Truth is relative to the times and circumstances in all cases. Like colors, truth has many shades/variations of the same thing.
Definitely complicated.🤔
DY
well, i have been lurking on this site for several months and i recently decided to join as a member.
i have made several observations and would like to make a few comments.. first, i am perplexed by the attitude of many on this site that are either former or active (but apostate) jws.
they seem to have a strong hatred for the wts and also for rank and file jws.
Truth is relative to the times and circumstances in all cases. Like colors, truth has many shades/variations of the same thing.
Definitely complicated.🤔
DY
some scattered thoughts about the granting or denial of privileges of service as a control mechanism:.
this method of persuasion involving reward or punishment is so deeply ingrained in watchtower function, it is second nature.
although sometimes subtle, sometimes blatant, everyone from new bible study to traveling overseer is subconsciously aware of the possible limiting of his official opportunities to serve god and his brothers.. .
It will continue to dangle 'til we die and people going after it just the same. Sad.
DY
so donating to charities has always been discouraged by the society, as it is a form of support for this "doomed" system.
and of course, "the kingdom" is the only "real solution" to all the problems right?.
but in the meantime, this view gives witnesses a "free pass" from the normal human desire to help out those less fortunate, or ones who were born in another part of the world where life is not as privileged as our own.
Here are some comments said when subject comes up:
"We do one step better than any charity because we do not just give out the fish, we instead teach people to fish."
"Families are responsible to care for their sick/needy."
"The mandate from JC is the preaching and making disciples work. It is what true Christians should be busy doing. The poor/sick/needy will always be with us until the Kingdom comes."
"If people accepted our message and put into practice biblical mandates, they would improve their life. They do not, so, let them suffer the consequence of their actions."
I do know of a few that contribute to cancer charities, though. But, as a group, donations to charities very much discouraged.
DY
so donating to charities has always been discouraged by the society, as it is a form of support for this "doomed" system.
and of course, "the kingdom" is the only "real solution" to all the problems right?.
but in the meantime, this view gives witnesses a "free pass" from the normal human desire to help out those less fortunate, or ones who were born in another part of the world where life is not as privileged as our own.
In my place of work, a group coordinates taking care of a few families' meals during Thanksgiving and toys for local kids during Christmass. It really is nice how they set it up each year. I always contribute to those noble causes.
Big charities make me feel like I am giving my hard earned money their top management. Research how much money these people earn, it is enraging! I mean, millions of dollars paid to top management!!! I always stay local, where I can verify the most money is really being used as intended.
Also, have found ways of putting money in the Salvation Army red kettles and the Ronald McDonald foundation. I have seen first hand how these charities do help the needy.
DY
i was a member of this community a long time ago and have lurked for years.
well, i am back and still thoroughly conflicted, with my heart/loyalties as divided as ever.
please welcome me back, hear me out, and make me feel as welcomed as before.. the wtbts has changed so very much in recent years that i feel trapped in a completely different religion altogether.
Thanks for all of your emotional support. Truly enjoy this e-community.
Peaceful wishes to all here.
DY
pdf.
why won't watchtower tell abusers "i'm going to tell on you!
" and follow through with the proper authorities?
Abundant and publicized lawsuits is what will lead to policy change.
Keep those lawsuits coming!!!
DY
i have been thinking, it is a lonely place in the real world knowing ttatt but if we have a phrase we can unite, support and help each other.
the question we will ask is:.
what's your favorite bible verse?
Oh, believe me, we know/recognize one another just fine.
When I suggested recently to go to the movies and watch Star Wars or the new 007 movie, the ones that jumped on it and showed up at the accorded time, then afterwards we went to a wings and beer place to hang for a bit and shoot the breeze. A fun time and not once did anyone brought up WTBTS crap. We even talked about Holly Holm beat the crap out of Ronda Rousey and how we couldn't wait for the rematch.
Now that the assembly is fast approaching, what we discuss is where we will eat out afterwards.
This life sentence sure can be easier once we suffer along with kindred spirits. I have found a few and for that I am thankful.
The WTBTS has lost the control and appeal it once held.
DY😜
i mean this with all due respect, i would like to hear from genuine people who think jw have it wrong and then what is the truth?.
im not talking about silly little quibbles here and there.. is jehovah real?
the the bible is word?
The alternative to being a JW.... Hmmmm... Please allow me to fantasize....
Weekdays: Waking up each day without being concerned with reading a 'daily text' with Biblical passages and all, which takes up a good 15 mins. Just being able to wake up, exercise, shower then dress up and get to work would be nice.
Not being concerned with giving a 'good witness' to co-workers, or looking awkward when someone sneezes. Participating in as many holiday/charity/etc.-related activities with co-workers; I work with a very fun and active bunch. Ohhh.... would be so very nice.
Leaving work peacefully and not having to rush home with food picked up along the way and get ready for an awful boring religious meeting; such waste of precious time. So much better to spend a few days stopping at the gym right after work, or just arriving home peacefully to unwind, cook a meal together, watch favorite shows, take pets to park/beach, prepare for work next day, etc. Just freaking relax.... REEEELAX! That would be so nice.
Weekends: Sleep or hang around in bed for as long as one wishes without being concerned with rushing to get ready for 'service' or a religious meeting. Make breakfast and start the morning nicely while outlining the plan for the day, be it do house/yard work, hobbies/gym/etc. When it is all said and done, enjoy a movie or some entertainment event of personal choice. Ohhh... would be nice.
DY😊
i was a member of this community a long time ago and have lurked for years.
well, i am back and still thoroughly conflicted, with my heart/loyalties as divided as ever.
please welcome me back, hear me out, and make me feel as welcomed as before.. the wtbts has changed so very much in recent years that i feel trapped in a completely different religion altogether.
One thing I no longer do is pray. Have not done it really in over 5 years, just respectfully bow head and observe silence. Recently stopped considering the daily text, and never really study the lit for meetings, just mark it all up with color to make it look good. Also, miss a couple of meetings and service days each month, and absolutely never go preaching during the holidays.
I do participate in as many celebrations during work hours as possible. The friends network is building up, just in case.
Baby steps.
DY
i was a member of this community a long time ago and have lurked for years.
well, i am back and still thoroughly conflicted, with my heart/loyalties as divided as ever.
please welcome me back, hear me out, and make me feel as welcomed as before.. the wtbts has changed so very much in recent years that i feel trapped in a completely different religion altogether.
I used to dream about fading but my relatives are heavy into it, really heavy duty involvement, Warwick and all.
I have developed an unique coping mechanism that works for my psyche, so I will go on with it for the duration.
Thanks for this wonderful outlet which confirms I am not alone.
DY