Early on in my adventures here at JWD I went to a posted apostafest in my area. Only 7 or 8 were there, but it was nice to meet others and hears some stories first hand. Last night though I was privileged to attend a family bash at a nice big house with at least 20 awesome people there, and all but one were former dubs (one husband just married in, but was never a dub). One by one over the last ten years, ALL either walked or got the boot. Elders, servants, lots of pioneers...you name it. How common is it for extended families to all make the Exodus like this, or at least a big majority?
Talk about a breath of fresh air! I gave a semi-business reason to my wife for this hook-up with an old friend and his family. But when I stayed over five hours instead of two, and got in late, I got THE QUESTION this morning..."So did all these people used to be JW's?!?" I was not expecting that, but said that I was pretty sure most had either "drifted away" (JW term for fading) or got the boot, but that I did not poll each individual.
There was plenty of JW talk and news, esp. the recent survey on faith stats. One thing of interest...none of the family tried to influence others as to JW crapolla. They said they just kept on loving the dubs still in, and by moving on and having a good life, it seemed to draw other family members out. They all felt that trying to explain, push, debate, argue the REAL TRUTH, you will push others away (like I did before I finally shut up).
I came from a pretty small family, so this was for me a great experience. They do this about once a month, and we do brunch this morning (while wife and son are at meeting!) I have been adopted!..........................................................oompa