Newbie here

zeena1998

Hi there to all. Ok..I admit it, I've done a very bad thing. I found this site about a week ago and have been reading like a mad-woman. Even posted to a couple of threads. But what I failed to do was introduce myself and that's a very baaaaad thing to do! Please forgive my shyness. A couple of years ago, I moved from Canada to California and in the process, lost my best friend. She's a pracising JW back home and our story is a long one. (Oh btw, it was not the move that precipated the demise of our friendship though...twas all of the stuff that happened before.) Suffice it to say that we met, had that almost instanteaous bond and became closer than sisters. When I think of the loss of something so great, it saddens me to this day. Even though I was never a JW, I totally understand it's pull; for it is an extremely seductive force when one is feeling alone. They are an extremly loving bunch when trying to get you to join, making you feel as if they alone truly understand the personal pain that you're feeling. It was all very very interesting. I remember when I first moved here, I did a lot of research on the JWs and the WTS, trying to understand the pull that it had on its people. What I found made me see it for what it truly is: a man-made religion designed solely to further the dillusions of grandeur of one man. (IMHO). The story that really opened my eyes was the one of the origins of this religion; it was all started after a spat with a fellow Adventist (It's been so long since I've read that stuff...the details may be off a bit but the gist of the story is the same). These 2 guys were leaders within their congregation and got into a fight. So Mr. Russell (I think that's his name) decided to take matters into his own hands and say :"Oh yeah?!? Well I'll show you! " and took half of their mailing list (they used to mail out scriptural guidance and announcements) and started calling on these people in person. Claiming he had been visited by the Holy Spirit, he convinced these people that he alone was the voice of God. And so, it came to be that a mailing list begat a Bible study, and the Bible Study begat the Russelites and the Russelites begat the pain and suffering that you all have had to go thru. Before closing off this letter, I would just like to say one more thing. Please understand that I have a deep love for God and the teachings of the Bible and have always tried to live my life accordingly (Ok...so I've failed miserably at times!;) ) But I always believed that God was a loving God and that only He knows what's truly in our hearts. Ergo, we will be accepted into Heaven based on that, not what Church we attend. (K...Andie...off the soapbox now) And with that I will go. Just wanted to introduce myself and let everyone here know that your stories and support of one another are inspiring. I look forward to getting to know you better. Andie

Brummie

look forward to getting to know you better.

Look forward to hearing more from you too. Nice story, glad they didnt getcha...you are right, they prey on peoples vulnerability by being all nice. Welcome aboard. Brummie