Thanks, folks. Actually, momz, I'm not the least bit nervous. Over the last couple of years I guess I've arrived at a place in which I understand their minds have been a bit "stolen," just like mine was for so many years. I believe I'm in a much better position to make my points than they're in to make theirs. Cool as a cucumber here; just wondering how they'll be.
Logic&Reason, big DMB cheers to you! Trying to figure out a way to see them this Summer.
LovesDubs, I appreciate your thoughts, but they don't quite fit with my mom and dad. It's true Mom kept saying she'd have to talk with Dad. But she's just acting like she's following protocol. Truth is, Mom does not hesitate to act out of harmony with Dad when she feels like it--and hasn't historically feared any "reprisals" from him. While Dad doesn't like her telling him what to do, he usually doesn't interfere with what she wants to do. If she fears anyone, it's her three other children. As she said to me the last time we spoke, "But, dear, if I talk to you, then your brother and sisters won't talk to me!"
I've actually spoke with Dad a couple of times on the phone. It's difficult to describe him. He's been an elder since they instituted the arrangement, and has professed to be of the anointed since before I was born, but he's actually spoken to me twice when I called--and my mom wasn't home. He doesn't get into anything "spiritual," but I think he thinks it's okay for him to speak with me when I call--since I haven't officially been DFd or DAd, he hasn't actually heard me say anything against the organization--and he's an elder.
Your expressions about mothers in general are (as you wrote) typical--but (as I'm sure you know) not across the board. My mom is possibly more the Watchtower guardian than my dad.
I will let them dictate whether I offer my letter or not. If they are happy to keep things positive and friendly, so will I be. But if they persist in bringing up the WTS issues, I will offer them my perspectives. And, Octarine, I understand your comment about 'thoughts' vs. 'facts.' Facts are the entire basis of my letter, but, as you know, without perspective, facts can be dismissed and ignored. And the primary point I want them to absorb (if they will) is that this is not about me demanding they accept my version of the facts over theirs--but that, regardless of our personal conclusions, we should still be able to get along without feeling threatened by an authoritarian religious structure.