Mrs Smith and I was lucky to fade, without too much attention drawn to us. We did however get more courage later on, but we made sure the family was not aware of what we were up to.
During the Dec holidays in 2008 we had the expected run-in with my PO father, and Brother in law (also and elder). We said our bit, and they represented the BORG very well. And at first it seemed as if they kept the fact that we were 'out' to themselves. No call from the local elders, elders from our last congregation, no JC, nothing.
Recently I received an e mail. Suddenly I get asked if I am d'fed. From a person that now lives 15 000km away. Also, I have not spoken to this person for 20 years or so.
Why now? What is so interesting that you need to know? 20years+ later? How did you find out??
It took me a few minutes to figure out how the rumour travelled from person to person. Despite the humiliation that his/her son/brother has gone 'apostate', they still spoke about it, and it ended up on another continent.
Aaah gossip.... it's all good.
Screw what James had to say about a little flame that can cause damage. Only applies inside the cong, everyone else is fair game.
AS