When we leave the Witness "family" we know how inhumanly we're treated. When some return, there is no rejoicing, clapping or undue expressions of "joy" allowed openly. The GB wants a period of proving yourself worthy to be back in the "fold". (Hardly what the prodigal son's father did to him!) But, Let's put the shoe on the other foot. I was the only Witness and youngest in a family of 5 of us siblings. No grandparents, parents, or siblings ever in the org. My son and his family who was still in at the time also left with us. (my other two children were already out) . First I told my children why we left and ever so sincerely apologized for raising them in that way. I called my brothers and sisters and told them we left that religion and why. I was a Witness for 33 years and basically estranged from them all that time.
My whole family NEVER made me feel bad for my choice. NEVER made me feel guilty for separating from them all these years. NEVER humiliated me with "I told you so's" even tho' preaching at them was my only means of communication and they hated it. They all said they were so happy to have me back as a part of the family. I have no testing period to see if I'm worthy, regular communication both ways, and genuine love for the person they know me to be. I even got encouragement to acclimate at my own pace. I think Brooklyn could use a lesson.
If you were a Witness and returned to your "wordly" family, how were you treated?