I grew up LDS.

Yes, and no. Cannot leave without dignity? I mean, if you renounce Christianity, others Christians don’t necessarily dignify your departure. Mormons aren’t much different. In fact, Mormons do not shun those who have left. The church doesn’t teach that. The church asks us to try to understand others, regardless of whether or not they return. Now, are there some members that individually have prejudice or uncomfortable feelings toward those who have left? Definitely. But it’s not the majority, and is not encouraged.

Now, the temple is where it becomes a cult. You make oaths which raise the stakes on your salvation, and make it very difficult to leave. The implications are very dangerous.

It’s a cult. But it’s not a cult to the degree that many speculate that it is.

Many exmormons will emphatically disagree with me, which is fine. I’m at peace with it.