by LennyinBluemont 23 Replies latest jw friends
Lenny,
I'm so sorry about your father. What you said at the eulogy was great. I hope that your family continues a long and loving relationship with you.
This is very similar to my life.......walking away from family and friends to be a JW for 30 years. There have been times when I went to my father's grave and just talked to him and told him how sorry I was for ignoring him for all those years. I can't go back but I hope I can make a difference to those still living.
HappyDad
Lenny,
What a beautiful thing to say. It was a wonderful gift to your father and a wonderful gift to your family to do so in your fathers name.
How horrible all of us were. We allowed a cult to dictate our life's pathway.
Please accept my sympathy for the loss of your dad, especially in that he had to go with Alzheimers.
Keep me in mind for your trip this summer.
Brant
Hi Lenny,
I am sad to hear your story in a way, and very happy in another way. That you lost your dad is always sad, and I personally sympathize with that. It has been over 6 years-I still really miss my dad, and often want to call him for different things.
I am happy you were able to do what you could to make things right with your dad-you were WITH him and that told him more than words. You made things right with his family. You also let all of them know how much love and respect you have for him and that you realize you hurt all of them. Those long hugs--were nothing compared to what your parents gave you in their love-even when you wouldn't accept it. No matter what, they loved you.
Take care-
Shelly
Lenny, I am so sorry about your dad. You also may have helped your relatives in other ways. They will remember this for a long long time. Telling others how much you care, before it is too late. And, to not answer the door, when JW's call.
I am sorry for your sad loss Lenny, but happy for you that you were able to say goodbye to your father in such a loving way.
Maddie
Thanks everyone, for your kind thoughts. I appreciate the "cyber" family I have here. And I know more than a few of you beyond the internet, which is even nicer. I hoped that by sharing this, some may see that it is possible to "repair" your relationships with non-JW family in the aftermath of leaving. I do believe an apology is appropriate, at least for many of us, because it was a choice. I saw cousins I haven't seen in over 30 years that I used to be really close to as a child. Some are now in their sixties. Of course, I regret the lost years. Also, for those who "lurk" and are still in the organization, I wanted you to see what lay ahead of you down the road, if you continue to carry on as I foolishly did for so many years. Please don't waste another day! When they're gone, they're gone.
I'm sorry about your father - and the distance between you due to the religion. I'm glad you can reconnect with some of your other relatives.
((((Lenny))))
Thank you for sharing your words with us during this difficult time. I am sorry for the loss of your father, and at the same time happy you were able to gain back relationships you had once lost. I appreciate your heartfelt words, and I know the rest of your family did also.
Life is precious, and I too am saddened about the years wasted for really nothing. Let's make every minute count from here on out.
Sending love and good thoughts to you and Karen.
D
So sorry for your loss, and I am sure you have had many difficult years with your father. But am glad you have those many, many difficult JW years behind you......and thanks for the good cry.....I think I needed it. Very touching story...........................oompa
I'm so glad they have you back too Uncle Lenny!
I am sorry for the loss of your father Lenny. My thoughts are with you and your family
mem
