Hi y'all!
I've been a Witness for as long as I can remember. Cannot remember ever celebrating a birthday or any holidays. My grandmother introduced my parents and siblings to the religion.
It hasn't been a bad experience at all, except for the time when my hormones kicked in at 18 years old and I fornicated with my first boyfriend (it was awesome really! We lived it up and partied so much! Danced merengue, salsa, & slow many, many, many nights!!! Went to concers, etc.; he showed me such a fun time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) plus joined the military for 4 years to get away from it all and broaden my horizons.
I went back in after I calmed down and have been just riding the wave since, you know, not being an 'orthodox witness' but rather being extremelly selective about my activities and associations within. I mean, why be bitter and lose it all?! I skip meetings frequently because other stuff comes up and I go out on service just enough time to stay regular each month, keep myself intentionally away from the 'in crowd' at the congregation, avoid much of the social gatherings.
My payoff is being able to be in good standing with my aging parents, who are so nice and sweet really, plus I also keep in touch with some really nice people that just happen to be witnesses also; at the same time, I get to keep all my 'outside' relationships intact. It's quite a balancing act this somewhat 'double' life, but it's fun and rewarding on each side.
However, I can smell trouble brewing up now that my husband wants to attain privileges. I fear he may become frustrated because the wife doesn't help by her 'leading' example. Imagine that?!
So what do you all think? I hope to be welcomed here.
Take care!