by TisInYourWishbone 9 Replies latest jw friends
One thing that is categorically true of associations, clubs, congregation and is particularly true of JW's and ex -JW's is that their constituents, members, followers have common traits.
What are these traits that can be considered negative amidst the JW's and the ex-JW's.
And also
What are these traits that can be considered positive amidst the JW's and the ex-JW's.
Well a negative trait that I developed while a JW is being judgemental. I did not like that trait in myself but at times I find myself falling back into that bad habit.
Something positive? For some it is the ability to speak publicly.
good: in general, manners are very good.
bad: in general, an inability to rationalise.
If i may express my observations pertaining to common attributes of JW's.
Negative
Judgemental- I would have to agree
Timid
Positive
An unusually high strength in your desire to be good
Patience
Discipline
Tis, all of the good attributes you mention are the product of fear.
Negative:Tend to form cliques
Positive:Well-groomed
JWs (and all members of cults and mass movements everywhere) are they feel their lives are ruined and they must find something bigger and more important than themselves to make themselves important again, to atone for their worthless, ruined lives.
For a complete list see Hoffer's "The True Believer." Too much typing for me to do.
Negative: Education not encourage. In the past positively DIScouraged, resulting in many not fulfilling their dreams or potential.
Due to the 'we cannot associate with you!' mentality children are isolated from ordinary enjoyable school pursuits ie: The joy of singing harmless hymms in assembly, or Xmas songs. Also, not being allowed to be in school plays, etc. The end result is that the child feels an isolation which often stays with it throughout it's JW life, often this results in an individual who has very little self-confidence. There is very little time for a fully active JW to have any hobbies or personal endeavours - especially fultime pioneers.
Positive: I'll have to give this some thought...lol It is true that my worship...I have come to realize was done out of fear, which was instilled in me as a very young child. Now I am over the FEAR. Hey! I guess that's positive!
Negative: Judgemental, Hypocrites, Taking a morally supreme attitude = arrogance, More arrogance.
Postive: sugar coating of well groomed, disciplined, good maners.
For gossakes, it's a sect, it has all the standard qualities of sects, look it up in a book, too much typing as Francois said.
