Posted by 2 LA, Sparky [Spartacus] on November 08, 1999 at 21:35:04 {Nq8EnQ8RVANKYC3NiBwMxS0h9OxmcQ}:
In Reply to: **xJW haveUlterior Motives? posted by 2Spartacus on November 08, 1999 at 16:17:33:
Hi LA, you said:
"I am still on this see-saw Spartacus, there is alot to be thankful for in terms of
moral and social guidance with the WTS. I'm hoping there is a delightful
middle ground we can all look forward to.
I generally agree with you but wouldn't it be better if the benefits of WTS came out of an organization that is rooted in truth, integrity and with the best interest of the each individual and generally families at heart. JW families must “buy out the time” to keep up with the JW regimen. Many other religious organizations deliver moral and social guidance without the aspect of coercing and punishing members of it's flock for not following WTS standards that cause many families to stress to the breaking point due to as little as one active JW family member. As an elder I've witness several families break up because of the teachings and lifestyle suggestions of the WTS/GB. The WTS becomes a lightening rod within the family, a source of contention mainly because of the devotion and time the WTS demands of its members and lets not forget the WTS’s extreme teachings. The weekly regimen of a JW is not conducive to family togetherness unless all members of the family are obedient members of the WTS. The JW lifestyle is generally opposed to secular progressiveness. Being “secular progressive” like seeking higher education, pursuing business, developing God given gifts are typically in conflict with the WTS teachings, suggestions and JW weekly regimen. The bread winners of the family lose out on upgrading their ability to earn more money and spend quality time with family members. Children’s gifts such as art, music, academics, athletics are often left undeveloped, because there is no time to devote to these and are discouraged by the Society.
I guess you can find some silver lining if you look hard enough. I believe the overall damage (lost potential) to JW individuals, JW families is greater because much more could have been accomplished if each individual devoted their time in other ways that includes worship of Jehovah. Many have not realized the individual potential and greatness because of the daily and weekly JW regimen. The WTS could have changed long ago to accommodate all kinds without forcing its mold on each. Causing others to feel guilty for not following the admonitions of the WTS and still have a worldwide spiritually healthy congregation of millions.
Are there many lawyers, doctors, wealthy business men and women, professors, civic leaders, engineers, great athletes, noted artist, writers, and scientists among JW’s? Sure, there are a few, but it’s not a comparison to the upwardly mobile churchgoers. Many religions do not impede the dreams and aspirations of individuals and families but have found ways to help them realize them. What has the WTS done in this regard? Many churches are dotted all about within their membership of accomplished individuals who are also noted as fine Christians.
Spartacus