Quite honestly, I think your first reaction was correct. I've been disfed for over 20 years and I no longer feel that behaving like a decent human being is the way to go. I think shitty actions require equally shitty reactions. In fact a good punch in the face would have done your brother more good than your restraint.
I put up with family shit, such as you discribe, for many years. However, I was finally left alone, when I lost my cool and tore shreds off my relatives for their hypocrisy and double standards. I also threatened to take their actions to the media and report their foul behavior to the popular press. Since then, I've been left alone to visit my jw parents.
I really don't think we do enough to help those left inside. We try to be reasonable and it doesn't get us anywhere. You should have told your bother that his behavior is disgusting and he should be ashamed of himself. Tell him his religion is utter and unadulterated bullshit and it's time he woke up to the lies and convoluted arguments they hide behind.
Seriously I think it's time we started a new approach. We should start shouting at them to wake up. Begging them to look and see what they are involved in. We should be trying harder to help them. And I should stop drinking this white wine, even if it is Friday nite and I'm sick of waiting for hubby to come home from work!
Marilyn
