Watchtower encourages JWs to think of former members as angry protesters, but are there smarter ways to break through indoctrination?
Watchtower encourages JWs to think of former members as angry protesters, but are there smarter ways to break through indoctrination?

I can vaguely remember the last time I encountered “apostates” during my years as an active Witness. I recall they made their presence known at a summer convention.

Whatever message they wished to convey seems to have been smothered by the abject fear I had at the time of any who oppose the organization. All I can remember thinking was, “why are they picking on OUR religion, when there are so many more things wrong about, say, the Catholics?”

This ability to think back to one’s time as an indoctrinated Witness, and contemplate what it was like to be in fear of anything or anyone opposed to “Jehovah’s organization,” is sadly a resource not always called upon by former Witness activists.

Sometimes, when one observes the methods used by former Witnesses in pursuing their activism, one is left wondering whether they can remember anything at all of what it was like to still be a Witness – terrified of even looking at the apostate bogeyman, never mind listening to his angry words.

More recently, videos have been posted to YouTube depicting what I am now calling “aggressive activism” – former Witnesses confronting JWs on the street or at places of worship; goading and mocking them with condescending and belittling words.

I have been familiar with this approach ever since I was a Witness, and truthfully I CAN sympathize with it. When you feel something has been taken from you that cannot be replaced, whether it is a family member (through shunning) or years wasted in cult servitude, it is difficult to stop the anger from spilling over and manifesting itself.

I have often imagined myself causing a scene at an assembly or convention – persuading myself that such actions would always be with the goal of waking people up, when in fact I have known deep down it would simply be about unleashing my primal urges for revenge on a group of bewildered and terrified cult victims.

Common sense should dictate that if you are going to set about the delicate task of untangling the amalgamation of years of extremely potent cult indoctrination, the way to do it is not through shouting and intimidation.

Arguments are not won by the one who can shout the loudest, but by the one who can present the most compelling argument when the opportunity arises. And no information can be absorbed in any meaningful sense by a victim of indoctrination if it is being thrust at them against their will. To suggest otherwise is to fail to grasp what undue influence is and how it works.

The problem is that so many examples of aggressive activism now proliferate that pointing out how deeply unhelpful and even counter-productive it is has become taboo among former Witnesses. I found this out to my cost recently when I dared to point to the elephant in the room in a fairly innocuous post on my Facebook page. Though my observations earned more than 300 “likes,” they also prompted a fierce backlash.

I was accused of being “judgmental” and “divisive,” and one website even briefly allowed someone to post a long rant about how I was a cyber bully and self-styled cult leader. This same individual went on to make further accusations about me that were downright slanderous, suggesting that I may be a sex offender and dragging my wife and baby daughter into his comments – and all because I had committed the heresy of voicing an honest opinion on what I consider to be an important subject.

The simple truth is that most people who know anything about undue influence and how pervasive it is understand deep down (even if they might be reluctant to admit it) that aggressive activism is at least potentially detrimental to the goal of awakening those who are indoctrinated.

True, everyone is different, and there will always be the occasional Witness who responds to being shouted at and ridiculed about his faith. But for every one of these there are surely dozens who will retreat deeper into their indoctrination when their cherished beliefs are threatened. It is therefore a numbers game, and logic dictates that if a certain approach is detrimental to the majority it should be dispensed with in favor of a more effective alternative.

And in what I call “strategic activism,” such an alternative is readily available.

The internet is fast proving to be Watchtower’s nemesis. Not only does it make objective information freely and easily available on a scale never before seen. It also makes meaningful activism accessible to almost anyone through the burgeoning social media phenomenon.

YouTube in particular now offers anyone with something to say the platform to say it in front of thousands or even millions. The most gifted convention speakers would struggle to boast the audience figures that are attainable from a well-put-together YouTube video.

Considering the opportunities now available to the modern activist, coupled with the advice of cult experts like Steven Hassan who urge a “strategic approach,” it seems only too obvious that the gung-ho, in-your-face methods of yesteryear are unnecessary, unproductive and obsolete.

By behaving in an aggressive or confrontational manner with Witnesses, we fit into Watchtower's "mentally diseased" stereotype
By behaving in an aggressive or confrontational manner with Witnesses, we fit into Watchtower’s “mentally diseased” stereotype

But more importantly, for anyone who can remember anything about what it’s like to be a Witness, these brash methods are more likely to delay someone’s awakening than to accelerate it.

Taking to the streets with a handmade sign or a loudspeaker may feel empowering to someone who is bearing deep scars and feels the urge to act out in some way, but we owe it to those who are still inside to make it easier for them to leave – not harder. And by caving in to our primal urges for revenge, and shouting and goading perplexed victims of Watchtower’s undue influence, we squeeze ourselves snugly into the “mentally diseased” stereotype Watchtower has fashioned for us.

It is for these reasons that I am now distancing myself firmly from those who carry on aggressive activism in its various forms. I care too much about the fate of ordinary Witnesses and their children to endorse those who engage in such behavior, either tacitly or otherwise.

I know I am making enemies by taking this position – that much is clear from the abuse I have been subjected to already. But if there is one thing my opponents need to know, it is that trying to silence me only makes me want to shout louder. And exploring and promoting productive, non-confrontational ways to help wake up Jehovah’s Witnesses is, in my view, a cause worth shouting about.

 

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164 thoughts on “Why I can no longer support aggressive forms of activism against Jehovah’s Witnesses

  • November 25, 2014 at 3:21 pm
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    I agree John Cedars, as we are cautioned in God’s word to have our speech ‘seasoned with salt’. I think more respond with loving words shown them than with ridicule, which only causes anger. Christ showed us the example for how we ought to be speaking, Christians are urged to speak with ‘deep respect’. And although pointing out the false teachings of the watchtower can sting, it should be done as gently as possible, that is, speaking up for truth, but not throwing stones nor ridiculing. Keep up the good work John Cedars!!

  • November 25, 2014 at 3:23 pm
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    I wholeheartedly endorse your position. There is nothing to be gained by aggressive activism. Reason will always prevail and is actually the Christian thing to do. After all Jesus said we must love our enemies and that is best shown in the way we treat those even when they have caused us and do cause others much harm.

  • November 25, 2014 at 3:33 pm
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    I agree with you 100% John. Whether you are dealing with a child, a cult member, a family member, a stranger or even an animal, common sense dictates that aggression will either invoke fear or anger which will simply have a negative result. I know for a fact that if I spoke even slightly in opposition to a family member of mine, who is still very much in the cult, I would lose her trust and respect. I do it very slowly and cautiously hoping she will put two and two together and make up her own mind. When I was a witness the thought of being accosted by an apostate was sickening and genuinely frightening for me. Apostates acting aggressively are just plain ignorant and that is how they will be perceived. It’s very sad that it’s come to this.

  • November 25, 2014 at 3:43 pm
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    Well put Cedars! I agree with everything You said. It’s sad that the some of the ex-JW forgot the feelings they had when they were JW.

  • November 25, 2014 at 3:55 pm
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    I have to agree that these in-your-face tactics don’t seem to have any kind of long-term benefit.

    I understand that people want to get the attention of Witnesses en masse, but it’s not a very good strategy. More often than not, discretion is key to a Witness’ awakening. It’s a slow and gradual thing that happens individually or in very small circles. Even those who’ve been ousted by disciplinary actions are often still holding onto Watchtower beliefs and can still be defensive of them.

    We must use care to slowly and lovingly help curious ones realize the truth on their own by letting them ask questions and do their own research.

    It’s not just a matter of basic religion for Witnesses. It’s a lifestyle. It’s a family. It’s an identity.

  • November 25, 2014 at 4:18 pm
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    Agree with you mate,standing outside KH’s and assemblies bellowing objections ain’t gonna impress anyone.
    Some of the aggressive activists I’ve seen on YT are in my opinion in need of some kind of help.
    I’ve faded for nearly 3 years now and the majority of the ex-witnesses I know I certainly wouldn’t seek any form of friendships with especially elders.
    Being shunned does take time getting used to but in reality the people shunning me don’t actually mean anything to me anyway & all I’ve done is stop attending meetings.

  • November 25, 2014 at 4:52 pm
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    “Considering the opportunities now available to the modern activist, coupled with the advice of cult experts like Steven Hassan who urge a “strategic approach,” it seems only too obvious that the gung-ho, in-your-face methods of yesteryear are unnecessary, unproductive and obsolete.”

    You hit the nail right on the head. It used to be, that this type of activism was all that was available to do. I would imagine it had a lot to do with having a very limited time to disperse the message. But now, with the utilities offered by way of the internet, a much more tailored and rational approach can be made over a much longer time.

    It’s an approach that has helped me and that I can get behind 100%.

  • November 25, 2014 at 4:57 pm
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    I agree too john… I noticed when I first started to wake up that I was aggressive too the point it was pushing my wife a family back to the organization… once I was able to let the fact go that I had been deceived and heal myself from that hurt….then was i able to get my family to WAKE UP!!! My sister and husband told me it was the loving way I approached them with deep concern and patience that helped them to see where I was coming from. .. my wife has left at the cost of her entire family shunning her witch is extremely difficult for her and any person really… but she noticed how harsh and plain Evil the witnesses have treated her for taking a break/leaving… Another thing to help the leaving process let them as a people show there true sides instead of feeding the persecution complex… in other words you can catch a lot more bee’s with honey than you can with Vinegar…

  • November 25, 2014 at 4:59 pm
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    You sound like the Daily Mail! lol

  • November 25, 2014 at 5:16 pm
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    I totally stand by what you are saying John, I watched a video of someone chasing an old couple down the street, following them & filming them while yelling at them about stuff the Society has done. They most likely had no idea what he was ranting about. I felt sorry for them & embarrassed for him. It just wasn’t cool. We all have moments of anger towards the WT, no need to take it out on an old couple. Just my 2cents.

  • November 25, 2014 at 5:21 pm
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    In commenting on the rant-blog; well, I, for one, am going to disfellowship Cedars from the apostate community—

    Yeah, right? Isn’t this what we escaped a single mindset or judgement of those with differing opinions? Cedars I applaud your courage in expressing your viewpoints on those still caught in the undue influence of the Watchtower. Yep, I said it, “still caught up” because if they are being driven by the anger and every twitch the Watchtower makes, they’re still caught up in the Watchtower’s sphere of influence, whether it be the wake of a passing organization or hanging on as it navigates through choppy waters. It has been about 10+ years since I’ve returned to actively expressing opinions on Watchtower dogma and activities; I had reached a realization I could not remain with the anger and frustration and it was time to “move on” and not get mired into banging my head against a brick wall. By picking the battles strategically that can be small victories, I am able to leave a wealth of information for others to contemplate. The history of the Watchtower as it sprang from Miller and the First-Day Advent organizers. The contradictions and convenient profiteering derived from Watchtower teachings. The defiance of real science and reality in holding to beliefs that barely stabilize the Watchtower’s “house of cards” belief structure. The recent revelation of the Watchtower’s new move to ostracize “undesirable” young men from the dating pool and the JW community just like so many other weird cult leaders.

    Where was I? Oh yes, “go Cedars!!”

  • November 25, 2014 at 5:38 pm
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    Cedars, I am actually happy to see you take this position. I agree with what you say.

    I think that basically all we really want is for our family to have their eyes opened so that they can embrace the freedom that is rightfully theirs.

    Attacking the organization may feel good in the moment as we vent our hurt and anger, but in the long run, it doesn’t accomplish anything in a positive way.

    I have learned that the more you attack someone’s beliefs or position, the more they are forced to dig in their heels and defend what they believe. Even if they don’t want to defend their beliefs and are experiencing some doubts, they are forced into the position of having to defend the indefensible.

    We are not doing them any favors or kindness when we are aggressive with them.

    My family treats me as if I’m already dead and that Jehovah killed me. The only way I can ever reach them is through tender loving kindness. I am ready to embrace them with no questions asked when they are ready.

    I think we have to look for opportunities to be loving to them. As an example, I have recently became aware of some information about our deceased mother that none of them know. My heart is telling me to write each of them a loving letter and share what I have learned about our mother, as an act of kindness to them.

    They can either continue to ignore me, or they may have questions about the information I came across. Even if I have no response from them, it will show them that I love them enough to treat them with kindness.

    I also have some family pictures they don’t have, so I’m planning in a couple of months to write them again and send them some pictures. I can only pray that something someday will reach their hearts.

    I’ve read a poem that says that when someone draws a circle and shuts you out, that you should draw a bigger circle and shut them in.

    They may be unable to contact me because of obeying the GB, but I’m not bound by the GB, so I am able to contact them by mail at least.

  • November 25, 2014 at 5:49 pm
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    This video presents a refreshing point of view, and one I’ve waited to see in print. Thank you, thank you! Being part of exJW groups lead me to realize I had to leave the exJW “recovery” groups because of the anger, rage, and the arguments about Creation vs. Evolution, and so forth, and the arguments people were presenting about what they were going to do to bring the Organization down. Seriously? Bring it down? No, I’ve always thought that simply making people aware of it’s duplicity and dishonesty would work much better, as it would lead to an exit of thinking people from the Organization. That’s the way to bring it down, although there will always be people who want to be mere followers, so we’ll let them follow. I am much more content and happy now that I don’t see angry postings on Facebook from hate-filled exJWs, although I can understand their rage, but it truly was causing me to be more and more depressed. When I interviewed Nestor Kuilan as we worked on the article I wrote for this Blog/Website last year, he said something that stuck with me, “Do you want to be a Witness? No? Then leave it. Don’t be a satellite for the Watchtower.” I have seen things done in the name of activism that made my blood boil and my stomach turn over. I have lost respect for some persons I previously admired, simply because of the tactics they have chosen that were not compassionate. I have learned to at the very least feel compassion for those trapped in the cult, if nothing else. Thank you again, Cedars, for so bravely stepping forward.

  • November 25, 2014 at 5:53 pm
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    While I generally enjoyed attending the 1958 International Convention in New York the week I turned 15, the scariest and most uncomfortable events occurred outside the stadiums. Both Yankee Stadium and the Polo Grounds had small armies of “apostates” carrying signs and shouting at us as we entered and left the sessions. They were even scarier than the older bullies in the neighborhood where we were staying who threatened to whip my butt and fight my dad because I was wearing an LA Dodger baseball cap (the team had left Brooklyn the year before). Yes! I was more afraid of those protesters than I was of a gang of hoodlums.

    The funny thing is that I can not recall any of the apostate faces. I know there were both men and women, all dressed very much like the JWs attending the convention – but damn they were scary. Some of us were afraid that they would come inside the stadium with baseball bats and attack us. And there were quite a few of them out on the main street.

    The other funny thing is that I can not remember their messages either. I don’t know if they were ranting about our teachings or if there was some other theme.

    That is why I personally share John Cedars’ opinion about public activism. I could stand next to a JW magazine stand and quietly hand out AAWA flyers. I’ve contacted local churches, politicians, and news media and shared relevant facts about JWs, but I would never invade a Kingdom Hall or try to cause a disturbance during a convention.

    While I admire the bravery and fortitude of some ex-JWs who are comfortable making a ruckus, I truly believe that actions like that do far more harm to our cause and only serve to reinforce the JW belief that they are under attack by Satan and his minions. I don’t want to be a “minion.”

  • November 25, 2014 at 6:05 pm
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    Good job bro,
    It shows much love and understanding.It’s not necessary be involved in negative stuff.Shalum.

  • November 25, 2014 at 6:10 pm
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    Jehovah’s Witnesses already think apostates are crazy ; crazy enough to have gone to the world; sounding crazy when they shout what they do when they are picketing kingdom halls or where ever they so choose to. . . However I must admit that the one and only time I saw non-JW’s holding signs up was when I was leaving a summer convention and they were completely off of the convention grounds. They were simply standing their with their banners. I had only wished they had been standing in two places. The one in which they were and one a little further down from where they were. I doubt I would have stayed inside the organization as long as I had, had I had the chance to write down the web sites that were on their signs.

  • November 25, 2014 at 6:11 pm
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    I did get ridiculed for my faith by my family when I was a Jw and so I know from experience that being called names and harrassed about it and intimidation DOES NOT WORK. If my family had have known about the strategic approach discussed by Steve Hassan it would have got me out a decade earlier. Their ridicule only further convinced me I had the truth. It simply doesn’t work to belittle and ridicule someone’s faith. It makes them want to fight back. A threat to a person, be it physical, or emotional as in the case of faith, triggers the fight or flight response. It does not make an indoctrinated person start to think, especially a convert who is not some kid being dragged to a convention against her will.
    I got my husband out of the cult after I woke up and it was only by getting him to think. Attacking someone doesn’t make them think, it triggers the opposite reaction. This is why I agree with you John: not because you’re my guru or anything like that but because I’ve experienced it first hand.

  • November 25, 2014 at 6:50 pm
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    There is an assumption in John’s article and his site that JWs need to get out of their religion and it is his and my job to help in that.Why? Please, if you are going to answer by making up a list of their sins, then look out the window at all the other deeply flawed organisations, secular and religious, that humans create and always have created to keep the cold out.

    “Let God let”. Whoever said that was onto something!

  • November 25, 2014 at 7:36 pm
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    Bravo Bravo Bravo Nicely said and spot on Mr.Cedars you have my full support in your thinking.
    Why lower yourself to their mentality in a way for them to accuse you of that type of behavior rather then see the real message that they so desperately need to hear.
    This would only cause them to increase their Ad Hominem tactics and smoke screens in their defense against you for trying to convey a message in such a manner.
    It is totally understandable to be bitter etc. over a wasted life of following a indoctrinated religion but your energy’s would be best served by moving forward rather then dealing with the past.
    Wouldn’t it be better to work at freeing yourself Mentally, Emotionally and of course Physically from such a Religion?
    Why waste anymore time in and effort to try and convince anyone otherwise by picketing around a building?
    Rather your best served by doing the right thing and being a example yourself to your own true values.
    It has been said many times ” You cant help those who cant help themselves”
    In a way it is time to turn the tables and shun anyone who cant intelligibly see how their in a cult and are indoctrinated.
    Be above it all and if it is your desire to be a Christian or not then just set the right example.
    When folks who are indoctrinated try to attack me I always simply and kindly refer them back to the bible where it speaks about the fruitages of the spirit as spoken of in Galatians the fifth chapter.
    Although you want these type people to wake up it is often at their own pace and time if it happens.
    The information is out there if they choose to read it and use it to their benefit.
    People will believe what they want right or wrong.
    The mind is a very powerful thing and can be indoctrinated over time.
    Sometimes it may take years to reverse the effects of such a indoctrination.
    So in the meantime don’t allow those type of people to steal your joy anymore.
    After all haven’t you wasted enough of your precious time?
    P.S As a side note think how Ray Franz might have felt after 40 yrs of service to have rumors spread of him as being a homosexual?
    Completely repulsive!! It just shows to what extent they would go to make themselves look right.

  • November 25, 2014 at 7:59 pm
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    I am no longer a JW for many reasons. Have not gone in service or attended meetings regularly for nearly 20 years. But, up until last year my Bethelite son my regular pioneer daughter and elder son consider me mom and invited me to all family functions, I was a hug part of their lives. Because of JW.Org they now consider me, “mentally diseased and morally corrupt” because I am not living up to my dedication and baptism. My son with tears and great anguish said, “Mom I love you more than life but I love Jehovah more.” So my children consider being faithful to the Governing Body’s teachings and “directions” equal to being loyal to Jehovah. WOW. I know my children love me and they are wonderful people. Such good children I have. I remember when my daughter who is now 43 a beautiful woman, raising her sons to be faithful witnesses, because that is what I taught her to do was a teen. Her hair was a bit extreme and she was on her way in service. I said, “XXX” that hair is not acceptable, her reply “oh mom I am so sorry I will fix it” And that is my girl, ever obedient ever faithful. A sweet sweet person. So my point if an extremist X JW every approached her in anger, it would break my heart because it would cause her to run from what they are saying. She is a beautiful person, trapped in a cult she does not deserve to be yelled at by extremist. We must show love, because don’t we love these people? Better to be kind and loving than right. Thank you John

  • November 25, 2014 at 8:34 pm
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    My dear friend, Be careful, your beautiful mind is showing!
    No part of what you have said here fails to stand the test of logic and reason!
    This is but another step in your evolution as a deeply rational person. Unfortunately, rational people are very often shocked by the serious lack of that quality in what may well be the majority of those who feel compelled to ‘speak their minds’…
    In looking at the comments following your video and article, I was delighted to see expressions that reflect such goodness of mind and heart!
    Even ‘Steve’, in his perplexity, spoke kindly.
    Anyone associated with ‘tha org’ for a sufficient time comes to note the prevalence of, more or less, unbalanced minds that have become attracted to the cult’s message. If it was that they might become better adjusted and happy people, this could be considered a good thing… But, the truth is that the environment provided by the cult does little but exacerbate their condition
    By percentage, they are equally represented in the ranks of those ‘disenfranchised’ by that same cult. To stay or leave cannot be used as a measure of who is ‘good’.
    Well, ‘nuf said.
    Much love to all of you. And, you, my dear friend, accept my sincerest admiration and love for you and your family.
    God Bless!

  • November 25, 2014 at 8:39 pm
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    I completely agree.

  • November 25, 2014 at 8:42 pm
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    Hello Mr. J.Cedars.

    I have read with great interest your views; I agree totally with what you say. for many of us, ex-COJ, was very painful the departure of the Congregation… but caused much more emotional pain discover that much of what we were saying was not true. Out of there it hurts because it leaves a lifestyle that you think correct, also leaves friends and, in cases more critics, there are relatives who have left. After leaving one that ease the emotional pain and then do a frank beliefs analysis… is not easy to delimit the WT; but it must achieve.

    When one already includes many topics, then peace and tranquility return to appear in our lives; It is at that point where recovers the joy of living and from that one can look to the sky and give thanks to the Lord without feeling unworthy to do so.
    If we have the intention of providing help to others that are beyond, then we must be tolerant and patient, without falling into “sensationalism” in criticizing CG; only in this way we achieve that we can hear.

    Best regards.

  • November 25, 2014 at 8:43 pm
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    I 100% agree with you, Cedars!
    I remember when I was a brainwashed idiot and no amount of abuse, name calling or shouting at me had any effect. It was just what we were told to expect, as “true followers of Jesus”.
    If only someone had calmly told me some facts and then let it go at that. Maybe later, they could have come back with some more gentle reasoning, then I could have freed myself sooner. It was only when a judgemental elder turned on me that I started to wake up by seeing that you could be completely innocent and yet still be ‘punished’ by this Orwellian organization. (Reading Animal Farm was a big factor in opening my eyes too).
    You are right, Cedars, that these confrontational “apostates” are probably very hurt and angry but they should remember how devious these cults are! They will irritate you until you act out in some way and then use that behaviour as proof that you are the crazy ones!
    Please, let’s listen to Cedar’s good advice and all work together!!!

  • November 25, 2014 at 9:04 pm
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    I agree – Good article again, Cedar

    The only way is, to show the Witnesses, that “GB” don’t follow the way of Christ Jesus, from “the Christian Greek Scriptures”.

    (I’m not a believer – has never been – But feel sorry for them who are caught in Jehovah’s Organization).

  • November 25, 2014 at 10:58 pm
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    I have to agree. I have been out for decades and I only recently started searching “apostate” websites. They put some booby trap in my head that when I tried to read anything critical of the JW’s I actually got nauseous almost 30 years later. Angry displays only reinforce that phobia of apostates even to some of us who had faded. A year ago something like that would prompt me to come to their defense. Plus it is not fair to the kids stuck in there. Reinforcing that fear at the wrong age can set those kids up almost as bad as the indoctrination. There has got to be a better way.

  • November 25, 2014 at 11:52 pm
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    Excellent article John and you have helped me also, and hopefully will help those in the xJW community to.

    My thoughts are that there are many active JW that DO have doubts, and with the goofy stuff coming out in the bucket loads in the WT study articles and of course the GB videos, the WT themselves are doing a good job helping those with doubts do research. But we must remember that JW are in fear, fear of the outside world where am I to go, what to do, if they see those aggressive activists, they think if I leave I don’t want to end up like that angry and bitter, this is exactly what they are told happens to ones that leave, so they have that fear, so for them at least the congregation environment is peaceful and the b/s are not like that. This aggressive activism takes away any message they may be trying to get across and just draws attention to themselves rather than the message, and does little to help JW, and not just that they will think all exJW are the same.

    The best way is to ask questions, intelligent questions in a gentle respectful manner, so when the goofy stuff they read will trigger the doubts and they may recall what we said to them, this could break the fear and they may start to do research on the net, there are many sites that display respect and give information in an intelligent and productive manner, answers to their many questions.

    They need a place to go to after the KH, people to communicate with and help them, exJW on the net can do this provide some sort of family atmosphere and friendship, there are so many kind and caring exJW, and we want the doubters to know that they will have the support they need to help them through the fear and their awakening.

  • November 25, 2014 at 11:53 pm
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    I agree with you! A shouting lunatic is never welcome!

  • November 26, 2014 at 12:19 am
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    BRAVO! Lloyd

    You have just won me back.

    Many JWs have an almost “Oedipus Complex” with the offerings from Watchtower. The only way to break that perverted love is to show how “silly” and extreme many of the doctrines are.

    The approach you outline is far, far better. Thank you.

  • November 26, 2014 at 1:35 am
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    There is a saying, “when you everything, you lose it!”

    I have lost my family, friends and my mind!

    Its took me five years to get to the point where I can take the attitude of actually feeling sorry for them. I have never engaged in activism or shouted at witnesses on the street etc, but really felt frustrated to the point of wanting to pour a large tin of ‘Evo Stick’ over the Kingdom Hall shutters. Every time there was a freak weather report, I’d chirp “I bet that’s damaged a few Kingdom Hall roofs!”

    The simple reality is you are hurting nobody but you self! I remember asking my dad “can you provide me with a single bit of evidence that the Governing Body are Gods chosen channel?” He shook his head at me, got his bible out and read “who really is the faithful and discreet slave ..” said i have lost Jehovahs holy spirit and that was “end of conversation! ” …. oooo …. John Cedars! I was doing so well! Im off to B&Q! =)

  • November 26, 2014 at 2:43 am
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    Great argumentation Lloyd. Terrible that someone suggested you are a child molester. Obviously a comment from an idiot.
    Emotional pain often leads to anger. It only causes you more pain when you fall into that trap.
    Logic is undisputable when based on fact. That is the real weakness of Watchtower.
    When a person stands up to a bully it can be quite liberating. The problem (trap) is. . You can become the bully.

  • November 26, 2014 at 2:53 am
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    Cedars, I 100% agree with you that demonstrating at assemblies is counter productive in waking the Witnesses up. The Society is hoping for them to show up and demonstrate because that’s what they warned against.

    I remember being at assemblies and “apostates” were using bull horns at lunch time and it was so loud that the Witnesses had to shout to be heard over them and all the Witnesses did was ignore them. That is what we were all trained to do. If any one of us had gone over to talk to them, we would have been condemned by the rest of the group so nobody would have done it, even out of curiosity. I remember a friend of my husbands, trying to talk to them one time, but it was in the hopes of convincing the “apostate” back into the “truth”. It wasn’t to listen to the “apostate”. I remember thinking that I’d like to have given them an ear, but it would have been impossible to do it, without incurring the wrath of everyone around me. All that demonstrating does, is make the “apostates” look crazy because that’s what the Witnesses have been warned against and that is what I thought too. Since I “woke” up, now I do understand the other side but I agree, there’s better ways to help people wake up.

    In the story The Wizard of Oz, what helped wake Dorothy wake up, was looking behind the curtain and seeing that the wizard’s being so powerful sounding was only an illusion and that he was actually a very little and weak man, only pretending to be powerful.

    I am hoping that JW tv will help Witnesses see that they are idolizing “straw” men, especially when these men speak without a script like Anthony Morris the 3rd did at the branch meeting. Morris showed how ignorant he is and out of touch with reality he is in that speech and if Witnesses can’t see how silly the whole religion is by worshipping at Morris’ feet, then Goofy the dog can’t convince them because that is just how delusional they are.

    For me, it took a gradual awakening. I had doubts for years but it took going on Wikipedia and opening up the can of worms by trying to prove that the Society didn’t join up with the U.N. From there, it took research, research, research. That’s what it took for me.

  • November 26, 2014 at 2:54 am
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    As one person once eloquently put it , ‘don’t let them twist your mellon man’.

  • November 26, 2014 at 2:56 am
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    I have been scratching my head for years wandering why some ex JWs resort to posters and demonstrations. Surely they can remember that all it does to a witness is reinforce the thought that they will be persecuted.
    Now in the 21st century it is far better to use the internet and certainly youtube to help witnesses get out of the cult.
    Very glad that Lloyd too has seen the light now.

  • November 26, 2014 at 4:21 am
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    Cedars, the new and improve. The lean clean machine. The application is “new light”.

    Once upon a time there was a Mountain call Sinai + WT = untouchable.

    A journey of no return, and entered into a hostile environment.

    Plan your strategy, then work your strategy. This may require a network of coalition outlets, or a frontal or subtle approach. The foothills at this mountain WT the valleys run deep.

    Do you think, previously, non or active JWs have read the WT book “JWs Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom” printed 1993, chapters 15-21 or section 3. This explains the darkness or dark side in the beginning of the WT.

    If you would survey how many have read this book in its entirety you will be surprise and find out No one, Not many. Or may not even be aware this dark side information even exist in current WT books.
    Sublte approach can win many Hearts.
    1. The eye
    2. The heart
    3. The want – accomplishment.

    This would provide useful data and start a foundation, toward an aspect of your strategy.

    Have you ever noticed when you replace an electronic part household or automobile that’s broken or worn out, you have to replace it. If you only replace the broken part and the rest of the unit is ok-fine. Until the secondary parts start to fail. Then you have to repair the secondary parts.
    This describes the WT, it has some serious broken parts which they refuse to repair and replace, why?

    Time may be running out against WT, I always understood the talks given “5 minutes until the final hour for mankind” I didn’t think this would include the WT . . . . . . . WT needs to check yourself in the mirror “no one is above the law and were not under the Mosiac law where your 2 witness rule-comes from”

    You have my support! !

  • November 26, 2014 at 6:02 am
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    When these activists were outside the assemblies, they
    seemed fanatical and intimidating. So it was a relief to
    get inside the stadium with my two small children, and
    to be among rational, peaceful people.

    Inside, we could listen to uplifting talks., on themes like,
    how God will virtually de-populate the earth, using cosmic
    rays to send people mad, so they would kill each other.
    And when the birds had, had their fill of the dead bodies
    God would use anti-matter, to get rid of the rotting corpses.

    My daughter, now a 57 year old grandmother, is still
    terrified of all that stuff, but my son is cured, he just stopped
    taking the medicine.

    As you rightly say Cedars, aggressive tactics are pointless.
    Exposing their moronic ideas will be much more persuasive.

  • November 26, 2014 at 6:02 am
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    @ JJ

    Calling yourself a “brainwashed idiot” is wrong. Just the brainwashed bit is true. Otherwise you are calling all those who are still under the influence of WT, idiots too. I know you don’t mean that, but just in case you do, lol.

    @Lloyd

    You have simply been through a grieveing process, and now you are coming up for air.

    I have always believed and taught my kids, to “Kill people with kindness”. This has worked for me in many of lifes situations when dealing with angry people. It actually saved me from a beating up from bullies when I was young. It is hard for someone to stay angry with you when you are being kind. They usually just blink and go quiet.

  • November 26, 2014 at 6:32 am
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    I agree with Cedars. I used to be in deep, including serving for a good stint as an elder. During that time I had a very close friend who had some rough things happen in his life, that basically sent him on the downward spiral of depression and destructive behavior. I helped him to get back on his feet and get out of his funk. Currently that friend is living happy productive JW, and has thanked me for such help, which nobody else gave him.
    I decided to let him know that I no longer believed that JWs taught the truth. This close friend of over 25 years who knew who hard I had worked as a JW and how much I tried to help other JWs suddenly wouldn’t even look at an Awake article I was showing him, as if it was total poison. We parted on friendly terms, with me letting him know I would keep my knowledge to myself, and would never try to convince him of anything. He also insisted that I never tell anyone else what I knew. He wasn’t the least bit concerned about whether what I knew was true or false. He didn’t want to know.
    Such is the indoctrinated JW. It is not possible to awaken them by falling into their script for what an apostate is. Besides, some people are low functioning enough that they need someone to tell them what to do, when to do it, how much to do it, etc. Healthy well adjusted people don’t need this, but not everyone is healthy and well adjusted. Despite the damage the WT org. does to those who figure it out, and those run afoul of its mandates, there are some who are able to live meaningful lives because of it. Or so I want to believe. If we had better methods of addressing people’s underlying mental health, the utility of such an organization would go to zero in everyone’s mind. Until such a time, you won’t be able to wake up those who need something like that in their life no matter how you try. For those on the verge of waking up, sites like this one are beyond measure in value. However, being confrontational will often just push those on the verge of waking up right back into the arms of the cult, and stop their awakening.
    I understand the rage and hurt one feels when your entire life was stolen by them, that is how I feel. However, that must be dealt with by me, and I can’t direct it at other victims lest I hurt them. Confrontation also makes it appear to current JWs as if we hate them. They take it personally. We don’t hate them, we love them and want them to know what we do. Holding signs and shouting will only serve to hide the information right in front of their face, and they will never look at it.
    Thank you Cedars for this thoughtful article, and for your website. I know having this site has caused problems in your life, but it has helped many people, and continues to do so. I personally appreciate your courage. You are doing an excellent job.

  • November 26, 2014 at 6:40 am
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    Folks,

    It is clear from our comments that we agree with Lloyd in this regard.

    I do not want to judge others, and so I would encourage any who are currently using this aggressive strategy to carefully consider what they are doing and why. Who is this for? Who will benefit?

    As someone who has had to counter his own anger at this religion, I can sympathise with folks who want to shout out the cult. From my own experience, I know that this strategy fails dismally.

    Steve,

    I’m afraid that your argument is false, sir. To say that we should do nothing because other organisations are corrupt too is logically flawed.

    Consider this. A row of houses are up in flame. Would you criticise someone for trying to save those inside from one of those houses? Would you say, “It’s a waste of time! All those other houses are aflame too!”? No, you would praise that individual for trying to help.

    Peace be with you,

    Excelsior!

  • November 26, 2014 at 6:59 am
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    Hi John
    Your not making an enemy with me as I like the way you are exposing the Watchtower- your youtube vids and this website etc is very good and your coming across to me as an intelligent level headed person Thanks John and I want you to know that I appreciate you! BUT Im going to disagree with you on this one as my thought is that i think a physical but peaceful/sensible protest is also a very good thing

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