Just had dinner with some worldly friends and relatives and what a great time I had. It was sobering to think that I cut them out for so long and yet they are such nice people. We were conditioned to believe that they were bad influences and were demon possessed but actually are quite decent and church going people with real strengths and weaknesses like everyone else. Our conversations focused on religion, marriage, children, jokes, business, politics and a host of other things. They were well read and contributed important points to the conversation (quite a change from the usual dribble from my jdub associates). I am truly sorry to have cut them off for so long but it is great to have such company now.
On a similar note, I am taking some hobby classes and met some really nice people (met a doctor, elementary school teacher, investment banker, musician, and many interesting people) during the sessions. Afterward, the teacher and some students put on a dance performance that was really cool.
When I think back at the level of mind control in the congregation, it seems absolutely absurd that anyone would willingly put themselves under the control of these 12 guys in Brooklyn who supposedly possess the correct interpretation of worshipping God. Thinking about the policies the society has in place as well as the misguided doctrine, it is no wonder that there is such a intellectual void in the organization. The jdubs pay an enormous price to be witnesses of a publishing company, it's very sad. Unfortunately, the bOrg is not the only high control organization out there.
Has your experience integrating back into society been this rewarding? I find myself looking forward to associating more with my newfound friends. I can't wait to start school again as well as checking out different nondenominational churches. This to me is what Jehovah intended his people to be like.