Hello jws-
I have some very simular aspects to my life at the moment. The dilema of dealing with witness family reminds me of what I heard a psychiatrist say once. He was treating a patient who was paranoid-schizophrenic. The patient told him that even if he was a paranoid-schizophrenic, that didn't prove that there wasn't a conspiracy against him. Who can argue with logic like that!
I recently discussed exactly the same issue with one of my professors. He is a very clever guy, teaching a philosophy/religion class. He strongly believes such people will never change their minds at my prodding. He said he had some fundamental disagreements with his father about religion, but decided to avoid debating it- save the occasional good natured ribbing. While I can see the benefits of this course (peace, acceptence, etc), personaly, I have problems accepting this. I guess a part of me wonders where the purity is. It seems like a weak choice. Where's the shining champion of truth? If I settle for a 'murky' solution like that in something as fundemental as my family, how can I ever hope to find truth in my personal life? Perhaps I'm being dogmatic (I wonder where I got that from!). I also think of the witnesses not giving up on their conversion efforts, why should I? But perhaps thats where the problem started in the first place, with attitudes/approaches like that! I fear the 'soft' approach may be motivated by personal convinience, but perhaps if its motivated by love, then it is in fact the best answer. I have yet to resolve this debate- its a source of great irritation to me. Anyone have any input?
On the technical side, I tend to stay away from the bible debates. The bible can be used like any other book rich with analogy and symbolism- essentialy anyway you choose. A real quagmire for trying to have an argument. Also, you could ask them "what would it take (or what would the WTS have to do) for you to leave?" I always wanted to ask that question but never did. What do you think jws?