Expert: Gordon Cook - 3/19/2009

Question
I was so and encouraged to read about your experience with Jehovahs Witnesses.

My mother became a Jehovehs Witness after my fathers death which was very traumatic for me at age 7.

Being raised in the Jehovahs Witness teachings felt very repressive and confining to me. I have to admit even as a young child I always had a deep down seenking feeling that this was not what I wanted but I knew that this was helping my mom deal with th death of my father. The witnesses told her that she could see him again in the resurection and she told us that our father would return...in flesh!

Somehow though I wanted badly to believe this a part of me knew that something was off.

When I turned 15 I sat down with my mother and told her that I did not want to be a Jehovahs witness  anymore and because I just didnt believe everything they taught. Her response was " well, you're free to choose between life or death."

At age 20 I was "disfellowshiped" for "fornacation" (I had a boyfriend) The elder sat down with me and told me that my "dress was now stained and god did not approve of me anymore." This was when I truly realized that this was NOT what I wanted in my life. I thought about the scripture which talks about the prostitute and how jesus forgave her.

It just didnt make sence.

well, here I am 40 years later and very spiritual yet not religious. I am content and at peace knowing that I try to be the best person I can be every day and I do not judge others. I am very accepting and non judgemental.

My mother is getting older and living with me and my two daughters now. Needless to say their are some battles here and there but I still love her and still hope that one day we can celebrate holidays together and that one day she will put us (her children) above anything else. This is what every child wants & needs.

Sincerely,
Simone  

Answer
Thanks for your letter.

I'm glad that you managed to leave the JWs.
From your experience you know how JWs are and they way they behave towards those that disagree with them.

Glad to hear that you have established a life for yourself.

yours
Gordon