Last night in chat, just as I was about to log off and go to bed, a person unknown to me came in. I did not recognize the name, so I introduced myself. With me in chat was another new person, who identified him/her-self as a 19 yr old DA'd person on the East Coast (US).
After the initial introductions, the new person stated he/she was a therapist working with a troubled 15 yr old Witness girl who wanted to quit the religion over the objections of her mother. (I believe the father is an unbeliever, but is supportive of the mother's efforts to force the girl to attend meetings.) The girl is extremely emotional and has run away more than once.
At first, my radar went off, mostly because I've been deceived before due to having an open nature and eagerness to help troubled people. Upon questioning, the person seemed to be genuine and had a sincere interest in understanding issues facing minor JW's who choose to leave.
I answered some questions regarding JW teachings and culture. (EG: What is Bethel and why do JW parents want their children to go there?) I told him I had a number of years experience as an active JW and had raised two children, but was not specially qualified to give advice of this nature. I then offered to put the individual in touch with those who may be more qualified and offered my e-mail address.
I ended the conversation by saying: "BTW, if you are a fraud and are wasting me time, I'll come to (state) and kick your ass", to which he/she responded, "are all you guys so paranoid?" I said, if we're smart, we are.
So, do you think this was a real therapist seeking help for a patient? If I do get an e-mail, would any of you be interested in assiting?
Wasa