I DA'ed, and I would change nothing. There is literally no way that I would allow myself to continue to be a part of that organization. DA'ing allowed me to be my genuine self in a way that fading would not do. I did not want elders stopping by, I did not want my parents asking me if and when I was coming back, I did not want people wondering if I was in or out. I have a few friends that faded and it is like the org gorilla is still on their back. We went to a local bar and two of these guys were still worried that someone would see them and report back which would result in "trouble" for them. They talked about selling their homes and moving away so they could "be free". I would rather play by what some would call "their rules" then spend my life running around and watching my step out of fear that I would get caught somehow. I do understand some having the desire to do it but it is not in my cards.
I sat down with my wife beforehand and told her that I was done and I was withdrawing my name from that organization. I informed her that if she was not ready to deal with it then I understood if she had to do what she had to do. She was hurt etc... but she saw that I was serious. My children as well, I talked to them and told them why I was leaving. They understood. I had to set the example and cut ties completely.
I can however officially say I am not one of them and no one can ever tie me to being a member of that group in anyway shape or form. I lost a lot of friends but ultimately I would not want to be friends with people who can not be their genuine selves at all times.