SEEKER4:
It is the open dissemination of information that organization's like the WTS fear the most
ISN'T THAT THE TRUTH....they fear what they cannot control. Psychologically, they have the congregations pinned up in a locked room (no world association; no Internet; no outside research) while they are outside (in New York) discussing how and what they are going to tell them so it doesn't sound so "evil" which is exactly what it is. Talk about blinded sheep!
...any that are starting to have doubts and have Internet access WILL use it. I know it was a huge factor for me to suddenly realize that I was just one of thousands that had the same questions. It helped me get past the thought that I must have the problem, and not the WTS. When you realize that the things that don't make sense to you also don't make sense to tons of other JWs and former JWs, that is wonderfully empowering.
SO TRUE...I went nuts when I read the Internet. FINALLY I had some proof that it wasn't just me. And I was not alone. I wasn't really a bad person because I couldn't keep up with everything or blindly swallow everything that was being shoved down my throat. I was not seeing love. I was seeing dysfunctional, needy people. I knew then that I didn't deserve the "cold" treatment and the harassment from the Elders. I laughed, I cried, I got angry (very, very angry) and I left.
Some JWs will just stay with the WTS no matter what. They will probably not use the Net much, and will certainly stay away from sites that question the Society.
Unfortunately my best friend will probably be amongst this group. For the 26 years that I knew her, I never realized what a truly weak and insecure person she really is. In coming to that realization, I know she will never leave. The WTS makes it too convenient, lays everything out for her in a nice little "how to" package where she doesn't really have to think or take any responsibility for her relationship with God (just obey the WTS), and she has ready-made friends (as long as she is faithful). She does not have the courage to even begin to face leaving or even to question. Our friendship was the sacrificial lamb in this situation. So be it. I have found new courage to take control of my life and am currently working towards those goals. I remain a faithful Christian and have found a new freedom in the love of Christ and His grace. I still love my friend but she is not the same person since the WTS has twisted her thinking. I continue to pray for her but I am not obsessed with it. It's in God's hands!
Of course, you know the WTS will twist and fudge the dropping numbers for as long as they can and then attribute it to persecution and bible (false) prophecy. They'll come up with anything they can to save face and keep the money rolling in to save the WTS. God's chosen people? I don't think so. Not with all the harm they have caused so many. No amount of good that they do could ever erase that accountability before God. I hope God shows them more mercy then they have shown others.
Good post Seeker4.
Trot