Love the John Lennon quote about life! Remember that song fondly, as I age myself.
My work keeps me in touch with the public and it really helps. I was happily surprised to find an abundance of really wonderful people out there. It is a lot easier once you quit viewing them as worldly or future bird food. There is a large non-denominational church in this area and I have met a number of people that attend there. They all have been very kind even after I mention that I was "raised" as a JW. They are very involved in the community and doing good works and I really admire them for it. That alone has been very eye opening for me, a born in JW baptized in the 60's.
Another eye opener for me was when I first started to listening to other Bible scholars and ministers. I was under the impression that all non-JW's don't read their Bible or use it in Church. Definitely not the truth.
The thing is once you see the crack or allow that first doubt to materialize, you suddenly see a whole new world. I like Leonard Cohen's line, "There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCS_MwkWzes
And the light of free thought does indeed get brighter! In fact, I believe that is the meaning of Proverbs 4:18 "But the path of the righteous is like the bright morning light that grows brighter and brighter until full daylight." -NWT.
That Proverb is discussing the experience of a person, NOT a spirit directed organization! In that setting it is certainly true. We grow as people, opening our minds and thinking for one's self will lead to a brighter and happier life. May that be your experience JC1985. Wishing you a bright happy future starting today.