Hiya Bug and Welcome!
Ive been associating with jws for some time now (6/7 years), and I can honestly say they are some of the nicest ppl you will meet! In fact, 50% are NOW my social circle. They live simple lives without complications. In other words, they live in their own world (literally). At times, I find this comforting as Im in dire need for solitude (not getting it at home - main reason I cling to them). Other times, through research on this website and the book "Crisis of Conscience", Ive come to understand that the Jehovah's Witness Organisation is not God's mouthpiece nor should it think for me. Still.....I associate with them because I have a good time (one of em is my best friend) and am somewhat hesitant to bring to their attention 'my findings' so to speak - in fear I will be shunned :(
When I was asked to come along to my 1st Jehovah's Witness meeting I was scared - really scared. Once I arrived I was greeted with smiles, handshakes, a well dressed crowd and friendly conversation. To top it all off the speaker was amazing! He was very animated and believed/meant every word he said - very well spoken. I quickly pictured myself becoming "one of them" in the space of 2 hours!!!! A day to remember.....
So I continued to make appearances, kept showing my face every two weeks until one day I disagreed with with one of the Brother's. I recall this....
"...you may come across from time to time 'Worldly people' who take pleasure in bad-mouthing Jehovah's Witnesses. For example, some of these people lurk on the Internet and trick you into believing that Jehovah God hates you - these people are called 'Apostates'. Apostates are people we want nothing to do with for they are one with Satan. Satan the Devil will do anything he can to steer you away from the truth.....It is imperative that we safeguard ourselves from all apostate sources and 'shut-out' anything negative worldly people have to say about us - for its not true - it is all lies. Do not find yourself questioning the truth, for without it, we are with the wicked one not God.... Do not let your guard down..."
I couldnt believe it. There he was bad mouthing me implying I was "one with Satan" because I am a worldy person and not one with the Truth :( That was my first bitter taste...Im an open minded person....and for the Brothers to imply we should only read what they feed us seemed wrong in my book. I've found if you question your faith and do your research - you're at peace with yourself not the organisation :)
From what I gather so far, Jehovah's Witnesses like to isolate themselves. And once your isolated, you surrender the ability to think for yourself.
Let us know how ur first meeting turned out!
And1
