"The more we learn, the less we know" ... I have gained so very much respect for you both with such a simple sentence. Just imagine what our world could be if more people understood this.....thank you.
My husband and I left the LDS church. I left first and it was a big adjustment for us. Our marriage was survived because we are friends. Then my husband left too and I feel like we have a new, improved version of our marriage with a new, improved version of my husband. It has been an unexpected and wonderful part of our new post religion life
Hi Debbie! We are so happy to hear that you and your husband are together and happy after such a big life change. We can relate to everything you said :)
@@pilarskifamily899 my journey out of LDS Mormonism and Christianity was through studying the historicity of the New Testament. Jesus as as a man god was a made up idea; just the ideas of men it turns out. I'm very happy to have reclaimed my personal autonomy and to base my life in the wonders of science and the importance of valuing the universe and all that is in it Post faith life is truly amazing.
I just found your channel through Peter’s video. I think your spiritual journey is so amazing! It’s a sign of intelligence to change your beliefs when presented with new information.
I was raised in the Baptist church then in my 20’s I started going to the Full Gospel church then stopped going to church for different reasons I won’t go into. The big “BUT” is I’ve kept my faith in Jesus Christ. You both seem to be happy with your choices. I think from this video you have had the same end result as I have. I love that you are at peace with your choice as well and the way you accept your journey with no hate. So many out there that I have in the past I followed speak only negative (I am only presuming they have not come to terms with their past) but they also haven’t realized that they are hurting people around them with their negativity. That negativity to me spreads like wild fire and in a way creates a cult like atmosphere I do pray for their peace of mind heart and soul to make their own evaluation of their life.
Oh! I do understand where you’re coming from. I loved being a member of the LDS church and the people. I did find out that they don’t love me so much after realizing it wasn’t what I believe. Not even Jesus didn’t like organized religion. I am a Christian. I found freedom in Christ and that’s all I need. He is my Savior. All I need is Him in my life.
The issue is several of the religions/denominations actually do not agree on who Jesus is or what He accomplished by His crucifixion. Each person needs to read the Bible for himself/herself.
Jesus said I am the way, the truth, and the light. Please continue to read just the Bible together and He will guide you into all truth. It was wonderful to hear what you said about the two of you reading the scriptures together, and I pray God will give you wisdom and understanding as He reveals himself to you and draws you into an even closer relationship with Him. Much love to you both.
I came to the realization one day that I don’t believe in what I call “organized religion”. My beliefs are doing the right thing and treat everyone with respect. I don’t need religion to tell me that. I’m not saying that I’m correct. But it is your journey to find what fits with you and your family.
Christianity isn't about being a good person. It's about your eternal life and who you believe. Did life evolve randomly from nothingness or do we have a creator?
My husband and I left the LDS church in 2016. It was one of the most difficult things we have ever done. We feel for you. Sending you support and love.
A friend left the Mormon church and found Jesus! God uses her in amazing ways, praying for their healing , amazing wisdom and explaining salvation to those God directs her path too!
Faith is a personal journey. I grew up Lutheran/chrisian. I believe God is a living being and showers us with his grace and love. We are to love and serve those in need. Religions are led by humans which in turn can create flaws. Do what is in your heart. God loves you unconditionally.
I’m glad you are open to this kind of growth. For me, I kept progressing and got to the point where I knew what my moral and ethical center was, and realized that I didn’t need superstition and supernatural beliefs in order to be good and do good.
It's not about being good or bad, it's about what the truth is. It's a belief that life came from nothing and magically turned into you by the god of millions of years. How can you be so sure that the supernatural doesn't exist?
This video was so interesting! I grew up in the RLDS church-now known as Community of Christ, and there was definitely a time when we also felt we were the “one true church”. However as the years have gone one, we have come to understand that we don’t have a corner on truth. There is a lot of truth in this world. I wish people would give up the idea that just one church is “true” and start focusing on who God is, the example that Jesus set for us, and how we can use those to make the world we live in a better place. Thanks for sharing with us!
@@laurapionke8401 CoC has a very open view of belief and scripture so thats a hard one to answer susinctly. Easiest answer (from my point of view) is there is a wide variety of beliefs within the CoC church about the Book of Mormon, and the CoC church is there to support an individual's spiritual journey not dictate belief. There's a great podcast called Project Zion that has a great episode on the BoM within CoC, which is worth checking out if you're interested in the topic.
Thank you for your story!🙏 I left the LDS church as I started to study the Bible how we are saved. Ephesians 2: 8-10 and about marriage in heaven Matthew 22: 23-32 Jesus said there is no marriage in heaven. My Faith is in Christ Jesus and the word of God. Praying for you guys 🙏
I just asked many of these questions on an older video yesterday. I assume you dont want to go into detail about why you left LDS in order to try and maintain your relationship with Melissa's family and if so, I cant fault you for that. After all, Sam has already lost connection with his parents. I'm so proud of you for learning to use critical thinking skills to ask questions and refuse to accept answers that either dont make sense or are clearly flase. You are very brave. It is terrifying to walk away from your religious foundation and not quickly jump into another religion - on the basis of believing there must be a "one true religion" out there. Walking away and deciding its okay to NOT belong to a religion is brave. You will find that a lot of people start trying to convince you to join their religion now that you've told us you dont have a religion you subscribe to. Stay strong and keep learning, growing and using your critical thinking. I'm proud of you. You don't have to belong to a religion to be a good person....but you know that already 😉
Yes this one needs to be pin it gives such good advice on how to stick to your ground after finding your own way out learning that your religion may not be the one for you sucks but that doesn’t mean you should jump in the bed with another one look at what you feel in your heart and actually learn what you are willing to believe just on a personal bases. Then if you find something that looks the same and really do your research that’s when you see what it’s about it may not be something you want in the end I still believe there is an after life but we are all flawed I don’t see why we have to “repent” for something that is literly human nature
Oh no way! I totally thought you were still LDS based on how you talked about it in previous videos. Thats awesome that you're on this journey together - I went through something similar but at a much younger age.
I was a Baptist missionary in Argentina for eight years. My eldest son was 9 months old when we arrived. My second son was born in Buenos Aires. We came back to the States. Got a divorce from my wife. A few years later my son joined the Mormon Church and did two years in Chille as a Mormon Missionary. Yo y mi mayor tenemos un acento Argentino, aunque el paso dos años en Chile. He’s about your age. He married a Mormon girl and he is has climbed up in the Mormon Church. Now he’s got onto Mormon Stories. Now he’s seeking truth. I love your stories. One of the things that I love about you guys is the way you look at one another.
Oh my gosh you guys listening to this helped me so much 😭 My husband and I grew up in the AUB polygamist church. Very similar to the FLDS but we could wear more modern clothes, choose who we courted and married etc., also no child brides. Husband and I met at the LDS church years after leaving the church we were raised in and serving missions in the LDS church. After studying and preparing a lesson for the 5 year olds at church I came to my husband with questions. He usually always had answers or at least something along the lines of “God knows best”. But this time was different and resulted in the conversation that started our second great spiritual journey. Our story is different in that we were at different points in our journey for some of that time and it was very difficult. The feelings of uncertainty and insecurity are just unreal. I used to know everything and now I know nothing and it’s just so so terrifying. Thank you guys for sharing your story with me!!!!
I’m so proud of you guys. I came from a reformed fundie background and raised my older children in it. The damage was heartbreaking - I too am free of organized religion and have been encouraged by your channel 🙏🏻
I just binge watched a bunch of your videos today, and this was my last one for the day. My husband came and watched with me and it was timely. We left the LDS church last year and your experience is so similar to ours. We love and respect those who have stayed, but we found a new path, and we are so much happier. Actually, it was the Book of Mormon that convinced us the church wasn't on the path God intended for his human family. It was such a crazy exploration to finally get to read things by excommunicated people, non LDS church historians, and most importantly, philosophy! I LOVE philosophy!!! We are happy for our friends and family who are happy in the church, but we have found so much fulfillment outside of it that it's almost...explosive! Like my heart will explode because I can see the love that God has for EVERYONE!!! We loved how respectful you were to the church. We don't feel like looking back and criticizing was helping us grow, so we have adopted an attitude similar to yours. Too bad you're just random RU-vidrs because we would totally invite you to hang out with us;)
Thank you Sam for positively sharing the good and negative side of polygamy... You could very easy have shared your story with anger, yet you don't. What a human.
Thank you so much! I know I'm really late - watching this a year later.....so if you ever read this, please know I appreciate your mature approach to this subject. I'm on a deconstruction journey and can identify with so much. Your positive and yet realistic view is so refreshing. "The more we learn, the less we know" yes!!!!
Truth was so blurry for me for many years as a young person. I admire your humility SO much! I still say this all the time to my kids, that the more I learn, the more I realize I don’t know. God is so patient with us and what a comfort that truly is. Blessings to you two and your family!
I was born and raised in the LDS Church, I got baptized at 8 and even went on a full time mission. Both of my parents are converts and thought it was best for me and my siblings to be raised in the LDS church and to be sealed together as a family in hopes of getting into the Celestial Kingdom. I’m in a relationship with my boyfriend who used to be Catholic and left when he was 18 because he questioned a lot about tithing and his own faith. We both met 2 years after my mission and started dating. Once I told him I was Mormon he was very supportive and open about it. I just left the LDS church not that long ago. I’ve had questions about the history of the church and the LGBTQ+ as to why they couldn’t be baptized and was always told to leave our questions on the shelf. I believe that God loves EVERYONE no matter the race, gender, LGBTQ+ and wants us to feel happy in our time here on earth. Of course I will always cherish my experiences growing up in the LDS church and have been extremely grateful for the gospel and the Savior’s teachings. I’ll never forget beautiful moments I’ve had when I was Mormon. I still believe, but I’m going to find and grow my faith in a spiritual way. ❤ We LOVE your channel and LOVE you guys! Thank you for always sharing your experiences ❤❤
I escaped NER faith movement and I am so blessed to be reformed Christian now . I study Bible and it is helping me to grow spiritually and don't believe any cult's lie anymore .
When I was young, around 8 I started questioning everything I was taught in Sunday school. I decided a while later that I didn’t believe in it. It was a big uproar in my house that I didn’t want to go to church. As a teen I tried all the different youth groups in my town. Went to all my friends churches to try them out. Nothing ever felt right to me. I’m now 32 and have identified as atheist for some time. However, if there is a god, I believe he’s the same for everyone of all religions. Even though I’m not a believer, some of my closest friends are. And I love learning about other religions. I’m really glad you and Sam are sharing your journeys. You both seem like such kind, generous people.
Don't know if you have done this already. But during my spiritual journey I read the Gospel of Mark in the Holy Bible. Also Case for Christ. These were turning points for me. I hope they will help you and bring you to truth. Thank you for sharing your journey. God bless you and your family !
It is truly a personal journey and I applaud you for seeking that truth. I truly believe that relying on the Bible as the primary source of truth is most important. I’m part of an organized church and even within my church there are different views, but we all agree that the Bible is our point of reference! So, whoever reads this comment, I encourage you to seek the truth in the Bible, and with God’s guidance you’ll find that truth and perhaps the church that practices that truth! God bless you!
I grew up in a very Christian environment (church, home, school) and had an overall good experience. But from a young age had doubt and questions and have come to realize I am a very spiritual agnostic. And like your I can say “I don’t know”. Since I have been honest, I feel free! It is refreshing.
What a honest straight forward video.. however I have to say it heart breaking as well. As I do when there is a loss of faith. I hope the day will come when your beautiful family returns. After all we are all family
This is really inspiring to me as someone who grew up in a church I no longer agree with. I have not always been so respectful when speaking of my past church, I really admire you two, and will try to follow this example moving forward.
Thank you both for being so brave and sharing your experiences with us! Im a Jewish woman of colour with a background in sociology and anthropology, so people, cultures and faith have always been sooo very interesting to me! Im absolutely loving hearing about your experiences:) I truly believe if people would have more sharing, dialogue, and build relationships with people who have different beliefs and backgrounds, we would have a more loving and peaceful world😊💓Yes! Continue to evolve...Much love to you!🤗
I’m so happy when I see that you guys have posted a new video. I even go and watch older videos that you guys have made because I’m so fascinated by Sam and how much you share with us. You both are so kind and I wish the best for you and your children.
You are so right that everyone on this earth has the right to spiritual experiences. God was with me when I was mormon and He is with me now that Im not mormon. He is LOVE and the God of miracles. He pulls people out of addictions if they ask. He is just waiting at the door for that knock. He will NEVER force himself on anyone. ❤❤❤❤
I love what you said here - as a lifelong Catholic who is more in your shoes, open to many beliefs, I appreciate your refreshing views. I especially enjoyed your interview on the FLDS experience and appreciate that you are so loving to all❤️❤️and carry positive memories of your upbringing.
I just love you guys so much. Such beautiful, loving, kind souls. Y’all’s story have moved me so much. So brave and honest. My husband and I are just Christians. We believe in God and have bible studies in our home with friends who want to come. We talk and support each other. We just want to love and support everyone. It’s just too much pressure belonging to a certain church. So glad y’all are just following your hearts. Be well friends. I will continue to follow your journey. ♥️
This was a great series! Sam’s life really unfolded well in these videos. My partner and I are atheist, but have had some meaningful friendships with LDS members and it’s always been very apparent that the religion has brought positive impact to their lives, even if we can’t wrap our minds around believing the religion is true. We’ve been watching this series from our little NYC apartment while it’s cold out and I kept wondering what you currently believe. When my phone suggested this video I looked to my partner like “Tom, this is it!” haha
But they never say WHAT THEY DO ACTUALLY BELIEVE ABOUT GOD, JESUS, THE BIBLE, etc!!! Just that they left the LDS church due to discovering so many false and contradictory teachings and understandably don’t want to get entangled in another complex organized religious group. But what Do you believe IS true? Is there a God? A creator? Who is Jesus? How does one become forgiven of sin? Is there a heaven and/or a hell? Do you have or desire to have a relationship with God &/or with Jesus? Is Jesus God? …. WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE AFTER ALL OF YOUR SEARCHING so far?
@@LauraBlack-cp2ilThey gave the answer: they don't know. And they feel comfortable with not having the answers, but figuring out their personal answers together.
Wow this is not where I expected it to go, but you guys presented it and handled it so well. I appreciate your respect for the whole journey and people along the way who are still there.
It’s so refreshing seeing your journey of seeking truth and freedom. Makes my heart happy. You both are a beautiful couple and your goodness shines through.
I watched this video first about a year ago. Since then, I’ve watched many of your presentations, and was moved today to hear this part of your story again. I’m a semi retired Presbyterian minister, so I think about theology and the faith lifestyle a lot. I’m very impressed with you two. You’ve both come from very “prescriptive “ church backgrounds, where grace ( God’s free love for us, even when we fall short of pleasing Him) sounds like it was in short supply. Your honest questioning and struggle to know God’s truth is admirable. I feel you are living out a calling to demonstrate God’s love as you explain a religious practice that is unfamiliar to many of us, and especially as you show compassion for those who were so badly hurt by the worst excesses of Warren Jess and other corrupt religious leaders.
I'm a pastor in Idaho. I can understand why you would want to join the LDS church. There are so many similarities and that's got to be comfortable. I would encourage to keep asking questions...look into things like the translation of the Pearl of Great Price and the archeological record. Keep reading the Bible with your amazing wife. I know God is using you and will continue to use you and grow you into a great man of faith.
Often times when people leave a certain religion they think they need to bash the religion so negatively and it’s sad to hear it that way. However, you two made me feel peace and love and that brought me comfort that what I’m going through with my own spiritual battle that it’s ok to search and not feel guilty. I too am from the LDS church but in recent months have been conflicted. So thank you for explaining with such love, kindness and understanding that we all of different beliefs and that it’s ok!!
Thank you SO much for sharing! I also grew up in a polygamists family! My parents part of the AUB here in Utah. I related to this video so much ❤️ I’m super proud of you both! I’m not sure if Sam feels this way too but for a long time now it’s been super hard for me to not have hard feelings towards my parents religion and the people in it. It’s so hard seeing people you love be hurt! And that’s caused me to have a lot of the same feelings towards the LDS church. But the people truly believe they are doing what’s best for them! Thank you for the reminder to put all the things aside and love them first! Anyway lots more to that ...😂 i feel the same way in the sense of not knowing exactly what you believe! I’m not religious now and I’m still pretty close with my family but i think they have a hard time believing that I’m happy because when you grow up in a religion like that you’re taught that these people are the only happy people. It’s so hard having so much freedom and feeling so happy but knowing they just think you’re “lost” or “struggling” One of my favorite things of leaving organized religion is realizing that it’s ok to love everyone! Just because they believe definitely or love differently that you that’s ok! Again thank you for sharing your story ❤️
So interesting!! Thank you so much for your comment. It sounds like we have had similar experiences. I agree with you, it is hard to see those we love hurt. I wish there was a way to show our families how happy we are now.
It is wonderful and heartwarming to see a young couple tackling the big things in life and figuring it out for themselves and together. You are lovely and inspiring. Enjoy the journey.
I love your openess about your personal journeys as im still really young (16) and ive gone through multiple religions against my will (one of my parents didnt like the church i was in it was non-denominational and encouraged questioning faith and finding truth) so ive grown to respect eveyones beleifs but not worshiping a god, so im always interested hearing stories of people leaving and questioning faith and religion but being able to find their true beliefs as well as feeling proud of their choices because it is uncommon and primarily shunned upon by some religious people whoch leads to non belivers to never want to join a new religion (example: people who use the LDS church to shun and hate those who dont belong to LDS) so thank yall for sharing the uncommon, i do hope talking about our journey's does become more common!
You are such a beautiful couple! I see Christ love shining through you both! I admire and respect you for your transparency and honesty! God has a perfect plan for our lives and I believe you have opened your hearts and are allowing Him to guide and lead you to the place that He has for you and your family to continue to grow and shine in His love!
I love the honesty in this. I love the inquisitiveness that led to deeper thought and study. I believe that God has us all on a journey, and He has taken y'all step by step on this journey to truth. He is leading you to His truth and that is beautiful. It is soooo hard to admit that we don't know everything, but there is IMMENSE comfort in knowing that the Almighty does....and He reveals all that you need to know in this life. We aren't meant to be as wise as Him. We are meant to follow His lead of loving others and letting the story unfold however it may. Wishing y'all a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year ❤
Thank you for being so vulnerable with this video ❤️ spent the last week binging all of your videos and love this longer, more in-depth video. Melissa- you do such a great job of asking the questions I am thinking!
I was brought up in the LDS faith. All of my relatives were also. But I also came to the conclusion that believing in Christ and living as the best person I can be is my true religion. I would love to be able to find a group to study the Bible with, but fear were ever I would go would just pressure me to join their religion. I feel this is a very personal choice. I feel being a Christian is my religion, because everyone has their own spin on the Bible.
Being Catholic and raising my children catholic, I totally understand why you now are in a place of “I don’t know”. After hearing all of the sexual abuse that has gone on in the Catholic Church and the way that it was handled is sooooo disgusting to me that I stopped going to church (this has been for a long time now). BUT it still has not wavered my belief in God. So I trust and believe in God, talk and pray to God, I just don’t believe that I need to do it in a church with people (confessions, discuss marital issues especially with someone who is not married or has not been in a relationship like that, etc...) who are no better/religious than I am!! Go with your heart/intuition, keep asking questions and having open conversations that will not leave you astray!! I’m new here and loving your channel and honesty!!! Hey from New York 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Yes! I agree I was raised Catholic too. I baptized my kids but that was it. This is why we don’t belong as well as how the Catholic religion doesn’t believe in same sex marriage or invitro for those who need help/science to help them experience children❤️❤️❤️. There’s also more things birth control is another big one. It’s there choice not the churches
I was in a similar situation, I am choosing to raise my kids Episcopalian because the traditions are similar, what happened in the Catholic Church can happen in any hierarchical, patriarchal led organization but what was swept under the rug for decades based on that structure was something I had a lot of difficulty with, in addition to some other factors
i agree with your thoughts. I grew up Catholic but, as you can see with my screen name, I am part of the lgbtq so, after 30 some years being Catholic I finally admitted the truth to myself and friends and family. I am attracted to women. This is how God made me and I have to live as God made me. It was hard to leave the church and I don't even know if churches are open in my state with Covid but, I just know there is a God and I love him.
20 yrs ago at age 40, I left the Catholic Church for a nondenominational church. Best decision of my life. I have such a close relationship with Jesus now. I learned more in one year than I had in 20 about the Bible .
Religion can sometimes get in the way of worshipping God. We need to constantly seek God and his truth. I go to a church that is as close to what I believe but not completely. I need to have an organized church to help me worship. I am similar to you in that I believe we should respect others’ beliefs and not be judgmental. I love that you are growing and evolving in your search for truth! 🙏🏼
Also, they had a dentist in the flds. He was told to go to school and become a dentist by the prophet I believe. He is credited with creating a lot of different dental inventions in the (I think) 70s and 80s.
you can be good people without god or Jesus in your life. you can be kind and loving and honest. i love that your hearts opened enough to see that there are many forms of people, with and without faith, that can each teach us something valuable in our own personal journey. i love hearing your perspectives and your interviews. you are both always so respectful and kind, and find great guest and great topics to dive into.
Wow, you two sending out so much awesome energy! Im not religious at all but I have study religions. I really like you a lot! I think we all have to learn to believe in our self and not lay that on others. This world lacks many things. Respect for each other and as I allways says.....Love is the key! ❤🙏🏻
It’s so cool to watch you guys in your self discovery. I feel like it’s really relatable to all people in all walks of life. I come from a Christian household (Baptist/Catholic) that didn’t practice often, and I think it definitely influenced my experiences as a child, but also really left the door open to other beliefs. Without that door being left open, I might not have developed the relationships I did as a child. It taught me what respect meant and how to respect others’ beliefs. Also, the important aspects of relationships with others like morals and likes/dislikes don’t have to come from religion. Though I’ve lost contact with a lot of my friends from school (except for 1 😂), I’m so grateful that I went to such diverse schools and got to befriend a couple of Mormons, some Hindu, and some who were Muslim. We’re all human and that’s all that matters. Thanks again for the great content and insight!
I think you're on a great journey! Asking questions, being honest with yourself, one another and to be honest in prayer to God with the questions and doubts is so good! And coming so far to say "I don't have an answer for that" is such a big and good step. Keep searching, asking questions and praying about it :) Thanks for being so brave and sharing your personal journey! I really like watching your videos. God bless you and your family! Greetings from Germany! :)
There is a wonderful core of God’s grace in your words and lives. Thanks for sharing! God’s love seems alive in you! What a wonderful grace mindset keeps you open and growing as God would have for all of us! My own central truth also evolved to the place where I see more of how God does not love us because we are good, but God helps us to be good because He loves us. As you say so well, we can learn from all humans, as all are created by a loving God - even as we differ in our evolutions of spiritual truths and life experiences. God bless us all as we grow and learn how to love as we are loved.
Hey you two! I found myself uncomfortable as you discussed leaving your religion . Then I realized that I left my religion and went down the same path. It wasn’t the LDS church. It was, however, a religion that basically took away my choice. It was so unsettling to be responsible to make decisions based on my own perspective. It took 13 years of exploration to find a faith (not a religion) in our Savior. Not ever preaching. He will make a way for you when you are ready. You are on the path. I love hearing you search for truth and light. Religion isn’t the path. True relationship with Him is. Peace.
Amazing couple. I appreciate your kindness and grace. I think we’re to teach and learn in this life, everyone has something to learn and everyone has something to teach. Thank you
You two are so brave. I was raised firmly clutched to the bosom of the Catholic church and although I left it many years ago, the roots go deep and it is not always easy. I love the way you are so tolerant of all beliefs and i wish more people did that. Far too often, from atheists to evangelicals, people are certain theirs is the only way. Your children are very fortunate to be growing up in such a thinking and accepting home. I wish you all the best.
I grew up hardcore, orthodox Mormon, too. I ended up outgrowing it in my early 20's when I realized it was really my parents' thing more than mine. There were things about the Church culture and prescribed life path that I just couldn't be okay with. I'm not a hater or anything, but I have never looked back or doubted myself and am truly am happy in my life without religion. Love and respect for you both for having open, curious, accepting minds.
@@aspenenglish4976 Following all the rules even if they don't make sense or cause you to overextend yourself, hitting all the church milestones even if they're not desirable or meaningful to you personally, following the prescribed life path even if you're not suited to that kind of life, etc. That's the kind of home I grew up in. A lot of forced/blind obedience.
@@erinrobinson6436 wow. Sorry to hear that. I live in the south and it’s pretty relaxed here. Your life is always a choice and you need to live it how you see fit.
I went to private Christian School for all of my youth (first non-denominational then Lutheran). When I had to attend public high school, I gravitated toward the LDS because their basic ways of living and standards and interests were similar to mine. For example, we dressed similarly modestly and no tattoos etc. I didn’t have my ears pierced and was raised not to play cards, or gamble or drink. I could play the piano beautifully and loved all of the Beehive crafts my friends were always doing. I am pretty much non religious at this time but following my beliefs more than ever and believing still in the power of prayer. Thank you for spreading your acceptance and love.
Yes, you do have a bit of an accent still, Sam. It’s a very nice accent. Very clear pronunciation and you don’t say “like” every two seconds like so many Americans do now (I’m in Canada).
Wow. I'm so happy I found your channel! I'm from Wales, so I'm so far removed from American cultures etc, but over the last year or so, I've been really interested in the polygamist communities across Utah, and I've read so many books (particularly from women) who are ex flds members, so it's lovely to hear from a males perspective. Thank you for talking about this, it must be very difficult to do, but I appreciate your honesty and openness. I can't wait to hear more from you guys! All the best (Pob hwyl) xxx
Thanks for sharing!! We are going through the same thing! God is calling us out into the wilderness to head to Zion with Jesus as our guide, not a church. ❤️
Thank you for sharing!! I assumed you were both still in LDS and it literally brought me to tears hearing your faith story. Thank you for being honest and open! This will help more LDS members who want to leave. Keep it coming!!
Sharon Taylor's comment is a great one! The more you study the Bible with an open heart, praying for God to guide you, the more you'll find the true Jesus. The simple truths are that God loved us enough to give us Jesus, who is His only son, who died in our place, giving us His righteousness. Our own righteousness is filthy rags in God's sight, but Jesus took our place of punishment, so that anyone who believes in Him might be reconciled to God. While being with other believers is important, it isn't so much about organized church hierarchy as it is about a relationship with God made possible by Jesus' blood on the cross!
We complicate it so much believing so many man made things or “right ways” but having a personal relationship with Jesus is it. Just having a personal relationship with Him is it. I always say, when I get to heaven, I will just ask God about all these details that weight us down or divide us. Glad you are on this journey find what you believe without being told what to believe. Hugs to y’all!
Seems like an unpopular opinion in this comment section 😂 I just keep getting more and more confirmations that I'm where I need to be. I love the Lord and I love his church, I'm grateful for the prophet and apostles, both of ancient times and present. Their words and actions help me so much.
I would love to hear the specifics of the questions you were asking that led you down the path to non-belief. Sam touched on "some issues" with FLDS that made him leave and then as a couple, you talked about "some issues" that made you leave. Would LOVE LOVE LOVE to hear the specifics. Loved this video, thanks so much for making it. I was raised in a cult like version of catholicism and it took me 20 years to journey out of it and a further ten to feel very comfortable and HAPPY in my anti-theism and atheism. I feel downright evangelical about it now. LOL
Are you SURE that life can spontaneously come into existence from nothingness and evolve into extremely complex lifeforms that humans can barely even begin to understand? I used to think it was possible. Now, it seems utterly ridiculous.
@@Volleyball_Chess_and_Geoguessr I'm as sure about that as you are about your theory. In other words, not at all. LOL But you missed the point where I said I didn't care. Do you care about where Covid came from? A bat or a rat? China or someplace else? Naturally or concocted in a lab? Does it matter? Doesn't matter to me. I just live with the fallout of it. I don't care about origin stories. I don't care how things begain. I care how they progress and how my life here and now can impact those in my immediate circle for the good. That's all.
@@montyollie We all feel sure about what we believe, but all the different sure people in the world that believe contradicting things can't all be right.
@@Volleyball_Chess_and_Geoguessr I feel like you are not reading my words. I am not sure, but I don't care. What part of that are you not grasping? I don't know how humanity came into existence. I also don't know how an iPhone is made. I'm sure there is an answer, but it doesn't affect my life any.
I so appreciate your honesty. I have learned a lot about this religion you come from. What I most appreciated is that you’re willingness to be open? If so, great. Thank you for being so open with all of us for as long as you have been.
I'm shocked! I was totally gearing up for you guys to bear your testimonies and then you threw a curve ball. I think that speaks volumes that you really do have respect and love for the church. Because I never felt any thing from you to make me feel you aren't active. I appreciate your respect and that you don't bash what you no longer believe. I also appreciate your openness. This topic is not related to your past with polygamy and so you didn't have to share with us, but you were willing and I appreciate that. I am a bit sad to know this to be honest, just from a selfish stand point :) but I totally respect your decisions. I really do respect you guys and love your channel.
They remind me of my daughter-in-law in the way they speak about the church. My son has a bit more of a bite to his comments. He doesn't condemn the LDS church to my face but he likes to wear his coffee shirt in my presence and I get the feeling it's a subtle jab.
I think it's important to realize that for so, so many people who have left a church life after being raised within it, it's due to trauma. I know that, when I speak about the religion I was raised in, I can't do it without getting very uncomfortable or even having a hard time with what I'm talking about. So it's not just a respect thing -- it's a trauma thing. No, I don't respect the teachings that were put on me, or the institution that I was raised in; that is why I left. Also no, I do not go out of my way to bash someone who believes something, but I'm also not going to pretend like that part of my life wasn't incredibly traumatic for me and ruined my sense of self-worth. Does that make sense?
@@idvsmartiae I'm sorry you had such trauma. No, I'm not talking about a situation like yours. I'm talking about people who leave a belief system and then make it their mission to turn around and bash what they left.
Once again Thank you both for being so kind and smart and well spoken. I have never been raised in religion but know about God and the bible...but you just sound like true regular People. Not ex anything...just real people being smart and kind and sticking to their own path as we all take this unique journey of Life. Thank you✌🐕🥰
I left religion at the age of 15 and I have never looked back. I have friends who are Christian, Muslim and everything inbetween and the respect we have for one another go beyond faith- we meet as humans. No faith is not the same as no morals or goodness- it's seeing past that and into other people's hearts without a filter. I can love you for you - not because it's part of my faith but because you are human. Thank you for a great channel and interesting topics. A rebels heart is a good thing. Keep asking questions.
You are both so soft and kind humans ! It’s very brave to follow your own way and I believe the voice in your heart is the real connection to god and it’s the best way to evolve, following that voice. I myself have more questions, than answers for life and that makes life such a wonderful experience. Open minded and open hearted like kids exploring life is an adventure! I wish the best for you and hope that you will meet many good things and good people on your own personal journey on this beautiful planet we call earth. Lots of love from Germany. Sharing your experiences is very much appreciated 🫶🫶🫶🫶
I totally understand how you guys feel! My wife and I grew up LDS. My wife left the church then about one year I realize that mainstream Mormons are conflicted of interest. But my wife and I had wonderful spiritual! I knew that anyone who are not Mormon they do have special feeling spiritually from God. Right now our marriage is much better since I left church almost a year ago and feel soooo happy and free. That make me realize what Christ wants for us and everyone too. I have few friends who are gays and they felt shocked in 2015 during Gerenal Conference. I was very upsetting and had very bad feeling. It’s NOT THE SAME SINCE NOW. so we still very open eyes and still believe in god. Thank you so much about you guys too open feelings and mind. God bless you guys!!
I pray both of you get to know the one true God Jesus Christ personally. Having a personal relationship with Christ is not a religion. Prayers for both of you that you find true peace through Christ
There is only one church, and that is the body of people who believe Jesus is their Lord and Saviour- not a building. As to religions, they are a man made thing. Jesus didn’t talk about religion, He talked about following Him. You two are so sweet, so gorgeous. I love your maturity and wisdom. Jesus does shine through you two. God bless.
Do Mormons experience physical healing from Jesus! I grew up Lutheran, loved the Lord, but later I discovered others knew Him in a deeper way! ! My mother-in-law prayed for me, heard from God and told me if she prayed for me, God would heal me of a severe allergy to Locust tress! That was my first healing! I love His presence and hearing Him speak to me!
I really love this. I grew up in an evangelical church and was deeply enmeshed, but as an adult I've become agnostic. I believe in a greater being but I agree, I don't think any religion is the one true religion. It is so lovely to hear others saying "I don't know" as well, it's very comforting!
@@kelleym7623 I grew up in an Alliance church and ultimately it was actually working in the church for a summer that made me leave. After awful comments towards the LGBTQ2+ community and absolutely no women in a position outside of children's ministry, I found myself really questioning things. My family all went through something similar, which is nice. I went through years of struggling with my beliefs versus what the church told me was a sin or the truth through my life. I find I live a much more spiritual life now with more love and less guilt than I ever experienced in the church!
I believe in god but I am not religious ❤️ You don’t have to go to church to believe in god 💯 I was raised by a non religious but very open minded mom. So we were allowed to explore religions! but it was always my own personal relationship with god that was most comfortable and beneficial to me.
It is so refreshing to hear someone be so open and honest about faith. It is beautiful that y’all are spiritual with and without a organized religion. God will lead you to his truth as long as you continue to learn and grow in your faithful journey. God bless you both!!
I just found you through Cults to Consciousness and I’m so glad that I did. Your stories as individuals and as a team are really fascinating and it’s amazing to see folks deciding to continue their own education. I grew up areligious and converted to Judaism as a young adult (very liberal Judaism) and we definitely have the same outlook on religion and spirituality. “Whatever makes you the best version of yourself.” Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing. If you’re ever near Gettysburg, I’ll treat you to an ice cream.
