What are the lives of ex-JWs really like? The WTS tells JWs one thing, but is what they say reality, or fantasy?
A common technique used by the WTS to express their viewpoint while avoiding the truth of the matter is to focus on the specific and imply that it is the general.
Let me explain: Do you know of any ex-JWs who were disfellowshipped for immorality? Of course, it's not uncommon. The WTS will use specific examples of this nature and generalize it to imply that everyone who leaves or gets thrown out is doing something wrong. This way of thinking is so ingrained into the mind of active JWs, that they assume that everyone who left did so because they "couldn't live up the standards", or "secretly did something wrong and got caught". The fact that thousands upon thousands of ex-JWs left the organization, not because they did anything "wrong," but because they conscientiously decided they could no longer support a corrupt organization.
Another example of this technique: Do you know of any ex-JWs who now lead sexually promiscuous lives? Sure, some do this. The WTS will use these specific examples and generalize it to imply that everyone who leaves the organization "returns to the vomit." Ignoring whether sexual promiscuity is wrong or not, note that the vast majority of those who leave the organization remain or get into sexually monogamous relationships. This majority is ignored by the WTS, since it doesn't fit their agenda. They would rather focus on the few specific cases, and ignore the wider general population.
Another exmaple: Do you know any ex-JWs who picket assemblies? Sure, we're even discussing an example on the board right now. The WTS will use these specific examples and generalize it to imply that all "apostates" are wild-eye, vindictive, trouble-makers who are being used by Satan. Again, ignoring whether or not picketing is a helpful task or not, note that the majority of those who leave the organization never speak out publicly against the WTS in any way. Most lead quiet, ordinary lives at peace with all around them.
Another example: Do you know any ex-JWs who are depressed? Sure, depression can strike any of us. The WTS will use these specific examples to generalize that all those who leave the organization are miserable over their status. Ignoring that most person's depression has little to do with their status, note that the vast majority of ex-JWs are very happy about their lives and hopeful of their future. But this gets ignored by the WTS for it does not fit their agenda.
If you are a lurking JW, don't accept that when the WTS reports on those who leave that they are giving you the whole story. If they provide anecdotal evidence of thier point, ask yourself what the general population of ex-JWs is really like. Look around here, for instance, and look with an open mind at the way most of us act, and ask yourself if this fits the stereotype the WTS wants to paint us as. Note what the reality is, not just the fantasy that is fed to you.
And when you notice that the WTS hasn't been telling you the whole story, ask yourself: Why not?