This thread is hilarious!! LOL!!
Annual Meetings are:
Song
Progress in lands worth bragging about
Talks from brothers from different branches and interviews n shit
Song (Please save recording for after this if you don't have a full battery/ enough recording time)
Worldwide local needs...
Other talk usually from GB and where all the meaty junk hits the fan...
Prophetic and new understanding...
Important announcements
Song
continuation of... http://www.jehovahs-witness.net/watchtower/beliefs/239292/5/i-was-happy-as-a-jw-how-did-i-get-here.
me: so why is it we can make false predictions, but no one else can?.
i see...... do you know my heart?.
some time ago, i was finally sick and tired of being sick and tired, so i quit drinking.
i have 27 months without a drop and things are much much better.
i started to slack off on the meetings and my excuse was always, i'm better so the gap between meetings isn't as big a deal.
When Michael Clark Duncan died, I thought of Talladega Nights, then I thought of wha happened? Lol. Welcome back!
continued from... http://www.jehovahs-witness.net/watchtower/beliefs/239394/2/i-was-happy-as-a-jw-how-did-i-end-up-here-pt-2.
i mentioned how i was happy as a jw.
but that night, that very night after the conversation happened, there was a real feeling of relief.
Continued from... http://www.jehovahs-witness.net/watchtower/beliefs/239394/2/I-was-HAPPY-as-a-JW-How-did-I-end-up-here-Pt-2
I mentioned how I was happy as a JW. But that night, that very night after the conversation happened, there was a real feeling of relief. I didn't know why, but I had an idea looking back. I read the Bible cover to cover rather aggressively. I wanted to prove from God's Word, no alternate sources added, if this was the true religion. While I cannot deny the good of this religion, I could not ignore the bad. Good of this religion? I will put it out there: I grew up in Newark, NJ. In the nasty project area. I have before my very eyes, watched bums off the street, wife beaters, and good for nothing people drastically improve their lives. Is it under a false pretense. It is! Nevertheless, these people have bettered their lives and themselves. And it wasn't for show, it's because they believe that's how they should live. They realize why it's important to not lie, and they strive hard to be honest, not knowing the very "teachers" of this organizaition are lying to them. I can't deny those things. But I will never credit the GB for it, but the person who made the changes. But that does not justify the hypocrisy, lies, and arrogance of the men that lead up the group.
They very book JW's claim as their only guidebook, is the same book the discredits the whole sham. It was difficult reading the Bible without the JW bias, but I was still able to know too many things did not add up. The feelings of MORE, MORE, MORE were no longer over me. Armageddon? I felt, Jehovah knew my heart. If Russell had Jehovah's blessing despite being wrong, because he had a good heart, then I had confidence that if I am wrong, it's ok. Jehovah knows. But anyone who has left the organization has felt the relief of no longer living under the eye and rules of men. The GB are just men. No special insight, no advance knowledge. Just men who are in love with their own poop. And that's the relief I felt. I NEVER would have thought I could feel relief leaving the very religion I was taught was "Jehovah's courtyard". Jesus said his load would be refreshing, so I felt that moment was it! Not believing the Phariseeical line of rules and regulations was too good to be true. But I wasn't yet happy.
Anyway, I was out mentally, but still hadn't made my exit. In the circuit I was in, the CO then made me the RBC Overseer. Bethel had this thing where they wanted ex-bethelites running the show everywhere. They wanted everything up to "Bethel standards." Though I wasn't qualified and ridiculously young, I was to be appointed the upcoming service year. My mind was out, and so was my heart. My assignments no longer meant anything but free work for the society. I did enjoy meeting the friends and working with them, but they were doing it under a false impression. I could no longer in good faith even pray for the groups. It was all a whirlwind...
I didn't officially "hate" the work, but even simply receiving letters from my "brothers" in Brooklyn and Patterson turned my stomach. I couldn't do it anymore. So I didn't. Right after I was announced, I resigned. Small rumors started. It didn't bother me. The opinions of people no longer held any power over me. THAT felt good!
The next few months though was mentally exhausting. After I proved the JW's were no longer the true religion, I conceded their Bible was wrong. Researched that, and I saw the errors in it. So then I was on a mission to find the most accurate Bible translation. I kept reading hard and fast because I needed direction. That proved taxing and confused me more. I was then on a mission to find out if this was the absolute holy writing God used to communicate. I spent so much time and when learning the story behind different Holy Writs, I was even more confused. Then I had to go to the core of it all, IS GOD REAL? And if so, why is my relationship with him contingent on WHERE I lived, and the TIME PERIOD I lived? It was crazy. But though I still believed there was/is an intelligent designer, a relationship with him is not important because if it was, all humans would have the equal opportunity to learn about him. But that's not the case. So I decided to not overly concern myself with it. And I can attest, NOT KNOWING, is so much better than BELIEVING IN A LIE. Witnesses usually sum this thought process up by saying "There is nothing but confusion in the world". And of course they like to criticize the answers that doesn't tie in to their beliefs. So be it. But they don't know much of anything, but it's ok because they will "Wait on Jehovah", rather, for the GB to come up with booty cheek answers. But that's when confusion is ok. The important thing is remaining loyal. Lol.
Back to story. How did I get here? I remained in the org. There were so many good people, I wanted to give this religion one last try. I finally looked online, found this site, and eventually found jwfacts. My goal was not to prove JW's didn't have the truth, but to prove they did, up against the facts at jwfacts. Then I got to the point where I was SURE, 100%, they did not have the truth. It was heartbreaking. It was the only life I knew. I had friends, many family, goals, achievements, all tied to JW's. And now it was over. It was over... (heavy sigh).
I read threads on how to fade. I tried it. But then I got called back to temp at Bethel! I did go, spoke a good game, and left. I actually did it as a goodbye to my friends. I left letting them know how much I loved them and I will always be their brother (not telling them my view on anything).
Then I just quit abruptly (except the memorial). The adjustment period was crazy because I was so "mature" in the truth, but a baby to the real world. But I wanted to know how to help those I was close to. Because I was always away, no one noticed my absense immediately. I read Crisis of Conscience (by Ray Franz. I figured if what he wrote were lies, he would've been sued by society for libel. But he wasn't. And the society has entered many petty lawsuits for some who think they only get legal for preaching work), Combatting Mind Control, and Captives of a Concept. And I also read the BE book, to learn to be effective at presenting myself. Yes, a WT trainee turned enemy. I started to go back to meetings, to blend in and help those whom I needed. But sitting through the meetings was unreal. I could not justify the time, money, and effort spent doing this. But I held on. And it seemed EVERYONE loved the kool-aid. So I bounced....
My meeting with the elders I have to post 2moro....
continuation of... http://www.jehovahs-witness.net/watchtower/beliefs/239292/5/i-was-happy-as-a-jw-how-did-i-get-here.
me: so why is it we can make false predictions, but no one else can?.
i see...... do you know my heart?.
Rip Van Winkle - !
Nuthouse Escapee - It is amazing what we can do with knowledge when we start viewing things objectively rather than subjectively.
Never A JW - Yea, the "we are humble" remarks makes JWs squeal!
Tater-T - Thanks for reading!
Satanus - I would say that is an accurate observation! I thought it was the truth, but JW's didn't live up to it. At first, I justified it. At some point, if a person loves truth, they will see the falsehoods.
Thinking_not_believing - You were 18/19?! That's awesome. While I don't necesarily regret my years, life would be so much different if I saw through it earlier.
Bryan - Thanks for reading!
blindnomore - Your welcome!!
Witness My Fury - I'm on it!
Jookbeard - Yea, we don't talk anymore, but I respect that man for keeping his word
WuzLovesDubs - Even their views on hypocrisy is hypocritical!
SophieG - No hijack, I enjoyed your post! Rings true unfortunately...
Meadow36 - PM me! I would love to talk! Or I can send you my email. As for your son, please please please read Combatting Cult Mind Control by Steve Hassan asap!... oh, yea the Revelation book was crazy!
cobaltcupcake - I wish post it asap! I didn't realize how long it would be to type out! Lol
BlueBrother - I was very hesitant about posting my story, but I felt if it could be of use to anyone, then I should. So by all means! And let us know how it goes...
Vidiot - I remember JWfacts had a chart showing the similarities between religions that started at the time. I should print it out for reference....
Finally Awake - He hasn't died yet, but did suffer a stroke right after his failure... I remember reading the stories of some that followed camping and sold EVERYTHING to travel to CA where they would be saved or something. No one who isn't genuine wouldn't do that unless they believed it. JW's view others as gullible and stupid, but they themselves are just humble....lol.
Christ Alone - Thanks!
continuation of... http://www.jehovahs-witness.net/watchtower/beliefs/239292/5/i-was-happy-as-a-jw-how-did-i-get-here.
me: so why is it we can make false predictions, but no one else can?.
i see...... do you know my heart?.
Rip - I am glad you enjoyed it. If there was any time I thought the Holy Spirit was using me, it was that moment! Lol.
I was upset it took me so long to realize the sham when the knowledge was there! Admittedly, it came out rather aggressive. I wish to have been more smooth....
some have figured out, but i am a poster that previously used another name.
but even then i did not give many details about myself.
i barely cracked 100 posts.. but i have never done a thread to explain why i am here.
New Chapter - You understand my point clearly. When I though I was doing God's will, I was happy with all of it. Once I woke up and looked forward though....
Black Sheep - I feel GB members are a few who are successful under the regime, so once they get up top, they don't see a problem with the system...
Christ Alone - Exactly! After being slackers that gave up everything, "probably" we get to be saved!
Breakfast of Champions - Honesty is a hard thing!
Rather Be in Hades - Agreed!
Rip Van Winkle - I don't mind sharing my story. Because I'm not df'd, I can't reveal who I am yet. Thanks!
Glander - That's a rough life to live. To find out it was for a lie has to be anger - inducing. Thanks for sharing.
Steve2 - There are many happy JW's, and you're absolutely correct that is an effect barometer of the goodness of religion. The people in Jonestown thought they were happy, and related as much to the news crew. But far from good... And many JW's end up chaotic as well. Well said...
Vidquin - Yes! Ignorance is not ok with me....
Sulla - It has benefitted me in that way, I will admit. I wouldn't recomment it though. Lol.
DesirousOfChange - Yes, it wasn't long my BS meter couldnt allow me to swallow the garbage...
Undercover - It is ok, until real decisions have to be made
AudeSapere - My pleasure! There were fond memories I still keep....
sd-7 - There were things that disturbed me also, I'll admit. But it's what Jehovah allows until he cleans things up...(sigh)
sabastious - It wasn't a get well soon card. They were simply words of encouragement to keep moving forward....
Outsmartthesystem - We were all under such foolish thinking...
BlueBrother - I thought it was wierd so many were unhappy. Lol. You said it right....
BlindersOff1 - You speak truth!
botchtowersociety - Red pill delicious!
KingSolomon - I like your words, JW's as individuals are not evil people!
Disillusioned1 - Unfortunately, I can empathize with you to a degree. I'm sorry. It is difficult to adjust...
finally awake - Social groups I haven't joined. I am still hesitant. I like your advice to disillusioned1
BungiBill - Were you waiting for me to advise everyone going to one more meeting! Lol.
Vidiot - So you get it!
Elderelite, Open Mind, CobaltCupcake, LostGeneration, Dazed But Not Confused, Smiddy, Jam, Jookbeard, XBEHERE, PuffTheDragon, Krejames, Doubting Bro, Whathappened, tornaport and all others, here is the 2nd part... http://www.jehovahs-witness.net/watchtower/beliefs/239394/1/I-was-HAPPY-as-a-JW-How-did-I-end-up-here-Pt-2
continuation of... http://www.jehovahs-witness.net/watchtower/beliefs/239292/5/i-was-happy-as-a-jw-how-did-i-get-here.
me: so why is it we can make false predictions, but no one else can?.
i see...... do you know my heart?.
Continuation of... http://www.jehovahs-witness.net/watchtower/beliefs/239292/5/I-was-HAPPY-as-a-JW-how-did-I-get-here
Now, at the point when I left Bethel, I knew about the 1975 fiasco, UN, and pedophilia issues. I didn't know the EXTENT, but I had an idea there was some truth to such matters. The problem was the mind control issues: Where else is there to go? Who else is doing what JW's are doing? The men are imperfect. It's the perfect organization made up of imperfect people, etc. Everyone knows the drill. Anything and everything to convince me what believe is true and I haven't wasted time, money, and effort supporting just another whacky religion. Then there's the fear of Armageddon. What if I leave, and end up getting killed? What about my family? What if I'm wrong? What if Satan has gotten a hold of my thinking? And of course the no war, showing love, preaching, etc. that convinced me this was the true organization despite the problems.
In every assignment, or "privilege", had it's share of problems. I was aware of the serious issues and had to sometimes be involved. So it wasn't exactly "peachy" in my JW world. But I will admit there were more good times than bad, and any bad that came up I dealt with because it was for Jehovah! That gave me all the motivation and confidence I needed to stick with it.
I was one who always asked questions, and I try very hard to be honest with myself. I did ask many questions brothers could not answer, and I would answer hard questions from the Bible better than the Society could, with their weak circular reasoning on everything. One thing that never sat with me was the 7 trumpet blasts from Revelation. As a devout hardcore dub, I seen the ridiculousless of that crap. That's when the GB's iron exterior started to crack for me. But I was still convinced this was the truth.
Last year, I attended two seperate conventions. At BOTH, I heard joking remarks and comments in a few talks about the Harold Camping failure. And each time the audience laughed. That pissed me off! I was thinking how in the world do we have the right to laugh at anyone else, when we are guilty of the same thing, NUMEROUS TIMES?! I held it in, but it made my blood boil.
Soon thereafter, I underwent more research about 1914, 1975, and other dates the end was supposed to come, to get the facts about what happened (I was out of Bethel, but back temping. So I used WTs from archive room. Yes, they keep a copy of EVERY single publication they print. And when they make changes, they keep a copy of that also). Needless to say, I was blown back. I was also appalled that the society deliberately changed wording in WTLibrary from the original wording. I thought, why would they need to do that? That's dishonest! Oh, because those apostates would take things out of context! Lol. But I did research in the Societies' publications, to prove to myself this was still the truth. And I was still convinced! Am I serious? Unfortunately, yes. But I was an egg, about to hatch into a beautiful butterfly. Lol.
A few weeks later, and very close elder and I were out to eat. I started telling him what I learned. He was a trustworthy brother, and to this day, nothing I told him has come back to me. And EVERYTHING has come back to me. So I would like to say he kept his word. And I'm telling him I was losing confidence, and to help me. I'm frightened though, because I'm easily refuting all his WT canned answers about everything. Then the next few words turned me into an apostate.
Me: So why is it we can make false predictions, but no one else can?
Him: Because of our hearts. We are humble, other religions are in it for money and power. (JW's will use this reasoning when their backs are to the wall, rather, when they lack real evidence. This is used by WT also, because every witness wants to be associated with an endearing quality like humility, and if association with the religion gives you that quality by default, the BINGO!)
Me: (Eyes opened. Major synaptic connections going on here!)
Me: Hmm. I see...... Do you know my heart?
Him: Uhh.. No.
Me: Correct. And I'm sitting across from you! But you still can't read my heart. The Bible says not to even trust your own heart! So how can you categorize everyone NOT a JW as having a wicked heart, and assume because one has the title of being a JW, their heart is automatically good?
Him: Look at the evidence. Look at the growth....
Me: That's not what I asked you....
Him: I can't say for sure.
Me: So you know me better than almost anyone else on this earth, and you can't properly read what's in my heart at this time. But you can tell me as a FACT that Jehovah judged good the heart of a man who died 70 years before you were born, and that's your basis for dismissing his crazy ideas, and in comparison to other religions guilty of likewise offenses?! (We had been discussing Russell prior).
Him: .......
Me: I would like to, with all my heart, believe Russell had a good heart. But I cannot say for sure. I only have to go by facts. And according to the scriptural facts, we are as guilty the same things as other religions. We just lie to ourselves. (Yes, I became a company man into an apostate in 7 mins. Egg hatched...)
Him: We shouldn't be overly critical.
Me: Right. So other religions make false predictions, it proves Jehovah is not using them. We make false predictions, it means we're overzealous, but humble. Other religions join UN, they're having sex with the wild beast, touching the unclean thing. We join the UN, for a library card, and it's ok. Additionally, if I personally got a card to the YMCA, no reason is nobe enough, I'd be disfellowshipped for apostacy. Other religions hide pedophilia. We keep in quiet to not profane Jehovah's name. Other religions install ATM's, we print it in our mags to show how disgusting they are. We install debit card machines a year later, "keeping up with technology". Other religions change doctrine, it's because they follow man's opinion (for reference, please see April 22, 1970 Awake! Changes That Disturb People). We change doctrine because Jehovah is leading us. And he was leading us to the wrong doctrine in the first place? MAN, WE ARE SOME HYPOCRITES!!!!
(I cannot believe had all that knowledge, and still could not see the truth about the truth finally until this moment)
Me: To top it all off, let's call out all other religions, because these are proof they do not belong to God. But our same exact steps, let's dismiss those and not be overly critical about them.
Him: Be careful. You're talking like an apostate!
Me: If being honest makes me an apostate, then call me one. Calling someone an apostate is a big step though. So if you do, remember Matt. 5:22 (However, I say to YOU that everyone who continues wrathful with his brother will be accountable to the court of justice; but whoever addresses his brother with an unspeakable word of contempt will be accountable to the Supreme Court; whereas whoever says, ‘You despicable fool!’ will be liable to the fiery Ge?hen′na.)
Him: (Usual JW spiel about Korah Dathan Abiram) Don't let your pride take you down. The Society taught you everyting you know. Don't think you will know more than them.
Me: We won't see eye to eye. But thanks for allowing me to talk.
Convo over.
I call him up later though, I did apologize for getting too hyped. He was good about it. But I told him why it was a big deal for me:
Me: If I was a Catholic, Lutheran, Presbyterian, or any religion, and I found out my beliefs were wrong, or parts of my history were no good, what would you expect me to do?
Him: Leave. Do what Rev. 18:4 says.
Me: So as a JW, am I exempt from that?
Him: No, but wait on Jehovah.
Me: Would you tell a Catholic to remain in his religion, and wait on Jehovah to sort things out? (I have nothing against Catholic individuals, but it was effective in making my point clear because JW's despise the religion.
Him: Not if your in false religion.
Me: Every religion feels theirs is being led my God and all other religions are false. Not just Christian religions but all, Muslims, etc. included. Do you think if people would stop just accepting things for what they want them to be, instead of what the facts show, there would be so many religions?
Him: Agreed!
Me: Too many people believe their understanding and religion is correct because, well, they believe it! Not enough are willing to challenge their religion, beliefs, and comfort zone for truth. I don't want to fall in that trap. My life depends on it.....
Him: This might be our last conversation. Do more research.
Me: Wow. Man up and face the facts bro. We are hypocrites....
That all I have time for, will post the effects of this convo 2moro....
Please keep in mind, at the time I still believed in the Bible, and Bible Jehovah. I just was quickly losing the idea that JW's were the true religion...
some have figured out, but i am a poster that previously used another name.
but even then i did not give many details about myself.
i barely cracked 100 posts.. but i have never done a thread to explain why i am here.
I entered a pop and locking battle. I lost. When I lost, I thought. why would God allow this to happen? Then everything came down like a house of cards. Now I'm here.
No, but seriously, I really apologize for the delay. I will post tomorrow afternoon. Long day in the saga we call life. Lol.
Oh, and I read all the comments. Thanks fams!
some have figured out, but i am a poster that previously used another name.
but even then i did not give many details about myself.
i barely cracked 100 posts.. but i have never done a thread to explain why i am here.
I am running out right now. I will finish it later.... but everything was "rosy". Especially in ignorance.
8 siblings.
