Oh my god I love this thread, I had to make an account to leave my story.
I'm the epitome of worldly and I love it. I've never been happier in my life. My parents found out I was gay when I was 15 (my mom is the only jw). They flipped and kicked me out several times before finally coming to terms with it. My mom is actually very supportive now much to my surprise.
Anyway since then, I met a guy at 16 and we've been together since then (I'm 22 now). We're planning to get married a few years down the road. I celebrate every holiday and my birthday (He threw me a "first birthday" party when I was 19, i cried a lot). Christmas & Halloween are literally the best thing ever. I drink and occasionally smoke pot for fun. I see whatever movie I want. I've visited other churches but I've remained a non-denominational Christian. I vote. I'm sexually free. I could go on and on.
It's really hard to see my mom still be a slave to the religion, but she doesn't force her ways on me so I don't try her either. If she brings up scriptures it's tasteful and helpful (kudos to her honestly). But it's her life, I'm living mine happily and hopefully she will one day too because I know she isn't happy there.
I never knew what I was missing until I left. I was in it since birth. I don't feel bad about anything anymore though. I know there's no impending end of the world. I know the teachings are like 99% fear tactics. I'm so happy. If you're a JW trying to leave and browsing this forum, do yourself a favor and leave. You will be so much happier.