B...
That was a well written letter. I've never been a dub, just a plain old human being on the road of life searching for more 'light', so here's my 2 cents.....
I have come to a crossroads in my personal path (selfish? yes) where I must choose between fear and freedom. I choose freedom, but as Daystar points out, it often comes at a cost. I am truly sorry for my brother and mother, but they have chosen their path, I have chosen mine.
Your choice seems to be a little reactive (negative) instead of active (positive). To choose freedom over fear shouldn't mean to let go of people most precious to you. That's the WTBS game, why play it, why react to them? There are those on this board who seem to have their cake and eat it too. Let go of fear, and be free, but on YOUR terms, which includes associating with whom you choose. If your realitives live a distance from you, that's to your benefit. Become a so-called 'spiritually weak' JW, inactive for reasons that are 'personal'... that's only playing them at their game and then totally FORGET about them (WTBS), don't give them ANY power, because in reality they are so insignificant. You accept your mom and brother for who they are, then let them accept you for who they will think you are - just inactive. You should not be the one to initate the disfellowshipping from those you love. Let sleeping dogs lie.... if something comes up down the road, confront it then. But as for now and in the near (or distant) future, let go of fear, be free, but hold on to family as long as you can....which, unless you overturn the apple cart could in reality last a lifetime.
Double Edge.