I have my own story of shame and acceptance of abuse instigated by inappropriate questions and shaming from a bishop when I was a teen but, today I’m sharing my adult son’s story.
My son is unaware of Sam’s movement as any talk of religion triggers his depression and anxiety. He has dealt with severe depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation for a decade. Two nights ago, he told me he could pinpoint the beginning of his depression to Junior high. He said the depression began after a bishop’s interview. He was made to feel such shame and guilt over something that was a pretty minor and common “sin” that depression and thoughts of suicide emerged.
About a decade later, he still feels that shame. He rarely leaves the house. At this point, he can’t go to school or get a job because his depression and anxiety are so severe. How dare we allow these men to mete judgment on our children! These precious souls ARE worthy. How dare we allow anyone to tell them they’re not!