Leaving the Saints: How I Lost the Mormons and Found My Faith

How I Lost the Mormons and Found My Faith by Martha Beck

“Our task is to turn the anger that is affliction into the anger that is determination to bring change.”
– Barbara Deming

This will very likely make some readers, maybe you, angry. I read this quote while reading Martha Beck’s book. I’d become familiar with her when she wrote the column in O Magazine. I liked her advice then. Recently, I listened to her interview on the Mel Robbins podcast and became curious about her life.

Any group, religion, or cult that takes over the free-thinking minds of its followers really infuriates me. (My apologies to those friends who identify as Mormons) Most Mormons (I know they no longer like to be called that) do not think they are in a cult.

Just to be perfectly clear, this is the Google definition:

A cult is a social group, often with unusual, extreme, or unconventional religious, spiritual, or philosophical beliefs and practices, that exhibits excessive devotion to a person, object, or goal. Cults often isolate members from the outside world and may employ manipulative or coercive techniques to control members’ behavior, thoughts, and emotions. 

from Google

I’ve done my homework, and you should know that in the distant past, I was courted by Mormon friends, especially after I had three babies in three years (37 months to be honest). When I learned the depths of this “religion,” I became skeptical, and I’m glad I did.

I encourage you to study before aligning with any group or religion.

Suggested reading:

Beyond Belief, My Secret Life Inside Scientology and My Harrowing Escape by Jenna Miscavige Hill
Troublemaker: Surviving Hollywood and Scientology by Leah Remini; Rebecca Paley
Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer
Educated by Tara Westover

---

In southeast Texas, I’m known as the “Old Bird with Feathers of Wisdom for Women and a Soft Spot for Single Moms.” That is because I’ve worked with single mothers since 2007. I am eager to share the knowledge I have acquired, both from the school of hard knocks and through years of study and training.

         As a professional, I have worked in various areas of the business world and the education sector. I taught high school, and later I taught Braille to blind children. I even taught on the college level for a few semesters. My formal education includes a B.A. in Speech, Art, and Education, and a Master’s degree from the University of Texas in Curriculum and Instruction.
In 2007, I established a nonprofit called Single Moms EmpowerEd, specifically for single mothers.
I am married to Sam, and we each have three grown children and fifteen grandchildren, as well as an adorable miniature poodle.
I use stories to illustrate the points I teach. We can learn valuable life lessons by observing the lives of others. My own stories have been published in books and national magazines. You can visit my websites to learn more about my work.
It is one of my greatest pleasures to share my knowledge with others.