So, jgnat, and anyone else experienced in dealing with JW's and nearly/almost-JW's, is there any way I can set myself free without being downright rude to apparently very kind people? Or am I just going to bite the bullet and be really brutal?
Just be honest.
You don't see yourself being able to be a JW.
You know from reading the KS10 that anyone who believes (and speaks) about differing theological opinion from the GB are seen as apostates.
They will ask where you read the ks10, you will say 'Jehovahs-Witness.net' and they will say some things like you have been led astray or mis-informed and you will politely counter that you are choosing to believe what you have read and are not interested in becoming a JW.
You will tell them you will think of them fondly and appreciated all they have taught you about the WTS but that this is the end of the line and to continue the discussion would only lead you to bring up subjects that they would find offensive.
end with a request to be listed on the 'do not call' list.