Hello Helen,
I really could feel empathy with you when I read how you feel at the moment. I stopped attending meetings nearly one year ago after attending from the age of 3...44 years in all. I have had the same feelings of guilt and not knowing where I am with myself. In the last year I have met some wonderful people. I just be myself I dont have to preach to them or expect anything from them other than that we can be friends. I have got involved with a couple of local charities and have seen things that leave me astonished. I have made friends with an elderly woman who uses all her money and time on helping very poor people in rumania. I can honestly say that my husband and I and our children have never been happier than we are now.
Still it has taken a year of turmoil emotionally to come this far. Dont give up, dont go back, dont regret either. I am what I am because of the time as a jw, so I accept that. But now I am moving on and boy am I happy I am.
Read a lot...go to womens clubs...invite a neighbour over for coffee. If you are disappointed in someone, try again. Join a fitness club, meet friends on the net.
Watch the movie then ask your friend if she wants to go away for a weekend...do it! You will have great fun and you will open up to each other.
I wish you all the best and much joy in your life
Chicken Little