I just had this idea for how a speaker might illustrate the much-discussed 'overlapping generation' doctrine.
"Imagine a series of lamps, placed in order from left to right. As you turn each of them on, what you ultimately have is a set of overlapping lights, that, when combined, form one composite light, so that even if, by some chance, one of the lights gets turned off, you still have the remaining lights which overlap with each other. In the same way, the current generation of anointed ones have long, faithful records of service to Jehovah alongside the past generation of anointed ones who saw the events of 1914. They have served as an overlapping light of spiritual nourishment for Jehovah's people in this time of the end. And even though some older anointed ones may finish their earthly course, loyal anointed ones still living carry on as part of this anointed generation. These anointed ones, in our time, will not pass away until the great tribulation is upon us. Are we not thankful for the increasing light of knowledge Jehovah has given us through the faithful slave class? How do you feel?"
[Convention applause]
"The increasing light shed upon the Bible through Jehovah's organization has gotten particularly bright in recent years. It was discerned by the faithful slave, and published in The Watchtower in 2007 that evidently we cannot set a specific date for the conclusion of the calling of anointed ones. With the passing of time, it became apparent that "this generation", the one Jesus said would not pass away until all things occurred, was actually these faithful anointed servants of God, who follow the Lamb, Jesus Christ, everywhere he goes. As members of the 'great crowd', do we not rejoice in following the direction of these faithful men--the Governing Body which represents the faithful slave today?"
[Convention applause; I take more notes and wonder when this will be over. Looking at my schedule again, I think, d***it. Not till 4:15, and it's 3:49 now...I'm feeling like I'm a zombie...]
Hmm...maybe convention memories are better saved for another thread. But I had to throw this out there. Any thoughts?