Hi,
Former Unbaptized Publisher, here.
I'm new to the forums and have hesitated for months to join this forum. I was raised in a JW family, and was never baptized, because one of my parents didn't think I should be baptized early.
My mother became inactive, but I eventually went back for social contact, eventually starting a study. I raised a few questions, only to find that the conductor would get irritated and defensive when my questions would get deeper into the topic. I was skeptical about the bible and the existence of god. I also felt that the "bad association" rule was very prudish. That I could only befriend like-minded people, and they had to believe the exact same things. I felt that was wrong. Something never felt right...
I also was very depressed and confused in that organization. It got so bad that I even contemplated suicide at some point, because I felt unworthy and sinful. Those were dark times.
Eventually, I was fed up with the ever constricting rules, and confusing doctrines that I decided to ignore the "don't do independant research" rule, and go online to see if this would stand the test. And, to be honest, it was a turning point in my life. I had a spring in my step, I felt so alive. My depression was gone...
My story is quick, (although, this is a rough draft, and I fear people identifying me, because I'm a fader) and not nearly as bad as some of the sad stories I've heard on here... I never was really shunned, but was not too aware of how deep of an impact it had on people.
If you all want, you can share your experiences on this page, or just say hi. This is a mere introduction, so, good day to you all.
With love, GloomySunday~