For the last 20 years before I left JWdom, I attended two congregations that met at the same hall. One had the rural side of the large territory and was conservative, cold, reserved and strict. Social gatherings were heavily monitored, and everybody knew everyone else's business. Most were related and gossipped a lot. The other came from the more populous beach area-- most elders were successful smalll business men or in management for the local nuclear power plant and the submarine base (save the one villiage idiot-- no offence to our own VI!) They were much more relaxed, even joking on stage. It was a much more loving congregation and fun group. The elders were approachable.
I was baptized in the conservative one and later moved back there. After 9 years we moved into the socially chill congregation's territory, but not knowing any better, I stayed in the same rural congregation, even though I wasn't "assigned" there, mainly because I had known them most of my life.
Because of a family situation, the elders in the conservative congregation asked me to change to my assigned congregation, since my son lived at home still, and they didn't want to involve two BOEs in "The Situation."
When everything eventually settled down, and my son was disfellowshipped, they tried to get me to return to 'help support weekday field service.' I said, 'No way in hell.' with a big smile and in perfect JW speak.
