I love how his wife is so attentive and prompts the conversation. Beautiful conversation!
@elizabethl8037
3 жыл бұрын
They have such a great conversational flow!
@whitney2042
3 жыл бұрын
Yes! Melissa does a great job of asking questions to help fill in the gaps for outsiders.
@mcmelre
3 жыл бұрын
God bless that girl and her family who took you in and supported you when you first left. I hope they know what a huge impact they had on your life and future. To be willing to help 3 random boys no questions asked....the world needs more people like that.
@MartineReed
Жыл бұрын
Agreed. That is who we are as Americans, (not unlike most other cultures) but evil is are trying to make life ugly.
@wendi2819
2 жыл бұрын
You need to write a book. You are a very good storyteller. Melissa is an excellent interviewer! 25 minutes fly by! So glad you have had a great life!
@lynneddy8851
3 жыл бұрын
Are we ever going to get to meet your brother, friend and the kind family that originally helped you three boys out? Those would be amazing interviews!
@justbeingkar
3 жыл бұрын
This is a very interesting story. I left JWs and although I had worked for years with non JWs, I didn't have anyone who knew what I was going through losing my family and friends as I was never allowed to speak to anyone who had left before and thus lost touch with anyone else. Plus when you are JW you are not allowed to build friendships outside the religion (very similar) so I just started my life from scratch at 24. It's definitely weird not having any family and friends and starting out fresh. I don't know how I came across your videos but I see a lot of similarities and can relate to starting new. You look like you have adjusted well and it's nice to see that. Keep posting it's very educational.
@mickeymousey1239
3 жыл бұрын
it takes a ton of courage to make your own choice in life, hugs and bless all who do that.
@sophiabright8371
2 жыл бұрын
@Honey_Daddy
Жыл бұрын
Good for you for going your own way. I sincerely hope that you're doing well today and have been successful out in the world.
@monicajohnston8364
3 жыл бұрын
I think it's important to remember that it's easier for boys to leave the FLDS because most of them have resources, a vehicle, a means to earn an income, contacts in the "outside" world. And they also aren't a commodity, like the girls. When you have a culture where men are encouraged to marry multiple women, you will always have men around who can't find a wife because some other dude has five. So the boys in this church are almost encouraged to leave because it means there's one less man to compete with for the limited number of available girls.
@Days.
3 жыл бұрын
Yes and don’t have so many children or younger siblings that they used to take care of. Bun now nobody is getting married or having kids as far as I understand uncle Warren
@fbbWaddell
3 жыл бұрын
This is actually a common thing in polygamist cults. Sometimes they just kick the boys out for very minor offenses just to eliminate competition for women. I forgot the name of it, but there was one cult in Florida, where boys were typically kicked out at the age of 16 to get rid of competition.
@wendi2819
2 жыл бұрын
Sometimes don't these FLDS orders toss the young men out because the old guys don't want competition among the young women for their wives? Aren't they known as Lost Boys in SLC and just beyond The Crick?
@uriahpeep1753
3 жыл бұрын
This is a remarkable story.......the reason why you boys were successful in your exit was primarily due to your job skills in construction. This is why it is possible for FLDS boys to leave while girls find it very difficult since they will typically not have a readily marketable job skill to enable their exit. In fact, you may have covered the topic of FLDS girls leaving the community (I have not as yet watched all your videos)....but if you have not covered that subject, it would be of great interest to your viewers. I and all your viewers find the videos immensely interesting and I applaud your work. It takes a STRONG AND TALENTED person to accomplish what you have since your departure.
@jazwhoaskedforthis
2 жыл бұрын
This is a very good point
@jazwhoaskedforthis
2 жыл бұрын
It’s also why women struggle to leave abusive relationships especially if they’ve been stay at home mothers for any amount of time or had to give up their education.
@alycia7870
3 жыл бұрын
I would absolutely love to know more about this, and I would be interested to hear from the family Sam initially stayed with. Had they taken in former FLDS folks before? Have they done it again since? What was it like from their perspective helping these three boys get out of the FLDS and into the world?
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
That is a great idea! I have tried to respect their privacy as much as possible throughout this, but I'll reach out and see if that is something that they are open to! =)
@solstadcpa
3 жыл бұрын
@@GrowingUpinPolygamy Yes! I'd love to hear from them (if they're willing)!
@auntlynnie
3 жыл бұрын
@@GrowingUpinPolygamy it would be interesting just to hear you retelling their point of view, even if they aren’t interested in being on camera.
@ashleyharris1428
3 жыл бұрын
She says your mom must have been worried that you weren’t safe at the same time he said she was worried you would leave the religion! Goes to show the difference in your upbringing.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Very good point!
@MadTeaMarie
3 жыл бұрын
Absolutely. By our standard of "safety" -- which she certainly must have perceived even on an unarticulated level -- he was already so much safer than she was. He'd been able to move about safely, he could leave without threat of physical harm, and he could return and "talk it over" safely.
@lizregan1949
3 жыл бұрын
It is amazing how you made it through all of this. And went on to be educated and continue on with your life. From other blogs you have done I know you loved your family and respected your parents. That had to be a very hard decision.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you, Liz! It was a very difficult decision but I was so lucky to find such amazing people and support on the "outside".
@judeydo
3 жыл бұрын
I became interested in and began researching polygamy and Joseph Smith after watching sister wives. So far I found that not all polygamists live the pretty lives of the show- And that 11 of Joseph Smith's wives were married to other men . I truly appreciate your videos. Thank you so much for sharing your lives with us. You are such an adorable couple.
@NancyB35
3 жыл бұрын
Are u guys still going to do a video on the rules that changed when Warren became prophet & how Sam’s dad was taken away from his family? Would love to hear that story!
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Yes! Those are both on the video list. I think the one about my Father will be within the next few weeks! Stay tuned! =)
@LisaHouserman
8 ай бұрын
Super video. Melissa is an excellent journalist/wife!! She asks all the questions we want to hear and Sam is eloquent in his answers. Thank you.
@deborc2705
3 жыл бұрын
Melissa you ask great questions, these are often questions we would ask. I enjoy your channel - love your human interest stories.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much!
@malanenix4033
2 жыл бұрын
I was thinking the same thing. She asks questions as if it's her first time hearing it. It's very refreshing compared to more scripted videos.
@cathrinefrydenlund3180
3 жыл бұрын
First of all. Loved this video. I kinda think it was a blessing in disguise that you left at such a young age. Your brain weren't fully developed at the time. Furthermore you were at the age were you'd be prone to make in the moment decisions without fully being able to really comprehend and process the consequences at the same time. If you were 5-8 years older, chances are you'd over analyze your choices and their consequences and end up not leaving. Clearly you've found happiness outside the FLDS and it's so nice to see that. ☺️
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for your love and support!
@China-Clay
3 жыл бұрын
This channel is doing great things! Keep on talking, don’t stop, the FLDS needs, at least, to know what their choices are in life, as well as any high demand religion or group, including mainstream LDS
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for all of the support!
@CupcakesAndCreamsUK
3 жыл бұрын
I’d really love to know what weddings were like before Warren took over and after he took over in the FLDS church (before they were stopped) and how it compared to your own wedding in the LDS church. Also, if there are any things about your own wedding you would go back and change if you could. Love your videos. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
This sounds like a great topic for a video =)
@cami..o
3 жыл бұрын
Love the channel! Id love to hear the compare and contrast in being raised lds vs flds. Also you guys would make a great podcast in my opinion, very easy to listen to.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
That is a great video idea! And thank you! We have considered it, but honestly don't even know how to start a podcast. hahaha We will have to look into it!
@kmackblack
3 жыл бұрын
I listen to them “podcast style” just playing in my headphones with my phone in my pocket most times. So I agree they’d easily make a great podcast
@Honey_Daddy
Жыл бұрын
What a great family to open their arms to you guys just off the bat. That's the kind of reception I hope everyone leaving polygamy receives. It must be so scary and difficult that the kindness of others must mean the world.
@mruggier0
2 жыл бұрын
Meant to add the way Melissa and Sam look into each others eyes is just beautiful!
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
2 жыл бұрын
Aww thank you!
@kmackblack
3 жыл бұрын
Melissa you would make a great interviewer or host of a show. You ask every question I’m thinking most videos!
@theramyani
2 жыл бұрын
Sam, you are so so sober, sensitive, greatful person. The way you look at Melissa, your eyes speak tour love for her. I believe you are a very compassionate empathetic person
@krmbrule1
Жыл бұрын
You guys are an amazing couple! Thank you for sharing so much of what you have gone through!
@Jenniferalvarez19818
3 жыл бұрын
So glad to see you guys posted a video! The bravery you guys had at that age is so remarkable. I’m so glad that you guys had the courage to leave. Do you keep in touch with everyone that was there for you in the beginning of your journey?
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you! The family that I stayed with that first night are family now. I am so lucky to have them and have continued to have their love and support ever since that first night.
@Jenniferalvarez19818
3 жыл бұрын
@@GrowingUpinPolygamy thanks amazing so glad you still have them
@marianboudreau1337
3 жыл бұрын
I just love your videos. I love that you are so respectful of your parents and your former life and it is so nice to get a glimpse into your journey. I hope you keep these videos coming. I look forward to each new one coming out. You are both adorable.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! You are so sweet!
@jenlebel617
3 жыл бұрын
Just love watching you two! Thank you for sharing your story, it’s so eye opening to see the world through another lens - you two are treasures!
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! You are too sweet!
@SuthrnBella1980
3 жыл бұрын
In essence the church and your family made the decision. The family choose to break ties. I can’t imagine choosing FLDS over my children. But when you know better you do better.The support was God letting you know that good exist despite what you were taught. Sam God ordered your steps. What you three experienced after leaving was God’s hand. I am not highly religious and I felt his presence in your life.
@deborc2705
3 жыл бұрын
Can you have your brother in an interview, his recollection could be different and may trigger additional memories. Curious to see the resemblance…
@kimstanymyr6049
2 жыл бұрын
This was such an interesting video!! The mother in me was so concerned about your mother! Just can't imagine how worried she must have been, however... thank goodness for you guys that you were supported so well by your "adopted" family!! I kept thinking just how wonderful they are!! Unconditional support and love!! Their actions of support warmed my heart!!! Thank you for sharing!!!
@nancyepeters2958
3 жыл бұрын
Look at y'all with 5000 subs!!!❤️
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you! :) And thank you for being with us since the beginning!
@theroadnottaken7
3 жыл бұрын
Yes!! I am excited to hear about what it was like to support others who got out...and maybe more sibling interviews? Y'all are so fun to watch!
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
We are definitely hoping to do more sibling videos soon!
@loracorwyn3713
3 жыл бұрын
Double your subs in the last month that I’ve been here. Congratulations!
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you :)
@dorothyredner9424
3 жыл бұрын
The family you initially stayed with sound amazing. They were placed in your life at just the right time 💗.
@kaye2323
3 жыл бұрын
I would love to see a part 2, I'm always so curious about the details. Thank you so much for sharing your story! TBH I would watch a whole series of them going up to present day.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! That is good to know!
@whitneyhartung2223
3 жыл бұрын
This is so good. I’ve binged all their videos.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for watching! =)
@sco222
3 жыл бұрын
Wow, can you imagine if this had been one of your sisters? I can't help but think how totally powerless the females are. The males have so many more contacts/help then they would ever have.
@sco222
3 жыл бұрын
I really appreciate these conversations and your honesty. My other thought was can you imagine the dad of the girl you stayed with being ok with 3 other dudes? Did he know that y'all were innocent and would never harm her? You guys knew you would be in trouble for breaking curfew but, wow, she was out with all of you and her dad didn't bat an eye at her bringing ya'll home and offering the couch? She must have had a lot of independence at home.
@marianboudreau1337
3 жыл бұрын
@@sco222 Yes, I love that this family were okay with this. What a blessing!
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
It is definitely harder for women to leave. Luckily, now my sisters know that they have our love and support if they ever left.
@joyous2theworld
3 жыл бұрын
I’m so thankful you had support and even if it hurt your parents they still helped you get started.
@leannek7916
3 жыл бұрын
So I found your channel yesterday and I’m hooked! Binge watched all your videos in 2 days! So interesting hearing the stories from someone who lived it. Also, so happy you are out and have found happiness. Can’t wait for future videos to watch 😃 much love from British Columbia Canada 🇨🇦
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Welcome! We are so glad you found us! Thank you so much for watching! =)
@MichelleSweeny
3 жыл бұрын
I recently found your channel and have enjoyed learning so much about the culture you grew up in. Thanks for being so open, matter of fact, and sharing your life story!
@cr293737
3 жыл бұрын
Sorry, second comment. Sam & Melissa, there's a series about an Amish family here on YT - Breaking the Silence by Joseph Graber. I found the second episode (when they left) more interesting than the first but, regardless, it would really speak to you, Sam. It's very respectful, particularly about how these families work in communal organizations which can often be lovely.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you! We'll definitely check out the channel.
@Pheluv
3 жыл бұрын
The kindness showed by your friends family (and neighbours) give me faith in the goodness of people.
@gigipetro6238
3 жыл бұрын
Do you still remain in contact with the girl and her family that you stayed with originally? Y’all were so lucky to have that family to help you out in the beginning. Have you been able to see your Mom very much since leaving?
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
The family that I stayed with originally has become my family. I am soo lucky to have them and they have continued to be my biggest support since the first night I left. Unfortunately, I have not been able to see my biological Mother in almost 10 years.
@mickeymousey1239
3 жыл бұрын
@@GrowingUpinPolygamy that is so sad and hard, it took a lot of courage to leave.
@barbaraweidenhammer7644
3 жыл бұрын
That’s great to hear that you are still friends with that family.
@TheKatarinaGiselle
3 жыл бұрын
I live on the east coast where I don’t believe there are people living in LDS families, but if I lived near there..I know without a doubt I would be there with one arms to help anybody wanting to leave! I am so glad that you were in a safe and moreover LOVING situation when you decided to leave so sporadically which I know couldn’t have been an easy situation and probably let scary as well. I’m so glad it worked out for the best for you! I’m glad I found your channel because I appreciate your story and look forward to watching more from you both!
@gwenythturner7137
Жыл бұрын
You are a lovely inspirational couple! You also have a powerful ministry to help others who are trapped in the FLDS & are afraid to make a move away from them. You have a real story to tell & I would love reading your book if you ever decided to write one! God loves you! God bless you both!
@covertLLC
3 жыл бұрын
Would love a part two. Thanks for sharing your story, keep the content coming. Your subscribers have grown significantly, that's great!
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! We definitely will! We are blown away by all the love and support we have received!
@RepentAndBelieve1437
3 жыл бұрын
She asked good questions! Such a great interview!
@lynnegillette5013
3 жыл бұрын
You should do a video of the family who helped you and ask them questions on what they thought of helping you.
@robcue4543
Жыл бұрын
Growing Up in Polygamy Rocks! Thank You for exposing the FLDS!
@bekkkabby
3 жыл бұрын
I would love to see a part 2 of this video!
@smallfootprint2961
3 жыл бұрын
So interesting. You're so brave to follow your heart to try to make a life for yourself. I'll look for the other videos. Thank you for posting.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much. =)
@rachelladouceur873
2 жыл бұрын
You guys are so strong, Hope many blessing come to your family.
@Sanders.Upward
Ай бұрын
How accurate is the movie "Sons of Perdition"? I am fascinated with your story!
@nicolereiff7846
3 жыл бұрын
How were you three boys at housekeeping in your first apartment??? 😬😆 I can only imagine!
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
You would have been surprised, it actually wasn't that bad! Mother taught us how to clean, and Father always taught us to keep things orderly and neat. He would always say to leave any place you go better than you found it.
@worldsnacked7150
Жыл бұрын
Thanks! I've wanted to hear the details since watching your first video.
@Justjenniferky
3 жыл бұрын
What happened to your brother and friend? Are they married, families, close still? Y'all are so cute together and she is madly inlove with you Sam if you could see how she looks at you. Lucky to have each other. Thanks for sharing a part of your life with us. Jennifer
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
They are both married now with families. Thank you so much for all the love and support!
@themedicdroidx10
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this great video! Yes we want a part 2! How was it being in control of all of your own finances? What did you spend money on that you weren’t able to before? What was it like being able to choose what you eat for the first time? What are some things you we’re excited to try for the first time that you weren’t allowed to do?
@carlasuannelockett1694
3 жыл бұрын
Why is it your business about their 💰 situations?
@unpopularopinions9076
3 жыл бұрын
Yeah! Part 2!🤩
@kerrif8305
3 жыл бұрын
Love your vlogs and learning your past life style.. you guys are amazing. Congratulations on your growing channel🌸
@clare1971
3 жыл бұрын
Would love to hear so much more about your background. Like what was an average day like before? And when you came out do you manage to maintain any relationships with siblings or other people?
@user-vf2ew5vy8r
2 ай бұрын
Hi, do you ever share on one of your videos what denomination, if any, you eventually joined? How did the two of you meet? Thank you! It’s just a different world than anything I have ever known. Very educational! Karen
@eleanorbertuch135
2 ай бұрын
GreT visir. Thanks for sharing🥰
@jilltheprivateinvestigator3328
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for blessing us with another informative video! You two seem like such wonderful people. The kind of people you hope to be your neighbor. Looking forward to the next video. I have another question, also. You mentioned in another video there may have been a little tension sometimes amongst the mothers in your home when it came to "my child didn't do it," or something along those lines. Were you there long enough (maybe your sister was, and I would love to see her back on here!) to notice if the mother's relationship improved as the children got older and possibly moved away, or was it more strained because there were no young children to distract from their relationship? If you don't know, I completely understand. I just thought I would ask, because this is all so fascinating, as I'm sure I've said before. Lol Thank you for your time.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
This is a great question that I don't know the answer to. I will ask my sister and see if she knows more that she is willing to share! =)
@lovemakeup1229
3 жыл бұрын
Sorry if I missed it but are you still in touch with any of the people who helped or supported you & your brother's when you first left? Oppps, if I waited seconds later my question would have been answered...😁
@mercedes_1996
3 жыл бұрын
You two are a beautiful couple! Thanks for sharing your story. ❤️
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you! And thank you for watching! =)
@ceejaybeard9121
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing your story. I know it had to of been so hard to leave, but I’m so glad you followed your heart. Such bravery. And now you have this beautiful life with Melissa. What religion was the family that you stayed with?
@Cherrycloudmoon
3 жыл бұрын
New fan of your channel! Thanks for sharing with us. I would love to know about what happens to the family structure once kids move out. Do the wives and husband all stay together or live separately since the kids are gone? Do they keep the giant house?
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
That's a great question! I honestly can't think of many households without children. I think it was probably because younger women would marry older men. On the rare occasion that all the children were moved out they would be assigned to a smaller home.
@NJSMKMMS
3 жыл бұрын
So glad you got out but so sad that you can never have your family around you. I'm also very glad that us evil outsiders were so kind and supportive to you.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
I am so grateful for the evil outsiders sooo much! haha It is hard, but I still hold out hope that someday I will get to see them all more. As of now, I have 14 siblings that have left that I get to have relationships with, which is great!
@NJSMKMMS
3 жыл бұрын
@@GrowingUpinPolygamy Oh I never realised you have so many siblings outside right now. Good for all of them too. Oh and obviously I sincerely hope you are able to reconnect with all of your family again one day. You seem like a very decent folk to me.
@creatingkindness
2 жыл бұрын
very impressed with both of ur mental health. amazing story of self empower meant.. by making that big choice to be a freed slave. well done and thanks for the podcast u are doing an amazing job to help others by leaving ur crumbs or experience online so others can do the same and be brave enough to make the big choices in life...peace
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much.
@selinamattocks
3 жыл бұрын
Hi guys, im from the uk and just found your channel. Love the content and you are so cute together ❤
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much and welcome! =)
@kellypat125
2 жыл бұрын
It would be really cool if they interviewed someone from the family that helped them out initially
@laurafordemocracy
Жыл бұрын
I'm learning so much from your videos. Thank you for making them! I'm just wondering if there any connection to the Sam Zitting in the 2010 documentary "Sons of Perdition"?
@lesleyallinson8738
2 жыл бұрын
I must be odd because personally I think we all have choices in our lives, you choose your own path in life, and everyone should respect your choices, you had your reasons and deserve respect from others
@sassynana5201
3 жыл бұрын
The young lady asks great questions. She could have her own channel interviewing people b
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
(Melissa) Aww thanks! =)
@muellerphyllis
3 жыл бұрын
Hello you two! What an incredible story. With all of the ugly things that are on social media, your channel is refreshing. God bless you both:)
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much!
@debbierees2789
3 жыл бұрын
Love these people💙💖such a beautiful couple!!!! Inside as well as out😊 lots of Love from England 🇬🇧😘xx
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much!
@rachelcastle8369
3 жыл бұрын
Love listening to your story. Y’all are a wonderful couple. Thanks so much for sharing your story. Are you still in touch with your friend that left with you and your brother? Are you close with your other siblings that have left? Thanks 😊
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
I have relationships will all of my siblings that have left, including the brother I left with. Thanks for watching!
@rachelcastle8369
3 жыл бұрын
That is awesome! 😊
@carolannelunan8331
3 жыл бұрын
Wow .... I am glad your transitions went so well. Curious to know what church you went to that first day and if you still go to church. Also surprised they let you get your things. Have you seen any of your family since that first meeting? Can you specifically tell us how many children each mother had and of those how many left/stayed. Are you connected to the siblings who left before and after you?
@stubbs3023
Жыл бұрын
Super interesting that you just kind of left on a whim!
@marymcewen3610
3 жыл бұрын
In your video with Tephi you all mentioned that there was a brother who left when he was only 16. How did that work that he was underaged? Did he have any concerns about being arrested as a runaway?
@benburns5995
3 жыл бұрын
When Sam was growing up with such a large family how did they afford to pay for dentists and doctor visits? I would think it would be difficult to get health insurance for such a large amount of people.
@leonahendricks6577
3 жыл бұрын
From my understanding they had a handful of nurses that would do a lot of the medical care at a Clinic but they often would be faced with situations outside of a nurses realm. If that makes sense. Rachel Jeff’s has a book called breaking free and she tells a couple of stories where she was not allowed to take her son to get medical help when he severely needed it. They need approval from The prophet or other men high in the church. And since the way the community is ran everyone gives of their services or skills some what freely because it’s god’s work.
@leonahendricks6577
3 жыл бұрын
Correct me if I have incorrectly described something. 🥰
@leonahendricks6577
3 жыл бұрын
So the need of insurance is not completely necessary.
@DM-ez4em
3 жыл бұрын
So you see how wrong it is now to be in a religion that would restrict you from see your family if you leave?? That is the most upsetting thing that anyone can ever impose on its people. Love you and your channel 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for your support! It is difficult to understand why anyone would believe in something that would split up family. Unfortunately, they don't see it as a choice, but rather, a matter of eternal life or death. We were taught to see this life as a very small/short piece of the big picture. Because of the way we were raised, we focused more on making sure we were prepared for the afterlife instead of enjoying this life. Being out now and believing differently, I very strongly disagree with anything that causes harm to families.
@janesmith9024
3 жыл бұрын
Yes, although it is fairly common in closed groups eg Jehovah's witnesses shun those who leave as do the Amish and in New Zealand the community at Gloriavale, never mind the Scientology cult (plus Westborough Baptist church too). It is very sad and a loving God would never want families split up. It is not much of a religion if it cannot cope being exposed to different ideas.
@lijohnyoutube101
Жыл бұрын
Being raised in any sort of religion is wrong, its all a form of abuse. ALL religion is nothing but cult nonsense.
@kathyt3959
3 жыл бұрын
Barbie and Ken are looking wonderful 💖👌
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
You are making us blush....You are too sweet!
@solstadcpa
3 жыл бұрын
How did you travel? Were you able to keep a vehicle? After the first night and you went home to get your things, how did you get back out of the community? If you didn't have your own vehicle, how did you get to Las Vegas looking for work?
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
My older brother that I left with owned a truck that we used.
@melissatensmeyer9364
3 жыл бұрын
Part 2 please and thank you! ☺️😂
@thareallaura726
3 жыл бұрын
I've read numerous books from Carolyn Jessop to now working on Rachel Jeff's book. Why was it much easier for the men to leave then the women? I also want to add congratulations on your bravery, and wish you and your family nothing but the best. I hope one day you will be able to see your mother and siblings again.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for your love and support. I think it was easier for men to leave because we had already been out in the workforce and knew that we could provide for ourselves. The women, almost entirely being at home to raise children, felt very dependent on the men to provide for them.
@arizal36
3 жыл бұрын
once you got established did you help any other people leave the community? even if not family?
@calliegriffith9650
3 жыл бұрын
I am a new subscriber and just wanted to say that I love your videos! I appreciate how you share your unique experiences in an honest, entertaining and frank way. I would love to hear about what the marriages were like. Did the father and first wife get married in a courthouse and the other wives get married to him at church? Do they have temples that they get married in like in the LDS religion?
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Welcome!!! Thank you so much for watching! All marriages were just done in the church leader's offices. The only temple the FLDS had was in Texas, but only certain members were "invited" to go and live in that compound and had access to it.
@danau4934
3 жыл бұрын
Question: If FLDS men need at least 3 wives for optimal afterlife, did it ever occur to the young FLDS men that the 50/50 male/female population split won’t work out well for many of the FLDS men to be able to fulfill that requirement? Did people do the math? Were they worried? Thanks!
@whitney2042
3 жыл бұрын
I obviously can’t speak to Sam’s experience, but boys have been kicked out because of this. It reduces the competition with the older, more powerful men and allows the older men to have more wives.
@danau4934
3 жыл бұрын
@@whitney2042 Exactly, were the young men themselves worried about getting kicked out due to the ratio issue.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
So in the FLDS that followed Warren Jeffs there wasn't a minimum wife requirement like some other polygamous groups. I left when I was 18 so I never got to the point of worrying about the number of women left for me.
@cr293737
3 жыл бұрын
So many questions! Def need a Part II. First of all, Sam, thank you so much for this. I'm sure on some level it's still painful. Questions: 1) Was the family who took you in LDS? I assume so. 2) Generally, how are your sisters who have left doing? Your vid with your half-sister broke my heart bc you seem like a pretty emotionally integrated person. Not so much for her. She seemed to really be struggling for confidence. 3) Tough topic. My mom's a psychotherapist out west who has had MANY clients who are former FLDS/LDS. She's said that it's well known that many of the kids are abused (in all the ways one can imagine). Obviously, this goes on everywhere but she says that in FLDS/LDS it's harder to tackle because of the issues around sex and, well, the patriarchal nature of the church. I know you're both trying to be respectful but I'm wondering if you could try to address this.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for watching! Those are all fantastic questions. 1) Yes they are, I am a part of their family now, and they helped me join the LDS church after I left. 2) My sisters have definitely had a much harder time after leaving for a lot of reasons, but we are going to do another video with my sister again and I will let her address that a little more. 3) So this is a tough topic in a lot of ways. There was definitely a lot of abuse and I have heard and read about so many awful things. It is hard for me to address it because I honestly didn't see much of it beyond the obvious patriarchal nature of things. We weren't allowed to hang out with other families, and I was lucky enough to not see abuse firsthand. I think my sisters definitely had more emotional and mental abuse, but again, I don't feel comfortable speaking for them, when my experience was so separated from theirs. We have talked about maybe getting more guest speakers who have a broader range of experiences, so that people have a chance to see how everyone's experiences were so different, even within my own family. Thank you so much again for all of your support!
@cr293737
3 жыл бұрын
@@GrowingUpinPolygamy Lovely reply. Thank you, Sam. I'd love to hear more from your sisters. Also, did Melissa take Oprah's master class in interviewing? :-) She's fantastic.
@mrskatiewaite
3 жыл бұрын
Hi! Melissa, what is your background and family?
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Katie! Melissa here! =) I grew up LDS, although now my family is mixed faith. Some family members are still active LDS and some are not. =)
@angelalipman4470
3 жыл бұрын
I don't know if you've been asked before, but, what long term effects have you experienced due to your upbringing? I was brought up very strict Jesus name Pentecostal and even though I've been out of the church for decades, it still effects me in my day today life.
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
It's hard to pinpoint. I was lucky enough to be brought up in a loving family without abuse, so I would say that the biggest impact has been on the way I think from the religious aspect. I definitely think twice before doing anything because of being taught that God was constantly watching me and judging me for every choice I made.
@kerstinklenovsky239
3 жыл бұрын
How can decent people outside the FLDS community help the girls that want to break free?
@kangaroomommy4457
3 жыл бұрын
I don't know if you've heard of Holding out HELP but they're a charity based it Utah that do everything from providing gas money to providing legal aid to arranging host families for people leaving. They have a website that talks about donations and volunteer organizations.
@kasashaasreadingjournal3446
3 жыл бұрын
There's a TV show called escaping polygamy, you might be able to find info through that
@muffinstuffin3303
3 жыл бұрын
Very interesting!
@nandalimamelo
3 жыл бұрын
Great video! Can you make a video about boys born in polygamy? Growing up, have you ever asked yourself about the math not working for the number of girls to boys when men marry many women?
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Great video ideas! As a young boy I never really thought about the math...but I think that was because I left before getting to marriage age.
@tammysmith2896
3 жыл бұрын
I really enjoy hearing about your journey and thank you for sharing. Do you think your brother would ever come on and talk about your journey together?
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! I hope to get more family to come on and share soon! =)
@vinssas9363
3 жыл бұрын
I have a question about your accent, Sam. I've noticed that you and other FLDS have an accent similar to Amish rather than a typical Utah accent. Any idea why that would be?
@GrowingUpinPolygamy
3 жыл бұрын
No idea why it is the kind of accent it is, but it is very prominent in that community.
@juliemcgugan1244
3 жыл бұрын
Does the FLDS group you grew up in keep themselves quite segregated from the non-FLDS community, like the Amish community do? (Sorry if this sounds ignorant or if you’re sick of this question; this is the second video of your that I have watched) That might explain it. I grew up in a very close-knit family, but sound nothing like them, as we lived overseas and I went to an international school with more than 40 nationalities attending. My British family think I sound American, my American friends think I sound British, taxi drivers always asked if I was Australian and a customer of mine once asked if I was Dutch!
@hippymama100
3 жыл бұрын
I have a theory that this particular accent is due to isolation from wider American influence. I believe it's an earlier form of standard American accent. When they say it's as if Sam grew up in the 1800's, it's not far off the mark. Culturally, he did, and his accent reflects it. As he's integrated into mainstream culture, his accent has reflected that change.
@krystalmiller6638
6 ай бұрын
So I’m confused, like what happens when your 18,19,20 plus? You always live in the same house with your parents ( until you get married ( is it arranged?) what about this one brother who left with you ( is he still out ?) and what about your older brothers kids before you ( did any of them leave?)
@corrypeterson4254
3 жыл бұрын
You probably would have been kicked out if you had not chosen to leave that night. They would have seen the signs of "apostasy" eventually. The leaders of a polygamous group MUST routinely kick out the young men out to maintain their hierarchy and will find ANY excuse to do so. Young women have a tendency to fall in love with the good looking young men and the leaders CAN'T HAVE THAT! They need those pretty young women for themselves.
@Pheluv
3 жыл бұрын
They also routinely kick out young men, because in a polygamous society you need more women than men.
@bmcgovern8572
6 ай бұрын
If, when Warren passes would you, Melissa and the 2 awesome kiddos ever go back to live there?
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