I applaud those that wake up and leave and feel sorry for those that still believe but want to be REAL shepherds. They are the underdog elders that get sh1t on by the power trippers.
I tend to agree with punkofnice here . . . from their posts and expressions, the ex-Elders who have identified themselves on this forum are among the good ones . . . which is probably exactly why they're here.
I would revise my earlier statement also, that I can only remember one loving shepherd . . . there were a few others, but they often didn't last. A couple of Elders from other congo's, whom I'd known for many years, would be in fairly constant contact about the issues they were dealing with. They were often very distressed and upset about matters. I could sense the stress they were constantly under and they toiled away for years dealing with the same old shit . . . it's heartbreaking to recall. One even cried over the phone. I guess that accounted for my distancing.
I recall one particular congo that was awful. The CO used to accompany me on prison visits (which I was assigned). He once stated "I dont know what the answer is regarding that bully and his Jezebel wife, not to mention that idiot that follows him around." He was talking about the PO and his wife and his "hatchet man" Elder buddy . . . to me, an MS! He said he couldn't be bothered with it . . . "I should be retired anyway"
During the early 90's I became ill and needed an operation. Being on National Health, I had to wait 14 months. During that time I did a Business Management Diploma. The education I received on leadership and people management would have helped some Elders immeasurably. It actually employed some very loving principles. I honestly feel that was a big part of the problem . . . lack of training and educating.