I like the thoughts behind this thread.
I also consider myself smart. I have a sense of humor too. I will occasionally wonder how I could be so "stupid" to be tricked into the cult. But in reality, I know what happened in my case and I also know that intelligence is not the most relevant thing that gets people there.
And growing up JW adds a whole other level to the conversation.
Like you, I had an issue or two, but believed the JWs had the right religion. My doubts grew and grew and I was never burned by the religion, wasn't DF'ed or taken for money, nobody in my family was a pedophile victim or otherwise victimized by WTS. One day, the problems with the religion overwhelmed me and I discovered, among other things- Ray Franz's book. Like you, I hung onto the Bible, but less time- not for a few years, expecting I could find a relationship with God without the JWs. And like you, now I believe in neither.
Not that you need my opinion, but I say you were "born a JW and [your] parents told [you] this is the true religion" so forgive yourself for not knowing better.
I have read the Steve Hassan books and learned how cults work. For a born-in, it may be as you say, and it definitely is as you say in your own case- you had "the truth" and there was no need to look around. There are definitely groups out there that tell you what you want to (or need to) hear and take advantage of you.
While I had a childhood exposure to the JW religion, I converted as an adult and have a completely different experience, so it may have been easier for me to eventually decide that something stinks inside the Watchtower organization.
I envy anyone that could not really care about religion. I am sure it will help you to put this all behind you quicker. But if not, or because of family, don't kick yourself. It's okay.
