by minimus 25 Replies latest jw friends
I grew up.
As a JW I was scared of just about everything. So the unnecessary fear is gone. Therapy helped with that and the guilt and shame. I learned how to find my voice and use it.
My values are pretty much the same but now they aren't dictated by an organization. They are based on my personal beliefs about right and wrong.
Maybe I am in "Babylon the Great," but I'm not in "Watchtower Not So Great"
Lost over 120 lbs.
Had sex
Had 3 kids (see above)
Learned that my thoughts are MY OWN
Learned to not be afraid of my own instincts
Learned that I am not bad for thinking things other than what I am told to think.
I laugh now.
I'm a pastor, and very happy.
Yes, I did change..but for the better. I love to live now. I'm not always feeling guilty about not going to the meetings or studying enough. I don't have to feel bad about lying on time reports. To be honest...the lying isn't there now cause I don't have to now. That's a good feeling. I can be me. I can feel good about my spiruality now.
Since leaving I am a much nicer person. I believe now that as long as you are not hurting anyone live anyway you like. I have had enough judgment and condemnation to last a lifetime.
Leslie
Don't wear a suit & tie anymore.
Well said abbagail, I agree with your sentiments completely.
abr
Well, thankya thankya thankya avidbiblereader! ;)
I should have added that I went thru *H* first, to get there, but now I consider it part of the "purifying process." ;)
Really, great replies from EVERYBODY.
/ag
