest. You are saving a lot of peoples lives. God continue to bless and keep you and your family.
Imagining how it must have felt, realizing that something you believed in for 25 years was a lie, made me cry. Nobody should go through anything like that. I truly hope you managed to move on from this trauma.
Your courage to come out of this and speak about it is really amazing! I hope and pray you can find a true relationship with God and assurance of your salvation through His word!
Thank you. That was so heart felt and honest and kind. Thank you!
Going back and watching this now made me smile. Such a fresh faced, wide eyed, new ex-mo.
Thank you for sharing this. I relate to everything you said. I'm still in the stage where I haven't openly talked about it to my family and it's hard
You have lots of support on the outside. Be brave and enjoy your life.
Thanx, I was trying to see what some of the X's say about it, since they were current at the time it came out. Revive the musical.
This video is amazing. This topic is tough for me, as I have many friends who have been hurt by the church (and thankfully have since left), but I cannot be an effective advocate against the organization. I find that as an outsider (again, thankfully), I'm not taken seriously at all by those in the church currently, so this kind of content is the best I can give them. You're doing amazing work!
Wow. What an amazing testimony...from the heart.
❤️ I’m so happy you did your research and followed your heart! Haha the same thing happened to me, I started focusing on self love and got fit. So many people are leaving the church right now because he Mormon God isn’t a god of love.
Thank you for your courage and honesty.
hey thank you so much for this video. I was also devastated when I came to these realizations...my world was turned upside down for a while. (I grew up mormon and I'm not anymore)
I left the church 8 years ago and I wish I could’ve watched videos like yours back then to help confirm my decisions and experiences. I remember those same feelings of finally being honest with myself and finding myself. Thank you for sharing your experience and for all the other content you’ve shared.
Proud Of you! I was born and raised and left the church, you have a community that supportive of you and your journey.... THANKYOU !
against anti-Mormons I checked out your channel-very nice. Exactly the kind of Christlike person that will ensure that those who feel ostracized from the church will never return.
@against anti-Mormons I love it! Please keep posting! I can feel the Spirit!
@against anti-Mormons you bet! So much healthier and happier emotionally than the sewage that you exude! Dark and loathsome comes to mind
@against anti-Mormons Oh, you mean the beverages that Joseph Smith used to drink?
against anti-Mormons dude, what's your problem? Do you really think belittling others is a good Christian's way of life and you will get to heaven for being a snobby brat? If it were so, heaven would be full of snobby brats, terrible place really.
for me, finding out the mormon church is a cult was a great relief. there were so many things that looked like lies, but i always told myself, "it doesn't make sense because i'm not spritual enough".
then when i found out the book of abraham is a big fat lie, i had this big ah ha moment. so that's what's happening. mormonism is just a big patchwork quilt of lies. well that explains a lot.
i guess you felt the same thing. i like to join in comment sections like you have. i feel like i can answer some questions. but i don't have my own channel, because i feel like talking to mormons is like a trip to insanity a lot of times. i don't like that feeling. but i do understand your desire to talk to them, some people will say why don't you leave the mormons alone? that's like telling someone, from this day forth you have no childhood, no mother no father, no siblings, you never went to high school. you didn't spend every waking minute devoted to something you thought was right.
where i live now, we have a lot of amish. you gotta know it's hard for them to leave that lifestyle. jews are the same way. when you leave just pack your bags, leave your heart behind when you close the door behind you. start a new life if you can, or no, that's up to you.
This is true. The Amish can join in with the Mennonites as they have close roots. There are a lot of secular Jewa. But it's still hard to leave your family.
Lovely message! Thank you!
Amazing to see how far
this channel has come!