To LDB and Exwitless,
My experience is quite simular to yours. Likewise there's no way for us to hide from them! Yes we also have a cleaning business and this has been something that has held us back from openly living our lives as we choose to. Just recently we lost a contract that was under an Elder. All our other work is ours with no JW affiliation.
My family is not part of the borg. My husbands mother and sister are and some extended family that we never have contact with anyway. My hubby's other sister and husband are underground exjws and in the same mindset as us. Although I believe it may not be in their best interest to take the same action I am able to do. I almost feel I should discuss this matter with them at least to see how it would affect them. They live in another town and have been able to live somewhat away from the "microscope" than what we have. I wish my situation was more like theirs.
The letter I am going to write will be more of a resignation or withdrawal of membership. Simple and to the point and a threat of legal action if they continue to "harrass" me or my family. For the mother in law all she needs to know is that for whatever reason I am no longer part of the WTS. She can draw her own conclusions. I think if all at once we all openly left it would kill her. So perhaps by myself getting the ball rolling it may adjust her to it more gradually. She'd only be left with one child left in the borg although who I don't think has even been to a meeting this year. I will continue to have the best relationship with her as I can-ultimately it's up to her. The kids love her and respect that everyone has different belief systems.
You are right, every situation for each individual is unique. Each person must decide which is best for themselves. The benefits of cutting all ties far outweigh the consequences. The shit may hit the fan but in the long run our lives will be our own!!!!! Nothing worth while is easy.
I've faded for 3 years. For my situation it has not had the results needed. I do it out of love for myself, family and for what is in our best interests. Not out of the heat of emotion as was earlier suggested by some. When it is done it will be done with strategy, caution, careful planning and with utmost consideration and respect for those involved. It will not be rushed into! But in the end I must live with myself and I'm responsible for my children. What peace of mind it finally brought when I made the conscious realisation that this must be done!
The kids are begging me to do it!!!!! They've had enough. They're even scared to answer the door if its a JW or answer the phone! LOL My son helped decorate the floats for the Santa Clause parade this year, the whole time he was stressed that JWs would see him! Yeah-they need not worry about them anymore-I'm taking care of it!!!!
Thanks for sharing your expertise! I admire you both for what you've accomplished this year! Hey, when all is said and done I think we should have a Break Free, Live Free Celebration!
Thanks again guys!
