The Dark Side of a Mormon Mission - Brinley Jensen Pt. 1 | Ep. 1680

[@RichardMumford1]

70 years old, 60 active LDS years, 2 year mission, BYU graduate...now binge listening. We don't get time back. I wish I had her courage.

[@RichardMumford1]

@@wishicouldspel Why what?

[@RichardMumford1]

Why? Because nobody really knows and I've come to the realization that if you think you know, then you know less than people that don't know. As humans we want to define everything and we want to be right but it's the universe for God's sake, time and space has no beginning and has no end, so if anyone can tell me how that works then I'll listen to the rest of it.

[@alisaspear3382]

You still got plenty of time go live babes. I made a great friend recently, 77 years old, widow, just bought and designed a beautiful little home, put art in her room that speaks to her heart, that depict women "just getting up and going for it" goes to the gym multiple times a week, babysits her grandson, has Zoom calls with friends from college, she has friends in colorado who send her new tea flavors. She's an angel, and a soul sister to me at 25. She made me realize you can live more life in a short time at an old age Than most do in their entire youth. You got this.

[@paulafamularo5001]

You poor thing! 😪

[@RichardMumford1]

@@paulafamularo5001 Just for the record, I don't really feel that way and that is not what I'm communicating. I have so many things to be thankful for, 4 wonderful children that are healthy and happy. I have had and continue to have a wonderful and successful life. I cannot speculate on how it would have been without growing up in the church, we can never know that. Would I have spend hundreds and hundreds of hours working with young men and my boys in the boy scouts? What about the hundreds of thousands of dollars over my life I gave to the church? Would I have invested it and had more money than I have today? It is only money anyway and I have usually had 'enough'. I was not harmed like so many LGBT including my brother. I just think that religions and especially the Mormon religion, need to be honest. Do good things and be transparent. Say how much money they have, how much church leaders are being paid and come clean that NOBODY REALLY KNOWS what is beyond this life. (religion will never do this and thus my belief)... Because nobody really knows and I've come to the realization that if you think you know, then you know less than people that don't know. As humans we want to define everything and we want to be right but it's the universe for God's sake, time and space has no beginning and has no end, so if anyone can tell me how that works then I'll listen to the rest of it.

[@dorelkynaston1468]

Thank you Margi for being there. I hear your gasps and deep empathy for this young lady. It brought me to tears. You verbally gave such support.

[@Omar-kk9fp]

😂😂😂😂 Honestly, though, is there ANYTHING that doesn't bring you to tears?? Exactly!!! You're an American adult crybaby 😂😂😂😂!¡

[@jakemorris9166]

Shes just taking shots at members of the church for things she doesnt understand. She is uneducated and irrelevant

[@barbarasehestedt352]

Oh Margi I wish my mom could have been more like you! So gentle. So understanding. I’m 73 now but you’ve given me a new perspective and acceptance.

[@jeannemarie5908]

Oh my gosh, I had to pull over from driving .. I am crying, Brinley!! I am so so so proud of you for bucking the system. You were NOT being evil. You were being REAL! You have endured the discomfort of anxiety as you were becoming into yourself while being on this ‘mission’. Sweetheart, your mission was much more than you can imagine! DON’T CHANGE. Keep evolving, you have a great, pure heart. You have your whole life ahead of you. Amazing.

[@randyporter3491]

This young lady is beyond impressive. She is profoundly intelligent and self aware, and she has a glow about her. Just a beautiful young lady, inside and out.

[@rennnnnnnnnnnnn]

I completely agree. I was so struck by how eloquent she is. In general, this talk has given me just so much to think about.

[@brigittekarnakowskib.5676]

Èaaaaaaw ear raised

[@suzannelinnell1387]

She still needs therapy desperately. She’s intelligent but still referring to het friends as “ sweet” Personally I feel she’s very angry with no outlet.

[@HunterRobinetteBrandon]

The way she internalized Mormonism and perfectionism is literally the most relatable thing I’ve ever heard on this podcast. Proud of her for verbalizing it so well.

[@staphyjb]

Yes, I would like to know how she carried on so well. The lds I knew growing up became inactive when they became sexually active. I guess everything she internalized eventually surfaced on her mission

[@sean9522]

The sad thing is that the cultural inter competitiveness and perfectionism which is the human element within the LDS culture manifesting itself isn’t the gospel. Elder Bruce R. McConkie got into this with his talk “Seven Deadly Heresies”. He said it’s a false idea that we have to be perfect in this life to go to heaven after this life. Basically it boils down to, what Joseph Smith related to like a ladder-that even after this life we would continue to grow and progress in order to progress towards perfection. Some of that progression must happen after this life “in which we see through a glass darkly”. The important thing is that whatever spirit we invite into our lives is the critical thing. If we live a life where the Spirit is with us, that spirit will continue to be able to maintain influence with us after this life. If we go the other direction and choose to do evil constantly, then that spirit will maintain power and influence over us after this life. And that our life is not free of mistakes and sin-that’s what repentance and Christ’s atonement is for. Jesus did command us in the New Testament “be thou perfect as thy Father in Heaven is perfect.” But we also know that the scriptures relate that the only perfect sinless life was Jesus. The rest of us are actually here to MAKE mistakes and learn from this earthly experience. We will always treasure this life and the experience we gained-the good, bad, and the ugly. Perfection is the goal; progress is the process. “With God all things are possible.” We will know from experience the difference between good and evil. And lastly-our works don’t save us. “For it is by grace we are saved, after all we can do.” We do the best we can do-by no means close to perfect, and yet we are “unprofitable servants.” These things are all taught in the Bible, and the Mormon Scriptures too-the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, the Pearl of Great Price. We are SO blessed as we bring ourselves into conformity with God’s commandments. He gives us guidelines, and as we learn to live them, we are blessed with the good consequences which result. And part of Christ’s atonement is that as we strive to live those things, He gives us enabling power to help us.

[@pamelaabrams9003]

So this young girl jumped out of the frying pan and into the fire 🔥. A church that supports LGBTGIA is not a church sanctioned by the Jesus Christ of the Bible. These ppl leave the church because if social disparities rather than going in the direction of Christ’s teachings in the Holy Bible. Homosexuality is not ok with God. Loving the person but hating the sin is a hard thing to do for most ppl much less Mormon girls. The truth is in the Bible. If Mormons or anybody can’t see that BLM and these acronym agencies aren’t evil then they have no discernment and do not follow the Jesus of the Bible. All the reasons why this girl Left the church had zero to do with being a real Christian and everything with evolving into a feminist and activist for Lucifer.

[@soundlycreative]

@@sean9522 but it’s hard to not go off Gospel when the LDS Faith is off Gospel. I read the Book of Mormon everyday still, but I am very aware of what Christ and the angel Nephi (it’s wasn’t Moroni if u read the original accounts and the early church newsletters) said to Joseph - ALL THINGS ARE WRITTEN pertaining to the Gospel of Christ. It’s so sad that Joseph didn’t head Christ’s words AND changed what was given to him in the Book of Commandments (later changed by the church to allow Joseph to be “the prophet”). Thank God we have what was first produced, so we can discern what is from God and what was changed by men.

[@sean9522]

@@soundlycreative yes I understand how you think and feel this way. I have studied “anti-Mormon rhetoric for some 40 years now from top to bottom and, find the body of it to be specious, based on false premises, etc. thank you for your kind and respectful reply, I hope that you and I and all people may find what they are looking for in their lives . I am happy from your reply that you haven’t tossed out Jesus and a belief in God in your life. May we all be blessed to the extent His light permeates our lives and may we walk true to the light we have. God bless.

[@trembletea]

Just wanted to applaud John’s interview skills. He maintains the narrative flowing and makes sure there are no open loops where the listeners are wondering, “So how did that story end? How did that situation turn out?” And he does all this while giving the interviewee a lot of space to tell their story their own way.

[@sockneman]

I just wish he could say ”could you talk a little bit about..” instead of ”talk about..”. It has less of a demanding sound to it.

[@johnsauve1038]

Being a run of the middle catholic school kid in the 60s was bad enough. Anyone who ever confessed , I touched myself I’m purely ,to the man behind the screen, , can relate

[@sandrabauer1037]

CT

[@gordonquickstad]

John always goes quickly to sex. He’s kind of boring.

[@heleneocleary5888]

I find John riveting not boring at all.He has good interviewing skills and his vocabulary and voice inflections are easy on the ear.

[@skipschauer5535]

About 30 years ago, I found a Mormon missionary on the side of the road. He was suffering from heat stroke! In Phoenix, Az, it gets a little warm here. So I took him to his Bishop's residence and explained the situation. The poor kid was from Idaho!

[@luzquinchia9887]

A little warm? 😂

[@shelbyviana3386]

I left the church in 2020, but always invite the missionaries to come over and get out of the heat of Phoenix! I’ll even put up with their questions of if I ever had a testimony 🙄

[@giantclaw138]

​@@shelbyviana3386 Gosh, how naive and insensitive of them to ask that

[@SocketSilver]

@@shelbyviana3386I’ve never been apart of their church but I always invite them in. We are all humans.

[@Omar-kk9fp]

​@@SocketSilver. Swifty, "apart" and "a part" are ANTONYMS!!!! Do you know what a synonym is? I didn't think so....😂😂😂😂😂

[@hollieanderson-rambo17]

This is my first time hearing this channel and reading through the comments I'm beginning to realize that Margi isn't in all of them and honestly I don't think I can be as excited about episodes that she is not on!! 😫 He is a great interviewer but she adds the heart and the warmth that makes this one of the best interviews I've ever listened to!! Please become a permanent part of this show Margi!! 🤞❤️❤️❤️

[@greenfairy4894]

My heart goes out to this sweet beautiful young lady. I’m so absolutely impressed that she is using her voice. I’ve had my own experiences w the church and lacked courage to speak up.

[@UniversalTraveller_99]

Wow. As a non-mormon this has taught me a lot about LDS that I could never know. I’m so sorry so many of you have been so let down. I wish you all healing and a future of love and joy. What a brave young lady.

[@katiesimpson4514]

Thx for weighing in. I too am nonmormon but had many friends in the Church, who left the Church. This is so informative as well as a joy to hear her journey.

[@CalebConsecrated]

@@cappiece3786 your right 👍little by little the holy spirit will illuminate the thought.

[@CalebConsecrated]

@@cappiece3786 iam against this conflict ....sorry.

[@CalebConsecrated]

@@cappiece3786 He really never overlooks anything He's in total and absolute control of everything 👍

[@rosford5363]

I was raised catholic at a time when priests were literally considered God,but compared to the LDS Church it was normal, why is it that in most religions women have to be modest & not tempt men, because men can't control their thoughts/actions. This young lady is so brave

[@natlove4]

This is the first time I have felt like someone really understands what I went through on my mission. Thank you Brinley.

[@ketlyduever3632]

For someone so young and so fresh out of the situation she is so clear minded and self aware. Sending hugs! This one brought me to tears several times just hearing her vulnerability and honestly and desire to do the right thing. I relate so much to her heart and that religious perfection mindset.

[@keithreeves549]

I think that part of the problem here is that too few people understand or know enough about the illness of depression. Mission president training needs a thorough education on mental illness and signs to look for.

[@emlevy5792]

And having the age change - so many young girls probably thought going on a fun adventure

[@augustoarsenio9032]

This is feels like the mormon corp's principles, policies and procedures are higher or above any human feeling, physical or mental conditions. I thought the Savior Jesus Christ came to assist the sick and the underserved.

[@elizagrogan9454]

@Keith Reeves I totally agree. Depression is very real. I began showing symptoms when I was 16. I had terrifying panic attacks and thought my heart was failing. Thankfully, my mother realised what was happening and got help for me. I lost my beloved younger brother to suicide. He had been diagnosed with depression a few months earlier but didn't want to tell anybody. That broke our hearts, but it reminded me that I was very fortunate to receive help. I've listened to enough Mormon Stories Podcasts to know that mission presidents are woefully inadequate when it comes to the mental health of young missionaries. I often wonder how many took their own lives because there wasn't anybody to guide them. That's very dangerous.

[@9299sara]

How does the interviewer know so much is he Mormon?

[@carissafidik9186]

There were times in Brinley's story where my heart hurt for her so much. So strong, so brave. I took have been in that same, dark place that Brinley (and countless others) was in. If it weren't for my hubby at the time, I wouldn't be here writing this. He actually saved my life. He was there in my darkest hour when I needed him most. Bless Brinley. She is a champion. ❤

[@carolinepetersen1452]

Such a brave thing to do to openly acknowledge how broken she was and how she emerged from such a dark place. What an encouragement to those who are struggling. Thank you for sharing!

[@DizzyIzzyMom]

Here I sit as a 75 year old ……In my youth I was in preparation for the Catholic Sisterhood ……this sweet young women is so brave to start taking back her power. It took me over 40 years to be as mature as this lovely 21 year old.

[@CalebConsecrated]

The holy spirit never misleads a surrendered heart

[@thomashunt6123]

There is no one "Catholic Sisterhood." Repeat! So it makes me think you are fake, because there are many orders of nuns. I think a genuine catholic would have said she was preparing for a vocation or was going to enter a convent, and would probably name the actual order, not "the Catholic Sisterhood," because there is no such thing, lol. Are you an anticatholic fake?

[@MarthaShandley]

Yes, but the deceiver cloaks himself in beauty and gold. I prefer silver and purple the blood of Christ, the bridge between the created the blue blood of kings, the red blood of man, we are the created and we are devine. I'm no theologist or scholar but it seems right to me. He is both. Peace and blessings from the Mother, the Father and the Son a man.

[@fritula6200]

It's never too late to make changes.... DO IT NOW AND GO TO THE CATHOLICS AND WALK INTO A ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH AND ASK FOR HELP....... YOUR TIME HAS COME..... MAY GOD BLEED YOU DONNETT!!

[@Omar-kk9fp]

​@@CalebConsecratedbarf, clown 🤡🤡🤡🤡 o

[@rhandichapman-kidwell3935]

I am soooo proud of you young lady! My nephew did not complete his mission. His father at that time was the Bishop. He came home - made a ton of money getting in with some ground breaking internet music companies back in the day - left his Mormon faith - got tattoos and started drinking coffee! LOL. He is still the same sweet wonderful man I've always known. I am proud of him as well! Don't ever let ANY institution run your life! EVER! This is why I never became LDS

[@lifewithoutfear1213]

Why weren’t you writing a message like this when they told you to stay inside, wear a mask, and keep away from people!!?

[@maggie2sticks717]

The Mormons allow tattoos. Is coffee next? How will anyone rebel?

[@jonathanray7931]

@Maggie 2 Sticks ⁉️ You might want to reread Rhandi's comment. He/she said their "nephew did not complete his mission... [...] … left his Mormon faith… made of a ton of money getting in with some ground breaking internet music companies back in the day... got tattoos and started drinking coffee!" Emphasis on "left his Mormon faith… [before he] got tattoos and started drinking coffee!" Anyway, no the church doesn't allow tattoos (unless - nowadays - new members or even investigators already have tattoos that can't be removed but can be concealed) and no, coffee drinking is not allowed at all. Make any sense now? Take care and God bless you and yours.

[@AryenneMoon]

I love Brinley's end advice about trusting yourself. I feel like that is one of my biggest regrets from my time in the church, that I didn't trust my intuition and instincts, I didn't give my questions and concerns the attention they deserved, and I ignored the quiet warning bells in my mind. I dug in and doubted my doubts, and did all of those things that were expected of me. I did that until my questions got too big to put aside. Then my shelf broke and everything changed.

[@jpnwtn]

That is my story as well. Now it all seems so obvious, but the rest of my family is still in.

[@Leosunbabyyyy]

wow this just was my advice a few days ago as I spoke to a mormon missionary in my town.. I intuitively said I want you to trust yourself and listen to yourself...

[@sommer8337]

I love this young lady!! She’s so aware at such a young age! The Mormon church is EXCELLENT at gaslighting. They always have been. I have been out of the church for about 20 years and I STILL struggle with things that were deeply, subconsciously indoctrinated into me…. I was made to feel like I was absolutely crazy for asking questions. Example-My family was different than most Mormon families. I grew up in Sandy, UT. My dad was inactive, my mom was an atheist, and I was their only child. I wanted some kind of stability, acceptance, togetherness, and spirituality SO BAD that I began walking myself to church every Sunday when I was only 5 years old. This was in the 80s. By the early 1990’s, we had moved to southern CA- I was a beehive in Young Womens, and I truly felt like God spoke to me. That I was CALLED TO SERVE. I felt chosen and special and loved by Heavenly Father. I told my young women’s leader that I felt like maybe I was supposed to be a prophet. I started asking questions about women as bishops, women in the presidency, etc…. And, after she gave me a thorough talking to, I was immediately taken in to see the bishop. He let me know how very wrong I was and to be careful with my thoughts. Then, when I was 14, I got my first kiss. It was very innocent- but yeah. I knew I needed to talk to the bishop. I wanted to be able to be temple worthy to do baptisms for the dead, and I felt like he needed to know. So, I asked for a meeting with my bishop, told him about my closed mouth kiss by the school bus… he proceeded to ask me a lot of VERY inappropriate sexual questions and eventually informed me that I had to repent and not partake of sacrament for a year. Mind you- I am still walking myself to church. Have no family to sit with. Etc. And now, I was in huge trouble. Again. I couldn’t stop crying, sitting there with this old man that I didn’t know. That meant no temple recommend. No baptisms for my ancestors. The bishop told me, if he let me go into the temple, I would literally leave black footprints on the white carpet, because HEAVENLY FATHER KNOWS. Now, I knew that the other girls in YW were sexually active. At our next meeting after they all went to the temple and I stayed home, I asked them if they left black footprints. In front of our leader. They all giggled and blushed and told me how stupid I was. Privately, one girl told me “why did you even tell the bishop? It was one kiss! I just lie and then everything is fine!” I was blown away. That’s TWO BIG SINS- lying to a bishop AND premarital sex… but she didn’t leave black footprints?!? And I would?!? At 15, I was raped. I didn’t tell the bishop. God only knows what my punishment would have been for THAT. In those days, girls weren’t allowed to go on missions. By the time I was in my early 20s, I had “studied myself out.” I dared to read all the church history, Brigham Young journals, Joseph smiths version of the Bible, read the actual Bible cover to cover….. and, after lots of internal struggle… yeah, I wrote my letters and withdrew my membership. This brave, beautiful young lady is so inspiring. I hope that many people who have grown up culturally in the LDS faith but don’t TRULY have a testimony of their own, I hope they will take the time to really study and learn. Being FREE to choose is a beautiful thing. Knowing I’m not inherently bad…. It’s just good. Jeesh- didn’t mean to write a whole novel. Apparently this still affects me more than I realized. Anyway- Thank you to this platform for giving all of these amazing people a voice, and to the interviewers for their compassion and well thought out questions. It’s much needed and so very appreciated.

[@karentucker2161]

❤❤

[@hollieanderson-rambo17]

Sommer thank you so much for sharing this!!

[@deboraholsen2504]

Sommer, I am so sorry to hear that your bishop was so unsympathetic and downright unfair to you!! I’m so sorry he exaggerated and wasn’t truthful with you! I’m so sorry you had to wonder why you were not treated as the other girls and that you had your feelings hurt by him!! I would not want to have a bishop like him, and I wouldn’t want him to be a bishop to my two teenage daughters, either! And it would be phenomenal these days to see a child go to Church all alone!! I must inform you that women have been going on missions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints since …are you ready… 1898!!! The names of the first Sister Missionaries back then were Jennie Brimhall and Inez Knight. The prophet, Wilford Woodruff called them to serve in England. I got this information from the book, Girls Who Chose God, Stories of Extraordinary Women from Church History, which I bought for my girls a few years ago. You really should be careful about getting your facts straight before making claims as if they are true, especially when it comes to organizations like the Church. Other early Sister missionaries who are in my knowledge are the prophet Ezra Taft Benson’s wife, Flora Amussen Benson, who served an honorable mission in Hawaii in the 1920s!! Her missionary service lasted for nearly two years. It took place when she was still single. When my mother was baptized in 1964, the missionaries who taught her the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ were two Sister missionaries. I served a mission to Montana from 1989 - 1991. Except for severely cold winters, I loved every moment of my service, and I have never regretted it for a second!!! So, you must be quite aged by now to be older than these women, as you stated that women didn’t serve missions yet when you were younger! I can’t tell you why some bishops are unsupportive, because I’ve had them too, and it hurts so much when you’re not treated as the other girls, especially when you love Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ! I would caution you and others to be careful and study the doctrine of the Church, not to make your study a study of man and his ways! Because PEOPLE will always let us down, unlike God and Jesus Christ. I’ve had several wonderful bishops, too , but I don’t base my testimony on who they are; rather, I base my testimony on truth! The Book of Mormon substantiates the Bible and the prophecies therein. You and others should doubt your doubts before you doubt your fears! This little girl Brinley is just so ungrateful. There have been so many manifestations given to me by the Holy Ghost, that I would NEVER think to doubt! Being a woman is wonderful! We don’t need to have Priesthood authority, ourselves, to be greatly blessed by it! This is Jesus’ Priesthood, not your former bishop’s! He was not the author of it; Jesus Christ is! Please listen to this new member of the Church, who explains this really well: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fWjMiKiHqJ55h5I

[@sommer8337]

@@deboraholsen2504 Thank you for your comment. I studied the doctrine of the church daily for 3 years before I wrote my letters asking to be removed as a member. It wasn’t something I took lightly. The church was very very important to me. Question- did you grow up as a “Utah Mormon”? Or were you raised in the church somewhere other than UT or Idaho? I was born in 1978- not sure how old you are…. Anyways- Regarding the “women as missionaries” statement, I remember asking if I could go on a mission when I turned 18 like all of the boys were strongly encouraged to do, and being told absolutely not. I also remember “At the October 2012 general conference, President Thomas S. Monson announced that “able, worthy young women who have the desire to serve may be recommended for missionary service beginning at age 19, instead of age 21.” He said that while young women “are not under the same mandate to serve as are the young men,” they “make a valuable contribution as missionaries, and we welcome their service.” So, there’s that. Yes, there were sister missionaries before then, but was it common and strongly encouraged? Even now, I’m my experience, the answer is no. Moving on- I want to assure you that I absolutely KNOW people will let you down and that doesn’t mean GOD lets us down- but remember, ALL RELIGION is man made. All sacred books are written by men claiming to speak for God, or the gods. Have you read the Bible, cover to cover? I have. Many times. I’ve also read the Book of Mormon cover to cover, as well as the Doctrine and Covenants and Pearl of Great Price. All of the books left out of the Bible when Constantine commissioned the Bible as we know it to be put together. I’ve also read Joseph Smith’s version of the Bible (which I don’t understand why the LDS don’t use, since he was put on earth to restore the gospel- and surely his version of the Bible is the absolute most correct version). I studied every essay on the history of the church on the LDS website, all of the various prophets journals, etc. I studied and studied and studied- in my hopes to convert my orthodox Christian husband to become LDS. My maiden name is Young. All of my ancestors are Mormon Pioneers. My advice to you would be to never assume things about people you see comment on a KZbin video. I would caution you to be wary of what men tell you is good and right, and research and study for yourself. If you are happy in your faith, terrific. I, myself, would never push my faith onto my children (even if I thought it was the one true church etc) and I would let them find out for themselves what belief system speaks to them. Also, I don’t judge you or hold any bad feelings due to your judgement of me or your judgement of this “little girl” Brinley (who is, in fact, a full grown woman and old enough to go on a mission, have a family, a career, etc). I understand that you can only know what you know, and you’re afraid to listen to new things that might make you question what you’ve believed to be TRUE your entire life. Believe me, I’ve been there, walked through the fire, and come out on the other side. It’s terrifying- but also so freeing and wonderful. Again- thank you for your compassion about what I went through as a child and young woman in the LDS faith. Weird that you wouldn’t want him as a Bishop, when every bishop- and every single calling period- is called by Heavenly Father himself! And who are we to question what Heavenly Father Himself ordains?!? That Bishop was exactly who God wanted in that position, as was my Young Womens leader, Stake President, and the Prophet of the church at that time. Anyway- I’m rambling…. Enjoy the rest of your day. I wish you wisdom, joy, and laughter.

[@RedValkyrie]

Sommer, I have had VERY similar experiences in the LDS church to you and also through extensive studying and prayer found that I could not continue in the church. Deborah I am not shocked at your response. I also grew up in Utah and experienced many self-righteous Mormon women who felt the need to tell me all the ways my questions were wrong and I needed to "be careful" in seeking knowledge outside of directly that given from the church. The passive-aggressive threatening language chosen is very familiar. I would parrot Sommer in saying do your own research and maybe honestly ask yourself why someone believing something other than your beliefs invokes such a threatening response. God is all about love and acceptance, regardless of differences or faults. Best of luck to you Anyway, thank you for your response Sommer and I hope you've found what works best for you! 💜

[@chrisdollery5166]

an incredible young lady, my heart brakes for her, she will go places, we need more woman like her in this world. Brinley you are amazing and so brave.

[@donlester622]

I’m a Christian, but listening to brinley makes m want to learn more

[@ickarenandtim]

my heart "brakes"? go back to school.

[@rozannmoake8146]

@@ickarenandtimwhy ya gotta pick on people? Maybe they used the voice text thing and it put it in wrong…or maybe they’re a flawed human. Geez man. Give people a break.

[@ickarenandtim]

@@rozannmoake8146 I accept your apology.

[@eggpuzzah3452]

@@ickarenandtimw

[@alisaspear3382]

Margi's voice and message in this is so incredibly soothing. That divine feminine coming thru to heal all us ex mormon women and girls with her gentle support and validation. So glad she was here for this one.

[@mrs.stephens8744]

Hooray for Margi!!!

[@gloriamosby7527]

yes yes yes amennn

[@esthekatie]

Yes I agree! Margis presence is so healing

[@joshuatagg567]

Yes! Margi added to this episode for sure!

[@lorenemiller6725]

⁹ M

[@matthewmitchell68]

It’s crazy how unresolved mission trauma are now only being addressed 13 years after I came home. I have since left the church and am healing with a new faith.

[@lorijohnston7795]

What faith are you currently practicing? Looking for new path.

[@joshwaterman5526]

Just read the Holy Bible. It’s all you need. That’s the issue with denominations in church’s. They get into their own ideas when literally everything you need is written in his word. Find a church that doesn’t worry about the “type of Christian” you are and find a church that just wants to serve Jesus as close as possible by reading his word and following his teaching. Mormons and Jehovah witnesses make everything so complicated for no reason. I did get invited to a LDS church this Sunday by a few young men and I’m going to go to see what it’s all about. But I know they arnt teaching scripture all the time and are out to lunch on a few ideas.

[@cynthiafisher9907]

@truthrevealGoing to the Seventh Day Adventist Church would be jumping from the legalistic frying pan into the fire!

[@lvega5606]

Better late than never. Maybe you'll get to a place someday where you don't need to have a faith, and just let things play out.

[@wmbomb1079]

@@joshwaterman5526 When you reach Ezekiel 37 you'll learn about 'two sticks' one being of Judah and the second the stick of Joseph, Ezekial 37:17 And join them one to another into one stick; and they shall become one in thine hand. It is written in the King James Bible so it must be important & true ie the Stick of Judah is history's Bible, where is the Stick of Joseph, it's still important and true but where is it. I wish you Good Health.

[@cherylduncan5158]

I love it when Margi is on the podcast. She is very kind and understanding ❤️

[@jeannemarie5908]

Margi is so kind and validating and nurturing. I wish I could be more like her.

[@franceskrulac1302]

I’m a never Mormon but grew up southern Baptist and under purity culture. Margie, I wish I’d had someone speak with me as empathetically and open as you did her. Even after years of therapy and deconstructing it is healing to listen to this conversation. Thank you.

[@coldhibiscustea]

I literally gasped out loud when she was told to look at herself every day and tell herself that she's a horrible missionary. She was treated so terribly and there are so many stories like hers. I'm so glad that she made it out and hope she is doing better now.

[@janemaas4225]

Listening to this young woman describing how she was treated, what jumps out to me is that she has been emotionally abused by the institution of the LDS church and its members who call themselves missionaries. So, so, sad. I pray this young woman continues to get help and puts this nightmare behind her. Thank you for sharing. 💜❤️🙏🏼💜❤️

[@katekrieger4646]

Im quite sure not.

[@stephanieallangarman5598]

@@katekrieger4646 WHY would you defend such NONSENSE?? These young people need love and true support. ❤️‍🔥✝️

[@brianprincer8726]

Brinley is wise beyond her years and I wish her incredibly well. Thank you John and Margi for being fantastic interviewers and loving Brinley so well.

[@SC-ie5bm]

Thank you Brinley..!! You are not alone. Telling your story has and will help many others. I honor you, appreciate you and I send you love and support. I served a mission (1974-76), got married in the temple and was “betrayed” by the church (and church culture) in 1980. I left and have had a great 42 years post-Mormonism. You are exactly right to trust yourself instead of church “leaders.”

[@iamzombie76]

Wow! The confidence in this young lady is incredible. I hope she goes places!

[@takeaminute2144]

I dropped out of college (BYU-H) because of depression/mental issues. Still, my mother convinced the bishop to call me on a mission. I came home early, of course, and struggled with the guilt and shame of it for years. I am no longer a member of the church. I wish I had left years ago!

[@klassymom4118]

I love John and Margie together. Such a balance of greet interviewer of John but the compassionate blend of Margie is just magic to hear the story

[@Nadine_IBRfarms]

You are wise beyond your years Brinley. You are so amazing and strong

[@hocuspocus5256]

I see this lady as the true cream of the crop A+++ missionary. She was too in tune with her intuition, too honest with herself, and too respectful to the true value and individuality of each person. Beautiful to see her continue to spread goodness and speak her truth

[@Yanquetino]

My own first questions surfaced on a mission. Eventually those questions became concerns, which became doubts, which became suspicions, which became… convictions. I admire and respect Brinley for having enough self-esteem to face the reality at her age, for it took me years to finally look in the mirror and admit that… the cult is a fraud. Getting out of it was the hardest, yet most relieving, challenge I have faced in life.

[@elinebrock5660]

I'm so glad you came to see the truth of the huge fraud perpetuated by Joseph Smith. I'm so sorry for the years lost in fear, but so happy for your freedom.

[@danstephensen9032]

Then WHY are SO MANY coming back who had "exactly the same suspicions which turned to convictions. Confusion is rampant but not in the LDS Church like you say. No Judgement, just sayin'.... THIS GUY is not preaching the truth. It is "his opinion" of the Truth. There are AS MANY OPINIONS as there are Souls upon the Earth. Best wishes to you and yours. Watch LDS CONFERENCE this Saturday and Sunday. THAT is where you will find Truth, in your OWN HEART. (not from these VERY OPINIONATED, nice people.)

[@Yanquetino]

​@@danstephensen9032 Oh… my. Well… let us know when you’ve got reliable, verifiable, empirical evidence that the Nephites existed.

[@joyabia682]

​@@danstephensen9032ohhhhhh u are here to gaslight mormons who have escaped the cult? 😅 Staaaaap it!

[@danstephensen9032]

@@joyabia682Dear Joy, I like your name but it seems contrary to what I’m hearing from you due to mis-information. I’m 72 and have never seen the slightest shred of “Cultist” behavior EVER in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as Life time member . We are LDS, not Mormon. But you’re welcome to maintain the affliction of MDS (Mormon derangement Syndrome). Former members are returning. Sorry if it’s a bother. You may be interested in knowing also that a sweet family (of Color) we are very close to, brought a friend to Church for the past year. She’s lesbian and has a church she loves but it turns out that she has received much more love and acceptance at our LDS meetings. She was baptized in the LDS Church 3 months ago. She’s SO popular, she has even more friends in our congregation THANI DO! 🤣🤣 She is ecstatic, finding Joy and healing through the unmistakable Power of God, that her gay tendencies though still there, are on a very low ebb. I told her, Lana, we love you just the way you are. God does too and you are His creation. You don’t have to change ANYTHING!! We all have a cross to bear but that doesn’t define us. I would be happy to show you a pic of her Baptism. It was simply beautiful and again, there is absolutely nothing resembling a cult anywhere in the LDS Church: The Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. There are other “factions” who are referred to as “Mormon”. Some of those likely practice Cultist ways, even having child brides and several mothers in the same family. They should be AND ARE arrested in many cases for child Neglect. I can see why there is some confusion. They are not connected to our Faith in any way shape or form. By the way, one of my all time favorite Singers, Gladys Knight, is a very Happy LDS Member. She has enjoyed singing with the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square in SLC UT. She manages her own LDS CHOIR which tours often. Her children in Atlanta introduced her to the LDS church many years ago. The LDS CHURCH DOES NOT discriminate! Not AT ALL! In Leadership, in Church Business and in our World-wide Conferences on line or on Cable all around the world in ALL Nations and languages All represented. So Joy, I would love to answer your honest questions in order to clear up any misunderstanding you have about this amazing Religion that builds EVERYONE UP. Over 16 Million members. Exponential growth in most African Nations now. May God provide you Health Wealth and Peace in your Heart. 🙏 Dan ~~ USAF VET, Church Organist Funk and variety Drummer Still performing Father of 7 amazing Souls!

[@fig_and_peaches_fitness]

What a wonderful warm & calming presence Margi brings to this episode 🤍

[@hollieanderson-rambo17]

I 100% agree!! 😍

[@captainbilly9443]

Agreed. Were Margi not part of the discussion, it would have been more than a little creepy at times - like Mormon girls forced to open their hearts and souls to men without a female buffer present.

[@sidvicious2845]

Hi John, As a new missionary 40 years ago, the pressure was tremendous because our missions had been shortened to 18 months and we were pressured to fill a 24 month mission in this shorter time! I spent my early days washing the dirty dishes the zone leaders left in a shared sink along with mine and my companions. It was a simple task but it helped ground me in something in this high pressure environment! I looked forward to it each day to have these few unpressured minutes to myself. Starting a mission is like trying to climb on a running machine while it is operating at full speed; one has to hit the ground running each day without the knowledge of what is going on or how to do it! It's like being tied to the bumper of a car and you either keep up or you are dragged, and you face this day after day until you catch your footing, or you quit. It is very much like the movie " they shoot horses don't they." The Mormon leadership is failing it's missionaries on so many levels and shouldn't be surprised when they return early, and quit the church! I quit shortly after my mission. The missionaries also observe their leaders and co-workers in a high pressure environment, how they behave, and misbehave. The rose colored glasses of the wonderful message of the church meets the reality of its total chaos/disorder in the refiners fire of the stupidity of it's mismanagement and its effect upon its missionaries! They become the cannon fawder of the cause! The churches members deserve something more rewarding, but it's leadership is absent at the wheel, so it's kind of an every man for himself mentality while on a dead run! One rather keeps up or is trampled underfoot! A mission is a wonderful experience to loose one's testimony!

[@pennydavis9494]

You are so right and eloquent me I felt everything you said! The complete failure of leaders I had nightmares o being rushed in the ever churning cogwheels of the church..Not rushed Crushed Not individualizig Just cram us through and let us rot

[@mellowyellow2022]

In every religion there are leaders at the top making billions below them from membership and having relationships with big companies, such as Amazon, Walmart....the "donations" from church members, estates from very rich people left to the church, etc. The young men who have to work for nothing or be kicked out of the congregation in some polygamous Mormon faiths is nothing short of abuse. The non polygamous Mormon leaders seek men especially who have a natural or pressure to seek high paying jobs or form companies so the 10% given to the church is more and more and more. We would all like to think the organisation we are part of is run by good people but there is not one religious based , God fearing group who recruited and grew their membership large...that didn't have greed for money and power as the backbone. My sister is part of the Grandview location in Bangor, Maine. At this point she's not comfortable and senses impending doom...not with the coming of Christ but with where the church is headed, especially with the swept under the carpet problems with murder, abuse, extra marital affairs, polygamy, hidden homosexuality, the written word being changed often, young people finding themselves in high levels of stress and or depression. The church has to keep sending people out to recruit new members so their bank accounts grow even larger. My sister said the membership is not allowed to know where and how the men at the top live. It would only make sense as every other religious organization, "that man at the top is filthy rich and fat from gluttony". My sister was once a JW when she was about 30 years younger. She was always seeking and needing to continue a relationship with her creator. Eventually following a friend to the LDS church. Here's the thing the JWs also believe there will only be so many saved and they are the chosen ones. If you have love and goodness in you and respect, veneration and humility toward your creator, work hard, stay on a strong path and teach well, you will be fine A relationship with God should never be based on fear, forcing young people to go out and recruit members, expecting free or hard work from their members and saying they are working and giving to the Lord when it's just a way of protecting moneys accumulated. There are millions of good members of any church but there is always greed and gluttony at the top. The Mormon church has actually created quite successful people. There is that. Hard work reaps the benefits. It's a shame such a large membership of 17 million globally do not have a stronger voice. You need trustworthy, honest and true, loyal, moral and is dedicated to a strict code of self preservation and value toward the ultimate goal, which is to serve their creator...not through any other "man" but a direct connection which is one of the simplest relationships. If that type of leader has dignity and integrity and honor.... everything will automatically fall into place. It's obvious that is not happening. www.nbcnews.com/business/business-news/mormon-church-multibillion-investment-fund-sec-settlement-rcna71603

[@finnish1954]

Thanks to Brinley for her courage in speaking up. In 1981 after serving and LdS mission to Germany and then graduating from BYU, I walked from Mormonism. I had seen many changes in LdS doctrines and history and attempts to conceal these things, so I began to have serious doubts about the basic integrity of the church. By my last few months at BYU in 1979 I began to clearly see Mormonism's "impossible gospel of self-perfection." In the spring of 1981 I finally had the courage and faith to leave finally and forever. What a relief to be out from under all that control and dishonesty.

[@jernisharichard5032]

Congratulations 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽, GOD'is calling you, because you are strong enough to endure,also you can now discern from what is of him and not ❤ Don't waste time fulfilling your role in the body of Christ i😢❤😢❤

[@angeliquethorn4525]

They tried to program me and failed (Christian church) so I truly relate to her story. So strong and courageous coming out and escaping your situation and claiming and being your true self now.. you have my support. You are not alone

[@hilary0616]

Mormonism is not Christianity, it’s a dangerous cult

[@jonathanray7931]

​@@MrMuaythai84 Why is it that "the only way to go is to find a black man and breed with him."? Thanks. Take care and God bless you and yours.

[@TaeChucky]

@@MrMuaythai84 You In Trouble 🤣🤣🤣

[@MrZeissOne]

I like this girl. She's a strong, loving and courageous woman who has walked directly into fear, wrestled with her angels and has emerged a strengthened and tempered soul. She is a winner and will always be, regardless of her choice of path.

[@AlittlebitofMari]

They call you a sinner, a rebel but I call you a hero! You saved yourself and inspired others to think for themselves and stand up to what's right. So young but so brave and so smart. Bravo 👏🏻

[@kingcarlos7048]

I joined at 21 (was introduced to it in the military) and attended BYU-I shortly after. I immediately struggled with the culture, such as girls rejecting me for not having served a mission yet. I got endowed and went to the MTC even though I really didn't want to go on a mission, I felt that I had to fit in if I wanted to be as happy as the rest of them seemed. In the MTC I had a faith crisis and went home; I then transferred to BYU-H. When the pandemic hit, we couldn't attend church in Hawaii so I ended up doing a lot of research on my own about the Church which opened up my mind to reality. I just moved to Provo in July and have been struggling with the LDS culture here as I'm now inactive; I have a roommate that's a Sunday School teacher, and another that's a temple worker. There's not enough space for me to say all that I'd like to, but hey maybe they should have me on this podcast to tell my story since I bring a different background/perspective

[@mormonstories]

I would love to hear your story @King Carlos. [e-mail]

[@Constantin9va]

Do it king Carlos!

[@kingcarlos7048]

@@Constantin9va I'll send him an email this weekend, I've been pretty busy this week

[@eclairtreo]

That would be very interesting to hear. Please do consider it.

[@nancylowe2692]

If you want to get real LDS experience & feel the love and faith of the members, live in the mission field. I grew up in Texas & moved to Provo in High School. For me, it wasn't the same. The members in Utah are great, but I always felt like an outsider. The gospel is true no matter where you go, but to really feel the love of the Saints, you need to live in the mission field.

[@chadland2012]

Thank you so much. This is the best Mormon Stories Podcast episode that I have seen so far. I am in my 30s and have wondered so much what it is like for youth and missionaries these days. Plus I would like to thank Brinley for her openness, honesty, and bravery. This episode has been so relatable and so cathartic. Thank you.

[@BrendonKing]

The mission experience can twist and break young adults. It's insanely high demand, non-stop full submission to the church and all of their silly rules. I had to go through a stint of therapy after coming home from my full mission just to feel normal again.

[@Mark-cw4un]

Then, why would you go? Seems weak to me. I have had friends go in the past and they all came home having loved it.

[@soccerhane]

@@Mark-cw4un You see some people are cursed with critical thinking, lucky for you your friends must not have been!

[@bearcat2020]

Brendon how are you now?

[@bearcat2020]

Brandon how are you now?

[@BrendonKing]

@@Mark-cw4un because sometimes, at the ripe age of 18, you make decisions that will impact the next two years of your life without being given all the information, and when you get to the mission field, you're committed, or you deal with the ramifications of not being fully committed to the cause. Would I have gone, knowing what I know now? I don't know. It changed me for the better in the grand scheme of things, and helped start my path out of the church, but it came at a price. You don't know and you couldn't possibly know when you submit your papers to go.

[@healinspaces4u]

I am so impressed by Brinley. She and the Black man in Florida are proof that God lives in us. She stood up for God's love which sees our true hearts and souls. 🙏🏿

[@torreyintahoe]

That's what you got from it? lol

[@Kasamira]

Never a Mormon but grew up in fundamentalist Lutheranism, and when brinley was talking about how everything is controlled on the mission when you’re at a time in your life when you’re supposed to begin figuring things out for yourself it really hit home. It’s very “no wasn’t an option”

[@rebeccablakey2637]

As an ex-Mormon I can very much relate to this young lady. I found that the church tried to cover up family problems . My mother had very severe mental health problems. The bishop and other church members didn't ever address those problems very well. After being told that I was the cause of those problems I felt absolutely guilty of this horrible situation. I left home at 18 yrs. Old and never looked back. I didn't marry a Mormon man and had a civil ceremony for my wedding. I have been married over 25 years, have 5 kids. Sometimes you need to really rethink your beliefs . Don't be afraid to ask the important questions and decide what is best for you. To this day I don't have a relationship with my mother or father but an amazing life with my family. I still call myself a Christian and do attend church with my kids. My experience in the Morning church was a time in my life that I wouldn't repeat. My mother still doesn't approve of my husband and never will. I can accept this now as a wife and mother . Sadly she doesn't know her own grandchildren. I feel free to make my own choices without the guilt of having to be absolutely pure. I still don't drink , smoke or use drugs because of the beliefs in the Mormon Church. That is something that I have taught me own kids .

[@mariachueva8056]

Sunshine your mam and your father within you 💛

[@ellas-dw4xl]

the stigma around mental illness in the so-called church is huge and I'm so glad you found your way out, with a happy marriage and family, and a great life. it makes me truly happy to see that you are now flourishing! x

[@lijohnyoutube101]

@@ellas-dw4xl She didn’t escape she shifted. All religion is abuse, control and brainwashing.

[@kellysims5732]

I feel love ❤️ for you. Persevere my friend!

[@amijenkins3525]

O yeah they do a lot of cover up. I was raped by a missionary when I was 16 all they did was sent home they didn't do anything else about it

[@Muddylittlegoblin]

Margi is such a lovely, calming presence on the podcast and I so appreciate her questioning and commentary. What a wonderfully wise woman! I’m grateful anytime we have her as a cohost.

[@rebeccacall7348]

I never served a mission, but during my time in the military, I had a therapist very similar to hers. She spent more time trying to convert me back to LDS rather than trying to help me. In fact she kept hammering, ever so subtly, that my life was in shambles because I left the church and even went as far as blatantly defending my father's abuse all because he was a virtuous (Mormon) man that my mother loved. Let's just say her career was short lived at that military installation.

[@hollyhuber675]

How are Mormons even permitted to occupy these roles? What if a client presented with any number of issues not endorsed by the religion? In the armed forces? Boggled!

[@hollyhuber675]

How are Mormons even permitted to occupy these roles? What if a client presented with any number of issues not endorsed by the religion? In the armed forces? Boggled!

[@hollyhuber675]

How are Mormons even permitted to occupy these roles? What if a client presented with any number of issues not endorsed by the religion? In the armed forces? Boggled!

[@rebeccacall7348]

As long as they swear they won't let their own biases and beliefs get in the way, they'll get work. My guess is the chance to earn prime seating in the celestial kingdom was impossible for her to resist. 🙄

[@carolnahigian9518]

wow

[@milesboulton9885]

To all of you who put this together, thank you. I'm impressed Brinley, by your transparency and honesty. You're honest with your own doubts while at the same time you're able to show respect to people who should have helped you in more meaningful ways... certainly not an easy thing to do for most, but you will reap the rewards of your decision to live your life in love rather than in bitterness. You're an exceptional young lady. I've been a follower of Jesus since I was 16 (I'm now 68). I still have times when I wish I had all the answers, but the time to have all the answers isn't here yet. May God bless you.

[@jernisharichard5032]

We have revelation until we go,and more after,all praise to him 🙏🏽💕

[@pamelavargas6811]

I started attending the LDS after my divorce...I had 4 teenage girls with lots of male and female young people at my house all the time....i got food from the church food bank so every Wednesday I invited missionaries for dinner...4-8 missionaries at a time...dinner preparation for 10-20 young people made my heart smile...the guys said I was their mom away from home as long as they came some for almost 2 years...❤

[@spunkycat6144]

I haven't even gotten but a few minutes into the video. His (the host) face and voice changes so sweetly when he introduces his wife and it was so incredible, I had to rewind and hope that someday I can meet someone whose countenance changes in that kind of way when describing me. I swear he got smile dimples when talking about her and it's so cute. #marriagegoals #cutestKZbinCouple

[@function0077]

Not only did Brinley not have guarantees of confidentiality with her LDS therapist, her LDS therapist was straight up gaslighting her!

[@ExploreXplore394]

Sounds like it!

[@Bareybienesraices]

So what they do is gaslighting, cognitive dissonance, manipulating, controlling and getting people to the border of suicide. Sounds like psychopaths-narcissist behind the Church?

[@amburwood4022]

I'm new here, and about 2/3 the way through, and we just got to the therapy part... I want you to know that it isn't JUST missionaries who are forced to sign these waivers. For a while, I wasn't able to pay for therapy myself, and so my bishop paid for it, and the only way that my bishop would pay for therapy was if I signed a similar waiver where she can talk to the bishop and tell him how I'm doing... and I, just now, realized how intrusive that was, and it sickens me...

[@elizabethwoodyard8241]

I'm sorry you had to go through that.

[@zxy78267]

That's horrible!

[@bunnybgood411]

Brinley is such a merry, sunny, fun-loving young woman, how unfortunate that she was squelched by the dour, stuffy patriarchs of the Mormon church. Luckily only temporarily. It is fortunate that she had supportive parents back home. She is very brave to be outspoken like she was under those circumstances. What a delightful person she is. I'm glad that she's no longer in that unhealthy environment and can be herself.

[@Seruhruhruhrah]

More missionaries and church members should be a lot more like her. She has such grace and kindness.

[@paulamoore2007]

What a courageous young woman for speaking her truth. Through her awful experience she will help so many people. I feel a deep respect for her.

[@mikemorris4714]

Her truth? There is truth and then there is your opinion she is talking a lot of psycho babble. Too her power back,lol

[@Cody-McDaniel]

I remember making escape plans on my mission. One of my life regrets is sticking it out when I did not want to be on the mission anymore. I feel this.

[@horseshoedaddy]

May I suggest that you let go of the regret. In kind of a backward way I served a mission and and for the longest time beat myself up for going home at the 18 month mark instead of 24. Funny thing is I did nothing wrong. I just got caught in the period when the Church reduced the mission from 24 mo to 18 mo 1984. I felt so much guilt.....Like I had failed to be a "Full time Missionary" As one of my friends today would say..."Ain't that some 💩"

[@uraniumu242]

As a zone leader on my mission and the second oldest missionary (24years old) I was in my mission because I wanted to be there but I knew an Elder that did not want to be there. I told him he should go home, nobody should be there just because their uncle, brother and dad served. At the close if my mission I was surprised to see him. He said I was the only person who gave him permission to leave. He stayed because it then became his decision. I am now 68 and have a strong testimony but I have met every doubt with study. I do not judge those whose experience has led them in a different direction as I was a drug addict and alcoholic prior to my church mission. May God bless all my Heavenly Father's children as they meet the challenges of human life.

[@maryjoybello66]

A missionary in our branch was so "not into serving" you won't see him smile. Until one day, while we were having a social activity, I saw him smiling and mingling and eating local foods with gusto. Apparently he had a talk with my son who jwas inactive for 8 years and who had just came back to Church. My son told him to return home if that is what he really wanted. He ended up wanting to stay. Sometimes what was needed is to be listened to.

[@VioletPeony1888]

We absolutely need to stop the coercion! These young adults are suffering! They would be better off backpacking in Europe and traveling and coming home whenever they come home.

[@takakowilliams3434]

I am Japanese, and I lived in Utah going to Utah State 1996-1997. People over there were so racist and unfriendly towards me. I hated living there, so i moved to California. I am so happy living California ! Thanks to California! I will NEVER go to Utah again

[@kimmoore0427]

I am SO sorry

[@commonsense571]

Oh how horrible. I’m sorry 😢. And angry 😤

[@astro_assassin9]

Sorry you had that experience, to be fair Logan is on another level of hick and Mormon ignorance. I had the amazing experience to living in Urayasu, Chiba for 18 months for work over 2016-2018 and overall had a great experience even though I never got the language down as much as I wanted. So that was tough, but most everyone was understanding and friendly. I’m sorry that wasn’t the case for you in my home state. SLC is much more open and friendly especially today and the outdoors is some of the best in the world. You are always welcome at my home! Sake and sushi anytime! I do hope to move out of UT as I would like to live in the PNW one day.

[@jaykamal1978]

I feel for u that Utah didn't treat u well but generally it's not that hard to get around that. I like the super low crime rate in Utah. Now back to California nowadays, it a mass. People r abandoning California.

[@ludmillarowinsky5479]

@@jaykamal1978No. It’s not a mass. Neither is it a mess. You have never lived there, have you?

[@Jonibaloneyji]

As a person raised in the church of Christ, I can relate to so much of what she says. I'm 67 and I still struggle with that inner guilt of being simply a human being born.

[@williamb.9110]

I know exactly how you feel. I'm 65 and I still have moments of guilt.

[@notbornagainbornright5046]

I'm so proud of you! Mental health is real. I do believe people brought you to that place instead of bringing you up. You had every right to be a good person. 👍 Thank you for being a good person Brinley

[@renaebodine1029]

I am 64 years old and just discovering the truth I finally left the church this year I am no longer a member I had my records taken ot but I have been in active for years and years I always knew something was wrong because I never got answers to my questions and was told in front of my children by the missionaries that I was going to be in outer darkness things need to change drastically the truth needs to be told God Bless the little brain washed sheep 🙏🏻♥️

[@heathermcdougall8023]

I actually got answers that it was untrue, and fake.

[@londonbridges9739]

I will pray for your soul .

[@junetteharper4642]

@@londonbridges9739I don’t think she needs you to pray for her soul. Pray for your own

[@stephanieallangarman5598]

Be encouraged and know that as a Christian believer…you are loved and appreciated.

[@BrigitteDiessl]

Brinley, I think this is so important for all girls your age. The fact that the LDS Church thinks it's ok to make you sign waivers so they can report to your mission president or even your bishop once you're out of the mission field shows us that they have no idea how important the confidentiality of a therapist's office is. If you did that in any other organisation that I can think of, you would have your license to practice revoked, and rightly so. My daughter battled Anorexia for 6 years from the ages of 16-22. In New Zealand, once you turn 18, you are considered an adult so any communication with any staff members at the residential treatment centre she had a frequent flyer card to, was confidential unless she chose to sign a ROI (release of information) which she did choose to do. However, had she not signed it, I wouldn't have been thrilled but as they are legally bound to tell me anything if she was a danger to herself or anyone else, I would have respected it. The idea that the counsellor you saw, in Florida, thought looking in a mirror and telling yourself, "I am a horrible missionary, " blows my mind. It's not only dangerous, it must be unethical. This was such an important episode to have Margi riding shotgun. She is so insightful and has such a soothing way of being. If my 25 year old daughter was ever in trouble of any sort, I would want there to be a Margi around if I couldn't be.

[@lovesunny9970]

Corporate businesses do that with in house therapists

[@auroramiguel358]

Estamos passando por detalhes que um humano pode sentir, atalhos que o inimigo vai usar-nos para nos distanciar do ponto fulcral do Evangélio de Cristo. É muito importante pensar em ensinamentos de Cristo e não seguir fanatismos. Os ensinamentos são divinos... Fora disso são pressões que podem nos levar tirar o FOCO em CRISTO e teremos medos de julgamentos. Faz tornar nossa Fé fragil! Cuidado,cuidado. Joseph Smith não foi perfect e Abraão tbém não foi. E nenhum profeta é perfeito...e será. Por favor.the Vamos caminhar juntos na Fé... não é suposto ser facíl.

[@Photo_Pursuit]

My Mormon therapist tried to convince me to go back on my mission and when I refused he tried to sell me his car 😂 This was all within the first meeting with him! I don’t think church therapists are actual therapists. I’m glad you are here to tell your story Brinley!

[@mkweave8597]

I am in school to be a therapist, and I can tell you that would be considered highly unethical and reportable behavior.

[@Photo_Pursuit]

@@jamesoneil1388 I don’t think that’s true. They just don’t know they are in a cult yet.

[@elche1976]

🤣😂

[@simpsonkauri2224]

Hello serving a mission is a choice that you make and you shouldn't be forced into things that you are not comfortable at?it's a no no! and the church name is not Mormon it's the church of Jesus christ of latter day saints as from today and it continues on

[@Photo_Pursuit]

@@simpsonkauri2224 Oops! I forgot the churches correct pronouns, my apologies. :) I hope one day you’ll find the truth and learn to be truly happy and not what the church tells you is happiness. Have a nice day ;)

[@emkay9508]

What a sweet, strong person she is. Such a pleasure to hear her story. Thank you for your candor. 🙂

[@cyndyatwildrose5551]

Hi I am a 57 yr old woman. I spent a brief amount of time in the LDS Church as a pre-teen teen. I am still struggling with all the things she has been talking about. The messages are so strong they stick with you.

[@lj9524]

Brinley, you are an amazing, intelligent and beautifully warm young woman with your whole life ahead of you! Thank you for your courage and sharing your experiences. Margi and John, thank you for all you do to spread the truth. Love your interviews and channel🙏❤️🧘

[@noborikoon]

I am so impressed and moved by her. This was an amazing interview

[@maddie7899]

Wow, Brinley is an incredible woman! She reminds me a bit of myself except way, way braver. I’m so glad she came on here to share her story. Thank you for sharing Brinley and for being so passionate, courageous, and genuine.

[@Izzrules]

Brinley’s story about the two girls she was witnessing to just gave me so much hope- she isn’t the only one in our generation that feels that way. She gives me hope that others see the humanity in LGBT people

[@Izzrules]

@@roysmith7087 hey friend, Everybody is born with the sexual orientation they will have for life. Imagine if someone tried to “convert” you to be attracted to the wrong gender- it wouldn’t work! The people you are attracted to are simply who you are attracted to. When you fail to acknowledge the words and dispositions of those who you oppose by slapping on the label of “sin”, you are ignoring the humanity of people who can advocate for themselves. Roy, you have no right to use your holy book to make broad statements about anyone’s lifestyle, you’re trying to witness to people in KZbin comments. No amount of faith will change the way people are born. No amount of faith will make it less painful to live inauthentically in gender or sexual orientation. No amount of faith will suicide rate in Utah (clearly). Please do not speak to me about something you clearly do not care about. I am not the one.

[@roysmith7087]

Please understand that I'm not trying to be insulting or be the ultimate judge on this. I see things in both sexes that are admirable but I'm not bisexual or gay or pansexual or even polyamorous. The Bible says that these things are sin. I have friends in various types of relationships I have friends that are bisexual I have friends that are that have been openly gay I tell them all the same thing this is what the Bible says it doesn't make you any less of a friend to me. It doesn't mean that I put them down I just tell them look at the end of Life as we know it physically there's going to be a judgment I'm not trying to be some high and mighty I've been through stuff of my own I've been a rape victim by a homosexual man. I've seen so many lives wrecked and destroyed by this type of lifestyle and wonder why people continue to live like this. I'm not saying that a person should end their life because of it I'm just saying that that these are things that I've seen and the suicide rates from them and the things that I have witnessed personally in my own life in my own family that are that have been destructive. These are things that I don't want to see people go through. These are the things that I would like to see personally and scripturally for the world to have straightened out and and I don't know really how to if you're stuck in this I hate to say stuck we choose what we want sometimes when we choose we don't go with the will of God. When we go against the will of God we step outside of his Blessing we step outside of his influence. That's when bad things happen to us that's when we walk in addiction that's when we walk in sexual sin. The the liking and admiration for people can be there but it doesn't mean that it's a sexual thing. It doesn't mean that you have to be attracted so deeply and call it a sexual orientation when it's simply an admiration of this type of person. When I see a decent looking dude I can acknowledge that but I'm not attracted to him sexually do you understand what I'm going to say when I see a beautiful girl beautiful woman I see a nice looking dog it doesn't mean that I want to go out in procreate with them. What we do in life is what we set our boundaries for. We said our boundaries for the things that we'll put up with in life. We said our boundaries for the things that we want for ourselves whether it's affirmation affection attention connection with other people. As human beings we want relationships, but let them be appropriate and good and caring and loving and decent and moral and and upright relationships according to the plan that God has for us I'm not trying to be down on anybody I'm just saying this is what the word of God says and you want to say about my my holy book ass like this is the standard by which I live and yet you tell me don't come at me like this I'm not the one but when God says do this or don't do this and yes I am trying to witness I openly admit this I witness to everybody that I that I come across to try and present a facet of Jesus in my own life to them so that they can either accept it or they'll reject it the decision is still in their hands you might dismiss me as as this is utter crap and I have no right to say what I see written in the Bible if you don't accept that then look at what the what it says about this in the Quran or in I can't really say philosophy because philosophy is such a broad spectrum thing but in most holy writings for a man to go to another man or for a woman to go to another woman is not acceptable according to the law of God. At that point when it becomes a God thing it doesn't matter what I believe what I say is it's according to the word of God according to the will of God. You might be one of the best people I've ever met but if you're outside of the word in the will of God it still falls to you on the judgment Day to account for the things that you've done in life I say this in love I say this hoping that you will please understand that I don't judge you that's just that's God's place I'm not a god I'm just a human being with a heart to see that people don't end up in a bad place at the end of time. When we take our last breath and step into eternity in the presence of God, this is where I want you to be right with God this is how I measure the the things of my life against the word of God that that guides me. I want you to have that same hope in Jesus Christ and that he is your savior that he is leading you down a right path that he is the first and foremost thing that you think of in the morning when you wake up and then turn to your family and realize that you're all here because there was a presentation of the Gospel somewhere in your life and you accepted it that is my deepest desire in life and then I worry about me I've been through a lot of stuff I'm going through a lot of stuff now it still doesn't change my desire to present God to people and say this is the way that God says to live. I'm not trying to be condescending. I'm not trying to be judgmental. And I'm not trying to tell you that you have no right to your own opinion. If we didn't have a choice then where would we have the concept of sin you can either have the center you can have the righteousness God wants us to live a right life to be humble and to walk with him and learn his ways and walk in his ways. And Jesus says if you love me keep my commands that's how we show we love God we do what he says it doesn't matter how we feel about things or what we think is best for us it's what God says is right for us because he has our best interest in heart ❤️ the scriptures say for God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life it goes on to say for a sent not his son into the world to condemn the world but that the world through him might be saved. God cares and loves for you so much that he gave his best his only part of him brought into this world as a human being to show us the way to absolutely show us as a human being ourselves the way to live. God led by example. God led by example not like a prophet speaking his word through another man but he came in a physical flesh form to show us how to live how to treat each other how to be loving and kind and generous and and caring about each other and to love God first and foremost above all things to love God. And I am sorry if I have missed the mark on bringing this to you and failed at the Gospel of Jesus Christ for being outspoken about how the Bible colors my world. It is my duty to God to present this like this and tell you that God loves you and I care about you enough to present the gospel to you so that you don't meet that second death after the death that we're already appointed to because we will hit the end of our life and when this life ends when we take our last breath on this Earth and enter into the presence of God will be judged for the good or for the bad that we've done in this life and I'm hoping that by faith through grace of God and end belief and trust in Jesus in your life that God will say well done good and faithful servant enter into my rest and that you'll have that peace thereafter. If you don't believe then there's nothing that I can say beyond what I've said all I can say is that in my heart for humanity I love you but in in the scriptures God also loves you but he's also a righteous and just God and must judge sin and that sin if it's not changed up to where you're not doing this sin anymore he it will judge against you because he is a holy and righteous God first and foremost above All things that's why I sent Jesus to take our place as the Lamb of God as the sacrifice that takes away our sin that all you have to do is believe in your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord and then walk in his ways you turn from that sin and walk in God's ways and that is your salvation your faith shows in the things that you do because you're doing them because you're turning from sinful ways to follow God's ways and trusting and believing that God's ways are best for you. What I say is on is by the word of God please don't think that I'm judging you the word of God has specific boundaries and specific things that God's trying to protect us from as human beings as his creation as his masterwork of over all creation we were supposed to be the ones that that had the choice to choose good or evil if we didn't have the choice then we're in is the the ability to have the faith to have the the connection the family relation with God the Father you know the Bible says that that we're either children of the world or children of God but we have the choice which side we want to be on.

[@Izzrules]

@@roysmith7087 you don’t need to write a whole book to justify your homophobia. Just stop being homophobic. Condemning people for things they cannot change is inherently evil and not productive in any sense.

[@liseklerekoper2441]

@@roysmith7087 - Writing a comment of that length is clearly an attempt to justify your blatant judgmental & homophobic beliefs. You can try & spin it all in some “nice” way, but it doesn’t make you any less of a homophobic & arrogant person, nor does it make you “nice.“ Being gay isn’t a choice nor a “lifestyle” either. Sexual orientation at its core is most definitely not a choice. It is inherently part of who an individual is, just as you being heterosexual is. It’s innate. Within sexual orientation, whether it be straight, gay or bisexual, a person can choose who they think is attractive, who they might want to date, etc. However, a person’s sexual orientation simply isn’t a choice to be easily changed nor should anyone have to, so please stop speaking as if you’re some holier than thou “sin” expert. There is so much that is inaccurate in what you wrote. Anyone can cherry-pick verses from the Bible to support their viewpoint. Do you know how many times & in how many different languages the Bible was translated before it ended up in its final form? Do you realize the number of contradictions in the Bible? Do you know that the verse in Leviticus that says “a man shall not lie w/ another man” didn’t originally say that? It was altered in translation & originally said a “man shall not lie w/ a boy.” It was meant to refer to the sexual abuse of children, to pedophilia, which is not at all what homosexuality is. It’s irresponsible & dangerous to continue speaking lies & spreading misinformation, so again, please have some humility & also maybe try not talking so much & start listening, as you clearly have a lot to learn about this topic.

[@carriesmith9943]

Most people see the humanity in the LGBT community! But I am truly sick of their movement! Rainbows, parades, and storytime with drag queens! Teaching inappropriate sex material to very young kids! TRANS teachers trying to trans our children! It's all cause some pervert is trying to make pedophilia a sexual preference! I think they are taking their movement to far! If you think I am crazy, are you OK with the Balenciaga ads that have kids holding teddy bears dressed in BSM? Yeah, wake up! Listen to Dave Ruben? I not crazy!

[@millicentsheridan8980]

U will save so many lives. As a mom raised Christian light; u are an inspiration of surviving this horror. God bless u for whatever u become because luckily you have your whole “true adult” life ahead of you! To be able to share ur story I feel you will save so many lives. U R what a Heroic Survivor & beautiful young woman is. U should be proud you listened to ur gut! women’s intuition is the most powerful thing we have…..it’s a proven fact. I believe men are completely different in so many ways, and I’m not qualified to give a percentage of how many men I think listen to what they gut tells them, because most men are taught to be brave and strong, and have egos and I’m just so touched and I’m so happy you’re alive, beautiful inside and out and you can be anything you want in this life, and I wish you tons of love and success! ❤❤❤

[@stephaniemurphy1997]

You all are so incredible for this conversation! Brinley, you are doing such great work in the world with your care, confidence, truth, and real love. Thank goodness you finally had people to supoort yiu! What great courage!

[@marcellacruser951]

Brinley, I'm so glad you're still here. Thank you for telling your last companion the truth of what you were feeling, and God bless her for being wise enough to get you help. Thank you for hanging on. You are SO resilient. Speaking your truth on MSP WILL bring change to the Church... believe it, know it in your gut. Just keep talking about it and telling the truth. People who need to hear this, will hear it and know that they can stay alive and get home safely.

[@nadeanmcleod6648]

This young lady's honesty is amazing and she has a sense of humor!

[@teem783]

Her nervous giggles break my heart. I was never mormon but evangelical Christian. A lot of this resonates sooooo much. Internalising perfection. The gaslighting etc. Feeling like i dont have a voice. When I left the church i had this recurring dream where i was pulling out this tangled string or gum from my mouth. I just kept pulling and pulling and pulling to no end. It was frustrating terrifying. For months on end i would have this dream😢

[@hsjdkebrk]

From 1:12:20. I'm glad that she had such great companions to understand that she was going through something really hard and that they were willing to "bend" the mission rules to take care of her.

[@parkviewmo]

Brinley's story reminds me of my doctoral program. It was patriarchal and abusive, and I was punished whenever I challenged the culture. I was trapped. It was a toxic system. I ended up where she did. That was the experience where I learned to trust myself. Much love to you, Brinley. I respect you so much. Take those hard lessons and have a wonderful life being YOU! By the way, John, one reason I respect you is that you found Margi to marry! :-)

[@heidiWava]

What was your doctoral program? And I really appreciate your comment, as someone who sees things differently than mainstream, I think! Considered "uneducated", because I don't have a paper education! But also, maybe I'm not that educated scholastically nor by world or practical standards!

[@Earthpsalm]

I adore Margi, and her spirit makes me feel so comforted and loved. What a raw and vulnerable interview. So grateful Brinley is alive to tell her story.

[@phatalbert9310]

She swallows

[@skooliecarol8542]

Margi is Beyond amazing...so happy to learn of you...I could tell you....anything...thnx

[@bouji_]

Is that John's wife? Sorry, I'm ootl. I just started listening to this show pretty recently. edit: nevermind. She is.

[@katbos4995]

I’m glad her mom was a mental health advocate. I remember hearing from the LDS pulpit so many times that if you had anxiety or depression or any mental illness, that you were sinning. I went to the doctor and she said, “oh, you have major depression,” and I said, “that’s impossible, because I’m not sinning. I keep a monthly poster of 25 things I do daily and I cross them off daily. I’ve done every single last one of them. And if I accidentally feel anger, or irritation, I repent immediately.” Sadly, my 21 year old brother committed suicide. In his suicide letter he said that he didn’t feel that he was beautiful, but his music was beautiful. He played 12 instruments and was a very gentle soul. The LDS perfectionism runs deep. And the self hate from not being perfect runs deep in people who internalize all the teachings. I’ve found that buffet style Mormons are much happier.

[@tombarnes181]

Anyone that committs suicide has mental issues.

[@tombarnes181]

I have never heard from the pulpit that sinning causes mentàl disease. I have found that reading scriptures, listening to conference talks or helping someone lifts my spirits when I feel down. Good music and uplifting books also help.

[@ExploreXplore394]

@@tombarnes181 Yes Tom they do subtly teach or explicitly imply that we LDS members should not be suffering from mental illnesses whether from the pulpit or listening to members. LDS teaching feel the gospel should prevent mental illnesses among their members. I am not saying that all LDS members may believe this but their is that undercurrent among members at least when I was a member. Of course that view is harmful

[@ExploreXplore394]

Sorry to hear about your brother. By all accounts he did not deserve what happened to him. The LDS church is a fundamentalist church. We as members are human. The church gives the impression that it wants its members to be perfect which can cause depression and anxiety if we do not live up to their standards. The culture of the church is that members feel like they are being judged if they do not live up to their standards which is linked to perfectionist or conditions of worth.

[@tombarnes181]

@@ExploreXplore394 lots of people in and out of the church have mental health issues. I take medication for depression but I have never felt that it was connected to whether or not I was faithful to my savior or his church. I serve in the temple and church when i can. Depression can be debiliitating and I find that the closer i am to Christ the better I feel. I See it as just another mortal trial that I am able to endure with Christs help.

[@ghaws4255]

I know what it was like for me, growing up a boy in the LDS Church. However, this podcast helped me to understand what my daughters went through as they grew up in the church. I find the greater understanding enlightening but it fills me with sadness.

[@kathybailey436]

Please read the Gospel of John. It is the truth that many religions keep from their people. When you accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior you will have no more sadness, only Peace. You will then not be in a works religion anymore.

[@jernisharichard5032]

​@@kathybailey436 right,and you can feel the love Jesus Christ has for you and your girls ❤️❤️😢😢❤❤

[@nolinpowe]

I really love hearing how people from Utah when they go to the south, they always say, once the humidity hits, it's like a better experience than they ever would've imagined

[@LavaMan60]

My daughter is 21 and just got married to an TBM who served a short mission. They are brainwashed, like I was for 40 years, their lives and money are being stolen, and my daughter's OCD makes this whole quest for perfection much worse. My greatest hope is that her eyes are opened some how one day and she will see how great life is when she defines her intrinsic value and not the LDS Church and loses the controlling influence of this horrible organization in her life.

[@Ojo10]

I have OCD and used to be a fundamentalist Christian. I feel for your daughter so much. I hope she can find support for her OCD, weither that be treatment or a religious support group where she will feel accepted. My thoughts are with you.

[@jojoply]

Cult…

[@LavaMan60]

@@holidayrap Ya, NOPE. Not even remotely.

[@LavaMan60]

@@holidayrap Same back at yah!

[@tausingahafoka9444]

The church is here to stay brother and is true. If don’t believe it ok

[@MaggieMaeMatt]

Brinley, thank you for sharing your story. I’m so proud of you. I wish I had been able to find my voice 40 years ago as a sister missionary. I took me a good 20-25 years to find the strength that you have at such a young age. I think your story will help so many people.

[@bencarlson1663]

Man, Margie is the best and so understanding. So smart and in tune with this young girl. Loved when she responded to Brinley and understood her life plans didn’t go past possibly having kids because Christ would come. She said it so well.

[@sheilafieldhouse.1627]

Temple experience

[@Andy-lr6ld]

The more and more I hear about LDS I am amazed. It is nothing but a cult. I can not believe how nieve their followers are.

[@joshwaterman5526]

@@Andy-lr6ldwell they are born into it. Just like lgbtq parents who raise their kids to be trans or gay. They don’t know any better. It’s so sad.

[@lvega5606]

​@Andy-lr6ld For most of them, they've been exposed to the stuff constantly their whole lives. When they're kids, they see that all adults believe in this. As a kid, I always felt that adults all knew so much more than I did. I can understand how hard that would be. It's the same reason why almost everyone in arabic countries are muslim. I'm very fortunate that both of my parents refused to let me go to any kind of church while I was living under their roof. They wanted me to form my own thoughts and beliefs.

[@jennyallen2526]

I’m an active member of the LDS church, mom of 4 and grandmother now. I served a mission and I have been in many leadership positions, including the young women. I so appreciate the vulnerability and honesty of this beautiful young woman. My heart aches that she has suffered and I appreciate listening to her story. It sheds so much light on our subculture which is NOT the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is helping me see how I can change my own interactions with others - particularly the youth of our church. Perfectionism is a huge problem and judgment is a huge problem. Expressing opinion rather than pure doctrine is a problem. Somehow we have got to learn how to love and accept others right where they are. This podcast has helped me see and then appreciate where others are on their journey and I’m so grateful for their stories. ❤

[@londonbridges9739]

❤❤❤ Yes, with all that being said, we do not abuse our missionaries. Our missionaries are taken good care of when on their missions, and it breaks my heart for her to tear down the church because if her bad experience. It is awful that she needs to tell her story in the light that she is saying that it reflects on the entire missionary program in our church. It is quite ridiculous even the way she is talking about her sensuality. I just have never ever experienced what she has. Never.

[@PMM4JC]

Suicide hotlines and drug addiction programs abound in Utah. Why? Because people in LDS come to the same place as disciples did in Matthew 19:25. “Then who can be saved?” The chapters leading up to this pivotal verse reveal the plan of the “true gospel of Christ”. Only HE can save and our best is not sufficient. Isaiah64:6. Romans 7 and 8 is Paul’s realization of his inability to walk in purity. The blood of Jesus Christ is the only thing that can make me pure. Jesus is THE True and Living GID. He is GOD incarnate. I love LDS Mormons but they are lost in a dark deceptive depressing cult. Pray the god of this world will NOT be able to continue to blind their eyes. ❤🙏🙏🙏❤️

[@captainbilly9443]

@@londonbridges9739 How is using Church-owned "therapists" to help missionaries in mental and spiritual crisis "good care"??? Ratting out a struggling person to his/her mission president is atrocious, and a complete violation of a fundamental cornerstone of mental health care, e.g., confidentiality.. It's revolting and insidious; If nothing else shouts CULT!. vis-à-vis Mormonism, that is more than enough. Mind control, plain and simple.

[@ladyofcranberry9837]

I had no idea what a Mormon life might be like. So I watched this out of curiosity. I identify with liberal Islam and Zen Buddhism, and after watching Brinley's story, I feel so guilty for 'avoiding' Mormon missionaries. I always thought they were so 'certain" about their faith that I wanted to avoid discussion. I didn't realize they may need JUST KINDNESS and an open hearted person to encounter. Shame on me. Thank you for this. ❤

[@agood1]

Agreed!

[@emptynesters2520]

Thank you John, Margie, and especially you Brinley for sharing something so vulnerable with the world! My heart aches for that sweet girl on her mission🥺😭! I can clearly see why these missionaries struggle so much and why they try and stick it out the way they do! I was drawn to you for a reason, I think I know why, I hope I’m wrong, but I think it was to bring a voice to someone (through your words here in this episode) who’s currently serving a mission now….You are saving lives, believe that! Bless you!♥️💖💝

[@VictoriaOz]

Brinley, thank you so much for sharing your story .. I am so glad you survived your religious trauma and deep depression .. breaks my heart to hear your story but you are so brave and courageous! While much of your story is relatable it was still shocking to hear such inhumane treatment to a young vulnerable person. Glad you’re out. 😢 Ex-JW here .. sending hugs. 🤗

[@beverleybarclay7990]

Ex-JW also, suffer from depression, extreme anxiety and PTSD, plus eating disorders

[@IamStefanFinley]

When I was trying to go home early from my mission when my dad was in the hospital with cancer, I was so depressed, they didn't have a mental health Doctor I could talk to, so I had to talk to some other random church doctor who basically told me to get over it. Also my mission president said if it where up to him he would not have told me my dad had cancer. My heard goes out to you Brinley. I thought things would have improved for missionaries in the last 10 years.

[@papillionbella]

So LDS is family first until you're on your mission. Then it's full court press of guilt, and hatred to keep you there. Sounds very Christ like (oozing sarcasm implied)

[@larsha01]

I'm from Australia and have 0 connections to the LDS church but I listened to this all and I know and trust in my heart that Brinley sharing her journey and exposing how she was neglected and failed by the system that she has worked so hard for will save lives and it will have an impact and make people really think and reflect on their views and learn to prioritize helping each other regardless of religion. Thank you. This story really moved me and I'm so incredibly proud of Brinley and deeply sorry that you were miss treated

[@oknowIguess]

I agree. Her story could help other youngsters who are struggling if they are allowed to see it. My fear is that they won't have an opportunity to listen to this podcast. She doesn't say it, but I realized while she was talking, LDS practices mind control, manipulation, and judgment /guilt towards its members. I love God, the father, and his son Jesus Christ, but I do not love man made institutions. They twist the word of God. The message turns into man's word instead of God's word.

[@hmroa3056]

Brinley is such a sweet spirit. I admire her outlook and perception. I would be so proud of her as a parent. Thank yo for being on the program.

[@1mollysue1]

Margi was the perfect cohost for this interview. I wish I could hug Ms. Jensen. What a smart and brave young lady. I wish her all the best.

[@bodytrainer1crane730]

I loved how Margi brought up at one point that it can be so unhealthy to be so serious about everything in the church. And then later on in the interview Brinley mentioned it was having companions who encouraged her to have fun that made her stay on the mission. I think one of the best things about leaving the church (and having good mental health) is that it's important to have FUN! I feel like Mormons never really had fun. Even the fun activities are about converting people or marrying people.

[@Time.for.tea.]

Brinley, you are so sweet and smart and articulate. Thank you for sharing your story and helping others realize they are not alone and there IS a way out. Your story is relatable to people of all faiths who have been victims of religious abuse.

[@MadisonYeoman]

I have a really hard time linking my relationship with God to religious groups (and mostly because of the manipulation, pain and discrimination that groups like LDS use to control) but watching these videos it’s so beautiful to watch how God stays so present in the lives of people who have believed false prophets and manipulative groups and guides them back to the truth without ever abandoning them. I think He sees how faithful His children are and how well they understand His true intention .. and never faults them for falling subject to people who use the Word for evil or skewed intentions. There are so many devout, kind and Christ-like people who follow Mormonism and it’s so beautiful to see that the heart God gave them, free of judgement and persecution still shines thru and shows them how their religion limits the glory of God. Not here just to hate on Mormonism but to witness the Glory! I pray for the peace of every heart that gets to speak and question freely on this platform. ❤️🙏🏻

[@chumark54]

Give this young lady a shout out for being so brave and candid. Thank you, I'm sure you've helped a lot of people. Her experience resonates with me so much. As a kid I also questioned and felt so much guilt about sexuality and masturbation, and on my mission I felt so sorry (and lost) for an investigator who so bravely admitted to me that he was attracted to men and asked me what he should do. I admire her courage so much that she dared to act and speak her mind, pointing out the racism in the early church leadership (unfortunately, in the mission, there are things you aren't supposed to tell the truth). She's a bright, courageous, and intelligent person. Edit: adding personal history.

[@mkweave8597]

This is such a heartbreaking story. Next time a Mormon missionary knocks on my door, I am going to let them in so I can check in on them. ☹️ I will never be Mormon, but I can’t possibly not speak with them now.

[@DeciSpades]

I have become friends with many of them. And I will never express how I am against it, but I will always be there for them. They are very sweet people or the most part. The young missionaries. And some of the things I have witnessed have been scary. Such as them going around video calling men that act 'strange' and having to have lessons in person. I know for a fact that some of the people are definitely prvertd. They think that showing skin or anything is making people aroused? Not quite. Presenting attractive young and innocent girls is the ticket for a lot of em. Thank you for posting this comment.

[@valeriabezzi5183]

I speak with Mormons.but I remain in my opinions.They are very genuine,good,onest,helpful.friends at last.

[@peterbaldwin1519]

I'm jealous you had such good promises in your Patriarchal blessing. I had mine when I was 16 and was only promised trials and tribulations. And that's if I remain worthy! Well I still had all those disasters no matter what my worthiness was.

[@lar-in-a-crisis]

Yes, please do. The nonmembers who talked with me as a missionary were the ONLY ones who didn't guilt me for struggling on a mission. They were my rock. Shout out to my Muslim upstairs neighbors in my last area; they kept me going

[@edsonlourenco2204]

I was for almost a decade and now it's crystal-clear for me that I was gaslighted, really manipulated like people just put these ideas of being a sinner in.my mind as if I were worthless that I could barely carry on with my life. Now what she says totally resonates with what I went through back in the days.

[@ltraina3353]

Brinley is so thoughtful and well-spoken, can’t wait to hear part 2, bc I want to know what her current situation is like. I wish her all the best and I hope she is loving live. I’m 51, and always hear people talk cr*p about gen z. They forget that people said the same stuff about millennials and gen x, and even the baby boomer generation. Brinley seems like a wonderful person and I’m glad she’s standing up against that gen z stereotype. She’s so brave to speak her truth, and I wish her all the best

[@CalebConsecrated]

The holy spirit is directing her journey

[@Ablank2011]

What a precious young lady. I hope she blesses the world with her passion and compassion ❤️

[@emmaLEE2667]

I am so impressed by this young lady. It seems to me a lot of time is spent overthinking and agonizing, rather than simply living. Wishing her many wonderful experiences in her life. 🙏

[@jant9254]

I was 13 and in Young Women's group, and I talked about wanting to go on a mission, then go to college and have a career. I was told I was selfish and that I shoukd want to get married and have a family more than anything. I was also told that asking questions in seminary was tantamount to having a lack of faith. I left the faith two years later.

[@mormonstories]

How are you doing now @Jan T?

[@jant9254]

@@mormonstories Honestly, I was so very lucky to have a father that taught me it was okay to question. We were converts when I was 7, so I spent less time in the faith. My parents were divorced, so I was already an outcast. By the time I started going to seminary, I was questioning everything from why I could not hold the Priesthood to the very existence of God. I am now agnostic, a feminist, and most definitely an ally for LGBTQ IA (my daughter just came out as MTF Transgender.) What my experience with the Church taught me was to question it all, thanks to my father. Thank you so much for your show and caring for those of us who escaped.