Jonadab,
I guess I am trying to understand so that I can help those who have been hurt or are drifting away.
I'll give you mine. I was reported to 3 circuit overseers, counseled by elders wrongly, had scriptures misapplied to me (even by WT standards), had an unethical investigation into my past in person by an elder who travelled 2500 miles, then was invited to include a letter to the society stating my position. (The elders wrote to Brooklyn to find out how do deal with me; how about with love?)
I offered anyone $1000 to prove me wrong either legally or scripturally. I typed a 4-page letter quoting the US Supreme Court, US Constitution, statutes, and the Bible. It was all shot down with one sentence, "We are familiar with your position and consider it unreasonable," although I had to lie to go along with theirs. I was subsequently a black sheep although never df'd. My good name was slandered to the whole body of elders. EVERY ONE of the whole body of elders accepted Brooklyn's reasoning although not one law or scripture was quoted proving me wrong.
I wrote back and applied Jesus' counsel, demanding an apology. Of course, I didn't expect one from such arrogant assholes, but I did my part. The elders lated asked if I was "having a bad day."
Now I get on my knees and thank God that they treated me like a cancer because I wouldn't lie or violate my conscience. It wasn't just ONE OR TWO ELDERS, but the WORLD HEADQUARTERS that opened my eyes with their TOTAL LACK OF LOVE. Now I actually get to use my brain, what there is left of it, and think for myself. The sad part is I wasted 40 precious years preaching for a lying, corrupt, evil "organization." Thank God, thank God, THANK GOD I have nothing more to do with that POOR excuse for Christianity.