Posted by CrossRoads [CrossRoads] on November 15, 1999 at 00:53:52 {AS5l1tybL6jONPcUpXTE1TxyNSBses}:
In Reply to: Your follow up mail posted by foryearsmisled on November 14, 1999 at 22:21:36:
Hi "guest"
Don't forget to collect your password so that you can post under your proper name in future.
I must say that I have mixed feelings as I read your e-mail.
Your situation is not unlike many of ours who have had to reconsider our active involvement with the WBTS.
There is a lot of compassion out there on this board and also a lot of bitterness.
Much stems from the circumstances under which a person ends up making such a decision. I am sure
that you understand what I mean.
Each of us has had to make a decision as to whether we "fade" or "go out with a bang".
Whatever a person decides is something I feel is dictated by their circumstances at the time.
The step to make a move is, however, courageous because it means seperating from something which a
person may have held dear for many years.
By "resigning", you may have effectively disssociated yourself. This will of necessity lead to judicial action depending on what form this
"resignation" took. Then you will be cut off from
association.
When I made my decision to fade, it was to preserve the bonds of friendship among the brothers that I value highly and also to protect
the faith of my wife who is still a very exemplary witness.
You don't indicate the view of your family and whether they are "with you" in this matter.
Let me tell you that it is very disruptive to a family in the initial stages to go through this
process that you speak of. Please be assured that you have for one, my empathy and understanding.
At this point I don't know your view on spiritual matters, but from what you say, I gather that
it will not be out of place for me to recommend that you continue to follow a pattern of Bible
reading and reflect deeply on the meaning of true spirituality and a relationship with Jehovah and
Christ. These matters are easily neglected in your situation. I know, I've been there.
Now it's time for you to gather your facts and have them clear in mind. Don't collect stones.
When you meet with the brothers, don't approach this as an opportunity to "expose" the WTS or have
an axe to grind. Simply be sure and convinced of your facts and lay them out as reasonably as you
can. If you give any indication of criticism or display a vindictive spirit, you may not reach
them with your reasoning. Maintaining a mild spirit will, I believe, go further in lending
weight and reasonableness to your arguments. You may even have some of sympathetic ear.
There may be several replies to your post. Pay attention to each and weigh the thoughts
expressed very carefully.
My your new course in life bring you the serenity and blessings your heart desires.
Regards
CR