For some reason I'm unable to reply to the last few messages in a former thread.
It's clear a few people disagree with me, therefore I'm compelled to reconsider. It seems there are at least a few issues being discussed here. 1) Whether Brenda violated the terms of membership in this forum. 2) Whether providing printed copies of ex-JW material is an unwise decision, as opposed to doing so online. 3) Whether Brenda is a 'vulture, profiting from others' pain and anguish.'
1. No question that we're not supposed to "advertise any goods or services." Point taken. Question: Is it okay merely to provide a link to ones website, which may offer free content--as well as material for purchase? Is it really a violation if the stories requested are, in fact, available for free on her site--but there merely exists a charge for the printed version?
2. Perhaps providing the newsletter in a print format isn't the most economical way to proceed. But (and please correct me if I'm wrong) isn't it true that this content is provided free on the website? Isn't there only a charge if someone wishes to request a printed copy or subscription to those printed copies? She e-mailed me her newsletter free of charge for one year--and it's presently being offered as a free download on her site. Again, only if you want the printed brochure is there a charge, no? While offering the material in print may not seem necessary, I'll admit sometimes I like to have a hard copy--just as I enjoy the FreeMinds Journal I get from Randy Watters (for which there is also a modest fee.)
3. The degree of irritation I'm seeing to this is difficult to comprehend. Doesn't it make more sense to inform the person who may be going about this improperly what the terms of use for this site are--and make her aware of your issues of concern--rather than branding her a "vulture," making her out to be an evil person "whose primary interest is making some money by taking advantage of others' misfortune and pain?"
Certainly asking her not to solicit for stories on JWD is called for. Beyond that? She is providing this content free on her website. The stories are free. The newsletter is free. If you want to purchase the printed version you pay 3 bucks.
How is this any different than Randy's freeminds site? I too respect Randy a great deal. He has committed his life (at least in part) to helping people come out of the Watchtower religion. He too provides lots of free content on his site--and some materials that people may purchase. Do people here actually begrudge him this?