Link's Spiritual Deconstruction - One Year Later

[@roccer90]

I genuinely think this series of podcasts has been the best content Rhett and Link have put out. It’s real and honest and I appreciate knowing that the two goofballs I watch every weekday morning are good people.

[@rueb2455]

@Unfiltered Reality Rhett used specific statistics, Link talked about his personal experiences. I'm not sure how either of these approaches are generalizations.

[@roccer90]

@Unfiltered Reality exactly and Rhett and link haven’t done that. Excellent point

[@djl2457]

@Unfiltered Reality good thing they didn’t.

[@wompwomp90]

@Unfiltered Reality You have issues, bro. Take a tip from Rhett & Link...and seek therapy.

[@djl2457]

@Unfiltered Reality he didn’t at all. And it’s clear that you just have a sad life and an obsession with them. No matter what they say you stay on their page. It’s pathetic.

[@nathanjplatt]

“I'm going make up my mind to be introspective to not miss moments like that as much as i can. I will not tear myself apart from the inside....I will love myself and I will love others as much as I can and i will live the life that I have" Absolutely perfect.

[@Hippopotalust]

Thank you for taking the time to write that out

[@nathanjplatt]

@@Hippopotalust welcome!

[@danlikesthings8247]

As someone who wasn't raised religious, it's always fascinated me to hear people talk about the pros and cons of religion and often, the guilt and shame that comes when they try to step away from that life.

[@keithrogers2295]

@Rebecca Mason imagine being raised in Islam. It makes christianity look like a cake walk.

[@ubaidubai_]

@@keithrogers2295 I'd disagree, but again its based on where you're raised in Islam in, but where im from ( south east asia ) there's talk of humility, not invalidating other people's spiritual experiences. Loving the people around you and treating people with respect. The shame and guilt that u might face is geared towards a very traditional understanding of sin. Which sure yeah has its problems! But whenever i look at the christian faith, i get a sense there are alot more unspoken rules thatll make u feel alot more trapped. Especially since the conventions there are much more tacit and under the surface. If ive ever felt a reckoning being a muslim, i know that where i live, there's a big understanding that being a muslim is an outlook and a state of being constantly reminded that you're small in a big world. With the understanding that despite that, that humility doesn't diminish the importance of everything, well, earthly so to speak Just wanna inform people out there, take it as you'd like! :D

[@CodyMerritt]

@@ubaidubai_ thank you for the insight!

[@karinak09]

So much guilt

[@nnn248nnn]

A key word with what Rhett and Link are saying, though: "Evangelical" As a person who was raised religious, but also within reality and street smarts, there are actually amazing and great examples of how religious life, practice, and mental fortitude can better one's (and many peoples') life. And it hurts my heart so much when I see or hear of people who had bad, nonsensical, or even anti-science upbringings (such as they did) because of religion. That's NOT how it is when it is done truthfully and the right way.

[@seeingyouaround]

it always makes me cry when Link talks about his kids - it comes off so proud and caring - i've never met my dad or had a strong male role model in my life, while i don't want to belittle the female figures in my life, it always breaks my heart that i've never experienced having anyone care about or think of me in the way he does about his kids..

[@maamham]

I can totally relate to this. I think the same thing when he talks about his kids. I always wanted to have someone talk about how proud they are of me like that. I often hold influential males who are so open like Rhett and Link in a special place in my heart since a father figure is absent there. Thanks for sharing❤ Sending good vibes your way!

[@MinjiLindsey]

Same

[@gardenlover9663]

When you are looking for others to love you, you are forgetting you can love yourself. We are taught as children to look to others. Now as adults we have the choice to simply love ourselves. You are always free to make the choice.

[@bluesilvahalo3576]

I agree, my father is alive, emigrated when I was a child and can't be bothered with his children or grandchildren. When I hear Link talking about his children it makes me realise what a real father's love should be. They're lucky kids and he's a wonderful dad

[@englishatheart]

I have both my "parents" in my life, but they are people that should never have been allowed to have kids. I have never had any positive influence in my life and suffer from depression and anxiety brought on by the lifelong abuse and neglect I've experienced from them. They may have "let me" live with them and fed me (as anyone who forces life into the world SHOULD do), but that doesn't remotely equal love. They've never done anything to help me or my life thrive and be happy. So even if you have one or both parents in your life, that in no way means you know those things. Lord knows I don't.

[@bkscribbz]

Last year when you guys released the Deconstruction videos..I'll be honest I did not want to watch them because I was afraid it would change my view of you. Being surrounded by Catholicism my whole life I always felt I had a strong faith in God and I did not want your views to taint that for me. However, this past year I experienced the death of my brother and that was the turning point for me. I completely lost all faith and started taking a scientific approach to death and the science behind happens to you while / after you have died. This led me to a VERY dark place and I started experiencing debilitating anxiety and panic attacks. Never before did I ever question the "afterlife" or more-so lack there of. After months of searching for "answers" nonstop and becoming unhealthily obsessed with the thought of non existence. I finally got the courage to watch your videos and they were such a sense of relief for me. Thank you for opening up to us about your spiritual journeys. I feel you have helped more people than you may think.

[@GratiaPrima_]

Catholic here too. So sorry to hear of your loss... God bless you on your journey, we’re all on one aren’t we?

[@bkscribbz]

@@GratiaPrima_ yes we are!

[@peterh.7227]

I’m sorry to here about your loss and I hope you can rediscover your faith. True happiness will only be found in Christ.

[@mamesmck5236]

I am an atheist. There is true beauty in this world, there is true happiness in this world, and there is devastating loss. No one needs God, but we all need love. I'm so sorry that you lost someone close to you. Your feelings are valid, you can and will get through it. I hope you know that you're not alone 💕

[@GratiaPrima_]

@@mamesmck5236 “No one needs God, but we all need love.” “God IS love” 1st John 4:16 Yes, there is true beauty and there is true devastation in this world... but none of it means anything without love. True love, the way God describes it and models for us, self sacrificial love. Can’t separate love and the one true God who IS love. I’m honestly not meaning this argumentative, but as an explanation of what Christians (should) believe and why ❤️

[@cmsoktis]

I have tried to rewrite this comment about 10 times, fully knowing that it will never be seen by anyone, but I feel compelled to say something that just echoes everyone's sentiments. I am so thankful for these podcasts and the vulnerability you two show, thank you so much for speaking about such a private matter in such a public way. It makes me emotional just hearing someone speak so genuinely from the heart, especially with such a public persona. It takes such bravery and I aspire to have the same bravery in my own life.

[@fergusbrogan1343]

Callie, you are seen and heard, excellent comment and a shared sentiment!

[@guthrie_the_wizard]

You’re not alone. 😊

[@fightright1163]

Very brave to take on the same beliefs as everyone around them lmao

[@fergusbrogan1343]

@@fightright1163 I think you've missed the point, I for one do not necessarily have the same beliefs or agree with the points of view expressed in the podcast, however the sentiment Callie expressed was about being brave enough to speak your mind, to express yourself ... and yes I think that others should be allowed to do the same. I think that sentiment is where our only hope lies, in dialog.

[@todddammit4628]

Its a good thing you wrote your comment. If 140 people liked it, probably 1,000 saw it. And you're adding to the chorus of support that people reading will know they're not alone.

[@theadraghici2960]

I wish Christy and Jesse had a podcast

[@aight_bhai]

GOOD MYTHICAL MOMS let’s make it happen

[@theadraghici2960]

@@aight_bhai YESSSS

[@AlexFarleyMusic]

@@aight_bhai we already have good mythical moms!

[@Made4more1432]

They could call it Good Mythical Wife

[@acnaib90]

Yessss or maybe they should do an episode in this series with their wives! I would love this so so much!

[@kelsiehamilton8919]

I’m sad to hear that (from hearing Rhett’s episode last week also) the boys get so much back lash about these episodes. The lost series and these have been some of my favourite episodes. You both should feel so proud to be where you are with this and for sharing such a personal journey in front of so many people! 💓

[@sunshine3914]

@Unfiltered Reality It’s called “backlash”. It comes from people who are so certain about something that doesn’t even exist - they were once these people. If there’s one they’re not, it’s weak minded. Being indoctrinated from the time they were able to process a thought, to challenging what the majority wishes so desperately to believe, it’s not for the weak minded.

[@sunshine3914]

@Unfiltered Reality If it exists, there would be some kind of PROOF.

[@daleharden1749]

@Unfiltered Reality You make me sick.

[@Vinadet]

@Unfiltered Reality Slow down. It's gonna be okay man

[@spicybill]

@Unfiltered Reality did Dale say he was a leftist? No.

[@annapruitt5546]

“I’m not defined by what I’m not anymore” this is such an important and valuable statement!

[@Emdillyiciousable]

I literally grew up with Rhett and Link. We had their church DVD and I remember watching them in Sunday school. Age 13 I sent in my first “Let’s Talk About That” video submission in the playground of my Christian school. I really appreciate them opening up about their journey because it is so similar to mine. It makes me feel validated and less alone. I really appreciate you guys. 💕

[@004licencetochill]

That last comment about being alone in a family and community that is religious really hit me hard

[@nathanjplatt]

Same.

[@melissahammer6267]

Me too.

[@mrssmurf55]

I hope you find the peace and happiness you need 💕

[@thatclassicalchick]

Yes, same for me. Christianity is such an integral part of my family, and I haven't believed in a solid 6 years but have not outright said it. The irrational fear that grips me is my family shunning me, when I know my parents and family love me so much regardless of my faith. This is the shame and fear religion can instill in someone. Not for everyone, but for me. It's one of the "leftovers" of my upbringing in Evangelical Christianity that I've resolved to shed over the next year. I know it's the kind of peace I long for.

[@amandag877]

@@thatclassicalchick I relate to this completely.

[@itsGabrielaCristina]

This episode hit different. I loved Link’s reflection about love being his guide, his spiritual practice. I love that.

[@TitaniumMithril]

seconded. this humble and personal insight was much more what i was interested in with these follow-ups.

[@brockmiddleton1991]

Way better this way then rhetts attacking rant way of doing things lol

[@dramabeansk]

@@brockmiddleton1991 they are different people who experience things differently. I personally related more to rhett's experience.

[@RojanskiTV]

Saying “I don’t know” is the purest truth... there is nothing wrong with it and it takes guts to say it. Someone who can admit they don’t know means they have an open mind and don’t pretend they know all cuz know one does. So stop being pretentious and admit you don’t know every now and then it wont kill you trust me.

[@infinitedragonbellyx.x]

Imo, "idk" is the best "view" it means there is more to discover and learn. Going out there to learn and discover new things is the most fun and incredible part about being alive. Its great that we continue finding new ways to take care of people, new aspects of our universe. New parts of our world.

[@deion312]

I dont even know that i dont know

[@pnut3844able]

No one knows, we're all agnostic. Gnosticism deals with knowledge, theism deals with belief. So you're either an agnostic atheist, or an agnostic theist. Those are the only two choices.

[@nicho4381]

The honesty with themselves and their partners is incredible. They are truly good role models that I admire.

[@emuelite4199]

No

[@kristinaglasgow7317]

They truly are inspiring. How deep they're willing to dig and how vulnerable they let themselves be. I cried last week and this week.

[@nicho4381]

@@kristinaglasgow7317 so true

[@megannicolebre]

Agreed!

[@cxssidynxcole]

@@emuelite4199 what do you mean no?

[@AllTheArtsy]

Their journey out of faith seems to be a walking away from life that was certain, predictable and safe towards the messy, painful, scary and ultimately rewarding struggle of trying to be a good person to others and to themselves, without any caveat-- without promise of a paradise, or without the fear of eternal damnation. That's about the only thing you can ask for out of somebody-- that they are continually doing the work to be kind to themselves, to be compassionate towards others. These are my favorite podcasts from the boys. Sending peace and love!

[@leileleileleile]

Love this comment!

[@gigi9605]

Having an illness and being in lockdown for nearly a year is making life hard, one of the things that I look forward to is ear biscuit and it's getting me through these days, thank you for consistently releasing quality content, you guys are impacting a lot of peoples lives around the world for the better

[@hollisberry30]

Well said. Stay safe!

[@jackjill5252]

Stay strong 💪 ❤👏

[@mrssmurf55]

Virtual hugs from Ireland 💕🇮🇪🍀

[@beldinlov13]

Keep up such positivity all around you, you're strong! I'm so proud of Rhett and Link impact on you and all of us mythical beasts

[@saqibmudabbar]

Kick the illness in the butt. I'll kick it for you. ✅

[@savannah2979]

I really appreciate that they share this vulnerable side of their lives with us. As an ex-Christian who suffered through a lot of religious trauma, these podcasts have helped me so much. I started being a fan of these two in middle school as a way to cope through the trauma I was experiencing within the church and now at 20 I’m glad that I can relate and sympathize with these feelings that they’re sharing. Thanks Rhett and Link for doing this 💛

[@mirandaserrano6887]

Hi! I'm genuinely curious, ex-christians stop believing in God? In my personal opinion, I've found people leave christianity because they never experience the real thing, it was always about religion and never about building a genuine relationship with God. I recently gave my life to Christ and I don't think its necessary to label myself as a christian or something, that's religion, not true faith. I guess I'm just trying to say that I hoped you don't stop believing in God just because of humans, I truly hope you can get to know who he really is and build a relationship with him regardless of religion! But again, we all live our lives differently and that's okay

[@savannah2979]

@@mirandaserrano6887 personally, my doubt in God exceeded my belief so I do not longer believe him. However, I do not deny his existence in any way, I just don’t see a real possibility of him existing in my life. I believe that if you truly believe in something than it must exists in your personal reality and God, unfortunately doesn’t exists in my current reality. Thanks for asking though!

[@kuryamtl]

As someone who suffers from debilitating anxiety, this episode really resonated with me, and I highly appreciate Link and Rhett discussing mental health.

[@maggiehughes820]

I am just stumbling upon this a year later. Never having listened to either of you. But truth is, I need it. It is helping me heal. Thank you

[@borysbond4179]

I'm a 38 ex Jehovah's witnesses from Poland, and I can tell you, there's so much in common in my experiences. It's been amazing to listen to you both. As a exJW the difference is that family really shuns you hard, no exceptions in my case. This still saddens me from time to time. But I couldn't be happier that I left. Life's so much better now.

[@johnnixon]

Random internet guy here to say it gets better. Hope you're doing well and continue to find an even happier life.

[@slunkzilla]

Trzymaj sie Borys, pozdrowienia z Krakowa!

[@pnut3844able]

Christians do that too. It's a shame

[@graysenm1320]

As I am getting older, I appreciate these guys for how real they are more and more. I’m very different from the high schooler who found these funny guys on KZbin to a now 26 year old. You two are inspiring for us all and the more “real” you guys are the more connected we all feel.

[@Shelsight]

Totally agree. I literally only found these guys 2 weeks ago in some videos re fast food. I just thought they were Two weeks later I’m astounded by the depth and breadth of their stories and their willlingness to share so openly something so personal, so rich, and so deeply felt, yet something they knew could isolate them from family, friends and millions of followers. These men are the role models on KZbin we need.

[@DJHastingsFeverPitch]

The thing that bothers me the most about all of this is that these guys are being so genuine so real and so vulnerable, but there are many Christians both professional apologists and Layman who will respond with severe criticism and attack against them. So this is for all the Christians reading the comments section, these guys aren't being condescending, arrogant, presumptuous, mocking, or any other thing you would associate with someone being uncharitable or unfair about your point of view or your beliefs. Even if you disagree completely, considered talking about them as they have spoken unto you.

[@ItsThatGuy1989]

Because they essentially called an entire group of Christians, at least in Rhett’s episode, horrible people if they supported a political figure that Rhett and Link don’t like. It’s a little immature. I am very critical of American evangelicalism. But it’s clear, that a big reason they rejected their faith is because of politics and culture. Moving to LA and being in the entertainment industry and secular social group clearly affected them. That’s fine but at least be honest about it.

[@korinakorinakorina]

Honestly, I get the feeling that many of the "Christians" saying such things believe in false doctrine. Doesn't mean they are not a real Christian, but they go against actual scripture. I am a dispensational Christian and I love these guys. I loved them when I was agnostic, I love them now that I'm not. They do not need added pressure from people like me. Fellow Christians, be civil, please. That goes for you non religious people as well, I'm seeing a lot of attacks on people in the comments simply for their belief in God. It goes both ways, everyone.

[@dyl_out]

@@ItsThatGuy1989 go back and watch their original "Spiritual Deconstruction"s. they were experiencing these feelings LONG before they moved to LA. but please, continue picking and choosing things that fit your argument and ignoring everything else.

[@ItsThatGuy1989]

@@dyl_out they’re still very much judging based on political ideology.

[@themoderndandy713]

Just be careful not to lump all Christians into the camp of angry yelling jerks like a lot of people do. I've experienced the same thing with Atheists. Condescending people who treat me like a Westboro Church member and try to tear apart my religion because they don't like some percieved parts of it. But I know that those people aren't representative of Atheists as a whole. It's called the silent majority and vocal minority for a reason.

[@peruchea]

“I will not tear myself apart from the inside” gave me huge pause. I struggle with guilt and anxiety and depression and I have always treated my own self as a punching bag. I’ve been to therapy for almost a year now and I’m getting to a different point with my self love but hearing Link say that had me in tears. What a lovely sentiment that I can hopefully reach one day

[@Shelsight]

I’m going through similar, and have started to approach things without beating myself up so much. I hope you do too. These guys have been such a source of honesty, evaluation, and learning not to blame myself for things I imposed on myself due to my religion. Take care.

[@pnut3844able]

We're our own worst critic

[@shawnasideas]

I love Link’s heart so much. This was so vulnerable and loving and exactly what I needed to hear and feel today.

[@Shelsight]

Agree. The whole video. But from 50:00 onwards talking re his mom really got to me... I hope he gets to see his mom v soon.

[@mrs.h2170]

I'm a Christian and I enjoy listening to y'alls thoughts on this subject, it makes me dig deeper into my faith and figure out why I believe what I do. I don't really agree with everything but I'm proud that you're living YOUR truth.

[@frenchtoast2319]

Truth is objective not subjective. Whether someone believes the truth or does not, the truth is still the truth

[@TMcB23]

@@frenchtoast2319 well said

[@kaitkat5191]

As someone who went through this with the LDS church, I really appreciate you both talking about this. I haven't been able to talk to many about it, I've been navigating it on my own, and listen and relating to you both on such a personal level has really helped me unravel the emotions and thoughts I have about my situation. Thank you for talking about this. It has helped me personally more than you'll ever know.

[@tatyanawoods6658]

Hearing link talk about his wife just warms and humbles my heart.

[@emery6601]

Haven't finished listening, but I'm at the part where Link is talking about going through a scary, dark time and not feeling the need to pray, even when he was "at his wit's end." Just have to chime in and say I relate to and 100% agree with everything from both Rhett's and Links spiritual deconstructions, a year ago and now, but this I relate to most. In October of 2019 something very, very bad happened to me-- a situation where I felt enormous fear and pain over the course of an hour, and, at the end of that hour, had to process the fact that I was (I believed) about to die. It was a situation where I believed I was being murdered. And even as I was losing consciousness, believing that I was experiencing the end of my life, I didn't even think about praying. As it turned out, I didn't die. Yay! But, in the months afterward, isolated by quarantine, agoraphobic, and dealing with severe PTSD, I also didn't pray. And it was exactly what Link is describing. I was at my most scared and most desperate, and the thought of prayer (or an afterlife) didn't occur to me, despite my having been raised a devout evangelical Christian. You know what did occur to me, though? While I thought I was dying, I saw my life as a story, and I saw that I was at the end of the story. And I accepted the ending. I was like "Oh, this is it." And I appreciated the story. My life didn't flash before my eyes, exactly, but memories and vivid experiences of time with loved ones were the last thing I experienced before coming to and realizing I had not, in fact, died. It was the connections with other people-- even the knowledge that the person attacking me was there with me and I wasn't dying alone-- that gave the story meaning. I know that's such an extreme example, but when I heard Link say what he said, I couldn't help relating it to my own experience. My experience showed me that, at the deepest level of my being, I do not believe in the meaning that was prescribed to me, but it also showed me that I am not without a source of meaning. There was still meaning. It just came from a different place-- from connections to other people, and from the concept of my life as a narrative. And I was so relieved to find that I still had peace. Not peace rooted in the hope of an afterlife, but peace in the fact that my story meant something. I know that's just my experience, and it may not apply to many other people, or even to anyone else at all. But that's what I felt.

[@annapruitt5546]

Wow that is an amazing story. I’m glad you’re alive and have this perspective

[@lenamonroe2961]

Thank you so much for sharing!! 💕

[@emilywen8492]

This is very beautiful ❤️ Thank you so much for sharing

[@joshdean3416]

I find it really sweet that he is spinning his wedding ring every time he talks about his wife

[@jjunture]

Been waiting to watch this since Monday. The audio podcast was incredible on its own, and video just brings an entirely new, powerful dimension.

[@BaltoAmy]

Me too. It left me sobbing.

[@caseyleeangus]

I don't relate to their stories bc I was not raised religiously but I really enjoyed these podcasts. The rawness and vulnerability is refreshing and very respectable.

[@TruthQuest4700]

Beautiful! I can't imagine a more glorious spiritual practice than love anchored in self-love.

[@lexycjune5684]

i was drifting away from gmm, as i had moved very far and had a lot on my plate. then the lost years ear biscuit episodes came out, and the deconstruction ones specifically brought me back. im going through that journey right now, and from the first part too. this helps me feel like i am not alone. thx

[@sammybabi]

Thank you link for being so vulnerable and sharing. You've conveyed everything from your heart and we can feel it.

[@mistciara]

my uncle just passed away last week so it’s nice to hear how other people deal with death ya know? i don’t feel so alone

[@nathanjplatt]

My condolences on your loss

[@jackjill5252]

👏👏

[@ShatteredPsyche]

I lost my grandfather a few years back now, and I STILL miss him and mourn him every single day. You are not alone, my friend; we all suffer the same way at some point. But please know it DOES get easier, even though I still miss my Papa, the hurt isn't as fresh.

[@maamham]

Sending healing vibes your way. I'm sorry for your loss ❤

[@ilserv9]

My deepest sympathy 🙏🏻❤️.

[@danc6689]

"I wish we had a resource that would connect everybody with somebody who loves them unconditionally." Link, you left me with tears in my eyes and a heavy heart.

[@frenchtoast2319]

Thankfully we do have that resource. It’s called the Holy Bible.

[@erinkinsella91]

@@frenchtoast2319 "unconditionally" pfft yeah sure

[@frenchtoast2319]

@@erinkinsella91 on what conditions is love not given by God according to the bible?

[@EmilyBergenCopeland]

I love how Link moved from faith to hope to love. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love - but the greatest of these is love.

[@guthrie_the_wizard]

Happy atheist here. Thanks for all you are doing to help others feel that it is okay to question. The truth is worth it and we’re way stronger, moral, and fulfilled than religions can admit to.

[@MinjiLindsey]

I had to listen to each of these twice. Once right when they came out as audio, and again as a video, because I NEEDED to see their faces while talking about it. This is so raw and real and relateable. I feel like spiritual journey could be it's own spinoff podcast tbh. I just want to give both of them a great, big bear hug and tell them, "You're doing a great job! I know when life gets difficult it feels like you're failing, but you're not! Just keep swimming!"

[@ZoesZoo]

I got goosebumps when Link spoke about the shame being his former self pitying and judging his current self, because I really relate to this and I hadn't heard it explained this way before. #earbiscuits

[@sh1zuro]

The difference between the Link's spiritual deconstruction ep and this one is really telling of how last year was so much of raw emotional processing for Link. These moments where Rhett and Link sharing emotional experiences are beautiful. And we could never tell that someone is going through if they don't decide to share. Because I could never imagine that Link was going through a loss in any episode of last year's gmm. So let's just try to be nicer, because we're all going through invisible battles.

[@irenejoseph9547]

I have more than enjoyed the four episodes I have watched thus far and plan to watch/listen to updates. My life has been in great part defined by my love for the music of The Moody Blues. Watching these episodes I thought of a song from their album Every Good Boy Deserves Favour titled “You Can Never Go Home” written by Justin Hayward. The opening lines “I don’t know what I’m searching for, I never have opened the door. Tomorrow might find me at last, turning my back on the past. But time will tell of stars that fell, a million years ago. Memories can never take you back, home, sweet,home. You can never go home any more”. I love your deep thoughts and most of all, I love your love for one another and others, never stop.

[@connorchubbuck9377]

My therapist once told me, “if you keep going to places that make you feel like shit, you’ll always feel like shit.” For me, that meant leaving the church I knew and loved and letting myself grow into who I wanted to be.

[@AudioSloth]

This series has been and is continuing to be very helpful to me as someone who is still in the process of deconstructing my faith

[@JML-fi8rf]

This is extremely insightful as someone who’s been an atheist for pretty much their entire life. Organised religion is something that has always scared me and with each passing day I am more confident that the world would be much better off without it at all.

[@jorgeflores6306]

You haven't done enough research if you believe that.

[@estherbeasley3998]

After my daughter passed away, I drove around directionless, crying and asking her what it’s like

[@porkchop38MC]

Thank you for being both honest and vulnerable enough with yourselves to step out of everything you knew, not knowing where you were going to land. I admire the courage that must have taken each of you. I just want you to know that, from the bottom of my heart, as a Christian with no ulterior motives and no expectations for where you're going to end up - thank you, I love you, and I respect you. Keep on being honest with yourselves.

[@katieamarsh]

I left the evangelical Christian world around ten years ago. I’m not a Christian. I believe in God/love/some vague higher power but not any sort of religion. I am kinder and less judgmental now. I no longer think people need to believe in God or a religion to be a generous wonderful and moral person.

[@pippinhillhaviland1147]

I think you’re brave

[@frenchtoast2319]

@@pippinhillhaviland1147 brave? For not believing something? I guess I’m brave for not believing in evolution then.

[@pippinhillhaviland1147]

@@frenchtoast2319 it takes bravery to be raised to believe something so all consuming like religious dogma and the meaning of one’s existence and then to examine it, discover you’ve been lied to, and then be strong enough to think for yourself and walk away from it. As far as not believing in evolution, that’s just ignorant and I feel sorry for you.

[@frenchtoast2319]

@@pippinhillhaviland1147 lol but I’ve examined evolution and discovered I’ve been lied to and am strong enough to think for myself and walk away from it.

[@pippinhillhaviland1147]

@@frenchtoast2319 denouncing science and fact only makes you pitiful.

[@timg2727]

I really can't overstate how much my respect for you guys has grown because of these deconstruction episodes. Rhett's journey in particular mirrors my own very closely, and all of these episodes are resonating with me enormously. Thank you for sharing all of this with us.

[@craigstevens9351]

you have respect for someone based in L.A. who has become far left progressive liberals?

[@timg2727]

@@craigstevens9351 the location is irrelevant. I live in deep red South Dakota and I've had a very similar trajectory.

[@timg2727]

@@craigstevens9351 also, if you think this is "far left," you really have no idea what "far left" really means. What these guys are saying would be considered very moderate in much of Europe.

[@craigstevens9351]

@@timg2727 yea but its not like they did some brave hard thing. they gave into pressure and became like just about everyone else in L.A. thats the opposite of brave and something that shouldnt be respected at all.

[@timg2727]

@@craigstevens9351 your comment tells me you weren't really paying attention to what they said. Rhett was very careful to specify that this process was many years in the making and started long before they moved to LA.

[@TabithaGerken13]

"I'm not defined by what I'm not anymore." That hit deep, Link.

[@siezethebidet]

Thank you both for demonstrating the wisdom Christopher Hitchens offered "Take the risk of thinking for yourself , much more happiness , truth, beauty, and wisdom will come to you that way .." Myths make perfect promises followed by flawed delivery. After all, they're only human.

[@pippinhillhaviland1147]

Ya gotta love the Hitch!😉

[@dillonphillips313]

You’re doing good, Link. Keep living your life rationally and thoughtfully.

[@AsherSmithFilms]

a year ago i was amid a crisis of faith. i wanted as everything i thought i knew fell apart. you sharing your story was a light for me. it started me on the difficult but beautiful and freeing process of deconstruction. you showed me that i could still be a beautiful meaningful person with out the dogma and the close mindedness of the religion i grew up with. a year later i am in a much better place on the other side of the fence and on the way to healing, in part because of your stories. thank you.

[@CosmicSpeck]

This series and frankly any episode where you discuss deep personal matters & you do a public introspection are legitimately the best content you've put out. I am enjoying it so much. Thank you for being open, for educating, and for putting in words the feelings and internal battles a lot of us struggle with.

[@infinitedragonbellyx.x]

I know nearly everyone says this, but I absolutely love how Rhett and Link come at their new way of seeing things. From totally different methods from each other. I come at things more from a logical and analytical perspective like Rhett, but I love the emotional part that Link deals with and describes. It makes them seem more human and real, not just popular youtube personalities. It makes you care about them and their families. To root for their happiness. Not something I easily do with famous people.

[@stephanieschabel3568]

I have always felt like the worst Christian. I have also failed in my prayer life and in studying the Bible. I have also struggled with life long anxiety. At one point I was told that I was not trusting God enough with my anxiety and was committing sin. There are so many good things about the church. It just is hard when you always feel like you are failing. I appreciate you sharing this. What you are doing matters. Thanks for taking the shame out of mental illness. Thanks for doing that . It matters!

[@jorgeflores6306]

We all go through trials and tribulations in our lives. Seasons come and go. To be told that you are sinning for not trusting God is just silly. Yes we need to trust Him wholeheartedly and pray for comfort, but nowhere does it say that God can't send comfort through therapy. Unfortunately it's that type of judgement that gives people a bad taste in their mouths when it comes to Christianity. I pray that you have found your peace.

[@mostlyvoid.partiallystars]

I think there is an inherent guilt in being a non religious southerner. I left the church like a snowball - a small slow roll initially, and then all at once. And I felt wholly at peace and free when I finally said “I do not believe in those things anymore”. But living in Alabama, church is not just religion - it’s social activities, it’s family gatherings, and in the post-religion phase of life it can be uncomfortable to try to walk back into that as an outsider. You are both incredibly brave. Thank you for sharing your stories.

[@carriewolf8291]

One of the hardest things for me to wrestle during my deconstruction was acceptance that there is possibly no heaven, my father’s soul may not be there, and we might not meet again.

[@wh0aheavy]

I got here so fast. Been waiting all week for this. Sending lots of love and support to you both ❤️

[@isaiah.mcglasson]

Not only is this refreshing to see Rhett and Link be their genuine selves, but it also is a reassurance that I am not the only person struggling with Christianity coming from almost the same background.

[@Mikes_Life]

I love everything they do but I love ear biscuits the most. I love listening to it while I’m driving or working on something. It’s just so nice to have it in the background. Edit: Spelling

[@m.o.x]

Again guys, thank you for sharing your personal stories. It gives great context to my own personal life by listening to your stories. By listening to Rhett first and now Link, it sounds like you both are on a path that works for you. Liatening to Link talking about using love as your guide in life hit home real hard. I appreciate you guys, thank you for being your mythical best.

[@aidan3834]

I struggle a lot with anxiety as well, so I understand how it can be frightening to the people around you who love you. All of my love to Christie and I hope things are better. (and if not, that's okay too. You'll get through it, and I'm sending love.)

[@wisdomfromgeorge1704]

Rhett and Link are both such empathic beautiful souls! We are blessed that they share their life with us! I truly love them!

[@moosehunzie1880]

My experience of church folks with ppl that have mental illness is: pray it away, You're not praying enough, you must be sinning, you're not reading your Bible enough, you don't have enough faith.

[@therchas]

“To not tear myself apart from the inside, I will love myself, I will love others”….”love will be my spiritual guide” these are powerful words

[@moriaht.7397]

As someone with a gnarly anxiety disorder who grew up in the evangelical church in Western NC and have since separated myself since I moved out...I 1000000% resonate and understand this

[@justineliewert2469]

I relate so much to Links story. Both my father and grandfather are pastors, so I literally grew up in the church. You both eased my guilt with your stories and allowed me to make peace with my own doubts. I can’t tell you in words how much you helped me. Thank you so much ❤️

[@Hippopotalust]

The hardest thing about choosing to lead with love, in my experience (which, to give context, is a survivor of over 3 decades of DV) is that there are people, who lead with greed, who will take advantage of you. What I am learning in therapy post-trauma is that in order to lead with love, it is vital to establish and maintain boundaries so that those who do not share that philosophy are easier to recognise and protect yourself from.

[@sethfye5137]

You guys ARE the support some of us don't have and I hope you truly know that. Thank you, just thank you.

[@betsyross9301]

Death is a part of life,when I left religion,I struggled with this too,so as I was driving, my truth came to me, "We don't remember once we die" now that maybe not comfortable as far as feelings go but I think I'm on to something with this .

[@lauraweiss7875]

My mom passed away two years ago. She was a devout Catholic who went to Mass every day. For years before even realizing she was ill, she used to tell me how terrified she was of dying, in case all she believed in for 80+ years turned out to not be true. By then I had left my faith (and joyfully so), and I used to ask her: what’s so horrible about non-existence? Do you remember what it was like before you were born? Were you suffering? Did you feel a sense of loss? She thoughtfully answered “no, of course not.” So why would it be any different if you were to return to a state of nonexistence? I miss my mom and my dad, and think of them every day, but I do t fantasize about an afterlife where some supernatural versions of ourselves are romping in another plane of existence. They live on in me and in my children and in all those who are yet to be born. Every time I have taught my children a skill I learned from my parents, their legacy lives on.

[@emilyngilmore7772]

These videos have been absolutly inspiring. It is comforting to know that someone asked similar questions to what I did and came out on a similar path. Deconstuction religion is hard, questioning how your parents raised you is hard, leaving a religion and a community is hard. I am extremely thankful for these videos.

[@dabs.youtube]

Thank you yet again for giving us an updated version of this deconstruction series, i really do relate to what you guys have talk about!!!

[@KellyEtcetera]

Link, thank you. Everything you shared is beautiful. I can feel the spiritual practice of love in your words and your voice.

[@nathanjplatt]

These past two Ear Biscuits have been incredible, especially going through spiritual deconstruction myself and figuring things out after years of frustration with church related things.

[@Alyssa.CaputoSmith]

This series speaks so much to me since I grew up in a very strict Christian environment but am now agnostic. I’ve been struggling to put my thoughts and feelings into words but these have really helped me. Thank you guys so much for doing this!

[@elixer2632]

Absolutely loved last weeks video, Excited to hear Links feelings on the matter!

[@fkgaasdkjnv4824]

This is the best series of #earbiscuits. There is so much I like about your journey and it's shockingly similar to our own. Please keep doing these every year if possible.

[@irenee889]

Couldn't help but tearing up during the whole episode. Thank you guys, it's great to hear your point of view on this topic, a year later ❤️ both of you were incredibly touching

[@photographybyamy4882]

#EarBiscuits is some of the best most inspirational content I have ever come across. I can’t stop listening but also helps me relate to my husband. He had a religious upbringing and I did not and I don’t understand his guilt. This was better than years of therapy! THANK YOU! Your journey is what brought you here and is the soul in which you will grow.

[@maryjo3255]

Mythical Beasts love and support you Link, 'with everything that we've got!' And Rhett too, of course! Plus your extended families! Sharing such personal stories and about your own journeys through life, is brave and so relatable, much appreciation to you both for the introspective nature of Ear Biscuits ( with a balance of crazy light hearted antics of GMM and GMMore every day).

[@Erdf3542]

“Love will be my Guide.” Thank you Rhett and Link!

[@mirandhuhhh33]

Thank you so much for this honest conversation. I went through my spiritual deconstruction about 4 years ago. I think I relate more to Rhett with it being more of a social thing - looking at how Christians acted and realizing that they were not walking the walk. I completely relate to the guilt - esp with my entire family still being evangelical Christians. It hit me right in the soul when you said that you went through a rough time and never thought about praying.

[@matthewwalker3099]

Link, I feel like you are approaching how God truly intended religion to be on earth. With love being the utmost important thing to learn about and understand and share. God's church is on earth with perfect principals underlying the foundation but ultimately practiced by flawed and damaged people, who introduce all of the problems like shame you guys have spoken about on your deconstruction, to the church. Your marriage and family bonds are the absolute pinnacles of love and what we should be striving to foster, encourage, and work towards on earth as the means to create more heaven on earth. Thanks for sharing!

[@JCW7100]

So true about the stigma against therapy. What's so tragic is that the church is actively keeping people down, keeping them in the ditch, because they are stigmatizing the real kind of help that people actually need. Prayer is just a method for hand-waving the issue away. If you need therapy, get therapy!

[@jorgeflores6306]

Therapy is a stigma but I believe it to be more cultural more than religious. There are plenty of Christian therapists.

[@stan1027]

I could write a lot about this, but I will be as brief as possible. My 36-year-old son passed away. I am an atheist, and so was he. At his funeral, there was no sermon, no formal eulogy, no clergy, or anything like that. Instead, most of his friends were there, and I invited them to come up and say whatever they felt for Richard, and to share stories with each other. Several of them did, and it was a heart-felt experience for everyone there. Richard was cremated, and all that remains are his ashes in a box in my house, and the memories that everyone had of him. He is not somewhere on "the other side" waiting. Thanks for sharing your own story.

[@goofyahhh254]

Thank you for sharing. Good health to you

[@dreamingofraaain]

So many people have said this already but because R&L have mentioned the backlash there is when they talk about religion, I'm going to say this, too: these ear biscuits are their best and I appreciate them so much for doing this. It saddens me that it took a while for them to feel comfortable to open up and I feel for all those people who may never get the chance to do something similar to their loved ones.

[@LifeofDayy]

This whole serious is just so impactful and beautiful. So much of this resonated with me as someone who was raised evangelical and left as a young adult. I really appreciate their vulnerability and sincerity. A lot of people will watch this and feel seen.

[@625Greengirl]

“I will not tear myself apart from the inside” Link 2021 I want to paint this on my wall 😭 54:09

[@Kiiviiviie]

When he talks about feeling shame and judgment as if it was coming from his old self really struck a chord with me. It also hurts my heart because Link sounded scared in some of these parts when he’s talking - I think maybe he was dealing with really bad anxiety or panic attacks during the pandemic himself. Anyone who has anxiety (or any mental illness) I SO empathize. I enjoy these deep episodes. When they talk about stuff like this I feel even more connected to them as fellow human beings. I really respect these two.

[@jables1able]

In these moments, Link is such a humble guy. I love that. There is something quite wise about him and hearing his perspective. Rhett is much more passionate and outward, but Link really left a mark with me here.

[@Shelsight]

Completely agree. I think they are such a great balance. My sister is like Rhett and I’m like Link, so I’ve quite often just chipped in, but stayed quiet from saying how I really feel, as the louder and more confident voice always resonates... What I love re their deconstruction videos is that they’ve both been through it but in quite different ways, and are both comfortable saying where their paths or experiences were different. Otherwise this could just have been Rhett’s deconstruction, with Link’s belated but supporting testimony. But their experiences down the same path were Initiated and manifested in very different ways...

[@jables1able]

@@Shelsight really well said! I am glad they gave both perspectives. It’s an example of someone who is very critical of themselves and attaches it to a bigger picture (Rhett) and someone who internalised their experience and comes out of it with sage, personal advice. Both are important, however, I do feel like we need more Links in the world!

[@sarawauer5968]

GMM is fun, but this content, both last year's videos, and this pair, are on another level. Thank you for sharing!!

[@jennaxhairstylist]

Really appreciate your words at the very end.. definitely a lot harder going through this, I guess spiritual shift, and not being able to go to your family because you know what their responses are. The same responses I myself use to recite to others. Sometimes it just feels more convenient to keep these thoughts to myself but it’s not always easy. Thanks for sharing.

[@user-ov7ci8tp8v]

I see this as one of the best gmm moments. Fun is fun but the humanity and love they show sets a great example of what life should be.

[@megpolm]

I used to have the opposite issue a lot when I was Christian- how could I comfort my friends who didn't believe in heaven, god, etc. when someone they loved died? now I know their struggle much more and I can be empathetic since deconstructing my own faith the past 5ish years.

[@katiemcintosh7335]

I connect so much to your wives' stories of dealing with anxiety. I deconverted 3 1/2 years ago, and sometimes when my generalized anxiety hits hard, it's difficult to ignore that desire to pray from my past to try and fix it, even though I know it won't do anything besides perhaps a placebo effect. Hearing your stories last year and now are so inspiring for someone still relatively fresh out of the religion of my childhood. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@fwkrai]

I love hearing about them and their lives it’s so amazing

[@Sketchison]

I thoroughly love pulling my seat up to the dimly lit table each week. Thank you both for being the Mythical best that you can be.

[@tonymorris4335]

The "they're all in it"... Holy shit. I grew up never believing at all but being literally surrounded by friends and family who did, and deeply. The number of times as a young boy I cried because I was struggling with illness or problems and I had NOBODY to talk to about it. Everyone I knew would reply exactly as you say at the end. "Pray and things will be ok". They probably will be ok, but being unable to talk to someone in a manner they can relate to means you're bad at communication. I can talk to a religious person and help them through something and do it with or without referencing god. But I almost never run into religious people who can help me with a problem that can do it without god. This to me is the biggest indication that they are a follower and not a thinker. You can't even academically think "if there ISNT a god, what advice would I give then?" because they have such a tenuous grip on their faith that thinking that way would scare them in that it might be true and life is not harder without it.

[@MrsCassErvin]

Thank you for being YOUR mythical best, guys.