I was a bit of an enigma, and I think that is why a barrier was forged between myself and the "brothers" who held positions of oversight in the congregation I attended.
I graduated from high school at age 16 as valedictorian of my class. At the time of my high school graduation I was still a very loyal active Dub, even auxiliary pioneering, carrying the mics, and reading at Book Study.
The elders kind of nudged me in the direction that I should go to Bethel. It was funny. The conversation kind of went like this:
"Now that your done with high school, have you considered Bethel? Nothing is more important or rewarding than the full time service to Jehovah... blah blah blah"
To which I responded that actually I was considering going straight to college because I had a choice of scholarships and wanted to get a good job.
They didnt like that, their rebuttal was along the lines of storing up your treasures in heaven and not being drawn to the material passions of the world.
I was surprisingly outspoken, and Ill never forget it. I said yeah thats why you have a job making 6 digits a year, drive a Range Rover, and dont serve at Bethel, so I suppose its up to you to tell me how to run my life?
Needless to say elders dont like it when they are challenged, especially by a 16 yr old. I told them I could make good money and then pioneer, and it was my choice, not theirs. The Society no longer discouraged post-secondary education, so what was the issue? Even as elders, they could not refute what I said, but the gap definitely widened from that point forward.
Anyway, I went on to graduate from college with my B.A. in Business Administration at age 19. The institution I attended offers classes year round, so instead of taking the summers off to play around, you can finish your Baccaulaureate program in 3 years instead of 4.
I will never regret getting a college education. Taking elective classes in Philosophy, Religion, Ethics, and Law helped widen my perspective and eased my transition in leaving the Witnesses after realizing the endless flaws in doctrine and the realization that people in the "world" are not as evil as they are proclaimed to be.
I currently work for a Manufacturing Firm in Chicago as the Director of Purchasing. Its kind of funny, I am 21 and directly subordinate to a Vice President, and the closest one in age in the office to me is 44. I plan on going back and finishing up my MBA and possibly a JD before I turn 25.. thats the plan anyway.
Well, I guess Ive rambled enough about my life here, but I wanted to be thorough. If anyone does happen to read this that is pondering going to school.. DO IT! It is a sacrifice and a very heavy investment, but the rewards are very satisfying in more ways than one.
Keep the stories coming, I want to read more.
The true Kingdom of God is located in your heart, not an organization of hypocrites.
www.geocities.com/latinloverchicago/Jason1.html for my new webpage and info!! Im trying to live now!!
