The following letter is published in the November 12 issue of the Camden Advertiser in NSW, Australia, under the heading "Watch religion":
I hope others will be more cautious than myself before getting involved in some forms of religion. After 30 years of servitude to the Jehovah's Witness religion, this is done at a huge personal cost. In line with the official policy of the Watchtower organisation, all of my previous friends and family, including my own mother, have had to completely shun me and my children, for fear of being "disfellowshipped" themselves. Some members then engage in a smear campaign, spreading baseless lies to completely assassinate one's reputation.
While the membership of this religion continues to decline in many countries, there are many more who would like to leave but cannot pay the huge personal cost in lost friends and family.
Please be cautious before you submit to the intensive indoctrination of this religion. Your life, friends and family will never be the same.
NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED
No doubt these sentiments can be reflected the world over, in place after place. The writer hits on an excellent point, to focus on the "What if I became a JW, then wanted to leave..?" question.
Meanwhile, more and more long-time Dubs are questioning and exiting here in Oz.
As a BTW, old Ozzie would love to hear from the unidentified writer.
Cheers, Ozzie
Edited by - ozziepost on 27 November 2002 8:13:23