I grew up in a strict LDS household. It was my world, i knew nothing different. The promise of happiness kept me going, but inside I wasn’t happy.
After years of therapy and treatment for depression and other struggles, I began to wonder if I wasn’t good enough to reach the happiness that the church teaches will come with obedience. I stopped attending church about 8 years ago, but haven’t considered myself part of it for about 5 years. I was scared that there wouldn’t be happiness without the church.
I slowly began discovering who I was as an individual. I learned that my happiness doesn’t come from following a church. I began to discover and follow my own values. Some match up with the church, and some don’t. I discovered that who I am is much more than someone who needs to go to church, read scriptures, and obey commandments–I am Rebecca! I am good, powerful, strong, and honest–and that IS enough.
“To whom shall you go?” That’s easy–anywhere! I am free to choose where I want to go. Life is good. I am good. And I am finally happy!
Rebecca in Salt Lake City
These are stories of health and happiness outside the Mormon church.
Losing my religion wasn’t the end
The Mormon faith has always been a strong influence in my life and upbringing. However at a young age, I chose to become inactive. I was a very confused young adult with a lot of questions. The answer I was given: to pray... which I did but I still felt very unsure...
Freedom and Actual Happiness
After being raised Mormon, going on a mission and marrying a Mormon, I gathered the courage to leave it about two and a half years ago. Though consequently it resulted in a divorce, I have never been happier. I am now free to live, think and feel how I want to. I live...
Losing My Life and Finding It
“Where will you go?” long before these words were uttered from the pulpit, I had them written in my heart, and they were terrifying to me. The youngest child of an extremely devout, conservative LDS family, the Church was my reality. I never missed Sunday School or...
Oh hey, it’s me.
I have nothing but fond experiences growing up in the church. I grew up in a family that loves the church deeply. I was so grateful for it! It wasn't until after I got married in the temple at 19, that certain things didn't feel as right or at home like they had used...
The world is richer and fuller than you can possibly imagine
The world is richer and fuller than you can possibly imagine. Culture, food, and whatever you feel you need to experience it is yours and no one elses. Go out of your comfort zone. Leaving has opened a whole possibility and discovery of beauty you will miss if you...
I will go where the Spirit Leads
I was ushered out of the church 30 some odd years ago when I came out at Ricks (BYU Idaho). I wasn't ex'd, I was just no longer Mormon. I floundered for a very long time, because back then there wasn't a network as there is now. Over the years I have found love and...