@Lisa Rose " Once I left I was able to align my actions with my true beliefs, and now I do feel spiritual, in a way I never was while on the JW merry-go-round of meetings, service, study, etc. For me, being spiritual means taking care of my family, giving love and support to my friends, and other people I meet, giving back to my community and working at my creative business. It doesn't involve lip service to any religion necessarily, although for some that is their life's work. You also do not have to believe in God to be spiritual."
THIS THIS THIIIISSSS is what I am saying.!!!!
@Comatose - " Hang in there, and don't be afraid to ask these questions and think about these things. This is you growing."
Thanks! As a JW I felt that I always had to know the answer. I could not say anything stupid. I was not allowed to be ignorant of anything. Since coming to this forum I have been able to be very open. Say stupid things. Express opinions that may not be appreciated. I have been embarrased by my ignorance on matters and I ENJOYED IT. Being free is great!
@InChristAlone - " I realized what a profound hypocrite I was." - My feelings exactly
@Oubliette - Your first sentence expresses how i feel. I knew what I wanted to be. I was afraid to do it and confused and many other adjectives... so I lived the lie. You are so right. THe people who I hate to say looked up to me and always held me on a pedestal could give a rats ass about me. I spent sooooo much time helping these people through rough times and now they speak of me as if I am a piece of <insert expletive>. I do not need them just like they dont need me. I have my immediate family and my wifes family who have shown me soo much concern and care during this period that I feel odd accepting it. It is amazing how once you leave life begins in the fullest sense