It felt only right to begin this journey with sharing my own.

I grew up in the heart of Utah County in what I would refer to as a “cliche Mormon household.” Two faithful parents, seven children, a father who works at BYU—I was living the stereotype. But at age 15, due to a series of painful events and a battle with my mental health, I left the faith of my childhood.

I spent the next 8 years struggling, wandering, and searching for truth—until five years ago, when I had a miraculous, born-again encounter with Jesus Christ while living in Thailand.

I never wanted to come back to religion, but was guided to eventually read the Book of Mormon. I quickly received a witness of its truth.

A couple of years later I went through the temple for my endowment—but despite my extensive preparation it was not what I expected. The challenge of that experience initiated a journey of deeper study to find out what all of this is really about.

That journey continues today, and my hope is that you will join me as I continue to reach for understanding and meaning in this peculiar place that is The House of the Lord.

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