a little of my story...
I did my fair share of "volunteer work" as a JW - I did lots of hours on FS, spent some time running errands for some of the old ones and a few quick builds but nothing really notable that couldn't be put on a report.
However, looking back I basically spent most of my time involved in something that did not pay me anything (instead cost me money) and that I got no real reward for.
When I was fading I did get involved with helping a few charities out on a professional basis although I never charged for my services. What struck me was how happy, positive, non-propoganda, genuine and worthy the people and causes were.
There is a clear difference between the WBTS, which is classified as a charity within tax criteria only simply a religion, compared to a real charity that actually does good.
Since leaving and having time / confidence / motivation I quickly started becoming a charity fundraiser and found it seriously rewarding. I've met great people and done things I'm so proud of.
This has now led me to be seriously involved with charity, working with great innovators that are changing people's lives and making a global difference. I am hearing about sustainable solutions to health or social issues instead of the negative rubbish spouted in the KH. I am often speaking to hundreds of people about life changing stories instead of shyly knocking on doors with a deceptive message of doom.
JW's I meet never ask me what I do, have zero interest in what good gets done, zero interest in learning about something positive.
When a disaster happens I am a cog in a machine that responds, helps, reduces suffering.
I am so lucky.
mmxiv
