Hi' there,
Well... I've never been religous in any way, but I must say that my experiences with JW's after having been married to one for three years (and still is) have made me even less religous.
It has made me think a lot more over how mind control works. Over what drives people to do what they do, and why they ignore obvious faults, dissagreements etc.
My wife is still a JW, and is not looking at "apostate" information - yet. She does not attend every meeting though, and is seldom out preaching.
One day I'll present her with small issues to think about - haven't decided just how to do it yet. It must be done just the right way so that it gets her to think instead of reject the information.
Ups, back to the topic.
What I see when I look at all my new JW "friends" can be devided into 4 categories.
1) Devout JW doing a lot of work in the religion, and quite happy about it.
2) JW's strugling hard to do what is expected from them - but not at all happy about it.
3) JW's doing just what they are asked to do, when they are asked to do it. And not really bothered with it. Still loyal to the org.
3a) Same as 3 but they make their own rules, and don't feel that they have to report if they sin a little.
4) Fed up and on there way outs.
In the last three years I've seen (and known) and heard about several young witness couples getting divorced, mainly because of adultery. I've heard a LOT of gossip and rumors within "the walls". And this is really the most uncharming thing I've met in the org.
I've also seen people strugling with bad consciences and getting stressed over that they don't do what is exepected by them.
I've learned to "listen and nod" if something is discussed that I have a different opinion on - but don't want them to discover my agenda and stop talking.
I'm not sure if this was what you where looking for Englishman..
Take care
Mr Magoo