I was never a pioneer, so I don't know. I am just guessing from the ones I knew, and by their actions. The posting a little while ago about pioneers who were on welfare made me think of this.
I wonder how many pioneered simply for the social aspect of it, compared to how many really felt it in their heart.
Here is an example to think about. There certainly are missionaries from many different religions who will go to a foreign country to talk about the bible. They will go to a place that clearly is a 3rd world country, because it is in their heart. They will survive sometimes in horrible conditions, maybe even dangerous. No one makes them go, they go because it is really something they want to do.
How many pioneers were pioneers because they really wanted to??
Was it because they were pressured into it? From others in the hall, maybe family members did it? Maybe the elders suggested it? Because it was expected?
OR, was it a social event? Time to hang out with friends, go have that coffee break. And having the added praises for serving Jehovah probably fed the ego some.
Maybe it was an excuse not to have to face the real world. Getting a job, etc. Maybe it was easier going door to door?
Any thoughts?