This is my first posting , even though I've started to at least 7 times. I've been reading this forum for 3 months trying to understand how JW's live their lives away from the work environment and how it affects their life decisions. I'll explain why I need to know in the rest of the post. I've seen a lot of emotion and compassion here and hope I can get some of the answers I'm looking for.
Here's my situation. I'm an early 50's married man with grown children that spent 20 years in a fundamental Baptist church, which we left a few years ago mainly because of differing opinions with people and the personnal inability to "measure up". We now lead a typical moderate life style - moderate alcohol use, sleeping in on Sunday, catching up on a lot of music.
Through my work situation (different facilities seperated by 200 miles) , I've become acquainted with an attractive ,intelligent young lady. As we got to know each other, I realized there was something different about her, so I asked the religion question and was stunned when her answer was JW. Years of Baptist teachings and arguments with JW's came flooding back. I knew most of the doctrinal issues ,but am wondering what the mechanics of the life style was about and also what she can do with her life. I should add that she has been divorced for while and that she converted as a late teenager. She has not tried to witness (or whatever it's called) to me. We have developed a pretty close friendship based on very similar personalities and mutual work experiences.
I know she goes to Tues & Thurs meetings but how much time is required because she seems to have very little free time? How does her marital status come into play (I don't know any of her specifics)? Is there full time JW service options for her? Can she continue higher education? She definitely has the talent. From what I've read in this group , it seems that her potential can be totally wasted if she follows the "rules", is that a correct observation? Our friendship has deepened but Is there a disaster impending or an area to stay away from? I'm not talking male-female ,as we've both got that under control.
I know this is a disjointed post and it may not be in the right forum, but I am confused and concerned about a good person and friend. I've also left out some details for confidentiality. Thanks for reading.