flipper, yeah, Scientologist are JWs on Steriods is right. I'm reading a book, Inside Scientology, by Janet Reitman. It's a great expose. I wish she'd write a similar on on JWs. It's interesting to read their tactics and practices. You're right, they are not as subtle. But that just makes it easier to see how bad JW beliefs are. Slightly less than completely evil is still ... completely evil!
Gayle, interesting comments about the "Ex-Scientologist kids.com" website. I don't know if you checked it out. Most of the members are adults that were raised as Scientologists.
Since my children were raised as JWs the impact of your statement really hit home:
Kids growing up in a cult involves much more of their personality/psyche, than adult converts. Adults may have a 'base' of their real self, however, children in a cult don't get/have that base. To find that within themselves, takes more unraveling. It's going to be much more emotional and excruiating.
I spend a lot of time trying to figure out how I can reach them and undo all the damage that has been done to them as a result of being raised a JW. I feel tremendous guilt for teaching them these beliefs. Recently I had this not too wonderful revelation in reference to being shunned by my own children
I understand that they are just acting according to their beliefs, beliefs which I taught them.
Apparently I was better at teaching beliefs than I was at teaching love. For that I am sorry.
Gojira_101, as someone raised a JW I really appreciate your comments. As I mentioned to Gayle above, I am trying to figure out how I can help reach my own children and undo the damage done. I'd welcome any and all suggestions you are willing to share. This is really important for myself and no doubt countless others, both parents and children.
Balaamsass, please share your findings. I'm sure we'll all find it enlightening.
