MS for 4 years. Then was an elder for 6 years. I declined an elder appointment next time around. Waited a couple of years and foolishly accepted to serve as a MS again. I discovered within the first six months of going to all the elder’s meetings after many mid-week meetings that lasted till 10 pm, that the subjects we discussed were mostly lame and petty.
I was embarrassed and naive to have imagined all through the years that the elders in the congregation library were making all these world renowned decisions. They would all emerge at times looking like they had just split the atom or solved life’s greatest mystery. The truth is I soon learned from experience most of what we discussed was not vital, earth shattering or very intellectual. I felt awkward being there.
I did not feel that God’s spirit guided any decisions. Just a bunch of guys, some very genuine and sincere, believing they were making a difference.
But most were backstabbing, power hungry men that day-to-day had no position of authority in the community or at work. At work they were often puny men doing menial jobs that provided little personal satisfaction or reward. But once they walked into that KH they were somebody special carrying their little folders and secret silly WT letters. At the KH they were looked up to, they had a title and authority.
The politics, hypocrisy and hidden agendas clearly showed me that this was a big sham. It reminds me now of the show “Survivor.” I quickly learned you have to make “Alliances” with other players or you’re toast.
Most directives & decisions made, were already established before the meeting even began by alliances made by “one tribe” against another “tribe” or “individual.” The meeting often was a mere formality.
Today I’m convinced that the Governing Body meetings are absolutely the same. They are simply glorified “elders meetings” with no more insight or special gifts being brought to the table. The GB fumble, blunder & trip along the way like the rest of the imperfect elders worldwide.
Only they have the absolute say & power in everything. Unfortunately millions of people look at them all star struck. They forget the horrible track record these GB men (simply imperfect elders) have in the WT history!!