Thank you so much, cofty, for your letter. It was respectful, direct, succinct and addressed all the important issues without becoming maudlin. What I especially valued was your statement regarding no more association with the WTS. Your family needs to fully understand that this is a point on which there can and never will be compromise. Witnesses like to think they alone possess “integrity” when it comes to their issues, doctrines and beliefs. They need to know that others also have it and are prepared to stand on it just as much as they do.
I also appreciated the fact that you did not grovel. I have read many accounts from those who are experiencing shunning about how when they see other Witnesses, they go out of their way to greet them. That is something I do not and never will do. I don’t care what the reasons are for their shunning others, it is wrong. But forcing our attentions on them is equally so. Our parting of ways was their decision and they should realize the full consequences of it. That doesn’t mean we are hostile to Witnesses when we see them or go out of our way to be rude. That is not Christian and certainly violates the words of Jesus when he told us to ‘love our enemies.’ If we are to love enemies, surely we can love those who used to hold us in high esteem and affection. But that doesn’t mean that we extend affection to people who have clearly indicated they regard us with loathing.
I want to wish you the very best as well with your health problems. Having the support of your parents during this critical time would undoubtedly be strengthening, but you have the love and support of many others. We have seen that in the contributions to this thread. Rest assured, there are many others who will likewise support you in this.
As you say, your parents will probably not respond in a positive fashion to your letter. I am sorry for them because they have decided to let others make their decisions for them and have chosen to strangle natural affection rather than embrace it.
Quendi