Us against Them

Markfromcali

Has it occurred to you that maybe even after leaving the WTS, this basic attitude remains? In fact, might it not just be transferred to the context of exJWs vs JWs?

No doubt not everyone sees this as an issue, and this is NOT at all to dismiss the things they have done, but on a personal level, in terms of your own consciousness and peace of mind, has it been looked at from this perspective?

I won't try to get anyone to see this for what it is as I think there are enough people who already have had that much insight and it just needs to be pointed out. The thing is, having a position in this way doesn't go very far, it is not the frame of mind that frees you nor is it what is needed to skillfully address the JW related issues which may help others. There are a lot of excellent posters on this board with their knowledge and insight, be it in terms of research into the issues or on a personal level - and frankly none of this comes out of this attitude which is typical of a religion like the JWs. Just a reminder - to use your mind.

A Paduan

I didn't join or leave the jws, but I certainly am against their ways. I'm not sure that it's "us", but it is 'me'. It is an issue, and I make efforts to control my anger at times - I can feel like Dinah's brothers, wanting to 'circumcise' them first - as well.

DanTheMan

I think that only somebody who has anti-social or paranoia issues to begin with could be attracted to JW's and their apocaplyptic worldview. So yes, especially if you were a convert, you have to not only recognize JWism for what it is, but also take a hard look at the personality traits that made you vulnerable to JW indoctrination. Which in my case would be deep feelings of fear and hostility towards the larger world, and I don't think I've rid myself of these traits unfortunately, it is difficult.

itsallgoodnow

in terms of your own consciousness and peace of mind, has it been looked at from this perspective?

There really is no "us". We are not organized, we don't all have the same rigid belief system, just a common background and things that have happened to us. We offer support, but there is no enforced comraderie. When we deal with our families and friends still in, it is just us, all alone.

It's important to me to remember they are really just trying to do their best with what they know, they've been mislead, misguided, and it's not easy to see their good intentions, but I can at least understand where they are coming from, having been there myself. I don't hate myself for having been a JW, so why should I hate them? But they do make a lot of trouble for people, they are the ones instigating the uncomfortable confrontations for most exJWs who would rather just leave it behind them.

I would stop if I thought I was becoming deeply bitter and angry by keeping up with what JWs are doing, what direction they are going, how they are spinning things. I don't waste my energy hating them.

Poztate