I live in the heart of Mormon Utah. I can't leave. I was LDS for a period of time but Left after I finished reading the book of Mormon entirely. I have my beliefs, I'm not atheist, but after reading the BoM and studying the volumes of the history of the church, it absolutely blew my mind that anyone could follow this religion. From lies to contradictions to the Bible, to pure blasphemy, the texts of the LDS church has them all.

Anyway, all of your stories inspire me. I began to lose faith and nearly forgot what it's like outside of Utah. Outside where there is life outside of that church. Here, the church controls government, they control businesses and policies.. I'm a pretty strong loner here, my kids and I. Because we're not LDS we are excluded from a lot more events than I'd like to mention. I've been turned down for jobs because of it, next to no social life because it always comes down to "we would really enjoy it if you would come to church with us this Sunday." When I say no thank you, I never hear from them again. 7 years here and despite my efforts, nothing changes. Your stories all give me hope that maybe one day everyone will be able to think for themselves, rather than following the pack. That people will learn to grow outside of how they were raised so they can differentiate fact from fiction.

I've never talked to any of you, but you're all beautiful people. Thanks for having this group 😎