Sens, Special K, cj, gumby, BONEZZ, outnfree (what a highly appropriate name!) , mouthy, sens, JamesThomas (my kindred spirit!), mortons68, Euphemism, franklin J, blondie, anglise, SLOAN and shamus ((((((((((((((HUGS GALORE))))))))
Thank you, my dear friends. Your replies, as ever, mean the world to Claire and I.
I fully understand why so many on the forum cannot allow their real names to be made known. For Claire and I, however, there's nothing the Borg can do to us now. We are shunned by all JWs, including our own daughters, so we felt that by coming out into the open we may help others to gain courage - not necessarily to be as open as we, but to realise that one really can be free of fear.
Some may question whether we are helping getting our daughters back by being so open - but we aren't getting them back by being closed! To be honest, as I've said before, this is not just about my wife and I and our girls, it's about helping others; especially those that want to get out but are too afraid. We KNOW!!! it is difficult, that's why we feel we can help others by letting them know exactly who we are and where they can contact us (this has worked already as I've been contacted). We also know that this forum is trolled, so if Watchtower wish to contact my old congregation to let them know then PLEASE FEEL FREE. WE DON'T CARE!!!
Some news: This will be our first Christmas in 19 years (the very first for our two sons!). Already we have purchased a Christmas tree and all the balls, beads and tinsel that one associates with the festive season. The tree shall stand pride of place in our front window for all the neighbours (and passing Borg) to see .
I am studying Buddhism again (I was a Buddhist before being hoodwinked into the Borg - gosh, why did I ever leave Buddhism?? Must have needed my brain feeling!). I'm particularly interested in Zen. Claire, on the other hand, doesn't believe in anything now - but who can blame her?
I've been appointed secretary of my local judo club, an art/sport I thoroughly love and enjoy (though I broke a rib a few weeks back! OUCH!!). I also do yoga and go for runs. We also acquired a beautiful young border collie puppy, 'Rosie', from a rescue centre. She's a fabulous girl!
So, we're now doing all the things we were prevented from doing while we were part of a mindless collective. My younger son, Dominic, and I, recently passed our judo gradings. I never thought being thrown through the air could be so much fun!!!
Claire and I celebrate 25 glorious married years together next month, when I also turn 50. We're going out with friends from the judo club for a slap up meal. They know our story and have taken us into their bosoms unconditionally. Gosh, what a great life this is turning out to be.
So, please don't any of you despair. Simon's done a great job here and Randy Watters is doing likewise with his website and journal. ISP and Latte were there when we needed them. Watchtower is crumbling, thousands are leaving and people are truly beginning to live for the first time. Without this forum and all the friends we have made on it, plus Randy's site, our journey to freedom would not have been so easy. Bless you all for playing such a major part. You have truly helped us heal.
Sincerest love and affection,
Ian, Claire and Boys