Addressing specifically for Hilary... by special request
Of course things were learned, some good, some bad and many indifferent. There is no doubt that many whose lives were purposeless and without meaning were given focus and a support system by their attachment to the WTS. Many have been damaged by the same system as you note in your opening post. The same can be said of any religion, despite your seeming lack of respect for other peoples faith. For example, the Catholics harbor priests that abuse children, they also manage leper colonies and run hospices for those who die screaming in the night, something the WTS could afford to do, but chooses not to. The Salvation Army does a commendable job throughout the world helping the unfortunate within society and expecting nothing in return - a very Christian quality, I am sure that you would agree.
The issue is not really whether the WTS is the correct religion because it helped you to get your life, or my life in order, as this may have happened in some other religious or social scenario. I know at least five persons whose life was saved by Alcoholics Anonymous, but despite the millions of lives repaired by AA, they do not claim to speak for God. It would also mean that all the Hindus and Buddhists who were enmeshed in substance abuse and manage to free themselves, would by your own definition be worshipping a useful God - do you believe that they are?
The issue is whether what the WTS preaches is sustainable Scriptually and socially. On both these counts many on this Board have researched the issue and found the WTS is claiming to be what it is not. I am very pleased that your worship of the WTS, and I use that term deliberately, has bought you happiness. I hope that you continue in your studies with an open mind and with your personal integrity intact.
I was requested to answer "questions" from Hilary's post, but I see only one. would by your own definition be worshipping a useful God - do you believe that they are?
My answer : And then? Does that really, really matter? We are all in a search for a meaning, a purpose in life... in that search we may come across doctrines, cultures and ways of life that we may either agree with or disagree with. Our own searches lead us down our own life's paths... plain and simple, if you dont like the WTS... Get TF OUT ! If you do... STAY.
Not to dodge your question... do I believe... sure.... why not... doesnt mean you have to.
With that... again... all Im seeing is emotional whining, your saying nothing... BAH I say!
To correct your VERY VERY incorrect statement made to me, I am very pleased that your worship of the WTS - I worship no such society. I have searched for my god and he has drawn me to him, and his name is Jehovah. It just so happens that I am guiding my knowledge in learing of him and drawing close to him by studing as a JW.... an imperfect organization, as all of god's people have always been. Wether or not the WTS is right or wrong, I believe that Jehovah knows our hearts and he will decide when the time is right what happens and what doesnt (notice I am leaving that open ended) because none of us know what IS going to happen until it happens.
