The nice thing about a board such as this vs your local kingdom hall, is that for the most part everyone coexists even though the groups run the full range of belief, fith, non-belief, and more.
Your approach is not dogmatic, but rather "personal". So in that case you get people who respect your viewpoint, because they assume theirs will be respected as well. Thos enice men that you are sure mean well, would have these people (and possibly you), branded an apostate. By my estimation apostacy is something for which Jesus shed blood no longer applies. How sad to throw around such a terrible word.
My journey was interesting. Alot of time invested. I saw being a JW as being part of a religion, but it was an outlet for my spiritual need and desire to help others. I did however feel that the branch took a hard right maybe 3-4 years ago and realy ramped up the role of the GB. Lo and behond now they are the sole members of the FDS who you MUST be with in order to make it. I just don't buy it. Biblically, logcally, according to conscience, and according to our history. Then I discovered we were wrong on blood. After that I knew I had to remove my family and my young baby from the organization that makes you chose between your life and your family/friends, and I saw disfellowshipping in the light of the day for the first time. A way to enforce belief.
I hope you continue to learn, and I find it facinating that elders come here. Good for them. I was a servant for many years, and only visited here after I was distraught because of what I had learned.
Welcome, and we look forward to you adding your own opinions to the mix.
