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Without the Mask: Coming Out and Coming Into God's Light
Charlie Bird—the viral face of BYU during his years as Cosmo the Cougar—made waves across the nation in February when he came out and revealed to BYU fans that he is gay. Now, in Without the Mask, Bird reflects on how his identity has strengthened his testimony and how he views his sexual orientation in conjunction with his faith in Jesus Christ.
Alternating between memoir and teaching chapters, Bird's touching and authentic prose chronicles his decision to openly share that he is gay and to remain active in the faith. Highlighting the challenges Bird has faced along the way, the book also shares the blessings he's learned to recognize through his sexual orientation. Charlie feels deeply the importance of maintaining a relationship with God and hopes this message will "spark healing, bridge gaps of understanding and inspire hope" for other LGBTQ readers and those who love them.
Alternating between memoir and teaching chapters, Bird's touching and authentic prose chronicles his decision to openly share that he is gay and to remain active in the faith. Highlighting the challenges Bird has faced along the way, the book also shares the blessings he's learned to recognize through his sexual orientation. Charlie feels deeply the importance of maintaining a relationship with God and hopes this message will "spark healing, bridge gaps of understanding and inspire hope" for other LGBTQ readers and those who love them.
176 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2020
120 people are currently reading
1821 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Bird
2 books20 followersCharlie Bird is an award-winning author, podcaster, therapist, and social media influencer based in Utah. He is known for playing the role of Cosmo the Cougar at Brigham Young University from 2016-2018, where he received national acclaim for his dance performances and viral mascot videos. Bird was born and raised in Southwest Missouri, and served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Redlands, California. He holds two undergraduate degrees from BYU, as well as a Master’s in Social Work. Charlie is passionate about bridging the gap between LGBTQ+ and religion, evident by his frequent work nonprofit organizations and weekly involvement with the ‘Questions from the Closet’ podcast. When he isn’t writing, speaking, or advocating, Charlie can be found hiking the Wasatch mountains, traveling with friends, or tumbling at local gymnastics gyms. To stay up-to-date with all of Charlie’s advocacy and adventures, you can find him on social media as @mrcharliebird.
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October 10, 2020
I met Charlie Bird at a party about a year ago (more specifically an LDS/LGBTQ potluck in the DC area) and immediately became a fan. (Even though I was technically already a fan--if you aren't a fan already, feel free to google "Cosmo Rollie." You're welcome.) He's friendly, funny, earnest, and very charming. And can do super cool flips. Basically the life of the party.
I love everything about this book. I love the structure and the stories, and I love the testifying.
I don't love the fact that our church (The Church of Jesus Christ), and its institutions including BYU, isn't always (or maybe even usually) a safe place for LGBTQ people. The church's chosen language of "experiencing same-sex attraction" or "SSA," which Charlie discusses at one point in the book, is a pretty solid example of how comfortable we are with homosexuality. In other words: we are not comfortable with it. Being gay in this context isn't an identity, an eternal and vital part of a person's character, but an "experience" that may by implication be temporary. Charlie writes that while he may have initially preferred "SSA": "I now feel most comfortable identifying as 'gay.' While I don't like the stigma that sometimes comes with the label, I do like that it is the only widely accepted term that implies orientation without being solely focused on sex or sexual attraction. It is important to me that the way I describe myself conveys something more than just physical attraction. 'Gay' feels more representative of the essence of who I am--how I interact with others, the way I perceive the world, unique aspects of my personality, *and* my romantic attraction."
Another nod to church vocabulary comes when he lives in DC for an internship: "Growing up, I'd solidified in my mind there was nothing worse than accepting someone with a 'gay lifestyle,' yet here I was, surrounded by gay people, and their lifestyles seemed pretty much like everyone else's."
My favorite chapter might be chapter 8, "Horsepower." Charlie uses his personal stories to build empathy, to establish context, and, particularly successfully, to teach concepts. The parable of his spirited horse's bridle (as applied to Alma 38's "bridle all your passions") is an especially fantastic one that he explores on many levels: he describes "seeking a comprehensive view of my orientation. A mouth bit that is fitted improperly on a bridle can cause a horse considerable pain. I grew up in a culture where being gay was directly equated with sexual activity.... The 'bit' I was using to regulate my life was improper, and it made me feel constantly out of control. I became extremely rigid and was unable to see how being gay can sometimes be a blessing."
After observing Charlie's encounter with a young girl at church, a friend reacts: "It was like she knew you were gay!" said my friend, almost in disbelief. "She, like, read your soul and trusted you immediately." "How could she know I was gay? She doesn't even know what that means," I countered. "Maybe what everyone else labels as 'gay' she just sees as safe, helpful, and creative," my friend replied.
I loved this insight about the Savior and feminine imagery, as part of Charlie's reflection about some of his personality traits and qualities that may traditionally be considered feminine: "Scripture often refers to Christ or Christlike attributes in the female form. Throughout His earthly ministry, the Savior was known to have taken on many feminine and motherly roles. He prepared food for multitudes, washed and anointed others with oils, and suffered children to come unto Him. Christ's role as a teacher is often one that women fill, both in the home and in society. Even the emblems of the holy sacrament, which represent Christ's spiritual sustenance of the world through His flesh and blood, are an archetype of a mother sustaining the life of an unborn child through her own flesh and blood. In many instances, Christ refers to His own characteristics in the female form.... "As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you."... "How oft would I have gathered you as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings"...
Some reflections on the evolution of faith:
"Throughout my childhood, faith was a beautiful feeling that grew easily.
"Each time I put in spiritual work and seek for God's answers without fear or hesitation, I receive guidance, no matter how impossible my questions may seem.
"When Jesus came to earth, He fulfilled the law of Moses and taught a "higher law," one based on love, personal revelation, and moral responsibility. The parameters of the law of Moses helped lay a groundwork for believers, but the higher law showed that faith truly lives when it's released from the static restraints of legalism. Faith grows when it is used to navigate precarious realms of ambiguity.... Like the law of Moses, the faith I developed as a child gave me a strong foundation to navigate the more complicated spiritual landscapes I face as an adult. My faith can be dynamic, scrappy, and brave new territory because I have a strong groundwork that has prepared me well.
"I used to think I had to pick a side. In my binary mindset, I looked at the intersection of my faith and my orientation as an issue of "good and bad," when in reality it was an issue of "me and me." I let the false idea that there were only two ways to live completely blind my agency and my trust, in both myself and in the Lord.
"The Savior never assimilated into an existing side. Tempting as it may have been, Jesus never changed who He was to appeal to any one group, but always stayed true to God. He treated all equally and transcended barriers by carving a new path. He taught that Church culture isn't always God's culture, and fulfilled the sacred, individual work that He alone was sent to earth to complete."
You can tell how much I liked a book by how many lengthy quotes I post in my review. :) Clearly I loved this book! I wish the best for Charlie, and I hope and pray that we as members of the church, and as members of all orthodox faiths, can fully embrace LGBTQ members, and I also hope and pray that the church as an institution can become not only a safe place, but a place where LGBTQ folks, and all people otherwise currently on the margins, can thrive, grow, and contribute to the community as their true selves, with equal opportunities for love and commitment and family, and in their full measures of creation.
I love everything about this book. I love the structure and the stories, and I love the testifying.
I don't love the fact that our church (The Church of Jesus Christ), and its institutions including BYU, isn't always (or maybe even usually) a safe place for LGBTQ people. The church's chosen language of "experiencing same-sex attraction" or "SSA," which Charlie discusses at one point in the book, is a pretty solid example of how comfortable we are with homosexuality. In other words: we are not comfortable with it. Being gay in this context isn't an identity, an eternal and vital part of a person's character, but an "experience" that may by implication be temporary. Charlie writes that while he may have initially preferred "SSA": "I now feel most comfortable identifying as 'gay.' While I don't like the stigma that sometimes comes with the label, I do like that it is the only widely accepted term that implies orientation without being solely focused on sex or sexual attraction. It is important to me that the way I describe myself conveys something more than just physical attraction. 'Gay' feels more representative of the essence of who I am--how I interact with others, the way I perceive the world, unique aspects of my personality, *and* my romantic attraction."
Another nod to church vocabulary comes when he lives in DC for an internship: "Growing up, I'd solidified in my mind there was nothing worse than accepting someone with a 'gay lifestyle,' yet here I was, surrounded by gay people, and their lifestyles seemed pretty much like everyone else's."
My favorite chapter might be chapter 8, "Horsepower." Charlie uses his personal stories to build empathy, to establish context, and, particularly successfully, to teach concepts. The parable of his spirited horse's bridle (as applied to Alma 38's "bridle all your passions") is an especially fantastic one that he explores on many levels: he describes "seeking a comprehensive view of my orientation. A mouth bit that is fitted improperly on a bridle can cause a horse considerable pain. I grew up in a culture where being gay was directly equated with sexual activity.... The 'bit' I was using to regulate my life was improper, and it made me feel constantly out of control. I became extremely rigid and was unable to see how being gay can sometimes be a blessing."
After observing Charlie's encounter with a young girl at church, a friend reacts: "It was like she knew you were gay!" said my friend, almost in disbelief. "She, like, read your soul and trusted you immediately." "How could she know I was gay? She doesn't even know what that means," I countered. "Maybe what everyone else labels as 'gay' she just sees as safe, helpful, and creative," my friend replied.
I loved this insight about the Savior and feminine imagery, as part of Charlie's reflection about some of his personality traits and qualities that may traditionally be considered feminine: "Scripture often refers to Christ or Christlike attributes in the female form. Throughout His earthly ministry, the Savior was known to have taken on many feminine and motherly roles. He prepared food for multitudes, washed and anointed others with oils, and suffered children to come unto Him. Christ's role as a teacher is often one that women fill, both in the home and in society. Even the emblems of the holy sacrament, which represent Christ's spiritual sustenance of the world through His flesh and blood, are an archetype of a mother sustaining the life of an unborn child through her own flesh and blood. In many instances, Christ refers to His own characteristics in the female form.... "As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you."... "How oft would I have gathered you as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings"...
Some reflections on the evolution of faith:
"Throughout my childhood, faith was a beautiful feeling that grew easily.
"Each time I put in spiritual work and seek for God's answers without fear or hesitation, I receive guidance, no matter how impossible my questions may seem.
"When Jesus came to earth, He fulfilled the law of Moses and taught a "higher law," one based on love, personal revelation, and moral responsibility. The parameters of the law of Moses helped lay a groundwork for believers, but the higher law showed that faith truly lives when it's released from the static restraints of legalism. Faith grows when it is used to navigate precarious realms of ambiguity.... Like the law of Moses, the faith I developed as a child gave me a strong foundation to navigate the more complicated spiritual landscapes I face as an adult. My faith can be dynamic, scrappy, and brave new territory because I have a strong groundwork that has prepared me well.
"I used to think I had to pick a side. In my binary mindset, I looked at the intersection of my faith and my orientation as an issue of "good and bad," when in reality it was an issue of "me and me." I let the false idea that there were only two ways to live completely blind my agency and my trust, in both myself and in the Lord.
"The Savior never assimilated into an existing side. Tempting as it may have been, Jesus never changed who He was to appeal to any one group, but always stayed true to God. He treated all equally and transcended barriers by carving a new path. He taught that Church culture isn't always God's culture, and fulfilled the sacred, individual work that He alone was sent to earth to complete."
You can tell how much I liked a book by how many lengthy quotes I post in my review. :) Clearly I loved this book! I wish the best for Charlie, and I hope and pray that we as members of the church, and as members of all orthodox faiths, can fully embrace LGBTQ members, and I also hope and pray that the church as an institution can become not only a safe place, but a place where LGBTQ folks, and all people otherwise currently on the margins, can thrive, grow, and contribute to the community as their true selves, with equal opportunities for love and commitment and family, and in their full measures of creation.
August 4, 2020
Raw and real. Read it. Reflect. Then choose to re-enter LGBTQ conversations with clearer vision and a bigger heart. Well done Charlie Bird, I loved it.
March 12, 2021
This was TERRIFIC.
August 9, 2022
I admire the courage it took for Charlie Bird to share this memoir with the world. As a gay man who was raised Mormon, I know firsthand how difficult it is to come out to a conservative family and community. However, Charlie's message in Without the Mask is incomplete, not fully transparent, and despite his best intentions to write the book he wished he had when he was a teen (as he says in his opening "letter to the reader"), it is a dangerous message to send to LGBTQ+ youth.
While the Mormon church has made some progress over the years with regard to its views on homosexuality and its treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals (in the early 90s when I was growing up, the church labeled homosexuality a "perversion" and equated it to pedophilia), it should not be mistaken for a welcoming or accepting place for anyone on the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Mr. Bird tries to make the opposite case in this book by claiming that he is welcomed with open arms, but as you read his story it is clear that he is only accepted because he lives a repressed life in which he has trained himself to not "act" on his sexuality. In fact, there is a blatant and pervasive theme throughout the book that sexual activity among two people of the same gender must be avoided at all costs: "Same-gender orientation... has nothing to do with sin or sexual activity." Ergo, in the Mormon church, it's ok for you to identify as gay and to openly admit that you experience "same-sex attraction", so long as you don't ever physically act on your gay feelings. In Charlie's words, "I no longer reduce myself to sexual orientation".
BYU's honor code states that students & faculty must "live a chaste and virtuous life, including abstaining from any sexual relations outside a marriage BETWEEN A MAN AND A WOMAN." (Capitalization added for emphasis.) By the laws of the Mormon church, gay men cannot marry, cannot share physical or sexual intimacy (even with a partner in marriage), and cannot raise children. Recently, the church revised a rule that a child of gay parents must disavow their parents if that child wants to join the Mormon church. Now a child may freely join the church that discriminates so openly against their gay parents without needing to disavow them. (How generous.) At more than one point in the book, Mr. Bird talks about how people associate homosexuality with sex, as if sex is a bad thing. As if our straight married counterparts do not have sex. He portrays gay men who engage in sexual activity as sexual deviants who live troubled lives because of their troubled past: "Most of us have been raised to believe we are sexual deviants, so that's... what some of us become." And "Gay culture is so full of substance abuse, addiction, and casual immorality in part because so many heartbroken people are just looking for a place to fit in."
At another point in the book, Mr. Bird makes the bold assertion that the Mormon church is at the "forefront of equality". This is the church that explicitly excludes LGBTQ+ people from its ranks and actively campaigned in favor of Proposition 8 in California to strip gay people of the right to marriage. I beg to differ that the Mormon church is a leader on the march for equality, and I believe history will back me up on that.
At the end of his memoir, Mr. Bird shares the final question he was asked in a news interview after he publicly came out: "Where do you see yourself 10 to 15 years down the road?" What is noticeably absent in his response is any mention of a spouse / life partner or raising children, even though early on in the book he says that as a child he "saw himself living in a suburb with a wife, a daughter, and a dog." Not to worry. He states that he is "so much more than just gay". He is "a son, a brother, an uncle, and a friend... an athlete, a dancer, a writer, and an extrovert." And "a child of God". What is not included in that list? A husband; a father. Because Charlie knows he cannot be either of those things and still be an active member, in good standing, of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Physical intimacy between consenting adults is a natural and beautiful part of being human, and every individual should have the right to experience that the way they see fit. If the Mormon church chooses to place limits on sexual activity only within the bonds of marriage, so be it. But then they must welcome gay couples who are sexually active after committing to each other in marriage, and who choose to raise children together, and until then, there is no place in the Mormon church for any LGBTQ+ individual who wants to live their life to the fullest.
I feel sadness for Charlie, and for anyone who is faced with the dilemma of embracing their true nature as a gay individual and their religion. Charlie speaks throughout the book of how important his faith and spirituality are to him: so important that he is willing to sacrifice things that no straight member of the church would ever be expected to sacrifice. In fact, straight members of the Mormon church are expected to marry early and have multiple children, all with enthusiasm and vigor.
All of this may be fine for Charlie, but the message he claims to be sharing is that he has found a way to be gay and Mormon at the same time, and that is simply not true, and is the dangerous message that is being shared here. On the last page of the epilogue, Mr. Bird says he looks forward to a time where people "don't have to hate themselves to love their church, or hate their church to love themselves." How sad for a church to put any individual in a position to feel this way, and force them to choose.
While the Mormon church has made some progress over the years with regard to its views on homosexuality and its treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals (in the early 90s when I was growing up, the church labeled homosexuality a "perversion" and equated it to pedophilia), it should not be mistaken for a welcoming or accepting place for anyone on the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Mr. Bird tries to make the opposite case in this book by claiming that he is welcomed with open arms, but as you read his story it is clear that he is only accepted because he lives a repressed life in which he has trained himself to not "act" on his sexuality. In fact, there is a blatant and pervasive theme throughout the book that sexual activity among two people of the same gender must be avoided at all costs: "Same-gender orientation... has nothing to do with sin or sexual activity." Ergo, in the Mormon church, it's ok for you to identify as gay and to openly admit that you experience "same-sex attraction", so long as you don't ever physically act on your gay feelings. In Charlie's words, "I no longer reduce myself to sexual orientation".
BYU's honor code states that students & faculty must "live a chaste and virtuous life, including abstaining from any sexual relations outside a marriage BETWEEN A MAN AND A WOMAN." (Capitalization added for emphasis.) By the laws of the Mormon church, gay men cannot marry, cannot share physical or sexual intimacy (even with a partner in marriage), and cannot raise children. Recently, the church revised a rule that a child of gay parents must disavow their parents if that child wants to join the Mormon church. Now a child may freely join the church that discriminates so openly against their gay parents without needing to disavow them. (How generous.) At more than one point in the book, Mr. Bird talks about how people associate homosexuality with sex, as if sex is a bad thing. As if our straight married counterparts do not have sex. He portrays gay men who engage in sexual activity as sexual deviants who live troubled lives because of their troubled past: "Most of us have been raised to believe we are sexual deviants, so that's... what some of us become." And "Gay culture is so full of substance abuse, addiction, and casual immorality in part because so many heartbroken people are just looking for a place to fit in."
At another point in the book, Mr. Bird makes the bold assertion that the Mormon church is at the "forefront of equality". This is the church that explicitly excludes LGBTQ+ people from its ranks and actively campaigned in favor of Proposition 8 in California to strip gay people of the right to marriage. I beg to differ that the Mormon church is a leader on the march for equality, and I believe history will back me up on that.
At the end of his memoir, Mr. Bird shares the final question he was asked in a news interview after he publicly came out: "Where do you see yourself 10 to 15 years down the road?" What is noticeably absent in his response is any mention of a spouse / life partner or raising children, even though early on in the book he says that as a child he "saw himself living in a suburb with a wife, a daughter, and a dog." Not to worry. He states that he is "so much more than just gay". He is "a son, a brother, an uncle, and a friend... an athlete, a dancer, a writer, and an extrovert." And "a child of God". What is not included in that list? A husband; a father. Because Charlie knows he cannot be either of those things and still be an active member, in good standing, of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Physical intimacy between consenting adults is a natural and beautiful part of being human, and every individual should have the right to experience that the way they see fit. If the Mormon church chooses to place limits on sexual activity only within the bonds of marriage, so be it. But then they must welcome gay couples who are sexually active after committing to each other in marriage, and who choose to raise children together, and until then, there is no place in the Mormon church for any LGBTQ+ individual who wants to live their life to the fullest.
I feel sadness for Charlie, and for anyone who is faced with the dilemma of embracing their true nature as a gay individual and their religion. Charlie speaks throughout the book of how important his faith and spirituality are to him: so important that he is willing to sacrifice things that no straight member of the church would ever be expected to sacrifice. In fact, straight members of the Mormon church are expected to marry early and have multiple children, all with enthusiasm and vigor.
All of this may be fine for Charlie, but the message he claims to be sharing is that he has found a way to be gay and Mormon at the same time, and that is simply not true, and is the dangerous message that is being shared here. On the last page of the epilogue, Mr. Bird says he looks forward to a time where people "don't have to hate themselves to love their church, or hate their church to love themselves." How sad for a church to put any individual in a position to feel this way, and force them to choose.
October 18, 2020
Charlie Bird had me with his "Rollie" dance with the Cougarettes. Even though I could watch that video (and his many others) continuously, I now know there is much more to him than his amazing dance moves. He is kind, courageous, faithful, talented, strong, and gay. I appreciated hearing his story, especially in the context of seeking and receiving personal revelation. It was such a great reminder to me that God wants to guide and help each of us in our individual circumstances...that we are not supposed to do it on our own. I also loved how he used his unique personality to serve and connect with others. Truly his generosity in sharing expanded his many gifts. I also really loved his family. They responded with such love and support (like a good family should), but also with great insight (his sister's comment that "Jesus made flowers" was such a beautiful thought). I appreciated his perspective, personal experiences, and his testimony, and I am grateful that he shared his story. I know that many more will also be blessed by it.
-"'Jesus Christ, the most perfect man that has ever lived made flowers...He is creative like you, Charlie. He has a sincere love of beauty and an affinity for design. He is compassionate and kind and emotional, just like you are.' My soul felt wider as she spoke. 'Being a man has nothing to do with gender stereotypes, Charlie. All these things that you are embarrassed of, they make you more like Jesus. The very qualities you are ashamed of are in fact innate Christlike characteristics." He learned to look at his characteristics as whether or not they were Christlike, instead of whether they were feminine or masculine.
-"Before that moment I had never considered how many of the Savior's qualities are, in our world today, considered 'feminine.' Jesus is a perfect example of patience, empathy, understanding, and sensitivity. He is nurturing, gentle, accommodating, and emotional. He is compassionate, kind, and conscious of others. In His great and ultimate atoning sacrifice, the Savior proved to be the epitome of humility and vulnerability, both viewed as stereotypically feminine by modern society." (loved this whole chapter..."Jesus made flowers, so I can too.")
-"'Jesus Christ, the most perfect man that has ever lived made flowers...He is creative like you, Charlie. He has a sincere love of beauty and an affinity for design. He is compassionate and kind and emotional, just like you are.' My soul felt wider as she spoke. 'Being a man has nothing to do with gender stereotypes, Charlie. All these things that you are embarrassed of, they make you more like Jesus. The very qualities you are ashamed of are in fact innate Christlike characteristics." He learned to look at his characteristics as whether or not they were Christlike, instead of whether they were feminine or masculine.
-"Before that moment I had never considered how many of the Savior's qualities are, in our world today, considered 'feminine.' Jesus is a perfect example of patience, empathy, understanding, and sensitivity. He is nurturing, gentle, accommodating, and emotional. He is compassionate, kind, and conscious of others. In His great and ultimate atoning sacrifice, the Savior proved to be the epitome of humility and vulnerability, both viewed as stereotypically feminine by modern society." (loved this whole chapter..."Jesus made flowers, so I can too.")
October 29, 2020
"I've never felt right when I've tried to fit in by abandoning parts of who I am. I thrive when I'm true to myself and to what I believe, regardless of what others might think."
Charlie Bird went viral as Cosmo Cougar, BYU's talented dancing mascot who teamed up with the Cougarettes for an unforgettable routine. BYU fans across the nation loved the video, but in an op-ed that came out months later, Charlie revealed that he was the one behind the mask -- and he wondered whether people would cheer for him if they knew Charlie's true identity as a gay man.
I hope we in the Church are changing. I hope we are more willing to welcome the marginalized and to withhold judgment. I feel like I am slowly getting better at this, though admittedly I'm still learning and practicing. For those in the Church who are also hoping to make it a safer place to be for LGBTQ+ persons, I recommend this short memoir.
But besides being essential reading for allies, I found this book to be relatable to me as a human. Although my challenges are different than Charlie's, his descriptions of breaking free of shame and being true to our authentic selves was something I could relate to. Some of it brought me to tears. I also loved his example of choosing faith, even when it was difficult. This is not just a book for the LGBTQ+ community, but for anyone who has felt like they don't quite fit (which is all of us, and one time or another).
More quotes:
"When Jesus came to earth, He fulfilled the law of Moses and taught a 'higher law,' one based on love, personal revelation, and moral responsibility. The parameters of the law of Moses helped lay a groundwork for believers, but the higher law showed that faith truly lives when it's released from legalism. Faith grows when it is used to navigate precarious realms of ambiguity."
"The wrestle has made me stronger."
Charlie Bird went viral as Cosmo Cougar, BYU's talented dancing mascot who teamed up with the Cougarettes for an unforgettable routine. BYU fans across the nation loved the video, but in an op-ed that came out months later, Charlie revealed that he was the one behind the mask -- and he wondered whether people would cheer for him if they knew Charlie's true identity as a gay man.
I hope we in the Church are changing. I hope we are more willing to welcome the marginalized and to withhold judgment. I feel like I am slowly getting better at this, though admittedly I'm still learning and practicing. For those in the Church who are also hoping to make it a safer place to be for LGBTQ+ persons, I recommend this short memoir.
But besides being essential reading for allies, I found this book to be relatable to me as a human. Although my challenges are different than Charlie's, his descriptions of breaking free of shame and being true to our authentic selves was something I could relate to. Some of it brought me to tears. I also loved his example of choosing faith, even when it was difficult. This is not just a book for the LGBTQ+ community, but for anyone who has felt like they don't quite fit (which is all of us, and one time or another).
More quotes:
"When Jesus came to earth, He fulfilled the law of Moses and taught a 'higher law,' one based on love, personal revelation, and moral responsibility. The parameters of the law of Moses helped lay a groundwork for believers, but the higher law showed that faith truly lives when it's released from legalism. Faith grows when it is used to navigate precarious realms of ambiguity."
"The wrestle has made me stronger."
September 19, 2022
rating: 4.5 stars
if someone were to ask me for a book that could sway any religious homophobic persons mind on the lgbtq community, or just a religious person who is trying to understand the lgbtq community i would recommend this book.
charlie's prose is very authentic and full of compassion and i feel like his book helped to answer so many of my questions. i really thought about how bitter many lgbtq people are. but charlie does not blame, instead he has empathy and shows compassion towards those who have been hurt. in the end, hurt people hurt people.
i think this book is fantastic for parents of lgbtq youth, and i believe that it can evoke compassion out of anyone. as someone who has never cried to a book, the fact that this got me CLOSE to tears is saying something. i feel like in a world full of bitterness, charlie shows all perspectives that inevitably enhance this book to the lighthearted, yet heartbreaking book that it is. this book was more of a call out than i thought it would be.
it helped me realize that so much of lgbtq culture can stem from this hurting, hurting that leads so much of us to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms due to the hatred in this world. i realized that so much of jesus's traits would be deemed as "feminine" today. so why do we demonize it? but most importantly, i realized that i don't have to choose a side and let the world put me into a box, dictating who i am with stereotypes. thank you charlie for being an advocate for religious lgbtq youth!
if someone were to ask me for a book that could sway any religious homophobic persons mind on the lgbtq community, or just a religious person who is trying to understand the lgbtq community i would recommend this book.
charlie's prose is very authentic and full of compassion and i feel like his book helped to answer so many of my questions. i really thought about how bitter many lgbtq people are. but charlie does not blame, instead he has empathy and shows compassion towards those who have been hurt. in the end, hurt people hurt people.
i think this book is fantastic for parents of lgbtq youth, and i believe that it can evoke compassion out of anyone. as someone who has never cried to a book, the fact that this got me CLOSE to tears is saying something. i feel like in a world full of bitterness, charlie shows all perspectives that inevitably enhance this book to the lighthearted, yet heartbreaking book that it is. this book was more of a call out than i thought it would be.
it helped me realize that so much of lgbtq culture can stem from this hurting, hurting that leads so much of us to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms due to the hatred in this world. i realized that so much of jesus's traits would be deemed as "feminine" today. so why do we demonize it? but most importantly, i realized that i don't have to choose a side and let the world put me into a box, dictating who i am with stereotypes. thank you charlie for being an advocate for religious lgbtq youth!
September 15, 2020
I really liked this book and I was skeptical before I starting reading it. It touched on many aspects of being gay in the LDS Church. The only thing I would have liked him to have addressed was about having a partner. He doesn't go there at all....I think that is why it was published by Deseret Book. I am interested to know his feelings on that particular issue and what he plans to do about it if he does find someone he wants to spend his life with.
This book has an emotional attachment for me. One of my brothers is gay and I can't help wondering how his life might be different with the church and our immediate family had my family treated him like Charlie's family did. He was treated poorly by Church Authorities in his Stake and by what were "close friends." I also wonder how that would have impacted my own daughter had she been treated differently by some of my family members, some ward members, and some of her friends. In someways this book hurt my heart and I do wonder if it will even make a difference to those who have hardened hearts.
This book has an emotional attachment for me. One of my brothers is gay and I can't help wondering how his life might be different with the church and our immediate family had my family treated him like Charlie's family did. He was treated poorly by Church Authorities in his Stake and by what were "close friends." I also wonder how that would have impacted my own daughter had she been treated differently by some of my family members, some ward members, and some of her friends. In someways this book hurt my heart and I do wonder if it will even make a difference to those who have hardened hearts.
March 9, 2022
An unfortunate name for a book that came out in 2020, but how could he have known?! This was a vulnerable and brave little book and I'm so grateful for Charlie's insight on reconciling his faith with his identity.
June 2, 2021
I found this book very conflicted in thought as I was reading it. I actually wondered several times in the first 20 or so pages why he was trying so hard to prove how wretchedly horrible he felt for just being gay, and why he kept going back to a church and being around people who seemed to confirm the way he was feeling about this. He'd go on to say how much he loved the gospel, and then he'd say in the next sentence that everything he'd heard about homosexuality growing up as a latter day saint in the midwest had "highly negative connotation and was very shameful". I'm so glad he told his story-full stars for that. I do wish he'd had a stronger message for youth about being ok with who they are and how to find a place in the community. He touched on the hardships of that concept briefly when he said "I'm too gay for the mormons and too mormon for the gays" when he was trying to find a place he fit in (and that was when he was an adult in college after his mission.) It's hard for youth. It's lonely. And it can be destructive to feel like you're not accepted (and many times rejected) by peers, your community and even by God. I also wish he'd had a stronger message to parents about not forcing their child to keep going to church if it doesn't feel like a safe place for them. I think it's natural for parents to want their lgbtq youth to keep behaving and living as if they don't fall under the rainbow umbrella, but the truth is, there really isn't a place for lgbtq members if they ever want to live a full life which includes being in a loving relationship and someday married. Thanks for adding to the discussion Charlie, I hope it opens the eyes and hearts of members who want to understand the challenge of coming out in a religious community.
July 3, 2024
Honestly? This book was a lot better than I thought it was going to be. I knew Charlie Bird’s general story - we attended BYU at the same time, and I remember him being Cosmo and releasing the famous article - but truly reading about his struggle to reconcile faith and his sexual orientation was very powerful.
His spiritual journey is so inspiring. It makes me realize how little I pray and read my scriptures now. I loved reading about how dedicated he is to the gospel and the questions he would ask Heavenly Father. Questions I just as easily could ask to help me strengthen my relationship with the gospel. He is an inspiration to me on how I can grow closer to God, I could be a lot better in that regard. It was just so refreshing to see how he loves the gospel so much. I can’t imagine what it would be like to be gay, but I feel like I often see people online bashing the church after they come out. I totally understand if you need to distance yourself from that, I’m sure I would too. But I guess it was just refreshing to see how much love Charlie has for the gospel of Jesus Christ. I know everyone’s journey is different, but I am grateful to have read about Charlie’s.
This book also made me realize that I’m sure I’ve said some harmful things in the past without meaning to. I am going to be better at not saying comments that could be perceived as harmful, even if others think they’re fine. This book made me realize you never truly know who is struggling with what.
I am interested to read his other book that was released since this one was in 2020. I can tell he has done a lot of good. I respect whatever direction his life takes him. I know he’s married to another LDS guy, and I’m happy for him.
It was fun reading about some of the events he talked about since I was at BYU for them as well, like devotionals or student panels.
It’s interesting to read the one star reviews on this book… I’ve noticed that Charlie Bird gets flack for wanting to stay close to the church after coming out. And then David Archuleta is getting flack for leaving the church after coming out. It seems unfortunately you can’t win if you come out as a gay church member.
His spiritual journey is so inspiring. It makes me realize how little I pray and read my scriptures now. I loved reading about how dedicated he is to the gospel and the questions he would ask Heavenly Father. Questions I just as easily could ask to help me strengthen my relationship with the gospel. He is an inspiration to me on how I can grow closer to God, I could be a lot better in that regard. It was just so refreshing to see how he loves the gospel so much. I can’t imagine what it would be like to be gay, but I feel like I often see people online bashing the church after they come out. I totally understand if you need to distance yourself from that, I’m sure I would too. But I guess it was just refreshing to see how much love Charlie has for the gospel of Jesus Christ. I know everyone’s journey is different, but I am grateful to have read about Charlie’s.
This book also made me realize that I’m sure I’ve said some harmful things in the past without meaning to. I am going to be better at not saying comments that could be perceived as harmful, even if others think they’re fine. This book made me realize you never truly know who is struggling with what.
I am interested to read his other book that was released since this one was in 2020. I can tell he has done a lot of good. I respect whatever direction his life takes him. I know he’s married to another LDS guy, and I’m happy for him.
It was fun reading about some of the events he talked about since I was at BYU for them as well, like devotionals or student panels.
It’s interesting to read the one star reviews on this book… I’ve noticed that Charlie Bird gets flack for wanting to stay close to the church after coming out. And then David Archuleta is getting flack for leaving the church after coming out. It seems unfortunately you can’t win if you come out as a gay church member.
April 5, 2024
Great synopses and fun life experiences made this enjoyable to read. I don’t know that it added anything new to the narrative of gay Mormons and could be used as a harmful tool by mothers against those who choose a different path. He did make it clear that these are his decisions and what is best for him which I appreciated. I’m afraid that being published by Deseret Book didn’t allow for full authenticity. Would love to hear more of his thoughts and experiences with dating if there are any.
August 12, 2020
There are words and thoughts from this book that will stay with me the rest of my life. I can’t imagine how many lives will be changed by the bravery of Charlie Bird.
August 21, 2020
Listened to this book in one day-absolutely loved it!! Everything about it! Everyone should read this. I want to re-listen to it with my family.
March 10, 2022
March 2022:
I stand by my review from last year (see below). But it was more of a bittersweet read the second time through. With my own brother's continuous struggle to find a place and a future in the Church echoing Charlie's own words in a recent podcast in which he spoke about falling in love, it's hard to read this book now without a little bit of pessimism.
From Charlie's recent podcast:
"People love a gay Latter-day Saint until they're actually gay."
"I'm gay and I have faith in Jesus Christ and I don't know what to do."
"I'm not looking for a loophole out; I'm looking for a loophole in."
It's heartbreaking. There are currently no clear answers on what the future holds for any faithful LGBTQ member of the Church. Therefore, I wholeheartedly support all of them in whatever decision they make for their future, even if it takes them away from the Church.
"Please use me as a point of reference, not a poster child." (P. 161)
Jan 2021:
All members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints need to know and understand that being gay AND a faithful member of the Church IS possible. The fact that it does not happen more often than it does is probably the fault of the non-gay more than the gay. Our exclusion and marginalization of them--sometimes innocently done and sometimes not--is often the cause of them falling away. This book brings awareness of this fact. More need to be aware of this fact. The misunderstanding needs to stop. The inclusion and love need to be more all-encompassing.
Thankfully I have a brother who is gay. I would never wish for him to be anything other than he is, for he has taught me more about love in the past few years than I have learned in years prior on my own. His story and Charlie Bird's are similar in some ways, in ways that are similar to all members who are treading the path of being gay AND faithful.
How do we change the incorrect mentality within the church that you cannot be both gay and faithful? Education. That's why books like these are so important.
Some quotes from the book that I love:
"I believe all would do well to realize that being gay is not equal to sexual activity. To reduce someone to sex is dehumanizing and inappropriate, and often leads to improper judgement." (p. 150)
"Being gay and being a child of God aren't mutually exclusive, because they exist simultaneously in you." (p. 208, speaking to a friend who was also gay)
"Christ's perfect example taught that showing love and support is not a compromise of moral values--it's how we allow others to live in the light." (p. 99)
"... same-gender orientation isn't embarrassing, and has nothing to do with sin or sexual activity." (p.209)
"I have felt healthier and much closer to Him as I've learned to accept who I am rather than wish I were different." (p. 209)
"Faith grows when it is used to navigate precarious realms of ambiguity. Some of the strongest examples of faith have come from believers who follow the Spirit into enigmatic new territory." (p. 193)
I stand by my review from last year (see below). But it was more of a bittersweet read the second time through. With my own brother's continuous struggle to find a place and a future in the Church echoing Charlie's own words in a recent podcast in which he spoke about falling in love, it's hard to read this book now without a little bit of pessimism.
From Charlie's recent podcast:
"People love a gay Latter-day Saint until they're actually gay."
"I'm gay and I have faith in Jesus Christ and I don't know what to do."
"I'm not looking for a loophole out; I'm looking for a loophole in."
It's heartbreaking. There are currently no clear answers on what the future holds for any faithful LGBTQ member of the Church. Therefore, I wholeheartedly support all of them in whatever decision they make for their future, even if it takes them away from the Church.
"Please use me as a point of reference, not a poster child." (P. 161)
Jan 2021:
All members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints need to know and understand that being gay AND a faithful member of the Church IS possible. The fact that it does not happen more often than it does is probably the fault of the non-gay more than the gay. Our exclusion and marginalization of them--sometimes innocently done and sometimes not--is often the cause of them falling away. This book brings awareness of this fact. More need to be aware of this fact. The misunderstanding needs to stop. The inclusion and love need to be more all-encompassing.
Thankfully I have a brother who is gay. I would never wish for him to be anything other than he is, for he has taught me more about love in the past few years than I have learned in years prior on my own. His story and Charlie Bird's are similar in some ways, in ways that are similar to all members who are treading the path of being gay AND faithful.
How do we change the incorrect mentality within the church that you cannot be both gay and faithful? Education. That's why books like these are so important.
Some quotes from the book that I love:
"I believe all would do well to realize that being gay is not equal to sexual activity. To reduce someone to sex is dehumanizing and inappropriate, and often leads to improper judgement." (p. 150)
"Being gay and being a child of God aren't mutually exclusive, because they exist simultaneously in you." (p. 208, speaking to a friend who was also gay)
"Christ's perfect example taught that showing love and support is not a compromise of moral values--it's how we allow others to live in the light." (p. 99)
"... same-gender orientation isn't embarrassing, and has nothing to do with sin or sexual activity." (p.209)
"I have felt healthier and much closer to Him as I've learned to accept who I am rather than wish I were different." (p. 209)
"Faith grows when it is used to navigate precarious realms of ambiguity. Some of the strongest examples of faith have come from believers who follow the Spirit into enigmatic new territory." (p. 193)
August 22, 2020
I loved this book. Parts are hopeful and insightful as well as heartbreaking and frustrating. I wasn't familiar with Bird or his story. I'd only seen this advertised in emails from Deseret Book and noticed it was the August selection for the LDS Living Book Club. After reading, I'm glad it's getting that kind of publicity within mainstream channels of my church.
Bird was the mascot Cosmo the Cougar while he attended Brigham Young University. He was the first mascot to actually dance with the university's dance team and brought a lot of recognition to BYU and college mascots in general. But he'd been wrestling with coming out to his family and friends for years.
Without the Mask alternates between autobiographic and teaching chapters. I found both approaches edifying. One of the saddest parts of the book was Bird describing breaking up with a girl who really liked him, and who he really liked platonically, and how frustratingly indirect he was with her because he wasn't ready to come out. His homophobic dad's grief at being one of the last to know was also heartrending, but his complete acceptance and his request of "no more secrets" was sweet. The most uplifting aspects of this book for me were his immense relief at how loving and accepting his friends and family were. And how Elder M. Russell Ballard addressed LGBTQ concerns in more detail than Bird expected at a BYU fireside.
I'm not gay, and I don't have a lot of gay friends. But stories like Birds make me want to be a better ally. Because if I truly believe we're all children of a loving God, no one should feel they don't have a place in the Church.
READ IT IF: You're a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Because no matter our experiences, we can all do better.
Bird was the mascot Cosmo the Cougar while he attended Brigham Young University. He was the first mascot to actually dance with the university's dance team and brought a lot of recognition to BYU and college mascots in general. But he'd been wrestling with coming out to his family and friends for years.
Without the Mask alternates between autobiographic and teaching chapters. I found both approaches edifying. One of the saddest parts of the book was Bird describing breaking up with a girl who really liked him, and who he really liked platonically, and how frustratingly indirect he was with her because he wasn't ready to come out. His homophobic dad's grief at being one of the last to know was also heartrending, but his complete acceptance and his request of "no more secrets" was sweet. The most uplifting aspects of this book for me were his immense relief at how loving and accepting his friends and family were. And how Elder M. Russell Ballard addressed LGBTQ concerns in more detail than Bird expected at a BYU fireside.
I'm not gay, and I don't have a lot of gay friends. But stories like Birds make me want to be a better ally. Because if I truly believe we're all children of a loving God, no one should feel they don't have a place in the Church.
READ IT IF: You're a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Because no matter our experiences, we can all do better.
April 21, 2021
I have wanted to read this for a long time, finally read it for a Zoom book discussion. It was a nice little group of three of us. :)
I listen to Charlie and Ben’s podcast Questions From the Closet every week. I love them! Their voices are so needed in the LGBTQ+ Mormon conversation. They are a soft, safe place to begin understanding, along with Papa Ostler’s podcast Listen, Learn & Love.
The book is a quick read and hopeful and faithful. A few years ago I would have loved it; it would have been my favorite book ever. But I’m too tired now. I admire Charlie and other LGBTQ+ members of the Mormon church who embrace both their sexuality and their faith. My heart also breaks for them over the mental gymnastics and the impossible choice they have to make. A year ago I attended a Northstar conference in Utah, hoping to meet Mormon LGBTQ+ and allies who have figured it out. I left frustrated and defeated. I feel the same after reading this book. The impossible choice is still impossible.
This book is published by Deseret Book which I would guess influenced what Charlie included and how he worded his journey. I can’t wait for Part Two, not published by Deseret Book, 10 years later.
I listen to Charlie and Ben’s podcast Questions From the Closet every week. I love them! Their voices are so needed in the LGBTQ+ Mormon conversation. They are a soft, safe place to begin understanding, along with Papa Ostler’s podcast Listen, Learn & Love.
The book is a quick read and hopeful and faithful. A few years ago I would have loved it; it would have been my favorite book ever. But I’m too tired now. I admire Charlie and other LGBTQ+ members of the Mormon church who embrace both their sexuality and their faith. My heart also breaks for them over the mental gymnastics and the impossible choice they have to make. A year ago I attended a Northstar conference in Utah, hoping to meet Mormon LGBTQ+ and allies who have figured it out. I left frustrated and defeated. I feel the same after reading this book. The impossible choice is still impossible.
This book is published by Deseret Book which I would guess influenced what Charlie included and how he worded his journey. I can’t wait for Part Two, not published by Deseret Book, 10 years later.
December 31, 2020
This book was extremely difficult for me to read. I would never ever have chosen to read it except my LDS mother sent it to me for Christmas.
I didn’t like it at all. Full of comments like “bridle your passions” “ down a wrong path” “i am virtuous” all say the same exact things that were said to me by my church leaders when I “came out”.
Unless I followed church doctrine and choose to be celibate I was not welcome. I was not virtuous. I had not “earnestly and valiantly sought out answers”.
I think this book is extremely damaging to anyone who is not willing to sacrifice who they are to fall in line with Mormon Doctrine.
Sorry Charlie. Not for me.
I didn’t like it at all. Full of comments like “bridle your passions” “ down a wrong path” “i am virtuous” all say the same exact things that were said to me by my church leaders when I “came out”.
Unless I followed church doctrine and choose to be celibate I was not welcome. I was not virtuous. I had not “earnestly and valiantly sought out answers”.
I think this book is extremely damaging to anyone who is not willing to sacrifice who they are to fall in line with Mormon Doctrine.
Sorry Charlie. Not for me.
June 22, 2022
I don’t think we can truly start loving, being compassionate towards, and empathize with our LGBTQ brothers and sisters until we start listening to their experiences and taking a step in their shoes. This book is a really good starting place for anyone who is LDS and wants to be an ally.
August 23, 2020
As the mother of a gay son, I read everything I can from the LGBT community so that I can better understand my son and others. I really liked this young man’s faithfulness. His desire to understand what God wants for him is humbling to me. This kid is amazing. It makes me sad so many in the LGBTQ community have such heartache. I’m grateful things are improving. I hope many read this and become inspired to be kind to others whoever they are.
June 20, 2023
Just a sweet sincere memoir talking about how he navigated his own sexuality. I found myself thinking about things just a little bit differently trying to better understand another's experience. It's not the most well-written of all books but his sincerity and desire to help others understand triumphed my small critiques.
September 7, 2020
Without the Mask was eye-opening. I’ve never read anything that explained so fully how it feels to be an active, gay member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I have imagined what it must feel like many times as my daughter came out and left the Church - without saying much about it. I’ve wondered about and tried to imagine how LGBT people must feel in a church so devoted to the idea of families and eternity.
Good loves all of His children. I know that. Charlie reiterates that in his book. He has a personal relationship with his Heavenly Father and it shows. I’m just sorry society, and also some Church members, make LGBT people feel uncomfortable or unaccepted. My daughter definitely felt that. Being gay didn’t play into our plan for the future at all, until it did. Listening to Charlie tell his story made it more personal. I hope all people who struggle with SSA read his book and find hope.
Good loves all of His children. I know that. Charlie reiterates that in his book. He has a personal relationship with his Heavenly Father and it shows. I’m just sorry society, and also some Church members, make LGBT people feel uncomfortable or unaccepted. My daughter definitely felt that. Being gay didn’t play into our plan for the future at all, until it did. Listening to Charlie tell his story made it more personal. I hope all people who struggle with SSA read his book and find hope.
September 8, 2020
Hands down the best book I have read in 2020. Charlie Bird, who gained international fame (albeit anonymously) as Cosmo the Cougar (the BYU mascot) from 2016-2018 for his innovative stunts and dance routines, shares a candid, courageous, and moving memoir of his journey of faith and self-discovery as a gay man.
At times heartbreaking, humorous, and inspiring, this book should be compulsory reading by every Christian, especially members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (of which Bird himself is an active member).
Bird is not only a gifted writer, his observations on life, religion, and family are some of the most perceptive I have ever read.
Few books have moved me like this one to be more compassionate, more kind, more supportive, more understanding, and more loving toward those in the LGBTQ community. I have no doubt that Charlie Bird will help thousands of others to do the same.
At times heartbreaking, humorous, and inspiring, this book should be compulsory reading by every Christian, especially members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (of which Bird himself is an active member).
Bird is not only a gifted writer, his observations on life, religion, and family are some of the most perceptive I have ever read.
Few books have moved me like this one to be more compassionate, more kind, more supportive, more understanding, and more loving toward those in the LGBTQ community. I have no doubt that Charlie Bird will help thousands of others to do the same.
March 15, 2021
This memoir by Charlie Bird, former mascot for BYU, discusses how he has come to terms with his feelings about being gay while trying to maintain his faith and good standing in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
There is a lot to think about and discuss regarding this sensitive topic. While I don't necessarily agree with everything the author states (e.g. interpretation of scripture), I do appreciate his candor and willingness to try and help others who may be in his situation (or have children or loved ones also in a similar situation.)
There is a lot to think about and discuss regarding this sensitive topic. While I don't necessarily agree with everything the author states (e.g. interpretation of scripture), I do appreciate his candor and willingness to try and help others who may be in his situation (or have children or loved ones also in a similar situation.)
February 2, 2022
I am neither gay nor attracted to the LGBTQ cause. In many ways I have been like Charlie's father: openly critical and in no way sympathetic--except that I know a friend who identifies with the LGBTQ experience. Recently my heart has softened through having a granddaughter claim SSA. I thought that she was talking about sociality, but maybe she referred to something deeper akin to Charlie's feelings. I hope to be as compassionate as were Charlie's friends and family. This book has opened my eyes.
July 8, 2021
This was wonderful, I have all the respect and admiration for him. My only complaint is that I wish he would have shared his experience chronologically. It was hard to see the progression of things when just reading individual experiences. Maybe it was chronological for the most part? But the overall timeline of events was unclear. Other than that I loved it and I'm grateful to have gained some insight and understanding. My favorite chapter was #14 "The Norms", so many great thoughts.
January 3, 2021
I really enjoyed reading about his journey. I have had a few friends in the church come out to me and hearing their stories taught me a lot. This book helped even more I am glad he was brave enough to share personal details of his life so that I can know how to better help.
August 16, 2020
It’s far more than about being gay, it’s about accepting and loving yourself no matter who you are. Great insight! Powerful testimony! Thank you, Charlie!
July 25, 2021
So enlightening and inspiring!
I’m so glad I read this book! It helped me learn things I didn’t know and hopefully will help me to do better from now on.
I’m so glad I read this book! It helped me learn things I didn’t know and hopefully will help me to do better from now on.
August 20, 2021
Just so good. Everyone should read this book.
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