So as not to hijack this thread, I'm starting my own. Please add to the list I've started!
The point is--be anchored in normalcy.
If the list gets long enough, I might post it on my jw downloads page for posterity. :D
| Dubbie whack behavior | Normal person behavior | Suggested response |
| Shunning, including refusing to even say hello | Shunning isn't really normal unless you really really hate a person--it's very rude and childish | Act as if you don't expect to be shunned--don't "sit in the back" or avoid speaking to someone you'd normally speak to. That would be playing their game. When they shun, just look at them with an exaggerated look of shock and offense, then brush it off and move on--as if they farted really really loud and you're embarrassed for them. |
| Preaching | Talking about religion or politics is generally considered off limits and quite rude | Tolerate it a moment to see if they will stop. Don't make eye contact or that would encourage it. In the meantime, put your hand in your pocket and give them the finger, just to keep your sanity. Change the subject very abruptly, bonus points if you can interrupt them mid-sentence. Talk about something totally unrelated to make it totally obvious. Or...state, "It's considered rude to talk about religion." Or....state, "How thoughtful of you to bring up such a topic." Or...."Do you still believe jumping naked will cure colds, or is that old light?" Or...."My cell phone has a cool game--Ouija. It's right here in my pocket." {pull out cell phone and push random buttons, then make a throaty growl and roll your eyes back in your head} |
| Asking you to come back | " | Abrupt subject change, but this time talk about something totally positive about your post-borg life. Ramble on and on about it without taking a breath, and raise the volume if they lose interest. |