How do I explain to a potential mate that for 14 years, I was
captured by an institution called the Watchtower Bible
and Tract Society?
That is not a great opening line for someone you first meet or first ask out on a date:
"Oh, I would love to go out with you, but first, let me warn you that for 14 years I was
one of Jehovah's Witnesses, you know, the cult that goes door-to-door."
Just don't mention it until it comes up naturally. When she first asks about your past,
casually mention that you used to be one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Don't give any detail.
If she sticks around (she will if she likes you, doubtful that she will run just from one little
bombshell from your past) it will make for great conversation, give a little more as you
get closer. It really should be no big deal- it's not like a prison past or a stalker/stalked
story.
Admittedly, though, I loved the standard of high morals that
I applied in my life as a Jehovah's Witness and still adhere
to them. And, I would love to find someone with the same
nice qualities that I am used to.
Most women will find a nice moral guy to be pleasant and welcome. There are plenty of
people with high morals out there. If it is a big deal, you haven't met your match yet, move on.
Would you try sites such as e-harmony, match.com
or would you consider an ex-witness first?
There is nothing wrong with using these, but people are everywhere. You will meet women at work,
at the store, at restaurants, at your best friend's party. Don't over-expect much from websites.
Try adding activities to your life that will cause you to meet people. If you love country music, go
to bars that have line-dances. If you love art, go to museums and galleries. If you go to tennis resorts,
you meet tennis players. The point is to do stuff that causes you to meet people. Since you say
you have high morals, don't put too much effort into club scenes. Try adult learning centers, book clubs,
charity fundraisers, stuff like that.
The thought of becoming wrapped up with a can-
didate from the Jerry Springer show mortifies me.
Move on to another woman when it is clear that it doesn't work out. Never hang on, hoping things will change.
You owe it to them and yourself to move on when you aren't interested.
Relax and don't put any pressure on anyone. You don't have to dump your lifestory on a second date, and you
don't have to expect them to stay with you just because they dated you for a few months. Just enjoy the ride.
