My closet has a revolving door. I've gone though being okay with it to being totally in denial.
Anywho, then I joined the church so I could be a "normal" person. I continued to deny all my true beliefs (I've always truly considered myself a Pagan, although I suppose a conservative one, depending on how you describe conservative) I went back and forth through my revolving door and each time with more damage spiritually and emotionally, but here we are. I'm ready to quit. I'm ready to be true to myself.

Mormons often lose track of who they are because the church favors those who adhere to narrow and exacting expectations.

Its always best to be who you are instead of being the person

you think people want you to be. There's only one you. Be you.

One of the old Mormon mottos used to be "Be honest with yourself". Now it seems like Mormons have turned that around to "Be what we tell you to be".
"Be honest with yourself" is some of the only really good advice I ever received from that church.

I remember those "Be honest with yourself" posters.

They talk a lot about "integrity," but they tend to define it as
"obeying Mormon leaders and rules." Because, hey, since you're a
Mormon you don't have integrity unless you are our slaves. Yep,
that decision you made at 8 years old doesn't allow any wiggle
room.

Of course, when one if the members who actually HAS integrity
stands up for truth and decency, they get their garmies in a
bunch and have to convene a "court of love" before the idea of
truth and decency infects the membership.

Remember, truth and decency are not considered a valid defense in
a court of love.

Sometimes it takes a while to figure out who our authentic selves are. It’s okay. I figured out who I was when I was in my 50s.

Learn more about yourself. Forgive any judgment you may have placed on yourself. And, explore new ways of thinking while appreciating others. Hugs! The Boner.

That's very important Boner.

Thank you all for being so supportive. It's really nice to get this type of encouragement at this point in my life.

The board can get snarky at times, but it would be awesome if you joined us. Most folks here care a lot. On your journey, please remember that who you are is a wonderful unique person. You are quality stuff, and your life will be a gift for your family and friends even if it seems hard right now.

Embrace yourself in all your uniqueness. All of us are flawed and imperfect, it’s supposed to be that way. Our flaws, imperfections, and uniqueness are what make us truly human. The Boner.