Link's Spiritual Deconstruction

It's all about the desire to love as much as possible. Listen to Link talk about his spiritual journey and the evolution of his beliefs in this episode of Ear Biscuits! EB #227, Original Release Date: 02/10/2020
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[@harpurr53]

rhett deciding to come back for link, park his car, and walk until he saw link again is some soulmate level shit. they’re meant to be in each other’s lives, damn.

[@conechiwa7]

Makes sense now why he can stand his chewing and stuff now!? Lol jest

[@NikholaRichter]

Right?! Gave me goosebumps, the image of that whole “scene” is straight out of a Nicholas Sparks book

[@daliasaravia1443]

This is so true 😭 I love their friendship

[@clarabellen]

Also quite dramatic, he's obviously always had the flair xD

[@urgayandkeklikesit1808]

i was on the floor laughing at that part

[@larinmcmullen8324]

16 year old Link, crying, walking down the road not knowing if he's going to step in something because the tears are continuously filling his eyes. That got me a little. I'm so glad Rhett came walking over that horizon to meet him. Link is my fav.

[@camille213]

@Larin You know that tells how much Rhett loved Link, and probably looked up to him. But...he realized by link telling him was how much Link trusted Rhett. Damn what a spiritual connection between the two!

[@srslyheidi]

i honestly started crying just imagining that happening. they're both so precious

[@UlexiteTVStoneLexite]

That got me too. That was such a vivid story.

[@riacharda]

Things could've been worse. I know two people from my former church that both lost their virginity and the girl got pregnant... out of wedlock. Sure they got chastised, but after the child was born, they started talking about "How children are a blessing to people's lives".

[@cierrablue]

I heard that for the first time on Monday. It was such a powerful story that it stayed with me all week. Had to hear it again.

[@cyndithomas417]

I don't think Rhett confiding his doubts to Link converted him, I think it gave him permission to not hate himself for feeling like an impostor.

[@traumaannellama]

I can vouch for that. My husband was my Rhett.

[@cholieandresa]

Yes all of this

[@joycepacheco2973]

Yep

[@cremebrulee4759]

Yes. I think Link struggled and suffered for a long time without knowing why. I think Rhett helped him to understand the reason for his struggle. If it's a struggle, it's not the right church for you.

[@cremebrulee4759]

@@traumaannellama how wonderful!

[@hollymiller8226]

I’ve never been jealous of any person’s romantic, but I’m desperately jealous of Rhett and Link’s friendship. It’s amazing how they have grown up and experienced life together. Few people in the world will ever be so lucky.

[@emilyroseayres84]

It is really incredible to witness such a solid, life long friendship.

[@justinbridgez]

That is soo true. And some come close. Have glimpses. Idk if that worse. Or better than nothing at all. One friend. Actual two but mainly one. Comes to mind. I was always ...hmm.. how do i say. Have Bromances? And I’ve never felt something as strong as that. This part I shouldn’t say. I made a great comment and about to ruin it. Okay so this comedian always says something like. I’m sexually attracted to women. But I fall in love with men. Friends. It’s a joke but. The word love (IN THIS ANALOGY) doesn’t mean what you think. It’s more like. Such a chemistry. Finish sentences. Can speak without speaking. Humans are WILD.

[@justinbridgez]

That friend. Was a smart link. Like me. But I had a lot of rhett-isms that led me down a weird path but things are wild. Still have many chapters and the things are a changing.

[@djshadowsix7671]

@@emilyroseayres84 knock it OFF

[@nab267]

They even prayed together

[@whatiwasgoingtosay]

Link describes that scene with Rhett leaving him on the side of the road and coming back to meet him so vividly. You can tell how important that moment was for him.

[@vtgchanelswan]

whatiwasgoingtosay i feel so bad for young link, that was a very sad story and i'm glad rhett forgave him

[@fress_kaa2275]

That moment was legit pivotal in his journey when rhett came back. The fact that they could journey on through questioning their faith together without judgement is honestly christlike.

[@bluz1864]

That moment is their whole friendship In nutshell. They'll never always be in agreement but their friendship matters more. I personally still don't know if I believe in God but if there's really a loving God, that moment is what that God would proud of. I'm so happy I have my own Rhett even though I live in the East now and they live in the South - doesn't matter. I talk to them at least twice a ween.

[@collinharris4848]

It almost seems fake with how perfect it is. It'd be one of those movie scenes that just destroys the audience.

[@Urbansaucee]

@@collinharris4848 so many perfect scenes like that happen and ppl question it but if it was negative ppl would cling on to it and believe it isn’t that an amazing philosophy that we as people subconsciously harbor

[@bobatitty]

"They think I'm clamping my eyes shut because I'm having such a meaningful experience, but I'm clamping my eyes shut because I can't find anything." i can barely articulate how much this and the whole train of thought about feeling phony resonates with me, i'm glad that video popped up on my fyp lol

[@Shelsight]

Agree. I had the same experience multiple times before I left the church...

[@AlecsApple]

@@Shelsightomg me too.. i tot at first somethings wrong with me .. y are all the people surrounding me is on fire with God but im not.. and for a long time i tried to rekindle it but it didn’t

[@haleywang5845]

"I did listen to the Red Hot Chili Peppers, but I felt bad about it." My absolute favorite Link quote of all time. I need tshirts. I need mugs. I need posters.

[@MegaSkyBirds]

me too! i felt that HARD! lol

[@officialgoogleyoutube]

I wonder how much it costs to license the words "Red Hot Chili Peppers."

[@danielalmaguer2759]

Hahahahaha yes! I laughed so hard because the same thing happened to me growing up 😅

[@rzawistowski33]

@@officialgoogleyoutube I don't think you have to with lyrics. Just the recordings of the artist.

[@alejajm1666]

What's wrong with the Red Hot Chilli Peppers? I grew up Catholic so I had no idea they could be something to feel bad about

[@lexigirl714]

It breaks my heart to hear that Link constantly felt like he wasn’t good enough

[@theinvisibleme4104]

That was his problem God doesn't want you to be the best he just wants you to try

[@animebrains6859]

Cults do that to you

[@jakobdaniel2110]

ANIME brains I don’t think you know what a cult is

[@AeroZeppelin-rb4pt]

You can only succeed with the Holy spirit

[@peterstewart9376]

God doesn’t want more from you. He wants more FOR you ❤️✝️

[@ariannahjustinenarmstrong9390]

I kept a prayer journal when I was younger, 99% of it was me apologizing to God for how horrible I was.

[@TMSokoya]

😭😭😭😭

[@venusbb9]

you are not alone, religious guilt is so intense.

[@razoredge6130]

Did you know him?

[@ashleyleonard94]

Yes me too! All my prayers were about how guilty I was. I never felt good about myself

[@wolftitan]

@@ashleyleonard94 It took me 30 years to grow out of religion, then I truly grew up.

[@Sibsibs1989]

Rhett telling Link to get out the car. That moment killed me. Not for either in particular, but for both. The impossible standard that you were obliged to hold each other to. That could well have created an incredibly toxic friendship. Rhett coming back was an act of personal moral conviction and speaks to his character. Much in the same way as Link telling Rhett in order to respect his friend and allow him to hear first hand. A beautiful friendship. I am so glad you both overcame the negativity of your own personal walk with faith. You are family and it is to be admired hugely x

[@kimaboe]

A great example that morality not only exists outside of religion, but that it often conflicts directly with most interpretations of religious morality.

[@thomasmurphy4729]

I thought the same thing about Rhetts character, it made me think back to when he talked about his inherent pursuit of justice in the last episode of EB.

[@urgayandkeklikesit1808]

i died.... im sorry😂😂

[@WyattCayer]

I almost cried, it was so good!

[@shaunbraley2249]

I’m happy these guys took a journey. But don’t believe that everyone who walks that same journey leaves the faith. Francis Collins, whom Rhett spoke highly of his intelligence, maintained his faith. Take the journey but give fair weight to ideas. People almost always let the loudest voices be the ones they want to hear.

[@Annalovesautumn]

It's so interesting that Link felt uncomfortable and assumed it was his own fault, whereas Rhett felt discomfort and essentially decided that the system was the problem 😂

[@345_ash]

😂😂🤣

[@zkipa]

realized, not decided

[@YTWgamer]

Yeah more of a realization than a decision. The church is one of the largest problems in the world.

[@trickytreyperfected1482]

@@YTWgamer I just hope something is done about it at some point

[@BrookeKatherine.]

I’d relate more with Link in that sense lol. I always think everyone is my fault, or that I must be not doing enough. To see people around you that are so passionate about God, and their relationship, saying they can feel him.. it’s hard to sit next to that person and wonder why you don’t feel that way. It always felt like it was because something I did ya know aha.

[@KPid10t]

When Link said: "I can’t believe that me being open, and sincere, and as loving as possible, and as honest as possible is disqualifying me from receiving God’s love. I can’t accept that.” He articulated exactly how I've felt for the last few years. Especially growing up in the Bible Belt, being a believer, and feeling the need to hide the fact that I’m gay for over 20 years because of the guilt I felt. It’s hard because I’ve felt like I’ve always had to have these introspections and spiritual deconstructions alone. I’m glad they shared their stories here.

[@michaelmoreno9627]

I'll pray for you. You will be fine if you are genuinely sorry for how you are. It's okay people and God still love you

[@nilsonrodriguez7135]

@@michaelmoreno9627why would he be sorry for anything?

[@michaelmoreno9627]

@@nilsonrodriguez7135 I'm talking about repenting. No he can love as much as he wants. He can condone certain things if he wants. As long as he is not engaging I the sin he is more than ready for the pearly. Buymt even if he were to engage in it...he just needs to pray, ask for forgiveness. Genuinely know he is commiting sin and trying to get out of it. Then he is still welcomed into the pearly gates

[@BWGmedia]

@@michaelmoreno9627there’s nothing wrong w being gay and your prayers mean nothing if they have no actual impact on reality. Again why serve a god that would punish someone like link for being honest, inquisitive and kind?

[@QuincyJones420]

​@@michaelmoreno9627go repent for being a jackass

[@kaitlin7864]

No offense but like......I cannot believe that Link underage drank and Rhett didn't 😂😂

[@Jackson-du4hy]

Kaitlin it’s the hair

[@pjw8377]

I can because we have "met" their dad's.

[@hooliogoolio4446]

No offense to who?

[@Rexaurus]

I kinda can. Link would be a lot easier to persuade and Rhett can get really into things. Rhett is one of the people that, as long as its their world, you can make them believe anything.

[@hooliogoolio4446]

@@Rexaurus This is adorable

[@kaitlin7864]

Picturing Link sobbing and walking all by himself actually shatters my heart. Give that baby a hug dammit.

[@gracesara6611]

RIGHT i was sad when he said him and rhett didn’t even hug afterward it seems like he really needed it 🥺🥺🥺

[@blackclouds909]

It hurts my heart for sure

[@Kaylee_20]

Ngl, i shed a few tears

[@UTU49]

I wanted to hear Rhett's memories and perspective regarding that event.

[@ghostlytavern129]

I’m sure Rhett gave him a huge one

[@TommyFlanagan666]

I never tire of hearing peoples’ deconstruction stories. Breaking free of religion is the most important thing I’ve done in my life.

[@fruitgum9619]

I didn't grow up in a religious household and never was religious myself, but I'm always fascinated by these stories. I can only imagine what it's like! it makes me happy for people to find themselves and what they truly believe in :)

[@JeffreyBoles]

​@@fruitgum9619I find it fascinating to hear people's experiences who never grew up religious! I grew up very religious in Alabama with a Christian preacher for a father, who taught me to think critically. It's funny because him teaching me to think critically is ultimately what led to me losing my faith. Even from a non literal perspective, the bible getting the order in which the earth and the sun were created is pretty damning. As Rhett and Link both said, everything started to make so much more sense once I entertained the idea of the bible being written by humans and humans alone. I just wish my education had been influenced by reality at an earlier age. I feel I would be ahead where I currently am intellectually and socially had that been the case, as I feel like I am just starting to see the worls for what it is for the first time.

[@brittoncain5090]

@@JeffreyBolesI haven't heard that take on the order of creation in Genesis before, can I ask why you feel that way?

[@janedock3126]

It's really is comforting in all the chaos I've experienced in realizing everything I believed was not real.

[@roems6396]

@@brittoncain5090 Because we know the order in which things appeared in our universe and in earth. The Bible gets many of them wrong. It says light came before the sun. It says the moon is a second light source, when it’s just a rock reflecting the single light source. It gets the order in which animals appeared incorrect. I could go on and on about the inaccuracies of the Bible.

[@ashtoncavanagh1622]

I can't believe people are so upset that Rhett and link basically came out as open minded, reasonable, intelligent deep people that actually think for themselves. Anyone who is actually mad at them for this needs to take a long deep look at yourself and your priorities in life.

[@ConsciousRobot]

Truth!

[@thapack45]

@Ashton Cavanagh The irony in saying that believing or holding to a certain set of ideals is "open minded, reasonable, intelligent" and an indication of being a "deep thinker" while simultaneously implying that people who don't agree with you are close minded, unreasonable, unintelligent and shallow thinking is baffling. The emptiness in the faux social movement of being forward thinking on full display.

[@rocinadelossantos3479]

thapack45 no saying someone is open minded doesn’t mean anyone who doesn’t agree with them isn’t open minded. Ones characteristics do not correlate with the other if you took it that way it’s your own projections

[@mattferris3437]

@@thapack45 Your comment has no substance. The ramblings of a fool with a thesaurus out to make an argument

[@metalmayfantasy]

There are indeed very few things that cause an uproar amongst people: Politics and religion.

[@maberu0930]

"I don't wanna disappoint people." Only a few minutes in and Link hits home.

[@YaBoiShining]

The worry of disappointing people is relatable? No way

[@absolving]

@@YaBoiShining ha. I thought the same thing.

[@MrE_]

@@YaBoiShining lol if disappointment had an image in the dictionary, it would be a picture of me

[@irrelevantideology9640]

That's the one.

[@stormygaenicke7981]

L

[@luciferianjesuslover9453]

1:08:00 Link showed some MAJOR CAJONES with this one. “ I wasn’t going to teach them the fear version that I got.” Mad respect, Link. ✊

[@mariodiaz2911]

Its cojones not cajones. But indeed, fantastic father he is

[@luciferianjesuslover9453]

@@mariodiaz2911 cojones** excuse me

[@BruceThePugDog]

Fear is the beginning of wisdom and not fearing is the beginning of foolishness. You're nothing but a mocker. And it takes no balls to never speak truth.

[@msjsq1966]

@@mariodiaz2911 It's "it's" not "its".

[@JennRighter]

I have NEVER enjoyed a podcast as much as these four episodes. It's not only fascinating, but so deeply personal, and very moving. Thank you both so much for this.

[@deakel18]

Jenn Righter agree

[@cheesecakelasagna]

The only other podcast that made feel things (the frustration kind) is Baited! LMAO.

[@nutterbutter9069]

Jenn Righter likewise

[@speckwii]

If you're interested in another podcast kind of like this is the Liturgists Podcast! The lost and found episodes are incredible stories about deconstruction.

[@jackmehoffe9662]

Agreed!

[@carmelita1880]

“hold on. i can accept... everybody.” made me tear up. love you always, mr. neal💜

[@StannaUS]

He has such a good soul, doesn't he? 😁

[@allisonsmith5605]

Be Informed ah, yes, everyone knows that atheists are the assholes simply for not believing in an unproven religious ideology.

[@braddahg]

Yes, unconditionally. That's literally the best feeling I got too when I left the evangelicalism.

[@collinj.5530]

@@braddahg Be prepared to accept Hitler's actions as well. Without God, morals don't exist in any objective sense.

[@obsessedwithcups8037]

Collin Jarvis I am pretty confident in these two men’s morals. Morality comes from your surroundings and experiences.

[@HappyNBoy]

I'm disappointed that this episode got fewer listens than Rhett's... Link's voyage, although less driven by curiosity than Rhett's, comes from more of a place of empathy. Rhett's journey is recognizable as the same kind of journey that so many philosophical intellectual angry internet atheists engage in. Rhett moderates in a way that I admire, but his anger is emblematic of that sort of intellectual-centric 'deconstruction'... Link's 'deconstruction' is so much more emotionally intelligent. There's so much care taken to understand how his faith affected him emotionally. His compassion and identity being so tied up in his faith and that ultimately not being a good fit for the amount of compassion he had... It's a story that I don't see as much, and I think a very valuable one.

[@sofiaabm]

Honestly I think it's because when you search "rhett and link religion" on youtube only rhetts video comes up (at least that's what happened with me)

[@kirstenlund8976]

I watched them back to back because of the differences in their processes

[@jjoycesantana]

I agree! Great insight

[@johancarlberg1530]

M

[@cheesenips8811]

rhett talks about having a moment of anger but to reduce his deconstruction all the way down to "internet atheism" is an incredible oversimplification

[@Iissafaith]

Link. This was so poignant and personal. You’re such a lovely and sensitive man, and so unnecessarily tough on yourself. I’m glad that, in your 40s, you’re able to really find the truly good man you are. And, your story says an incredible amount about your friend Rhett, who will, no matter where you guys are in your lives, always come up over that hill in the road to meet and support you. Lifelong friends, indeed.

[@jenntrump6723]

what a beautiful comment

[@bluesilvahalo3576]

Agreed. Beautifully put 👏

[@MegaHamilto]

My favourite part of the whole story is that he was able to love himself much more, and regardless of what you believe, if you love yourself and truly love others, I'm glad for you.

[@aimeenunez1713]

“.. I just don’t think that God, if God exist or however God exits, I just can’t believe that me being open and sincere, as loving as possible and as honest as possible is disqualifying me from receiving Gods love” ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@shannonr340]

Everyone dont deserve Gods love and grace. That why He send His Son to die for our sin. Gods loves all of no matter what

[@BehindTheGreenEyes]

@@shannonr340 Amen, amen!

[@strykerdawn1]

God defines love though not us.

[@BehindTheGreenEyes]

@@strykerdawn1 Yes, however, we should also love like God.

[@strykerdawn1]

@@BehindTheGreenEyes I'm speaking with the implied (you) not you personality.

[@Glacier_Nester]

Link's deconstruction hit basically every note that Rhett's didn't for me. That moment of "I'll keep goin to church to humor my family, but I just don't.. connect, anymore", driven on in no small part because of the way LGBTQ+ folks are treated by the church, finding yourself knowing there's something out there but you're not sure what, wanting to support the world with your love and compassion. This series has been deeply relatable to me, and I'm so happy that the both of you felt you could come forward and talk about it (and do it in such a coherent and well-considered way) is remarkably heartening. Keep up the great work, you two.

[@Snaffdude]

I felt that Rhetts story last week painted the more logical side of his spiritual deconstruction whereas Links seemed to centre around his emotions and that hit me in my core. The mental image of Link walking around bawling his eyes out got to me. As someone who has never had any faith in a belief system I found that hearing about the guilt that came with it bothered me, I know going forward I'm going to think more about some of the difficulties my friends with faith must endure from time to time. But with that, these 4 parts have been an incredible listen and I'm looking forward to further episodes. Love as always guys

[@monkwallace]

Nate Jones Goes to show they are two very different people in a very connected path.

[@cheesecakelasagna]

That's why they're perfect for each other, they fill in each other's gaps.

[@diabl2master]

Yes, I noted that difference as well. The stories complement each other well.

[@leiasart4610]

This shows their mbti types so well. Rhett being a thinking type, Link a feeling type.

[@swimmswimmm668]

Nate Jones i will say that people of faith have this wonderful abundance of hope because of our Savior

[@chevon1920]

I wanted Rhett to explain what he was thinking when he drove off and left link.

[@littleredhairedgirlsteph3922]

I want to know what made him walk back.

[@DoorknobHead]

Me too.

[@chevon1920]

@@littleredhairedgirlsteph3922 yeah, that too and what happened to the car.

[@littleredhairedgirlsteph3922]

@@chevon1920, don't you think they walked back to the car and drove on?

[@chevon1920]

@@littleredhairedgirlsteph3922 but why did Rhett walk back to link instead of driving.

[@kawawangkowboy9566]

"Most people... are going to interact with our stories in whatever way makes sense according to their predetermined world view" : Rhett sums up life and humanity. It's like the unified field theory of sentient ego.

[@irenee889]

The story about you getting drunk and the conversation with Rhett in the car was so powerful. What a beautiful relationship you had and have. Imagine what would've happened if he hadn't turned back

[@melslatt]

This and the fact that Link was the only person Rhett could openly discuss his spiritual questions with, who would discuss without judgement - those really made me appreciate how special their friendship really is.

[@gpeddino]

The image of Rhett kicking Link out of his car, then going back on foot to meet him is so powerful. I could see it in my mind like a movie scene.

[@morgankennedy6193]

You should listen to them talk about it on Philip DeFranco's podcast. Rhett was basically trying to make it into a movie scene.

[@bungakrst]

@@morgankennedy6193 can you give me the timestamp?

[@morgankennedy6193]

@@bungakrst Sure! The part where they start discussing the reaction to them coming out as agnostics starts at around 44:40 and Philip brings up Link's first time drinking at around 1:16:00. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r3Taopydr9uboJo

[@morgankennedy6193]

@@bungakrst But I also highly recommend the whole thing. They touch on some things that they didn't cover in their four videos.

[@bungakrst]

@@morgankennedy6193 you're so kind! thanks ^^

[@babyvmuatutorials6839]

Link explaining how he felt as if he was going against his friends on the church’s views about the LGBTQ+ community, that almost made me sob. He’s a pure person. I wish all people would think the way him and rhett do

[@JoshuaGreyJensen]

That was my first MAJOR crack in my testimony. I knew that gay people deserved the same right as all of "God's other children" Mormonism treats LGBT+ members horribly.

[@ricecake3215]

It’s saddening how justified it felt being in the church. It was judgment from a “loving” lens. Stepping out of it, I’m noticing how hateful the conversation around people outside of the church was. It’s heartbreaking.

[@Muhluri]

​@@ricecake3215there's no hate like Christian love

[@ZombieBenderReturns]

“Not wanting to disappoint” that really gets me.

[@hannahmckay2847]

Same, I think it still echoes in my head even though I'm way past that

[@EmmaLise506]

I listened to the episode but can you tell me where it was?

[@sallyaverbuch5541]

@@EmmaLise506 it's at 3:46 x

[@jra3978]

The fact that Rhett and Links wives were understanding and kept with it, even though they didnt get into that part, its easy to see that they supported their husbands change and stuck with them. It can be hard when the person you marry changes, you question whether or not its going to work anymore. I would love to hear more about how they accepted this change and how they worked it out as a couple and a family.

[@brianmattingly9481]

Definitely would like to hear more on that

[@BlueGeen]

Yeah. I haven’t watched their episode where they revisit these episodes yet, but I’ve seen a lot of comments about how people would love to see their wives “sides of the story”, so to say.

[@annika_abitbol]

For sure

[@sukismeg589]

One thing people don't think about often is you're SUPPOSED to change as a person as you live your life, experience things, meet people, change jobs ect. Life is all about changing so when you marry someone it's super important to marry someone both with the understanding that neither of you are static beings and that you will work to change together in the same direction.

[@mrssallybrown619]

Tell me about it. I am a science teacher and over the past 3 or 4 years, my husband has become somewhat of a “Truther” AND a flat-earther. He openly ridicules science and asks me all kinds of idiotic smug questions. Some days I don’t know if I can handle it...but I love him unconditionally and he has told me repeatedly that he loves me even if I never accept the crazy conspiracy theories he is into.

[@creepitsurreal]

These episodes so perfectly encapsulate the differences in these two men that make them so strong. Rhett approaching this from a mindful perspective, and Link's from a heartfelt perspective. I got two different things from watching each episode. Rhett's was like listening to an information podcast about logic and critical thinking, and Link's was like going to therapy about feeling the doubt and the cognitive dissonance and really reflecting inward and looking at yourself face-to-face. Both are special kinds of vulnerability and they balance each other out so beautifully. This is real love between these two people. They really allowed each other the space to grow.

[@RedKincaid]

I'm listening to both for the first time and I agree completly. It's really something amazing to hear two completly different but entirely valid methods to reach the same conclusion

[@shakeaboot]

It honestly hit me real deep when Link mentioned that LGBT issues were so important to him. As someone who is LGBT it is so easy to think that a lot of people who aren't LGBT themselves don't care or are content with how we are being treated. I can't put words to the feelings I felt when Link was talking about it, but it made me cry for a few minutes. Thank you for caring Link, it really means a lot to know that people do care about us and how we feel.

[@mender722]

I'm gay. I de-converted. It's complicated. Last Sunday I was in the audience when Talk Heathen was live. Very cool experience.

[@ClintonAllenAnderson]

I don't understand how anyone who is anywhere on the LGBT etc spectrum, (I suppose an argument could be made that literally everyone is on that scale somewhere.... But I think that's a different conversation eh ) could possibly follow a religion when so much of its history, so much of its dogma, is directly, aggressively, fatally, against them.........

[@zaelitude]

Parsing my little brother's homosexuality and lack of rights within the church and society was one of the breaking points for me. There are straight people out there that care. People are people and they should all have the same rights and treatment. :D

[@ConsciousRobot]

Link and Rhett are both fantastic human beings

[@r-robertson-d]

You are so right. Its one thing to be like "I think gay people should have rights but its still wrong to be gay" and an entirely different thing to leave a church in part because you fundamentally disagree with how that community is treating LGBTQ folks.

[@les5503]

As a long-time mythical beast, I can say your two spiritual deconstruction Ear Biscuits have been the most compelling and important videos I've ever seen from you guys. Both your stories broke my heart but not because I'm sad for you. It's because I relate so hard to making a decision to leave a belief system that was not in line with the kind of person I really am. Your experiences have helped me process my own experience in a new way. Thank you. Thank you.

[@haileyzachry6295]

Laura Shelton I can agree that they sort of put into words what I haven’t been able to and I honestly feel better hearing their stories because I better understand my own experience.

[@grum7140]

I relate to Link's story a lot. When I was religious I never felt good enough, but at the same time I thought I was better then non believers. It was a very toxic way of thinking and I feel much better now then I ever did when I was religious

[@allisonpinkall577]

SAME

[@rachelgillum2869]

I relate ♥️

[@GlorifiedGremlin]

That sounds like it's far more your own fault than the religions fault in that scenario tho lol you were judgemental towards both others AND yourself, which is on you because most religions tell you not to do exactly that

[@kurageh1me]

@@GlorifiedGremlin depends on the way you're taught your religion, who you're and around and what you learn from others. It's very common for Christians to believe they're better than non-believers. It's not some unheard of thing.

[@Kate09090]

@@GlorifiedGremlin No, religions do not tell you to do the opposite. Neither do religious leaders. Some do, and good for them. But, as uncomfortable as this may make you, there is toxicity (and A LOT OF IT) in religion.

[@TA-dg5ve]

This series of four episodes regarding "The Missing Years" has been illuminating. Thank you guys for the many years of helping me find something to smile or laugh about. I hope that you are able to continue doing the things that you do that provide a bit laughter to your many viewers and listeners.

[@sandybrown9410]

This sounds like goodbye.

[@WilhelmWilder]

@@sandybrown9410 yeah it does 😫

[@WellProgrammedBot]

I'm a 9 enneagram, 30 year old Iraq war vet with PTSD who used to self medicate with disassociatives, grew up at an evangelical church, lost my faith similarly to Rhett, and my wife of 8 years DID leave a few weeks after telling her I didn't believe anymore (and because I took LSD after that helped break my addiction). My best friend of 18 years who grew up in church with me told me that we needed to take a break from our relationship after finding out about me taking LSD. Haven't heard from him since and that was two years ago. Despite all that, I am in an AMAZING place now. I feel awake for the first time in my life. When Link was talking about the story where Rhett kicked him out of the car and drove off was crushing to hear. I'm so glad he came back for you Link. I'm so thankful for your honesty this series. It's helped so many of us more than you'll ever hear about. And this shit is online now so it's going to help people for years to come. Good on you both.

[@angelbegin]

I'm glad you're doing better and wish you a wonderful life. Thank you for sharing your story too.

[@christiancano506]

Psychedelics have been proven time and time again to help with ptsd, addiction, and suicidal thoughts and I just wish it wasn't so taboo. Thanks to acid I never had more confidence in my life and this is coming from someone who lived with a mid frequent anxiety for about 4 years, things got worse and I had nothing to lose and it's changed my life ever since. Would not be here today if it weren't for that trip

[@1kings18apologetics6]

Sorry to hear about that man. I'd say be careful with the chems though if you can avoid them. VA helping you at all?

[@staceysearle4600]

Thank you for your service and story!

[@VanessaHBIC]

You deserve happiness and may it find you and you have it always. Thank you for your service

[@Anasyub]

interesting how links deconstruction is so heavily full of guilt while rhetts was about feeling uncomfortable about the teachings but they both essentially felt isolated in their own way

[@wisdomfromgeorge1704]

No matter what our age or what are gender.. I think we're all just a little bit in love with Link!

[@redstone-kg3ne]

mmmmmm idk about that one

[@leilasparks8342]

Yeah

[@anjaraj]

I'm in love with Rhett😅

[@wisdomfromgeorge1704]

@@anjaraj I think we love both of us precious guys XOXO It's because we watch them every day.. Rhett is a wonderful wonderful man that's for damn sure XOXO have a wonderful mythical day!

[@wisdomfromgeorge1704]

@@redstone-kg3ne Maybe you're not in love but I bet you do love the fellas XOXO

[@vickiedavie8306]

I long ago concluded that just because someone else's walk/journey with God doesn't look like yours doesn't mean it isn't genuine and valid.

[@PoeLemic]

It's sad to me that people still even try to follow the Myths from the Bronze Age. I used to be very religious, but like Rhett, I deconverted. And, now, I can't believe I ever believed in such malarkey, but you don't see the BS -- when you were born & raised in it. But, now, I am ashamed to have ever called it "Truth and Wisdom".

[@poelemic3642]

@@B2Roland Wow, a really good question, that you seldom see with all the mental dumbness on here. You got me on that one. I've always looked at it, being in the cage; not, as being outside the box, looking in. Well, I think what Christianity's benefit from other religions is that they have a centerpiece of their belief system and that they have formed it around the life, identity, stories, and sayings of one individual. And, to that, then they added a life-story to a certain time & place, that none of us can ever verify with no evidence from that time period, what-so-ever. That's what I think C has going for it, above other religions. And, the Leader is also a "Good Guy" -- if you get what I mean. Meek, simple, kind, cares about everyone, wants people to do better, speaks & cares about old & widows & children. Just all-around good guy. But, the bad stuff is glossed over, of course, so it is not as memorable (or focused on) as the good things. [Is this what you mean?]

[@lmao4982]

@@poelemic3642 sounds like buddhism xd

[@YTWgamer]

Doesn't mean it is valid either.

[@miriam4235]

What Link said 'I want to be as loving as I can.' Combined with what Rhett said: 'Living a life devoted to other's.' If everybody would live along those guidelines, Everithing in this world would be ok. ♥

[@bobjim1021]

The fact that one of Link's biggest struggles with the church was that they didn't accept LGBT people really meant a lot to me. I know how hard it must have been to accept that as part of your faith when some of your closest friends, like Stevie, are gay. I love how accepting both of you are of all types of people. Thank you for sharing!

[@Zenkai251]

The Church welcomes all people, no matter what sins they have committed.

[@thegeneral1469]

!!!! Stevie is gay!?!?! 😩

[@purplecatonbroadway]

This was a huge struggle for me as well, I lost my best friend many years ago because he was gay, and we endlessly debated about it. I never truly forgave myself for that. He was a lovely person, and I loved him so much, but because of what i was indoctrinated into, I couldn't accept him and love him the way I should have. That was my turning point spiritually

[@Zenkai251]

ALL churches welcome ALL people (except maybe the fringe ones like Westboro). Everyone has sinned. If churches didn't let sinners in, no one would be able to enter a church.

[@RutherfordProject]

@@Zenkai251 sorry, but being gay is not a sin...

[@amandaalred]

I am most impressed at the way that Rhett listens. I need to take a page from his book. I tend to feel the need in conversations to relate what the person is saying to something that has happened to me and although it's not my intention, I end up interrupting while trying to relate. I definitely will remember how he listens so intently the next time i'm in a serious conversation. LOVE YOU GUYS!

[@dustypink4802]

I do the same thing, unintentionally, and your comment has made me remember this about myself and remind myself that I can be better at just listening. Love to you x

[@tlucier1973]

Thank you for bringing this up!

[@cristallewis4842]

I tend to do the same. And I remind myself to try and stop, but when I’m in a conversation with someone and I can relate I have this excitement and need to share with them. I guess it’s a way for me to build a connection with them.

[@joegallicchio26]

Rhett is a great listener, as you said. Rhett is amazing

[@RetroGamingSweden]

First time I reply to a comment on this channel (or the Mythical one) due to relatability! This is my biggest issue. And my god is it hard to handle / fix! I am not alone.. Thanks!

[@user-sx1fg7lc3c]

I didn't think I could like link anymore than I already did. Or Rhett. These two men are true role models for how to live a life of love, maturity and compassion... and true to one's self. Hearing their stories has given me a whole new level of love and respect for them.

[@oliviareyes7838]

“I don’t interact in a healthy way at this point” is a really important self awareness moment

[@cheesecakelasagna]

timestamp please?

[@oliviareyes7838]

CheesecakeLasagna around 1:15:36 and 1:16:33

[@cheesecakelasagna]

Olivia Reyes You're quick! Thank you so much!

[@NukeCaulfield]

Dang. No one should have to feel bad about listening to the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

[@Koooo4]

Well, a lil bad ;) But not for religious reasons lol

[@19RaxR91]

I do, but its because I cant stand Kiedis. :D

[@cecel6643]

@@19RaxR91 why?

[@19RaxR91]

@@cecel6643 he is a self important douche, based on some of the things Ive seen and heard about him.

[@cecel6643]

@@19RaxR91 Like what? Sorry, just genuinely curious lol

[@keithrobertwells9605]

I work at a restaurant. And the guy working in the back cooking the food was listening to your podcast and I asked him about what he was listening to and he told me. So I looked you up when I got home. And I listen to both the conversion stories. And I realized I had seen both of you on KZbin before but you were talking about different subjects. And I realized my son was the reason I had seen y’all before because he was watching you.Anyway I just thought you might like to hear what turned me on to hearing your thoughts on religion and spirituality. And it’s helping me to get to know my friend at work a little better too now that I sort of see what he listens to and I will have topics of discussion with him. I feel like I’m part of your community now.

[@alltimelowbr1]

Welcome to the family!

[@damienprince1462]

Wellcome! :D

[@itschristinamoon]

How wholesome! That's really nice you are also taking effort to get to know your friend at work better and have Rhett and Link to talk about. Welcome, new Mythical Beast!

[@jonathanjaynes.]

God loves you and your coworker buddy

[@trickytreyperfected1482]

@@jonathanjaynes. I don't mean to be the party pooper, but this sort of reply on an otherwise unrelated comment is super strange considering the topic matter of the video. But you know what, I suppose it's the sentiment that counts either way.

[@sullysins7712]

I hope you guys are never scared to talk about any topic. It's refreshing and insightful to hear two guys so open and honest about this and im sure the mythical beasts feel the same way, Thank you.

[@taylorvalentine3358]

I can’t get through these episodes without crying. I’m LGBT, and my story is so similar to Rhett’s deconstruction. I was very involved in the church, and I knew that I could not be myself in the space that I was, and it was so heartbreaking. As soon as I came out, I was rejected by the church. It was so painful, and the way that they describe their feelings about this while being in the church just hit me in such a vulnerable spot. I have so much respect for someone who realizes and understands that it’s not okay to preach complete love and acceptance without including the LGBTQ community. That’s just one aspect of this that I really connect with, not even including everything else. Wow is all I have to say. Wow. I needed this series so very much.

[@chavaa5949]

XY ZW wtf does this have to do with anything 😂

[@chavaa5949]

XY ZW taylor was talking about rejection from church, even though it’s supposed to be about loving everyone. Dont be so insensitive

[@dahcargo]

Stand naked in front of a mirror and be honest about what you see, it's not a difficult thing to do. Unfortunately, so many want to be a victim.

[@jonathanfischer9737]

You're right. God loves and accepts us all the same❤️ much love to you

[@kirbyteeth]

@XY ZW children is not a gender. neither are siblings. those are not sexualities.

[@eastcoastswiftie]

56:06 idk why but Link slightly messing up the acronym but still having Q on the end made me so happy… to see that even though they were raised in a church where that wasn’t okay, they’ve always had it in their hearts to accept and love everyone. Just made me giggle, doesn’t matter what the acronym is, they get the point hahaha

[@jadedpotato1574]

i laughed, and then i cried

[@Fossil08]

​@@jadedpotato1574I laughed, then cried, then pissed myself, then shat myself, then went into a cave, then became a cave dweller, then lost my vision, then developed echolocation, then started hunting bats. Very eye opening

[@minuscaseus]

​@@Fossil08my brother in Christ, you went blind. How is that eye opening?

[@JohnR436]

@@minuscaseusopens the mind’s eyes

[@GrubbyJim]

This series has been devastating and beautiful, thank you so much for feeling like you could finally visit this part of your lives on EB. Link; the fact that you struggled so sincerely with treatment of LGBTQ+ people just speaks to the fact that you're inherently kind and accepting, only further highlighting how wonderful and conscientious you are (but we already knew that!) It's so hard to hear you speak about disappointing people and feeling like you weren't good enough. To know you had such a negative view of yourself when you were simply trying to navigate your way through life is heartbreaking. While I've never personally prayed, when you spoke about praying together it not only hit home how hard this journey has been for you both, but how close your bond is. To have sat and been so vulnerable with one another is beautiful, and the support you provide for each other is lovely to see. I hope this has been cathartic for you both, as I can't imagine how anxious you must've felt. Just know the MB's are behind you and we appreciate how challenging this must have been for you. Thank you.

[@meghancastleman7574]

Very well said and I agree wholeheartedly!

[@indigogott8554]

I agree with everything you said, made me tear up a little reading this

[@antonellapellegrino8311]

Somehow, clicking the like button once pales in comparison to what I feel about this series of biscuits. Consider the ‘like’ clicked infinitely .

[@brady_B]

Agreed.

[@maryrust3310]

Have you tried a non denomination church. It helped after going thru what you are going thru.

[@brady_B]

@@maryrust3310 yeah I went to one for many years. This particular one only helped so much...and did damage in other ways.

[@jyup5850]

Exactly!!

[@josiahgittman1268]

I remember hearing that Rhett and Link were former Christians who fell out of the faith, and I remember being kinda disappointed in them. These people who I admired and kinda looked up to turned out to be “bitter ex-believers”. But now after going through a very similar experience to them and listening to both Rhett and Link’s story, I relate to them and respect them so much. I enjoy their content and hope they continue on their path of self discovery. To anyone who is struggling with their faith, just know that what you’re going through is normal. If you come across something that doesn’t sit right with you, don’t just push the inconvenient inconsistency to the back of your mind, search it out, think about it, and talk about it with someone you can trust. Pursue truth over comfort, and stay skeptical.

[@tambalini1160]

Words can't express how much I love these 2 guys. They are SO REAL! They bring tears to my eyes, joy to my heart, love to my life, and help renew my faith in humanity. I LOVE YOU TWO! Keep doing your thing.

[@kolhurricane7325]

Tambalini same, i get emotional just thinking about how much they both mean to me and how much they have positively impacted my life

[@chrislynstewart6514]

I love when Link says “I had a nagging sense of being hollow” or something of that nature. That summed up so much of my spiritual journey. Thank you guys for sharing these stories

[@nataliemccall7291]

So moving. Link's account is so heart based. So impressive that he can stay in his feelings for the whole time. Astute emotional intelligence.

[@IcelanderUSer]

I can’t believe how well these guys remember their youth. I can’t remember much of anything. Just bits and pieces.

[@emmanueljusino6217]

Journals helps memory

[@seaoftranquility7228]

No drugs and alcohol might have a little to do with it.

[@emmanueljusino6217]

@@seaoftranquility7228 drug and alcohol are very bad for memory 🤡

[@ivoryskullz]

I can only speak for myself but i remember entire conversations from YEARS ago and it's almost like a film playing in my head. I remember things so vivid as if i'm re-living them. I feel like it's the same for them. The way they describe the "scene" etc. is just perfect and you really feel like you're in that "scene" as well.

[@_lil_lil]

@@seaoftranquility7228 also trauma... or ADHD lol.

[@reaganrambles1951]

Even John Green shouted out how amazing these 4 episodes have been. Thank you for sharing your journey

[@victoriachopstick7765]

yo!!! where did he end up shouting it out?

[@BeatlesACDCFourEver]

victoria chopstick I heard him shout it out on Dear Hank and John, the podcast he does with his brother

[@rockdealer1]

@@BeatlesACDCFourEver Thank you.

[@Anju1272]

@@BeatlesACDCFourEver do you remember the episode he shouts it out on?

[@TheFrugalMombot]

@@elliotmaginn4153 the author of The Fault in our Stars. He and his brother also started an education series on KZbin and have an awesome channel where they talk to one another but somehow include all of us along the way. They’re awesome

[@kevn6557]

Rhett and Link were boy defined

[@allisonpinkall577]

Lmfao true

[@itsmickeyrip2284]

This comment is underrated

[@smears6039]

Omg😂 they’re what girl defined WISHES they could be!

[@sm3560]

Your compassion towards the LGBTQ community and your genuine love and care for your friends is so beautiful and powerful. I have so much admiration for people who can realize injustices towards groups that they do not belong to, because it’s easy to turn a blind eye if it doesn’t affect you. But you felt such genuine empathy for your beloved friends. Much respect

[@carlitosway471]

Unlike the current LGBT.

[@ConsiderMeCat]

"I had this nagging sense of being hollow"...that hit me. I'm currently in a church leadership role for music & it's honestly been a struggle to lead people in songs that theologically cause me internal distress because I struggle to believe in what it's teaching. At this point, the only words I find most authentic to sing are pleas to help my lack of belief. And, of course, this isn't the first time in my life I've had cognitive dissonance in my faith journey (my deconstruction has been more of a life-long continual renovation), yet it certainly makes it all the more difficult to deconstruct when holding a professional position. Super thankful songwriting has been a pivotal part of my deconstruction though. Most things are more questions than anything, but perhaps that's a good place to be rather than stating answers I'm unsure of. Whenever I sing freely about the fact I don't know, that brick wall seems to be broken & I can feel again. Thank you for sharing your story, Link. What a comfort it is to know I'm not alone in this wrestling.

[@paigechristy2053]

Catlin Walton I liked the end of this. Helped me clarify something for myself.

[@traegermiles]

Good luck (for lack of a better phrase) in your journey. You get to decide who you are and what you believe.

[@WanderingWaystrel]

You should check out the Clergy Project. It’s a group specifically for clergymen who find themselves in your exact position of not believing anymore but being unable to leave because their livelihoods depend on it

[@gio2142]

I’m in a similar place here. I think no matter what you believe in, you should be willing to ask yourself the hard questions and kinda let the answers find you and be at peace in the meantime. I think whoever is out there ...this divine being, is more merciful than we think and is not afraid of our questions. I’m still learning and I feel like my faith is being reconstructed and that’s not a bad thing.

[@Chase21W]

Catlin I love the verse from Jeremiah 29:13 “You will seek me, and find me, when you seek me with all of your heart” God is there and Loves and cares for you.

[@flabershlap101]

Link's story about drinking and lying literally broke me. their friendship is so beautiful and I'm about to cry.

[@elenaforgiarini5356]

I have commented this on Rhett’s video already but again, I would love to hear Christy and Jessie’s sides of this story if they were open to that. I think this would be a very worthy opportunity to have them on the podcast for the first time. I absolutely loved Christy’s candor on Science Mike’s Pod

[@hanners4895]

What episode was Christy on Science Mike?

[@indigogott8554]

I agree! They may also not be ready for that yet though

[@DelcoTrash]

They may not want to publicly talk about it like Rhett and Link. It's an incredibly private thing and they are not entertainment show hosts....

[@PentaxSource]

@@BehindTheGreenEyes Yes thanks i was looking for this comment!

[@scrapperk8399]

“I’m hopeful that I can be...hopeful.” Indeed.

[@jshud3]

Thank you guys for your honesty... I'm 53 and deconstructing right now after growing up in the church with a dad and grandfather who were both pastors. But my dad always brought up questions to make us think and he was always willing to finish his statements with, "...but I could be wrong." I appreciate you guys are willing to do this, to help others... even if it's three years later. Just know you're sincerity and honesty are still helping people and offering people hope!

[@kaleb9135]

I really like how your dad finished his statements being open minded.. What lead to your deconstruction, if you don’t mind me asking.

[@valaraz]

I find it remarkable that the comment section on all of these videos has been so positive. This is a touchy subject to many and as I went through my own process everyone was keen to give some version of their own helpful advice. Not growing up on deep South made it easier. In the end I'm glad you've found peace with yourselves and I'm thankful of this series and of sharing your journeys with us.

[@ThatShyGuyMatt]

I must be seeing different comments because all I'm saying so far as people bashing religion. And praising them for not being religious anymore. Toxic

[@carmelita1880]

valaraz aw you jinxed it😅

[@camille213]

@SonOfAKing Don't exactly see that anyone is bashing religion. I read everyone understanding. Which I feel is wonderful. Usually when religion comes up there is arguing. And that is sad. Understand?

[@valaraz]

SonOfAKing I guess you may have read more comments than I did but I scrolled down again and didn't see any comments I'd find toxic. But then again that's also down to personal opinions and world views. The way I see it religion is everyone's personal choice and preference so debating over religion or lack of it will never result in anything but more disagreement and I personally feel this video aims to set a different tone to a journey many are going through.

[@birgitwest143]

I thought the same thing. I think part of it is that the audience has never been particularly religious and the ones who are are here accidentally, not because they identify with Rhett and Link's spirituality. I'm a person of faith who has also been de/reconstruction for some time (similar time frame actually) and for the same reasons Rhett & Link both described. But I was surprised to find out at the beginning of this series that these two had that background, very similar to me actually. I have come to so love them because of how real and fun they are, so in a way it's like when you get to know someone for who they are - and then when they share something like that, it really doesn't matter, because you care about them. Religion has never been the focus of their show.

[@petermiller1475]

I literally just like 20 seconds ago finished Rhetts video and was so bummed I was going to have to wait for Links. I’m so glad to hear your stories because I can relate so much to them in my own journey with my father being a pastor and growing up in the church, now 32 and struggling with where I sit with my beliefs. Thank you so much for this. It’s been super enlightening listening to you both.

[@whychoooseausername4763]

@@savage101. It was actually available last week in podcast form

[@urgayandkeklikesit1808]

i still did not finish any but i watched a 5HOUR markiplier vid

[@michaelabdoofficial]

The fact that Rhett and Link and their family’s are so close is such a testimony to their commitment to one another.

[@yourmajesty3569]

This thing they have, their lifetime of friendship, being raised in the faith, their "brother's keeper" attitude, is incredible. And so rare. It's beautiful to see and hear.

[@DaTravBoo]

I just want to love more. That's exactly how I feel. After losing religion, I feel that I love people a lot more than I use to. Love is my journey.

[@taylorvalentine3358]

This is such a great perspective and I’m going to adopt it myself. I love this.

[@SantinoCadiz]

Travis Taylor the word “ religion” is an infantile way of describing a relationship with the Creator, which is something you clearly never had.

[@DaTravBoo]

You know this because you clearly know me. Haha.

[@KevinRodriguez-gd2jw]

Hearing Link talking about how they felt about the way the Church talks about LGBTQ+ people really made me love them even more. I’ve never felt more accepted by someone on the internet and it only took 1 sentance from them.

[@Immariolopez]

If you had no prior knowledge about any kind of religion before listening to these podcasts, you’d swear they were talking about a cult.

[@yatogami2919]

They're basically the same thing but with a different number of believers.

[@swiftlymurmurs]

To quote the great Brian David Gilbert on the creation of his purist Sonic cult "Technically [religion and cults] are the same thing!"

[@Lisa_Uncensored]

Being religious is not in and of itself cultish. It’s certain individuals that make it bad like anything else. But there are religious cults. But any true believer would not acknowledge those within an actual cult. I have a strong faith I’m a believer but I’m non denominational. I would not be among the evangelicals.

[@SamiJoS8n]

They are

[@user-jn7so8eh7v]

😅

[@km-brn]

Honestly I feel like Ear Biscuits in general in Link’s redemption arc. Watching GMM, I tend to like Rhett more and relate to him a bit better, but Ear Biscuits really gives Link the space he needs to talk all his stuff out.

[@christeenn.]

I want to convey how less alone this makes me feel as a southern baptist preachers daughter who is seeing more and more issues with my church as Ive grown up

[@susansanellihammack1403]

You're not alone.

[@debbiemcvey3417]

Like what?

[@christeenn.]

@@debbiemcvey3417 to sum up years worth of deconstruction in a few words, I would say the “hate the sin, not the sinner.” Mentality that runs rampant in white evangelical Christian churches. It’s often times used as a guilt free way to validate hateful, harmful biases.

[@humanthefinite8304]

​@hannahdivergant best of luck to you. It's not easy. Especially living in a religious community.

[@megan1214]

I love the way Link talked about how he doesn’t believe that being loving and accepting will disqualify him from receiving God’s love. That’s exactly the way I feel and I respect you so much for explaining it so eloquently ❤️❤️

[@stephanier2025]

That's exactly how I feel. It took me a long time to be peaceful with this feeling.

[@melslatt]

It's something I've thought a lot about over the years - there are so many religions, so how can I believe in a god that would fault people for believing in the "wrong" system? Even though they lived their lives as good, loving, respectful, and responsible people? The only thing I am certain about is that I am certain about nothing.

[@megan1214]

melslatt Yes exactly!

[@ASmith-jn7kf]

Humans don't know what being loving is, we have a messed up way of viewing love. We "love" people but leave them or throw them away when they are imperfect, we "love" people and lie to them, we "love" them by letting them do harmful things and not saying anything out of "love." If love is just this subjective thing, the being who created it has a right to have an ultimate standard so he does not see what you see as love. That's hateful. We treat the ones we love like enemies, doing harm to themselves yet we are looking the other way.

[@buzzkrieger3913]

Humans have a messed up view of love because they throw them away when imperfect? WTF does eternal torture in a fiery dungeon count as then? The ultimate in nonconsensual D/s S&M? FM what you write is stupendously messed up.

[@meganelizabeth7973]

I genuinely believe that you two were meant to be in each other’s lives. If Rhett hadn’t come back for Link, I can only imagine how different everything would have been for them. That part of the story alone was super powerful. Love you guys, and thanks for talking about something that doesn’t get talked about enough. ❤️

[@peekabooicancu]

Thank you guys for sharing. I'm a Christian, and it was an interesting experience watching this, resisting my impulses to want to switch off or be fearful. The reality is that I genuinely want to love all people, and I hope my life is a reflection of that, so I can understand and appreciate the struggles with the institution/theology appearing to contradict this hope. I hope that in the Church we would continue to shift and have more spaces where we wrestle these ideas without condemnation. The sense I get from the both of you is that you're apprehensive of the response of others, which is concerning. Understandable, but you should be able to share your views and questions without being met with such negativity and pushback in return. A lot of people, both in and out of the church have these questions. So we need to talk about it. Thank you for sharing!

[@c3ru1ean41]

you’re very brave

[@loribriggs4783]

There are no perfect Christians. I know I'm one. Be kind to each over and show compassion. We don't walk in others shoes or their life. We just don't know what they are going through.

[@BenjiThomaz]

I'm so glad you feel this way! And good for you to be brave enough to continue watching the video! I hope everything is going well for you! 😊 All I have to say, is continue searching and questioning everything through the lens of truth and love. While I may have come to a different conclusion, it was all due to my wanting to do and believe what was true, and because I had a love for people and a love for the truth. My love for people made me want truth, even though truth can hurt sometimes. Continue following truth and love!

[@abg125]

It’s funny, Link just breezes over it, but when said “I’ll only go on one date a month, and talk to her once a week” that hit home. I grew up in Southern Baptist home in SC and vividly remember my old man saying “boy...you’re seeing too much of THAT GIRL...you just talked to her yesterday etc” there was big emphasis of not getting “too comfortable” with a young partner lol

[@michaelak6753]

lol what? no limit on love if its the right person.. even if its the right person for just that time but you part ways later, its still nice

[@annylynn1548]

I completely agree with both of you!

[@chelseagrace2243]

My ex boyfriend took advice from his Mennonite boss who told him he visited me too much for someone he wasn’t sure he was going to marry... I was like what?

[@thomaswilliamson625]

@@chelseagrace2243, If you stay apart and the feelings are still there then it is more likely to be a successful relationship.

[@cdfletcher9403]

This conversation is so parallel with coming out. The struggle of living in a belief system about yourself that isn’t genuine to your path or health or growth. Love it.

[@janetmitchell4452]

Gentlemen, there is nothing to apologize for. All of us travel our own path in life. I was part of a church for 40 years. A vol. For 10 and an employee for 20 years. When the church became too involved in telling folks how to vote and how to feel about the lgbtq community I left and never looked back. Peace to you both.

[@yellostallion]

Good for you. My take is that strong identification will make one unconsciously blind. If one identifies oneself as a Christian, a man, a woman, an American, a Texan, a Republican, a Democrat, a dad a mom etc then one will built wall to protect one's identity. Consciously and unconsciously. If you are going to take on an identity, you might as well take the largest one which is life itself, or well being of life for all life. Or inclusiveness. Smaller identities are needed for communication and orderly but it's very boxed in and blocks one's expansion to inclusiveness.

[@jennifergriel861]

That first story link told about his age of accountability is the single most Link story I’ve ever heard.

[@ceeb420]

Rhett kicking Link out of the car, then walking back to meet up with him really hit home. That's the kind of pure friendship feels that I miss about my teenage years. There's that understood brotherly love, that you don't have to use words to express your feelings for each other, even when things get rough.

[@mistabook]

Holy cow this is fascinating. I would never have guessed in a million years there could be anything as engaging as watching these goofballs eat Carolina reapers and bull testicles, but this is absolutely riveting. Props to you both not only for going out on a limb and baring your souls, but also for recognizing that there are people who want to see this kind of substantial and thoughtful dialogue. Really, really good stuff.

[@bree4174]

As someone that isn't religious I still appreciate hearing from both of them about their journey. I was raised Catholic and as soon as I was old enough my parents asked if I wanted to keep going. I said no and that was that.

[@yourmajesty3569]

I wonder if it was the denomination that didn't fit. Or if you didn't want to be spiritual in a "religion"....... I often tell people: Don't let religion get between you and God. If you grew up around country music and didn't really like it, it doesn't mean you don't like music, just means you didn't find the music that you like.

[@christinaminton8441]

I also really appreciate their stories. I was raised a pretty casual catholic too and decided right after I was confirmed that none of it made sense and my parents actually agreed with me and we’re all agnostic atheists now. I can’t imagine the situation of those who deconvert in a fundamentalist, evangelical family/community.

[@caryulmer7063]

Your Majesty Well said.

[@christinaminton8441]

J K By casual I mean we weren’t fundamentalist in that way. We did got to church every week the whole time I was growing up and I participated in every church youth group they had for me, so I felt that as I got older and was more informed on what the church was teaching and more educated in general, I realized what I learned didn’t add up with everything else I knew from just going to school and reading up on certain topics. I distinctly remember suddenly realizing I hadn’t believed for a while, running into the room where my mom was, suddenly saying “there is no God, is there?” And she just smiled and I realized she had been waiting for me to reach that conclusion for a while 😂

[@YaBoiShining]

Your Majesty Or maybe he just realized none of it made any sense.

[@danyelle.dixon.]

Link being such an ally is heartwarming. It’s so hard to have any kind of relationship and be a part of LGBTQ+ community.

[@jonathanjaynes.]

God loves you

[@itsaudreyjoybitch6183]

yeah, but the way he said it made me laugh "lbgtq..." and then the way he paused and looked off into the distance as he realized what he said, and the just continued talking 🤣

[@jjoycesantana]

I sometimes watch this while studying, it’s so comforting. Link's experience is so real and accurate and sincere.

[@suzanneparvey4346]

Thank you Link and Rhett for sharing your personal faith journey with us. It took courage to share it. I am a person of faith that wishes you both love and peace in your lives. Yours is a very special friendship. I appreciate the gift of laughter you bring to the world.

[@littleredhairedgirlsteph3922]

Beautiful

[@caryulmer7063]

Suzanne Parvey Well said!

[@Jonnicom]

This has been the best set of podcasts I have ever, EVER, experienced, in my 27 years. I am so glad you guys talked about it.

[@xrphoenix7194]

I think there's a really beautiful difference in the way Link and Rhett dealt with their disillusionment. Where Rhett's was primarily found in the logic of his faith, and Link's was more about his emotional connection to his faith. Both cared about the flipside, and it was fundamental to both of their changes in their spirituality, but at the core their change came from a different place. It shows how that kind of change can happen for different reasons for different people.

[@CCrispyyy]

These two videos has helped me understand you guys on a whole other level. It’s nice to have fun on GMM but I’m thoroughly enjoying the conversations going on over here.

[@Queenie_Francie]

"I was 10 yrs old... I was still sleeping with a Pound Puppy." :(

[@swilson5320]

I had to look it up because I thought he was being literal - not I'm having memories I didn't know I had

[@Puuuurrrr]

Holy shit the part about Rhett abandoning Link is just... man I'm pretty sure they've unpacked and processed this between themselves but I'd love to know what Rhett feels about it after the fact that was pretty brutal

[@patriciaschuller5096]

i can’t remember which deconstruction episode it was but Rhett mentioned how the whole situation with link getting out of his car, and Rhett coming back to him, was apart of Rhett’s plan that night to open links eyes, Rhett also mentioned that “i’m still mad at you for it, 16 year olds shouldn’t drink” (he said jokingly with a smile)

[@Lady-Seashell-Bikini]

Especially after Link was trying to open up and be honest about the mistake. I get that Rhett was a WAY different person back then, but it could have caused Link to hesitate about opening up about anything in the future. But they're ok now, so it was just another important moment on a pile of other important moments

[@decveitch6044]

Man.. I just wanna give Link the biggest hug right now and remind him on how brave he was and is. Parts of the story was extremely hard to listen to, like Rhett ordering Link out of his car, but came back to walk with him. My heart goes out to both of them and i hope they know and understand that they've built their own fantastic community, that gives hundreds of people purpose and meaning. #EarBiscuits

[@michaelprobelski4866]

I really want to say, this is how this should be done. Exactly how Rhett and Link did. None of us have the answers. We are all just trying to find our way. But the most important thing is for all of us to be kind to one another. To love each other. To love our differences. To truly be there for one another. That is what will make the world happy. To me hatred and violence and greed (where you put things above others and would do anything to have them) in any form is where the true sin is. Thank you guys for sharing all of this!

[@strawberriesandcream3270]

listening to this is like a dad telling you you're going to be okay, I can relate to Link's story and I admit I did cry a little bit

[@212melc]

Whoo boy, I teared up at more than a few instances here. Thank you both for having the courage to open up about such a personal topic, and one that no doubt resonates with many of your fans. While it's clear that a lot of positivity came out of your experiences and engagement with the church community, it's painful to hear just how much unnecessary guilt, shame, worry and fear you went through as well. (Rhett, we're all so relieved teenage-you went back for your buddy!) I hope you've both found peace with your pasts and presents. Sending loving thoughts your way.

[@dixierae6063]

Who would have ever guessed as they we're feeling our mornings we're so much laughter and entertainment. Everything appeared to be so simple and light-hearted yet they both were going through such an enormous inner struggle. I've become a new subscriber and in the last few months have watched every episode from season 1 to the present. It is easier for Rhett to cover his feelings where link does not have the ability to hide anything. Bless his heart. I remember often watching episodes being concerned that link suffered from depression because so often I would just see an expression on his face of deep sadness. With that said I think it is clear that link does have personal struggles that are not related to his religious deconstruction. I have definitely noticed that in the last few Seasons that the darkness definitely has lifted and it's good to see. It's very hard not to want to take him and hold him and tell him that everything is going to be alright.

[@fakered_head]

I watched this last year in June of 2021 while working at a Christian kids camp after my first year of college. College was the first time I could be out as a queer person, the first time I had a social circle outside of church, and the place where I originally began deconstruction. I worked at the camp because of nostalgia more than anything, but a part of me knew that church camp was the first and only time I “felt” god and hoped I’d maybe find him and a reason to come back to the church. Looking back, I realize now that most of the “god” I “felt” was psychology: the emotionally charged music, being an impressionable child, etc. etc. but when I sat in my bed at midnight after a whole day full of me telling children that a god I didn’t believe in loved them and created the universe, these two deconstruction episodes made by two of my own childhood icons made me feel less alone, less like a liar, less afraid of who I’d be without god or the church. Thanks for sharing your stories.

[@divaglam92]

I think y’all should make a movie about yalls friendship. All the good and bad stuff that happened over the years. I think it would be amazing. Just use different actors lol

[@Chibbykins]

They want to get a Bleak Creek TV show made, and those characters are like a version of them. Should be good if it gets picked up.

[@andytom91]

Ben Affleck and Matt Damon

[@UTU49]

Couldn't they play each other? Cuz that might be really fun.