When the Shelf Finally Broke: Shedding the Garments and Leaving Mormonism

What happens when the questions you’ve been told to “put on the shelf” become too heavy to ignore? Vanessa shares her journey growing up in the LDS Church and ultimately questioning the beliefs that shaped her identity, motherhood, and understanding of God.

She takes us inside Mormon traditions, including temple garments and the practice of “putting things on the shelf” when questions about faith become difficult to reconcile. Vanessa describes the emotional significance of finally removing her garments and how that moment became a symbol of reclaiming her identity and freedom.

She also discusses her search for Heavenly Mother, the support she received from her husband during her deconstruction, and her realization that much of what she had been taught was rooted in fear rather than love. That realization ultimately led to her decision to leave the Mormon Church.

Now on the other side, Vanessa reflects on curiosity, self-connection, and learning to trust herself again. She offers encouragement to anyone questioning their beliefs or navigating life after organized religion.

Ep. #130

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Takeaways

~Vanessa was raised in a loving LDS family but later recognized the cult dynamics.

~The church provided structure and community amidst family chaos.

~Shedding temple garments marked a significant turning point in her life.

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