The Stigma Around Repentance

When you think of repentance, the total change of mind and heart, does it fill you with joy? Because repentance takes hard work, the idea of it can evoke feelings of pain and guilt. Taylor found out for himself why, despite the challenge, change is worth it. He shares his incredible story in this interview.
Taylor, 29, grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah. His family taught him about the gospel of Jesus Christ. As a young man, he served as a full-time missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
When he returned, however, his dedication to faith and God dissolved. Drugs and alcohol consumed his life. Over time, Taylor got married, but his relationship fell apart when his cocaine use and consistent lies became the norm. Devastated, Taylor was swallowed up in addiction.
When his family staged an intervention, Taylor willingly entered a rehabilitation program. From that point on, he began to heal physically and spiritually. With support from professionals, loved ones, and inspired Church leaders, Taylor discovered what it meant to be truly forgiven-both by God and by himself.
"When I accepted that I could forgive myself, that was the exact moment that I felt God's forgiveness," he explains. "I'd say that's the hardest part of repentance; coming to terms with what you did."
Taylor says he still repents every day for mistakes, whether large or small. His daily efforts to stay close to Jesus Christ have transformed the way he feels and thinks.
"I know who He is today better than I ever have my whole life," he states. "I feel my Savior in everything that I do. I feel him in the sunlight. I feel him in the touch I get when I shake hands with someone else. He's constantly reminding me that He's there for me, that He hasn't forgotten about me. And it's only with His help that I have the courage myself to continue to pick myself back up and to continue to do what I know He expects me to do."
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[@DBPCINC]

My friends says that he always thinks of repentance as not saying "forgive me" but "heal me" or "help me stop doing this" through Christ's atonement.

[@returnwithhonor7]

I think it essential to ask God To heal us and help us become more like Him when we repent and to ask for forgiveness when we repent. We need both. There is no doubt in my mind that when we do or say or think something that we shouldn't, it hurts God. When we are being mean to someone, it hurts God because God loves that person as much as He loves us. It is the least we can do to ask Him to forgive us for hurting Him and hurting that person's feelings.

[@Orion227]

One doesn’t go back to church for the people’s approval, one goes for God, if people are judging then that’s their issue to overcome, it is not a reflection on your journey.

[@shannapink801]

I absolutely agree!! I am sure that you've heard the saying, "One goes to church for the teachings, not the people!".. However, I personally find the people to be amazing also!😘

[@jimmykennon9499]

I'm a recovering addict/ alcoholic and I've been baptized into The LDS Church, nearly two years now. I co-run, fortnightly, an ARP meeting ( The LDS Church Addiction Recovery Program) Having The LDS Church and The Book of Mormon in my life, has helped me heal mentally, spiritually and physically....it has definietly improved my life; I still feel The Spirit from the Missionairies and in Ward on Sunday

[@bradcurtis5324]

I spent years in AA. I found the Churches program noble but lacking and too much at the same time. It could be fixed. The Anonymous part of AA is vital for talking about deep issues with a trust of non judgement. Some people are not ready for the steak when they can only handle a broth. I have 39 years sober. Ministering and sponsorship are some of the greatest tools of AA and I didn't find that in the church program.

[@darlamenden1525]

Úo

[@kelliewood9544]

"You're never too far gone", love this!

[@JuanMoreno-un8sm]

She said "It is not always a miraculous turnaround" but I think that the word she was looking for was "sudden", because love and repentance are miracles by themselves

[@willbowden6897]

Thank you for putting this out there. There's a large number of members who feel ashamed because of their sins and worry that people will not accept them even after they repent

[@AA-sh9ik]

I usually don’t click on these videos right away but today was different. Something kept telling me to click on it and listen to it. I am grateful that I listened to the still small voice and clicked on this video. It was most definitely a video worth watching especially listening to his testimony. I love the gospel! 💙

[@NephiAcaling]

A A same here.

[@dantracy1204]

I know how u feel I had to go to my bishop and tell him everything now im in day 78 and proud God will never leave your side and in the LDS Recovery program the best thing on earth and getting ready to get sealed to my wife Sharron anne Tracy who passed away 2 years ago

[@jovannyibarra2684]

Gosh, I’m so happy for you and I know your wife loves you. I’m glad you got sealed. You are a blessing to your family!

[@kagisothale1180]

Thank you for sharing your story dear brother. It takes immense courage. I feel the church can do more in sharing such stories, even those of missionaries who have been sent home and there recovery stories. The Gospel has a real power to change.

[@carefulcarpenter]

I am a craftsman and carpenter. I have found very few who understand the wisdom of a carpenter's son. My son is that. I became a self-employed craftsman because I felt it was the best way I could serve God. I learned my skills not by schooling, but by direct personal experience and observation. The Lord is a far superior teacher than any book I could read. I knew the concept of repentence long before I understood the word. In fine carpentry, the beauty and quality are God's work; it is the eye of the beholder that recognises these aspects. They can't be taught. My son learned from the presence of his father more than the words that came out of my mouth.

[@UtahKent]

The important thing He said that I heard was when he mentioned DAILY repentance. It doesn't mean constantly beating yourself up, but it means constantly correcting your course in little ways that turn you back to following Christ. The greek word used in the New Testament that is translated into "repent" means to change your mind or change course. It reminds me of Elder Uchdorf and his analogies about flying and making constant course corrections in order to reach your goal. Repentance is not penance or paying back, it is turning back to the course the Lord knows will bring us back into companionship with Him, His Father and the Spirit. They NEVER turn from us. He who "descended below all things" can raise us above all things as we turn to him and see his love. That's how I see him ... daily. What joy. The blessing of repentance. Turn to Him, and live.

[@quinn470]

❤❤

[@smcpatrick]

Way to press forward Taylor! It is hard. The daily is hard. Keep pushing forward and thank you for sharing your story.

[@bbuyack]

These are usually audio only sessions, but the video adds another layer that makes it so much better. Hope the church will keep doing more of these on video and not just audio.

[@smarkl54bbin]

I too love these videos they get right to the heart of the subject and are direct yet very loving in the message they give. They make you feel there is hope in the midst of despair.

[@gloriafinau6151]

So proud of you Brother Lloyd. I remember serving with you and I’m proud of the man you are today. X

[@ashnikfield4224]

I love this story! This guy seems like such a wonderful guy! I’m so glad that he found his way back. I’m so happy for the opportunity to repent

[@cayotebeatsod]

Yes the word repentance fills me with joy. If it doesn't fill you with joy then you just need to educate yourself with "The Word" a lil more till the word "repent " fills you with joy!

[@josephpacetexas]

Smart.

[@cayotebeatsod]

Joseph Pace thank you for the compliment. But in all honestly I didn't give this much thought when I wrote this. I just felt the need to say it. Praise be to God, Jesus and the Holy Ghost.

[@cayotebeatsod]

Although I understand why he is crying he is crying because he has repented. He now understands the love of Jesus Christ and Gods kingdom that feels contrite. As on the cross our Lord said "forgive them father for they do not know what they do".

[@jengrimmett9449]

What a sweetheart, I just want to give him a big hug!

[@jbanderson2112]

This story is so great, and I'm happy to hear that you had the experience of the big picture - supportive, loving family, ward, Bishop, Stake President ... so great, and that's how it always should be.

[@melvinborgemo1945]

god bless this man i needed this thank you mormon!

[@erinajoan]

Thankyou for being so bold in sharing your testimony with us. I gained alot from it. God bless xo

[@emz1016]

Loved this interview very brave individual. Repentance is real and everyone deserves another chance if they desire to change. ❤️ wouldve loved to see the interviewer allow him more to share his own story instead of leading to where she wanted him to go. But great vid!! Very inspiring...

[@jovannyibarra2684]

I noticed the interviewer did not allow him to share his story that much. But, I feel like she tried to keep him from going in that rabbit hole of thoughts of his past. Sometimes the past will haunt you and she have been trying to keep him in the present. Idk I may be wrong.

[@monicastock249]

Thank you for being willing to share.

[@helentew6393]

Thank you for this. I had my name taken off church records and just got on the wrong way of life. I am having lessons again with the missionaries, but the hardest thing right now is repentance, I'm suffering with depression and anxiety a getting help soon but the fog in my head is hard to get through. Bringing down the walls i brilliantly built to protect my heart are so hard to bring down. But I will not give up , I so WANT to understand repentance and this has given me hope. Thank you so very much.

[@helentew6393]

Taylor, so moved my heart. So many people have addictions. I could never know how it felt to struggle overcoming what he did. I gave up smoking and that took about 4 attempts. Im so proud of Taylor, and all the people going through overcoming addictions. Much love to them all.

[@nickolaswalthers7531]

I always love these videos, great to watch on your free time and it makes my day whenever I hear these. I think repentance is key for all of us and I'm greatful we have it.

[@josephpacetexas]

Nickolas Walthers I know. I like to watch or listen when I work out. Gives me as much energy as upbeat music.

[@jovannyibarra2684]

You have inspired me. Sometimes words cannot describe how one feels about certain moments in life, but you did a great job for those who have struggled with alcohol, drugs and mental changes. Thank you.

[@annevincent8769]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I'm sure it will help a lot of people.

[@rinatema911]

Thanks for sharing this beautiful story ❤️❤️❤️ I wanted to listen to someone that really experience life 👏👏🙏🙏🙏

[@tinacarvalhoBodyandHealth]

Gods power in our lives. thank you for sharing your story young man. Its a wonderful guidance

[@akaitikimi5525]

Without REPENTANCE, there is no MERCY, without mercy, there is no JUSTICE, without justice, there is no PUNISHMENT, without punishment, there is no LAW, without law, there will be no GOD. Repentance, is the eternal mercy of our Father, made available to each and everyone of us.

[@coraluz3247]

I am so thankful that he is so brave to be so honest and humble to talk about this, for the sake of others also. What a brave and great soul

[@leswalker2639]

Very good to be able to visit the show and the testimonies of others that struggle. I say there will heal our hearts bodies and Minds if we do repent and that's what we all need to be one with Christ. He is absolutely right surround yourself with good people because the bad Love's misery and Company just don't be a part of that. If you hang out with the bad people it seems like they always need to justification the bad to make it sound right to do bad then they're happy and satisfied.

[@madzazmarland3785]

I don't have any family members that are active church members, but I've been there. N as you, my area 70 got intouch with me. Me, I was in ora who am I that a dispale of the Lord could be aware of me...I was so humbled.

[@jenfira]

What a great video. I agree with what he says at the end about being aware of who you surround yourself with. It's better to stand alone than those people who influence you in a bad way. Been there. Done that. This is such a great video! Thanks so much.

[@310rko]

Awesome Dopamine Blossoms

[@madzazmarland3785]

Nothing worth doing is ever easy... everything that you have to work for, you value even more...

[@ELCAPATAZ]

I love you brother. Thank you for your testimony. I'm actively fighting alcoholism. It's not easy. But you give me hope.

[@churchofjesuschrist]

Have you heard of the Church's Addiction Recovery program? You can learn more here: addictionrecovery.lds.org/?lang=eng

[@AlmaDrid-Satchitananda]

I am going through the same process right now. Thank you for sharing.

[@fatsofarai]

at 19:04, your statement. You really were talking to me. I loved watching this. Thank you.

[@RaeannPeck]

I'm so grateful for this dear brother who was so willing to share his experience. I rejoice that he has turned his heart to our Heavenly Father, and our Savior. That's he is led by the Holy Spirit. And that he share the message of hope and love. It's never too late to turn our hearts and run to the open arms of our Savior and Father. Sadly, my son who was also a returned missionary...........didn't find his way back from struggles in this life. But, I'm assured that Jesus is the Savior of the living and the dead, and that there is always hope in Christ.

[@janetrashell8454]

I think making restitution back to the people that you have harmed helps you to feel like you have earned the true repentance you seek. Can you imagine how you feel when you go overboard to make things right. I believe treating yourself well and kind is a way to make restitution to yourself. You deserve to feel worthwhile and treating yourself that way is a nonverbal way of showing yourself you are worthy.

[@JF14Official]

God Is The Savior!!!!

[@andrewdurfee3896]

Thinking that other people are judging you is definitely something that happens often. From personal experience it is a major burden and I realize now how impractical it was for me to think everyone was judging me. Satan is real and doesn't want you to go to church or be in or around holy places or good people to receive strength and healing.

[@ziolapolo266]

hermoso testimonio, y puedo ver las promesas de Dios cumplidas en esta persona, el creció con el evangelio, ,se apartó, allí las promesas cumplidas ,no se perdió sus padres hicieron el gran trabajo de instruirlo en su niñez

[@deborahcasper6120]

Thank you Taylor...

[@FactFables-Unveiled]

Amen brother you give me that hope too for repentance

[@lynphillips2109]

Great videos. Question: are we going to change the name, "Mormon Channel," to something else to comply with the announcement today about not using the word, "Mormon," unless referring to The Book of Mormon, the prophet Mormon, or an historical place like, the Mormon Trail? I don't mean to be a bother. Just wondering. I know we've been using the name, Mormon, to describe ourselves for a while, since that's what most of the world calls us.

[@chuggco]

Praying to know how to Pray for forgiveness... Amen

[@maedrosbott5274]

I'm glad I never grew up in the church - my labor started at about five in the afternoon and the nice part is that my wages will be the same as those who started in the morning, I'll be paid the same denarius and before those who started in the morning. Matthew 20

[@janetrashell8454]

I kind of wish you would have left it with his words or left that last part of yours(the interviewer) written on the screen. The impact would be stronger. It jars you out of the moment he created and is too distracting. Just friendly tip because this video is great.

[@Ascender4ever]

Repentance is retracking your life onto the path of eternal life. The commandments shouldn't be considered commandments they are the path of life. God demands that we live forever that is what the commandments are eternal life. For whosoever eateth of this bread shall live forever Jesus being the bread of life and the fountain of living waters is a testament to how much Heavenly father wants us to live forever by sending his son into the Earth to give us a way back onto the path of life.

[@american236]

Thank you.

[@rigorous-course]

ohhhhhh!!! Good job. amazing history.

[@jimrenken3660]

awesome -only wish the lord would do it for me

[@CoolioBeans]

Read the book The Miracle of Forgiveness by Spencer W. Kimball and you'll understand why there's a stigma around repentance.

[@nathanbanks2935]

Thanks for sharing your story! I can't think a better gift we can receive here in mortality, than the free gift of repentance! It shouldn't be a grueling experience. It should be a joyful liberating experience. Satan tells us lies that repentance is a terrible experience, and that Christ's atoneing sacrifice doesn't apply to us, or that it only partly applies. This is simply not true. God loves all of us so much, that he sent Christ to suffer and die for each of us! Why would he suffer everything for all mankind, if his grace for some reason doesn't work for us? He is a God of truth, so his grace can work for everyone, who chooses to access it.

[@brandidolfo6628]

☺️💞

[@abug5004]

The smirk on this guy...he seems like he's probably fun at parties.

[@Lars-os4sw]

hallelujah, preis the lawd, preis him in all his holy glori! AH! Hallelelujah!! HlalelujaH!!!

[@legosalamander]

*integral

[@bellechocolate6064]

he is creepy

[@ELCAPATAZ]

No he's not! He's got more spiritual insight than you ever wish!

[@45s262]

That's what a soldier looks like!

[@adamanderson6442]

This is a man who has been to hell and back, and fought a war most people will never understand, comprehend or have any compassion for, and came back the victor. He came back stronger. Aaand all you have to say is that "he's creepy"? Are you kidding me right now?

[@barbsmart7373]

He sure is. He is Courageous Remarkable Exceptional Enlightened Praiseworthy Your inspiration I cannot see much of this man's face because I have the text covering my screen. So what remains in sight are great glimpses of his eyebrows, showing the feeling of his words and his eyes which are honest and make excellent contact with the interviewer. I also see his shoulders which show a real relaxed and calm presence, oozing confidence and self acceptance. (Self acceptance is an aspect of his message). I am also left also with his voice which is also calm and relaxed and demonstrates the peace we are all searching for in life. Above all, he exudes a spirit of peace and understanding. I am very grateful and inspired by the honesty and humility shown which we can all learn a lot from. I always remember athe speaker Rene Brown who studied shame and vulnerability. If people aren't prepared to even get in the ring the way she does, they are of no consequence whatsoever. I am also impressed that every single comment here to date, has received "likes" by others people. The only exception to date are the comments from people projecting their ownselves, who I will call 'creepy' and 'smirk'. Needless to say, their are hundreds of people here with positive things to say and good comments they like, for every weird one from people who don't don't show their faces, don't give their names, can't be honest about themselves, are not aware of their own projections, and cannot recognize the spirit even when they are holding it's power in the palms of their hands. Well done everyone here, and this fine young man who has taught us all something here. And as a true follower of Christ, he states "no one is too far gone". Thankyou Brother.

[@jamesmccluskey8055]

@Riley-Kelly OBrien “Mortality is a school of suffering and trials. We are here that we may be educated in a school of suffering and of fiery trials, which school was necessary for Jesus, our Elder Brother, who, the scriptures tell us, 'was made perfect through suffering. Lorenzo Snow