Out with my wife in 1965..... PIMO 3 years earlier.
Lost track of everyone I grew up with and concentrated on making our way in this world. Seven years ago I got to wondering how the JW's were doing. Googled how many there were and a few other questions. Then on one of the searches I stumbled into an ex JW site, surprised that many were still active but planning their escape. This one poster recounted going out in Field Service that morning and it was hysterical. Not only did I understand what she was talking about but also how goofy service still was.
I found Freeminds and then backed into this forum. I understood the language and references. In short I had found my lost tribe and was welcomed home.
The conversation can be great at times, the need to reach out and offer some help for a person who wants to leave with his or her family intact, how to evaluate exit plans etc. Makes me feel like I can help in the limited way we can....but collectively people on their way out can hear our voices and we can make a difference.
How are the JW's doing these days terribly! The Elder arrangement is a big failure as are the 100 ways to lose your religion (sins like thinking or making personal medical decisions).
The growing Pedophile problem. The GB problem dumb and dumber.
Laying off Brothers and sisters who have no social security or medical insurance. All kinds of things.
I decided that since I more then paid for what I learned for over a decade....... I was qualified to offer help or just encouragement.