Hi, I have never posted on this site, but This topic is one of interest to me. I recently (Two weeks ago) called an elder from a congregation where my "Cards" were and told him that I was disassociating myself from them and did not want them to contact me ever again. Although I only made this call two weeks ago, I have been "Inactive" for over 2 years. I was told that simply calling them was not enough to do this. They told me that I had to write a letter just in case I ever wanted to come back. That if I did not write a letter, it would be my word against theirs. I think this is stupid. At this point, I do not care if they say anything from the platform about me disassociating myself, I only care about the specific information in the letter about myself. I am admitting to them that I am a lesbian and am airing my grievances with the religion. I think the fear of Gossip is not unfounded. It seems like anything you tell an elder eventually comes out. They are supposed to keep that information confidential, but they are bound to tell a spouse or another good friend who then tells their spouse. That spouse then spreads the gossip. I have always found it funny that JW's have such and issue with sins of a sexual nature, but yet, gossip is not seen as bad. There seem to be no consequences for this. I see gossip as something that would "stumble" someone and according to them, if you "stumble" someone, it is better for you to " tie a mortar around your neck and pitch yourself into the sea." hmmm.. seems a bit hypocritical to me to punish some and not others. Sorry to go off topic here, but it seemed to somewhat fit the discussion. btw... quick question.. how do you post a new thread on this website?
Thank you,
Tania