What happens when you grow up doing everything you are told, but it never feels right?
In Part One of our conversation with Stetson Done, a transgender man who grew up Mormon, Stetson shares his story of growing up in a loving LDS family in Mesa, Arizona. Although he appreciated the structure and community of Mormonism, he struggled with the expectations placed on girls and the belief that becoming a wife and mother was his highest calling. He knew he didn’t want that future, but didn’t yet understand why.
Stetson describes the gender divisions he experienced in church, the differences between the Young Women's and Young Men's programs, and the loneliness of feeling out of place without having the language to explain it. He also reflects on his LDS mission in El Salvador/Belize, and the disparity between how male and female missionaries are regarded in the Church.
Although Stetson found purpose in much of the Mormon structure, questions about church teachings—including polygamy and the legalization of same-sex marriage—began to challenge his faith. By the end of his mission, his testimony remained strong, but difficult questions were beginning to emerge.
This is part one of a three-part conversation with Stetson. Please be sure to continue on with his story to understand how he forged his own personal path to personal happiness!
___________________
YouTube
At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.
Our overall mission is to:
1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology
2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis
3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions
🤝Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today
One-time or recurring donations
Patreon
Venmo
PayPal
Our Platforms:
🌐Mormon Stories Blog
🎙️Patreon
✳️Spotify
🍎Apple Podcasts
🖼️Instagram
📱TikTok
🎮Discord
Contact us:
📧 MormonStories@gmail.com
📬PO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117
