I have been taking to my father about some of these things and my mom - not to change their minds just to sort some out - but that is not safe. I asked my mom “ may I ask you one question ?” She said fine , but you know how I feel about Jevovahs organization and the imperfect men.”’I just realized that talking to anyone I know is not safe either intellectually, etc. I also just realized that as mention in other responses -it’s a waste of time and energy- I have to take care of myself. I am close to my parents but that page might be turning as they sense my discomfort with the JW teachings, my wife’s family knows something I’m sure. This is sad - I am getting pre-shunned - for wanting to know truth and facts only.
The number of adherents do not make it real.
The fuzzy and warm feeling does not make it the truth.
The mind control is amazing - not even willing to look at facts- but I learned my lesson. Again thank you as this is my safe space for revealing the “ truth” about my true feelings.