Well I'm still here after 3 years. Compared to some people I don't talk a lot. But then compared to others I might talk too much.
I've been wondering what to say on this anniversay. Especially since I recently said something on my birthday. Seems though like I haven't been saying much at all lately. Just poking my nose into threads that might be of interest or when someone kindly directs me to a discussion that might be interesting to me (very much appreciated BTW)
So after three years what do I say?
I like it here. There is a lot of good that has happened. People welcomed. Information shared. There certainly is a lot to learn for anyone new here.
Like any group that is constantly growing there is constant change here. Before I got there there were a lot of doctrinal discussions. We've had the exposees. And the recovery/healing threads. There are opportunities for people to learn real communication skills and what real friendships are all about (vs the conditional love we were used to in the WTS). All kinds of topics are discussed from the serious to the fluff and all have their place in helping us discover who we are, ask the questions we dared never ask and experiment with life in the real world. It is wonderful.
Some have moved on. Some have reduced their postings and just come to read. Sadly some have gone back. I've read a lot of regret about the old days where JW apologists debated the theology of the WTS but I think those days are past. Few exiting JWs care about the doctrines of the WTS. There seems to be a greater focus now on the practice of those teachings. And the WTS is sadly lacking and showing itself to be extremely hypocritical. It is wonderful to see it all unfold here. I love it when we know things before the rank and file do.
I hope that Simon or others will keep this board running. It has proven to be a great weapon against the WTS in helping people learn to live freely. It isn't the only tool but it is a great one. Keep up the great work Simon and all the mods. I feel good about posting here and recommending it to others.
I started off by talking about my three years of posts. I went back to take a look. It has been interesting to share my thoughts with you. My only wish is that I had heard from more of you concerning your thoughts or how my posts may or may not have affected you.
IMany have PMed me or told me much later that my posts have helped them. Thank you so much for that. It is very much appreciated.
So here I go into year 4. I suppose we shall see what comes next. Perhaps the best is yet to be.
Lee