Hej Mat,
My hubby was reg pioneer for 14 years, I was vacation pioneer at 13yrs every holiday, 75hrs, then reg pioneer for 8yrs. Pioneered through pregnancy until little one was 11months (resigned as the elders said I was not getting my time in...I missed the 1000 by about 50). Even pioneered again when we had two kids for a year...stopped because my husband had a depression. It filled a need to be wanted and to be of assistance to people. I always without fail came in contact with women with severe depression or problems.. they were the ones I could help. Now I realise that I should have sent them to a doctor or social worker not into the Jw prison.
I think that the pioneering name tag is just to give it a ring of importance that some love to show off with. When I was growing up if you were not a pioneer you were nothing in the cong. It was like being admitted to the fast track when I joined up...suddenly pioneer brothers were interested in me...wow...must be me! I was so terrified to reveal my doubts and weakness, I must always be strong and positive. Served in inner city cong were there was so much poverty and the pioneering thing gave a feeling of accomplishment amid so much dispair. The ministry seems worthwhile when you are in that kind of an environment...everyone is in the same boat and nobody has anything else...so you go out in the service.
I accept my choices....I made them...but I am glad I am out of it and with my eyes wide open now.
Hope you are doing well
Love chicken little