Hello Ozzie and Ozzie's better half.
Ozzie, the only time that the phrase "I know how you feel" means anything to me is if I know that they REALLY know how I feel.
Well Ozzie, I know how you feel brother.
I have walked a mile in those shoes and I wont lie to you, it aint fun. The systems that they have put in place are very effective to ferret out any dissenters.
What could I possibly say to be assuasive?
Also what suggestions could I make for the difficult times ahead?
Please take comfort that you have your God-given soulmate as an ally in this ordeal. It will take time, but with your standing together united on this, an impression will be made on all onlookers. You and your spouse will also draw closer, knowing you two.
Might I suggest that you keep a journal during this time?
My wife's brother-in-law recently contracted a terminal illness and is now going back to the meetings after not caring about "the truth" his entire life (despite my repeated and concerted efforts to reason otherwise with him). Miraculously he still associates with us. In talking with his son, who is not a JW, about his father's sudden spiritual renaissance, I warned him about that religion. He stopped me and said he would NEVER step foot in a kingdom hall, because of how Jehovah's Witnesses break up families.
That is the main reason I have a virulent hatred for the policies of the society.
Please know that you are not alone in your ordeal and that our thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.
Dino