I have tried to stay out of these discussions as I have been a fader with many issues to iron out in my awakening. I am not yet in what I would consider a new "normal" yet but long to be rectified, to be resolved, firmly decided.
I do not want to be a hypocrite and that is why pretty quickly I stopped turning in time and then made further strong moves to help myself have a clearer conscience. I still feel pulled to go to meetings but haven't been for many weeks now (spotty at best). I also am not comfortable coming out and publically being opposed....opening self to being DF with all the negative ramifications, Yet, I am being freer to associate publically and share things I do that I know would be frowned on. I feel the disapproval of this latest move and am now being "lovingly disciplined" by some of my "friends" (is that really christian??)
I am finding my courage to withstand it and more each day; some days better than others.
I think if you broaden your sphere beyond JWs, make connections and life beyond, you will gain new perspectives that will assist you in determining if your pseudo support is effective and healthy. Personally, I cannot preach what I do not support, even if they have some good points and some things "right". We aren't allowed to share anything we think is wrong, THAT is the point!!
The comments made by some here are like looking in a mirror to me now. It is painful what I "see" and feel....that I am still "delusional, under control of WT, somehow am complicit in the deaths and abuse of WT members by having been a somewhat blind and distracted follower all these years...." Ouch!!!
I reject any statement that I am complicit or guilty for WT policies/actions in causing harm to others just as I reject logic that as an American I am guilty of U.S policies and actions as government may have caused death and harm to its citizens or non-citizens, especially since I did not vote for such policies, had no control or played no part in enacting them, and in many cases was not aware of them. As I know more, I take action where appropriate. However, natioanl citizenship is more complicated and a bigger issue so not to compare it with the ease of distancing yourself from an organization. i do not agree with many U.S. Policies but will remain an American. i cannot say same thing for WT. I am distancing myself and someday may find that words come out of my mouth...I am no longer a JW. New people know me as christian or ?? Do not wan to align myself with any religious affiliation/holiday/group.
BJ and Introvert, don't take this all of this thread too personally but think about it for a while. The "pen" here is very sharp but make good points. I had a few friends in org, but majority shallow and conditional. I need and want more as I (and my family) was never and never will be "good enough" to be acceptable by the majority of this org other than when I can bring my free labor or checkbook to the next donation request or Avon/Melaleuca party.
It's a journey. Keep all the loving, supportive, ethical principles and question /distance yourself from those that cause harm, destruction, pain. There are other ways to be "in service". My family is more involved with charities now and meeting many wonderful people.....
I want to share one more thing....I used to somewhat be fearful to share my charity work but no longer. I am surprised by some of the reactions from online JW friends - some no longer respond to me now but remain connected (lurking?), some have shown interest and public support (hmmmm). Try a different type of service that gives practical help to needy and see how you feel compared with offering JW literature at doors and see how you feel.
Peace,
Stirred