Interesting posts so far...
The point I was trying to make with this thread was that we really can't be free of the bOrg until we stop using their vocabulary. Theirs is the language of slavery and I refuse to speak it anymore!
Now I'll respond to some of the more sincere posts here:
@blondie:
I forgot about the term excommunication in my OP. It really is the proper technical term. It's quite vile nonetheless...
@Mad Sweeney:
Yes, I acknowledge that many people here DO use the term APOSTATE as a badge of honour but it's not my cup of tea. It's THEIR word to define and stigmatize us. I refuse to bow to them...
@AwareBeing:
I feel bad for you that the memories are still so fresh. And yes, the change of language is important to freeing ourselves mentally. For better or worse, I have a memory like an elephant and there are just some things I'll never forget, even if I wanted to...
@GL Tirebiter:
Yes, that vile practice of DF IS used as emotional blackmail. I will not bow to it...
@Ding:
I couldn't agree with you more. That quote you posted is quite profound. Cults will try to twist language in accordance to their will...
@TotallyADD:
It's wonderful that you were standing up to the vile discrimination and hatred of mankind that the GB fosters even back then. I'm glad that you're free now...
@luna2:
It bears worth repeating: JWs and other cults use different vocabulary to set themselves apart and cut the "flock" off from the rest of the world. BLECH!
@breakfast of champions:
I agree that a marriage should be a partnership. Cults twist almost anything good in life to their self aggrandizing ideals. Headship Principle/Submission = Misogyny
@Scully:
Experience: Way different usage than is common in non JW circles. Better to use the word Reenactment...
I'm thinking the better word to use is Fabrication.
LOL! I guess that you got me there. The veracity of any of those "experiences" given on stage is questionable at best...
@petitebrunette:
I wish that I had never believed they were friends at all. They really aren't...
@agent zero:
Even the thought of calling it "The Truth" makes me gag. So much about the JW religion is arbitrary, isn't it?
V665