Want to know how a lie can turn into a compliment? Only in the JW mindset!!!
We got called into the dreaded back room after meeting to find two elders wanting to discuss a 'serious' matter with us. They said we had been seen associating with a DF'd member of the hall. We completely denied it, not having even seen that person recently, but having heard they moved into a house two streets away. We said no, absolutely not. We pushed back but they kept shaking their heads and telling us of the seriousness of it and how we could be subject to strong counsel if we don't stay away. Finally we asked who made the charge. A certain elder was named. We asked if such a helpful elder could give times or dates of what he claims to have seen. They said no. We said ask him right now.
So they went and got the elder and brought him in with us. He was VERY uncomfortable to be there. We were angry. We asked for a reason why he made an accusation. He said that the DF'd family had moved near us. We were in disbelief, did that mean we were associating with them? He said no, but it COULD happen. He said it would be terrible IF it happened and was SOMETHING that MIGHT come up. He totally admitted that he knew of no specific dates or times.
So the big shocker wasn't just this mouthy asshole lying, but what the two elders did next. They COMPLIMENTED him on showing concern for our family, and asked if we agreed that it was VERY HELPFUL and THOUGHTFUL for him to worry about us. They then counseled us for getting heated up about such evidence of fine spiritual shepherding on his part. Because, yeah, we were mad. He lied, slandered us, admitted it, and we're the bad guys for calling him on it. Then they said a prayer, again praising Mr. Liar and praying that we not be offended by loving counsel but consider it a growing potential.