I have a small number of family members who were not JWs and were aghast when my mother married into this cult and dragged me along with her. Those family members (one aunt and one uncle) loved me then and now, but don't really apply in context with your thread.
I like to believe my mother loves me still. She left when I did (I was age 22 or so). However, she returned about 4 years ago and as of about 2 years ago we became estranged and are so to this day. I think she now loves me in the JW version of the word...conditionally and with great angst as I am certain she is convinced I am bound to die soon in Armageddon. JWism is in great part the reason we no longer communicate, but the wounds go much deeper than that so ..... however that religion was the catalyst for my living hell from 5-18 years of age and she chose to go there. Now more than anything I am saddened by the fact I am virtually orphaned and have little respect for her as a woman, but I do pity her. Not enough to continue to put her before me anymore. See! I have finally discovered the benefit of self-love. Took me long enough though...duuuhhh!
I saved my kids from the cult and its teachings, my proudest accomplishment in life to date!
so anyhoo, unconditional love is difficult to come by .... with or without Jehovah's Witnesses. To experience it, at all, in life is a great gift. Even if only one person (other than YOURSELF) can give you that, you are blessed as countless individuals never receive that during an entire lifetime.
Spend your precious time making up for the past, not mourning it. I've wasted way too many years going the opposite route, so take it from one who knows.
