@QuestRader life is beautiful outside of this cult. In a sense I think It's easier for me than others because I was the only one in Family that got sucked into it back in 2014, plus 4 of my good friends also left (i still have my support system) But you right, we lost money, time and energy. I dropped out of college because the Elders said I couldn't be a Ministerial servant if I was still in college. I'm only 32, I will now enjoy the rest of my life
Welcome to the EXJW community!!! It's so sad Taylor's mom is missing out on having a relationship with her grandchildren. But the plus side is your children get to live a life without limiting their potential or ambitions. You get to be parents who can actually love your children unconditionally.
Yall don’t understand how relatable and not alone you are. Ex Jw, ministerial servant and pioneer here that left during the pandemic because I was gay. Lost all my family but with the help of therapy and chosen family I’m now on the road to living the REAL best life ever!! Keep the content coming and thanks for sharing. Genuinely happy for you both! 🙌🏾
@@slowboywhiteboardv4 thankfully I wasn’t! To be fair I actually had two great parents and a pretty “healthy” upbringing… minus the part about it being a cult lol
I was lucky enough to be Gay which made me leave, however I met a woman at the door who was very nice and I was very young and gullable. I bcame a Pioneer and this was pre 1975. At that time they were disfellowshipping people who did not believe the cover of the awake which said more or less The generation that saw 1914 could not die before the New Order would be here. I started reading old books, I learned atout 1799 1874 1914 1925 as well as 1975. I heard a worldly song I gotta be me and it went right to my heart. I left had no friends and decided it was my truth. Been with my life partner (Now Married) 53 years. I feel God blessed me and got me away from All religion. I pray to God and that is it . great life.
I lost my job, husband, friends, family and home all in one day. It was worth being shunned. I left back in the day when there was no internet to help me figure it out. Still shunned after 25 years, but happy!
In my experience, you don't necessarily have to be disfellowshipped from the organization in order to feel the adverse effects of the indifference and lack of love of some congregation members or family. If you miss meetings or don't have a significant share in the ministry or any other reason that would tag you as "spiritually weak" will be enough reason for some to slowly step away from your circle of influence ( friendship ).
Hey from Metro Atlanta (Conyers). I dropped out of Georgia State University and was in the cult for 35 years. Woke up in 2021. I'm so glad you woke up early. I'm not bitter but life would be more comfortable had I finished my education and not worked part-time to put in more time in field service.
Oh yeah, we are extremely close! Around McDonough/Stockbridge area. I definitely feel fortunate that we woke up early but waking up at any point is something to be proud of!
Oh, I understand me too. I got persuaded not to get educated. I didn’t even get my GED or fitness college and now I’m 57 years old but I am working with it. What a disgusting CLT we came out of. We are all brave.
Yea, its definitely tuff realizing that everything you sacrificed for a long chunk of your life was nothing more than a sacrifice for a televangelist organization. It sucks because they bribe you with false eternal life in exchange for actually enjoying your life and making something for yourself… really hard to reminisce 😢, but the bright side is everyone that leaves on there own terms feels such a breath of freedom! Congrats to anyone who has left! You can now actually do whatever you want without constraints! I left at 18 from my kingdom hall, just left unofficially faded pretty much 😂, no regrets, I now see how ridiculous the Organization was.. my mom brought me the news that women can now wear pants 👀I gave her the craziest look.. thats how progressive the oraganizations members think they are 😅
Hey y’all! Welcome to The Best Life Ever (REAL VERSION). Thanks for being so honest and open, I loved hearing your experience, especially the love you have for your children. That’s the biggest thing I’ve noticed having left the bOrg years ago: the lack of natural affection among hardcore JW’s. You’re so fortunate to still have your parents in your life. Treasure them!🥰
Getting pregnant and having a baby woke me up. I realised I was in an abusive relationship with the religion. The expectation on women is soo toxic and I witnessed my friends being abusive towards their children to fit in with their expectations. I never any loving support except from my husband who was at the time getting bullied for his involvement in supporting me and wearing a beard. All the blinds started to fall off. We both left as a family and we are soo happy now. We get to experience real love and joy. We are both non religious and don't subscribe to any indoctrination.
I have met some other moms in the community who are JW through my work. I do notice how tough they can be on their children!! pure shaming and bullying which I'm sensitive to
Left JW community will never be happened when you read the bible and understand it will. No one is perfect in this world so why i bothered other people says. My mind is knows who god is, love him with all my heart and soul, worship him. And the very important is your relationship with him 🙂
For our marriage is nothing better then go out from WT. Me and my husband, we made this decision in 2023. I was fourth JW generation . Golden child, pioneer and good girl. Now I'm finely learning what is world and life about. ❤
It feels so different. There are stages of grief and bitterness that hit like a rock. But it passes and the joy of the real Jesus Christ our Savior is so much more of a life. ❤
We were raised Pentecostal. My oldest brother (16 years older than me) became a JW when he married his wife. He is still a JW. Recently, I told him that if he gets shunned for any reason, just know, you have us and you know we love you. We are close so he thanked me and told me he loved me too. Anyway, thanks for sharing your journey away from the JW's.
Acts was brief and ceased ( gifts) when post canon. Study some good Bible teachers. Rev gene kim in the bay, yt, les fe(dick through the bible. Two great ones!!! My bio sis was in it, died in it. Very sad. G luck , go Book, it's not that complicated w a good pastor teacher . Halloween I don t but it's evil in it's origin. I think it's fading into a day of kids and stores, parades. Imo
My wife and I left 3 weeks ago. Wrote our letters, met with the brothers and told them to destroy our publisher record cards and cease all communication
Which church are true according to the Bible in this world? Because many churches are not true according to this scriptures, Matthew 7:21-23,Roman's 10;1-3,2Corintians 11:12-15,2thimoty 4:3-4,2Peter 2:1-3,1John 4:1.
I loved that yall said you’re still the same people. That’s one thing that has always been so apparent in the jw community, they assume your crazy, or mentally unstable when you leave. As if it’s impossible to change you’re belief systems and still be sane. I’m proud of y’all both for telling your stories. And reminding so many that were not alone in such isolating circumstances .
Good Day. I hear so many people leaving that cult and that’s a great move. My question is since you left have you both accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior? A relationship? You tried an organization I hope you come to know Jesus Christ.❤God bless you.
That's encouraging. Left 5y ago at 30yo and still sometimes not sure if there's a good life ahead. But at least I saved my kid from this cult early on. Not early enough tho, missed out on making real friends before school etc.
Cheers to you both! I am glad you were able to leave the JW organization. I grew up a JW, my father was an Elder and I was a Ministerial Servant from age 17-19. I left over 20 years ago and know how hard it can be to leave. It can be very lonely when you leave but I am glad that you had each other. My best to you both and your family. Thanks for sharing your story.
So I left my first comment before listening to the entire video. I am so sorry for the loss of your brother, Taylor. I lost my mother when I was 14. My brother was disfellowshipped when he was in his mid 20's. I was still going to the Hall but refused to not talk to him. I would sit next to him at meetings and if I didn't, I would go up to him after the meetings and ask if he wanted to go to dinner. I got talked to by the Elders multiple times and I kept telling them, I lost my mother and will not stop talking to my brother while he is alive. They kept talking to me but I really didn't care. I am so sorry for the time you lost with your brother. Things like that really upset me when people lose time with their loved ones because of religion. Again, my best to you guys. So glad you left. The world is a better place for you speaking out and leaving that organization.
When leaving this occult why do yall fill your alone and can't live a HOLY LIFE WITH CHRIST JESUS ARE YALL SO BLIND THAT YOU AFRAID TO STEP OUT ON FAITH, GOD NEVER TOLD ANY OF US TO BELIEVE IN FALSE GOSPEL BUT HIS GOSPEL HE PREACHED THAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GOD TRUTH AND MAN TRUTH MAN IS A LIAR AND GOD IS TRUTH THERE'S ONLY ONE GOD THE LORD JESUS CHRIST FOLLOW HIM ANF AND BE SAVED REPENT OF YOUR SINS GET BAPTISED THE RIGHT WAY ACTS 2:38 READ ACCEPT JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY NOT SOME MAN RELIGION
I left about thirty years ago. I am closer to God now, than I ever was then. It was drilled in our heads that life here on earth is not to be enjoyed ; not to be worldly. A Godly relationship is so important. It creates so much peace and happiness in life. Its almost impossible to measure up to all the restrictions of JW'S! Freedom to serve is so wonderful.
@@angelawhitfield7498 How are you CLOSER to God now that you left Jehovah??! You must mean you’re now closer to that false god since you left the True God, make it make sense‼️
Most truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.q John 13:16 . Jesus was SENT BY GOD - and called as SERVANT OF GOD. Acts 4:27 WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL THE BIBLE teaches that Jesus was MADE As Lord and Christ and as Son (ACTS 2:36, Prov 8, HEB 1:5), CREATED/PRODUCED/INSTALLED (Prov 8) , COME INTO BEING/MADE (Mat 21:42 - egeneto) and GIVEN LIFE by the Father - John 5:26 and it uses TODAY (Heb 1:5), and uses future tenses and is a prophecy in Isa 9:6 (Isa 9:6, - WILL BE) . If you are called MADE AND CREATED AND GIVEN LIFE, and NEVER CALLED in the BIBLE as Creator or Maker , then you are A CREATION. ALL FROM THE BIBLE From the Lord was this (this is referring to the chief cornerstone who is Jesus) , the word WAS is egeneto (made or came into being) - Matthew 21:42 and the exact Greek word used in John 1:3 - MADE, egeneto (came into being) - JESUS WAS MADE/CAME INTO BEING FROM THE FATHER , yes, Jesus was MADE/CREATED!, See also Acts 2:36, Heb 1:5, 1 john 5 Jesus in FACT mentioned the FATHER IS GREATER than I am. JOhn 14:28. BEFORE he WAS SENT, the Father is ALSO GREATER than Jesus. Most truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.q John 13:16 . Jesus was SENT BY GOD - and called as SERVANT OF GOD. Acts 4:27 AFTER his resurrection the FATHER IS STILL GREATER than Jesus - WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL
@@angelawhitfield7498 I was NOT judging you in No way, shape or form. Your words were you are now closer to God, which you know God’s name is Jehovah. Help me understand how you are closer to God and at the same time you left Him? Is there something I’m missing?
@@Mr.DC3.1914 JESUS IS ONE GOD THERE'S NO OTHER GOD BESIDE HIM HE ALONE IS GOD WHEN YOU SPEAK ABOUT JESUS CHRIST YOUR TALKING ABOUT THE FATHER, JESSUS IS ONE GOD NOT THE FATHER AND GOD JUST ONE JESUS CHRIST IS ALL IN ALL
I commented earlier, but I have to say sorry for your loss. I was born into this cult in the 70s. I always had doubts but stayed in... not wanting to disappoint my parents. I got baptized at 32... yes 32....living in Canada, away from my parents. I grew up in the Caribbean but was so indoctrinated... so yes, 32 years old, I took the plunge.... but considered myself an on the fence JW. In 2019, I woke up. My parents were here on vacation with my nephew (my sister passed away at the age of 28), so my parents adopted her son. It was a 6 week vacation. We did the international convention and a family road trip. 3 weeks into the trip, my nephew goes to the washroom in my house and drops dead. We had just got home from the meeting, he didn't even change out of his clothes. I was never the same. I started therapy because I could not deal with a 13 year old dying right in front of my eyes. I woke up after that. My whole life unraveled. I disassociated a year ago.
WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL THE BIBLE teaches that Jesus was MADE As Lord and Christ and as Son (ACTS 2:36, Prov 8, HEB 1:5), CREATED/PRODUCED/INSTALLED (Prov 8) , COME INTO BEING/MADE (Mat 21:42 - egeneto) and GIVEN LIFE by the Father - John 5:26 and it uses TODAY (Heb 1:5), and uses future tenses and is a prophecy in Isa 9:6 (Isa 9:6, - WILL BE) . If you are called MADE AND CREATED AND GIVEN LIFE, and NEVER CALLED in the BIBLE as Creator or Maker , then you are A CREATION. ALL FROM THE BIBLE From the Lord was this (this is referring to the chief cornerstone who is Jesus) , the word WAS is egeneto (made or came into being) - Matthew 21:42 and the exact Greek word used in John 1:3 - MADE, egeneto (came into being) - JESUS WAS MADE/CAME INTO BEING FROM THE FATHER , yes, Jesus was MADE/CREATED!, See also Acts 2:36, Heb 1:5, 1 john 5 Isa 9:6 the word Prince in the Prince of Peace means PATRON ANGEL also Leader. WHO IS the ONE LEADER that we have? Jesus. Now, that same exact Hebrew word was used for Daniel 12:1 which is used for Michael the Archangel. So are you saying there are MANY LEADERS now?
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss this is so heartbreaking its very hard losing someone but two in a short while is devastating my heart goes out to you wish all the best for the future cherish the time you now have left stay focused on life.❤
I love seeing these videos pop up on my suggested videos. I was disfellowshipped back in 2013 when I was 18 and haven't been happier. So happy you two have found happiness. Freedom is priceless. Much love from your brother in NYC.
Hey I was mad at God for a long time after I left the JW Org. Then I found out years later, I was just mad at the JW Org for what they do, God had nothing to do with it. Many many years later I became a born again Christian. It's about the relationship with the Lord, not religion. Once you find the real truth in life it is so much easier. It's about Grace and Mercy and Jesus doing the work for us, because God so loved the world He gave His only Son so that we could spend eternity with Him. To just not believe in Him because of a bad life experience with religion is a true deception. I have prayed for many years for God to open the JWs eyes so they can see it's NOT the truth but a lie made by man. Ask God to show you the truth and He will. When I heard the JWs are waking up, I know that God answered my prayers as HE always does. God Bless you both and your little family. Just please never give up on the True Creator who loves you so much. You will be whole when you believe what is true.
Most truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.q John 13:16 . Jesus was SENT BY GOD - and called as SERVANT OF GOD. Acts 4:27 WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL THE BIBLE teaches that Jesus was MADE As Lord and Christ and as Son (ACTS 2:36, Prov 8, HEB 1:5), CREATED/PRODUCED/INSTALLED (Prov 8) , COME INTO BEING/MADE (Mat 21:42 - egeneto) and GIVEN LIFE by the Father - John 5:26 and it uses TODAY (Heb 1:5), and uses future tenses and is a prophecy in Isa 9:6 (Isa 9:6, - WILL BE) . If you are called MADE AND CREATED AND GIVEN LIFE, and NEVER CALLED in the BIBLE as Creator or Maker , then you are A CREATION. ALL FROM THE BIBLE From the Lord was this (this is referring to the chief cornerstone who is Jesus) , the word WAS is egeneto (made or came into being) - Matthew 21:42 and the exact Greek word used in John 1:3 - MADE, egeneto (came into being) - JESUS WAS MADE/CAME INTO BEING FROM THE FATHER , yes, Jesus was MADE/CREATED!, See also Acts 2:36, Heb 1:5, 1 john 5 Jesus in FACT mentioned the FATHER IS GREATER than I am. JOhn 14:28. BEFORE he WAS SENT, the Father is ALSO GREATER than Jesus. Most truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.q John 13:16 . Jesus was SENT BY GOD - and called as SERVANT OF GOD. Acts 4:27 AFTER his resurrection the FATHER IS STILL GREATER than Jesus - WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL
I pray you both don’t let the experience with JW turn you from the real truth and having a relationship with God. It is my prayer that you find a Bible teaching church and grow in the true knowledge of GOD.
Oh my goodness! I’m so glad to have read your post. I’ve been watching the UA-cam videos of the many people who have left the JW’s. My heart goes out to them. Years ago I studied the beliefs and teachings of the JW’s. It was to establish my true identity with what made me different as a born again Christian believer in the deity of Christ Jesus. I spent a great deal of time in my study. I came to the full conclusion that I have the truth of God’s Word. Reading John chapter one made it very clear to me. When researching the Greek translation of that verse of scripture proved that the New World Translation missed it. No Greek, student or scholar would translate that scripture as such. That’s not all. It was many other scriptures and teachings that I didn’t agree with. The main thing in my study brought me to the fact that I had the truth of God’s Word and I didn’t have to look any further. This study period drew me closer to my Abba Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit. I’ve been walking this walk in Christ Jesus for a long time and there is no turning back for me. As I watch those who are leaving the organization my heart is hurting for those who are now claiming to be atheist or agnostic. They are mad at God because of the lies of man. The Lord has placed on my heart to pray for each person to come to the understanding that you have come to. Our Heavenly Father loves us so much that He gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross for our sins. He has filled us with His Holy Spirit so that we can live our life dedicated to Him and spend eternity with Him, Jesus, and Holy Spirit. I’m going to be praying with you my , Sis for those who have left to come into the knowledge of the true and living God and have a personal relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God bless you.
Thank you for sharing your story. It is great to hear others talk about what life is like growing up a Jehovah’s Witness. Pioneering was the hardest and honestly the worst time of my life because I dealt with some much. I was only 19 and I went another city 30 minutes away and they just kept telling me to give my life over to this cult and I was burned out. I didn’t even have a real personality outside of being a JW and I was depressed all the time but wearing always wearing a smile. I had so much going on internally and in 2022 I knew I couldn’t do it anymore. It felt like I gave it everything I had and I gained nothing from it. No real friends, strained family relationships, and no real foundation as a person. It’s been 2 years since that was my life and I am the happiest version of myself I’ve ever been. I’m happy we all can finally take a deep breath and stop allowing all those people to judge us based on this made up lifestyle. Take care! Wishing you both the absolute best!
I am so happy you guys are out and still have each other. As a born in exjw, it literally feels like I grew up in a hostage situation. I personally am teetering between being a Diest or an Atheist. But I cheer for every one of us who escapes. I hope you guys post more videos, and I'm subscribed just in case 🫶🏾.
❤Love you both, one of the hardest decions any of us could possibly make. I admire and value your strength in identifying your morals and your personal beliefs and navigating a new path and destiny which you are in control of. Thank you both for sharing your story's with the world. Beautiful family with an immensely beautiful life ahead!
Very proud of both of you at least you left when you're still young you have your whole life ahead of you now I left 45 years ago. Take it from me you made the right move.❤
Much love! Your story resonated a lot with me. I’m former SDA, now atheist. There are many similarities to JW. Thanks for highlighting the importance of education. I think higher education played a role in my deconversion. I already had major doubts but that was the push that helped things along and got me out of the echo chamber I was in. I never understood how predestination could exist alongside free will. If God knew I was going to pass the test, why do I have to study. That caused a lot of suffering later because I had no accountability in my life. Nothing I did truly mattered because God said it was so. I also know the empty feeling of having believed in one thing your whole life and then “nothing”. It’s not “nothing” though. I respect those who find purpose in religion but I believe any ideology that discourages a questioning attitude is a dangerous one. It’s the reason I’m such a huge skeptic now. Although I had doubts all my life, I knew I would never go back when I was about 15/16 and was groped during a church service. No one did anything. And this was after I had given up and been denied so many things “for my protection” but when it came down to it nobody protected me from a known predator. I left the church at 18 and over a decade later, I have zero regrets. There are several things that alarm me about religion. The brainwashing is so pervasive that people do not analyze their own beliefs. When someone lives through a tragedy, it’s because of God. But what about every other innocent person that did not survive a tragedy? Then it’s still “Gods will” and he has a purpose even when we don’t see it. Even the state of America doesn’t surprise me. If you believe Jesus walked on water then these right wing conspiracies are much easier to digest. At the end of the day religion is just thought control. As you said, it does make sense to an extent. The idea of heaven makes earthly suffering “ worth it”. Without science people couldn’t explain why the sky was blue or predict disasters, illnesses were mysterious etc. Now I believe it’s about capitalism. If you can sate the ignorant masses that this life doesn’t matter, they aren’t going to question the systems that oppress them nearly as much.
Thanks so much for your comment. Our neighbors are SDA and super sweet people. They actually remind me a ton of a lot of JWs that I know. And one of my friends from college married a girl that grew up SDA. I didn't realize how many similarities there were between our experiences until we were telling them why we left and she was saying how much she related. I'm sorry you went through all of that, but I'm happy that you've used your experience to grow. And yes, I'm completely with you on the issues with capitalism and classism. Keep on questioning!
You make it sound like SDA's discourage Higher Education. SDA's and JW's may compare to a few things but nowhere near on the level of education.JW's leave school between 15-17 and that's the end of their education anything beyond High School is deemed as Satan's territory. SDAs go on be doctor's, teachers etc you won't find any JW's like that most are window cleaners and gardeners.
SURE capitalism is what is suppressing America even though it's the same system that promoted innovation in the medical field (seen as when independent doctors went out of their way to make a certain type of eye surgery significantly cheaper for the masses). Same system that pays people's bills (small businesses make up 80% of America's employment). And could go on and on. But the way I see it, you're one of those sceptics who are too lazy to do actual research and learning. I was like you once. Do your research and find out the truth before stating a very uninformed opinion on what the truth is.
First thing is that i wanna say sorry for what happened to you. I don't know what sort of "church" that is but s*xual harassment is a very and I mean VERY serious issue in my culture and church. Something like that can't be allowed to slide. Just like with everything there are bad people parading as kind persons. The Lord warned us of this in the scriptures. Secondly, again to me you seem lazy and uninformed. You should at least talk to someone very well versed in the bible, both atheist and Christian. God gave you free will. This sentence alone should've told you to actually study so you dont fail. But it sounds like instead you ignored them and focus on on predestination with some denominations seem to unfortunately believe. The same type of followers in Christ that do not pray, don't have reverence for the Lord, don't attend church and just do whatever they like with no guilt. I'm saying that you need to actually read the scriptures, discuss it with others, even if they're not Christian and try to understand what it's saying. Because God gave us free will, our future is in our hands. He knows our future but he did not choose them, he let us choose them. Also every theory was once a conspiracy. Please think more critically or did you forget MKultra was a thing? You dismiss every idea that you dont like while some embrace all even those that upset them in order to find truth. You should be more tolerant and open to new ideas like some Christians e.g Michael Knowles and Charlie Kirk But again this is not to say any of us are better than others or I am better than you I am just criticising your content because I believe you have done no information searching to actually confirm if even a single thing you say is true.
"If God knew I was going to pass the test, why do I have to study. That caused a lot of suffering later because I had no accountability in my life." This quote stood out to me because it was very confusing. "Why do I have to study?" How does that have anything to do with God? You study to get and education, learn. Your goal was just to get by? God already knowing your future caused you a lot of suffering?
My grandparents are JW but my mum left before she had me. I actually found Christ aged 19 and have been a Christian since. I do appreciate this video because it's such a big move, not easy to leave at all. But I just want to say please don't give up on GOD. He loves you sooooo much and still has a plan for you BOTH. God really works all things out for our good, I know it may not seem like it now. Before I was saved, I just prayed that the LORD would reveal himself to me and he did. I know he will do it for you both because he really does care about you. God bless you...I'll be praying for you guys :)
I think for me, after becoming a historian, the Bible itself doesn't make a whole lot of sense. And all the additions to other Christianity is indeed mixed with paganism.
I truly relate to so much of your experiences. Thank you so much for your transparency. I am so sorry for your brother passing. I am 52 and woke up in 2011/2012, after being raised a JW from age 4. By the time the pandemic started I was going to UA-cam regularly and had found the parts of the ExJW community that helped me heal and worked for me. I also never looked at anything "apostate" until several years after leaving. I hope you continue to share because there is so much power in storytelling. Hold on tight and continue to fight for your family's happiness. I am so glad y'all woke up. I truly understand. Wishing you all the best.
Taylor, I just wanted to comment and say thank you for sharing your experience with us. I'm currently only at 31:10 but I had to pause and comment as it's amazing how similar our experience are - even down to an initial "divided household" mom introducing the family to "the truth" and your experiences nursing, pioneering, being so diligent and suffering burn out and excema flare ups. Our path has been so similar. I've currently been "inactive" for the past 2 years and it's been a journey of processing my experiences and discerning how I want to lead my life with more peace and joy. Thank you again for sharing your experience, it's so needed as at times I have berated myself feeling that I was too sensitive, but I am learning how to be more compassionate to myself and to others and learning that we all have different emotional and physical needs and that pushing myself to the point of exhaustion is never needed.
Your video was recommended on Reddit, so nice to hear your stories. I appreciate the you delivered your points of view. So gracious, humble and honest.
I used to be a JW. I'm inactive and have been for many years. I too have questions. I used to feel quilty about missing meetings and having issues with the elders but when I discovered about the governing body becoming a member of the UN, the scripture came to mind about "do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers. I knew then if this organization were the truth, they no longer had that position in God's eyes. Then I heard about the child abuse cases and the asounding numbers of victims. I was shocked. It made me sick to my stomach. Any power the elders once had over me is gone. I think you're a cute couple and you should live your life as you wish. The JWs are controling and misuse their leadership. I'm never going back now that my eyes are fully opened. You're not wrong to question them. Never let anyone control your thoughts or opinions. God gives us all the same amount of air to breath and your questions and feelings should be between you and your makers.
Thank you for posting this. My husband was born and raised in JW. When we meet he was disfellowedshipped ( I hope I spelled right) for a couple years. But the trauma and hurt was so strong. It was like my husband missed out on so much and the hurt of his family not being in his life hurt the most. So watching this gives more insight on to what my husband experience. Thank you. Through prayer and counseling he is doing better. Thank you
My heart goes out to you guys! Im single and a former ministerial servant and regular pioneer. I finally made the decision to leave the organisation 11 months ago via slow fading; reasons being not believing the bible as Gods inspired word anymore and being in disagreement with many of Watchtowers' harmful policies. Ive essentially lost all but 2 friends in the faith who seem to want to still associate with me but only occasionally. Of course as I move on with my life and meet a nice woman and move in together etc then at some point they will find out and find a way to disfellowship me which will obviously mean obligatory shunning as you know! Just trying to work as much as I can atm to cope while building new friendships and experiences. One day at a time! Love John (false name for obvious reasons haha)
Ah and also I am very fortunate to still have my immediate family not shun me as only my mother is still an active JW. She is disappointed that ive left but wants me to be happy.
@@JohnTurner678 During the memorial video on the Anthony Morris Returns channel (created by a former elder/pioneer) there is some discussion about avoiding unnecessary committees after a person has faded. They really don’t have the control they would have you believe, it’s just a hard thing to wrap your head around when you are accustomed to intrusion into every aspect of your life. It wasn’t the focus of the video but somewhere in the Q & A. Really good info from a former elder who knows what’s up.
Thoroughly enjoyed your video! I have quite a number of things in common with you- a kid about the same age, nursing school, tragic death in my fam of someone i had shunned, and some other things. I think your video will really help PIMOs/PIMQs. Hope you make more content, it's very good!
It's always so cool to hear people who have had and are having similar experiences. Helps us to know we're not alone! We definitely have a few ideas for future videos!
I enjoyed you all chat/story. Stay beautiful and enlighten ex jw. People need to hear. I lost a family member through (death). The leaders of this organization has a lot to answer to.😢
Hey! happened to see your message and my heart went out to you. I decided to leave this comment above but guessing you would not circle around to see it, I thought I'd post it here. I pray you both find your way forward in accordance with God's will as He deeply loves both of you and is very aware of your situation. I am glad you found your way out. The Jehovah Witnesses I imagine can put a bad taste in people's mouth because it's more about religion (trying to do good enough to be saved) rather than a real relationship with God that's based out of being accepted by God through His merit (not our own). The JW's put God as a too distant thinking only 144,000 go to heaven for example, but the Bible teaches that believers are actually seated with Christ in the heavenlies NOW (a spiritual union where we can know Him personally NOW). There's so much hope in true biblical truth where we don't try to earn our way anywhere but are fully accepted and loved through Christ (His perfectness covers us when we accept Him.) From that place of freedom we enjoy relationship with Him and follow Him from there. The JW's put a lot of effort in for having such little hope compared to true followers of Christ.
Im so glad I found this channel. Me and my husband are EXJW with crazy family history after our awakening (different times and circumstances for both), 14 years later I'm still healing and working on myself because is was a lot. Hope you guys have or make a community of like-minded people were we can reach and support each other.
Truly cannot express how happy I am for you both!! I left when I was 18 (almost 28 now!) and never looked back since. So many things you talked about are things I also struggled with and I'm so happy to see that I'm not alone. Having family and friends out of the organization is so crucial and I'm so happy y'all found that 😊 Wishing you and your kids all the love and happiness in the world!!
I love your video. The moment you rattled off "australopithecus," I knew I'd like you, haha! It's great that there are so many exjws telling their stories -- everyone will find a story to relate to. For me, yours is particularly resonant, and I'm glad to have found your new channel. You have wonderful chemistry as a couple and infectious laughter. Thanks for posting! I've subscribed and am looking forward to your next ones!
You two are adorable and so authentic. I loved hearing your story. I’m so happy for you and your children that you woke up and have many years ahead to live your best life.🎉❤🎉❤
Appreciate your story so much! Thank you for sharing the deep, personal, and uncomfortable with all us strangers! I really appreciate Taylor's story and shared tears as I share a similarity there. Micah, your description of how you soley used logic, intelligence, and fact based research to come to your conclusion is so encouraging. It took a relative to help me begin questioning, then I was able to break the bubble and start to think for myself with real logic instead of the hard-wired programming. It was gradual as I began to uncover public info of their corruption -their stock holdings of PhillipMorris (tobacco) research led me to discover the assemblies were just large money grabs, and discovering the luxury propery rentals they run, all while poor programmed JWs clean, detail, and run facilities with not even a meal as a thank you. And now more recently they got sanctioned in court not once, but several times for lying in the Montana CSA case. They also got fined for destroying evidence. JWs will never look, because of the fear mongering not to. They are complete hyporcrites and liars under a creepy facade. I seem to find that its mostly the earnest hearted truth seekers that want to live authentically that are usually more inclined to explore whether what they've been doing for so long is really truth. Love for truth can override condition because its that thing that keeps poking until it's answered bc it's what the soul really wants. Actual truth. Not a fantasy just because it's convenient and what everyone friends and family is doing. I hope for all exJWs to post their stories here. We need them! Beautiful job guys.
It's so strange how things have changed. I was a regular pioneer for 4 years between 84-88 from the age of 17. Back then, it was 90 hours per month. I went to Pioneer School at London Bethel. 90 hours of not carts, no letters just knocking on doors in wind rain or snow. If you 'missed your hours', you were counselled. I married a min servant at 21 and moved to his congregation in Belgium, where I experienced extreme racism IN THE CONGREGATION. After 7 years in an emotionally abusive marriage, I left and returned to London and took that opportunity to fade. That was the darkest time because i had no friends, was a single mother, and my mother was not supportive. That was 25 years ago now. So much more has happened, but that's for my book... I always say I've already had 6 lives. I'm about to start my 7th... next month, I'm going to a writer's retreat in Costa Rica to jump start my memoir. Watch this space...it's going to be called '7even Rounds'.
I’m so happy you still have a relationship with your parents. I still have the strongest bond with my mother. My family hasn’t shunned my brothers and I even though they still have their beliefs and we have ours. I’m so grateful to say so because I know not everyone’s situation is the same. Thank you both for sharing your stories! Best of luck to you both.
I was also raised in this cult. Got out 40 years ago, but they still controll one of my daughters not allowing her to talk or see me. Congraduations on getting out before you had children. You just gave your life a major gift that you will never regret!!! Life outside is the beauty of who God really is.
Just wanted to say am sorry for your loss. Lost my son when he was 22. Young father. Wife. All ahead of him. He would have been 39 this month. Still miss him everyday. But I still see him in grandkids. Their smiles. Silly jokes. Laughs etc. The pain of loss does not go away but it gets easier. Im thankful I had him. Blessings on your journey.🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
I completely enjoyed your stories and it’s awesome that you both go out together. I no longer believe and left the church a few years ago but my husband continues to attend. I grew up in a Methodist church and started going to a Baptist church at 15. I stop believing because it never really made sense to me how believers could pray but bad things still happened to them. Then I started to study the Bible and it was a wrap. Dealing to the death of family and seeing young people suffer and die. It piled on and I couldn’t turn back. Thanks for having the courage to share your story.
Thank you for sharing your story. I enjoyed listening and seeing the love and respect you share with each other, and I love the way you question the things you have been taught. I have also had to do this and found out that there are so many lies that we were taught in education and religion.
Sorry for your loss, both of you, I lost my younger brother in 2015 and I still miss him like yesterday. I am glad that you left a former Publishing company turned into an estate and investments company.
What a breath of fresh air to hear you both express your feelings coming out of this wicked religion, totally can sympathize with you both as I experience these doubts and was a victim of these twisted teachings. I hope present JW can benefit and learn from your experience and free themselves from this cult. It is so sad that so many people are trapped from coming out due to being worried of losing friends and family within the organization. This religion destroys and ruin so many families on the doctrine that is administered by the evil Governing Body that pretend to have any directions from the high almighty... if there is one that exist.
Im 41, and was born into the JW Organization up until about 23. I studied twice while still in high school, but never made the final commitment. I believe in Jehovah and his good works; he has saved my life numerous times especially when i was young. The problem I had was with the leadership in the Kingdom Hall and the politics that went with it. Also, my mom who deals with mental illness, the elders treated her very bad which ultimately left a bad impression on me. I still don't celebrate holidays, or partake in a lot of worldly activities but I was taught that doesn't matter if you still dont get baptized and attend the meetings and field service 🤷🏼. I go about life doing what my inner voice tells me what is right, and i know god sees my heart.
I'm sorry for your loss 😢 You guys seem like a really cool, well rounded couple. I'm glad you two were able to stick together through this mess. It's sad what this organization has taken from so many of us, so I'm glad you made it out in tact together.
Thank you for your story. So many similarities to my families awakening! My husband was an elder 15 yrs and servant 10yrs before that. We had two children in their mid 20’s when we all came out. Both kids and I pioneered years and did ASL as a family. We came out the end of 2018. What a journey! Enjoy the experience of raising your little ones in freedom🥰. Your fellow apostates 😜
Most truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.q John 13:16 . Jesus was SENT BY GOD - and called as SERVANT OF GOD. Acts 4:27 WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL THE BIBLE teaches that Jesus was MADE As Lord and Christ and as Son (ACTS 2:36, Prov 8, HEB 1:5), CREATED/PRODUCED/INSTALLED (Prov 8) , COME INTO BEING/MADE (Mat 21:42 - egeneto) and GIVEN LIFE by the Father - John 5:26 and it uses TODAY (Heb 1:5), and uses future tenses and is a prophecy in Isa 9:6 (Isa 9:6, - WILL BE) . If you are called MADE AND CREATED AND GIVEN LIFE, and NEVER CALLED in the BIBLE as Creator or Maker , then you are A CREATION. ALL FROM THE BIBLE From the Lord was this (this is referring to the chief cornerstone who is Jesus) , the word WAS is egeneto (made or came into being) - Matthew 21:42 and the exact Greek word used in John 1:3 - MADE, egeneto (came into being) - JESUS WAS MADE/CAME INTO BEING FROM THE FATHER , yes, Jesus was MADE/CREATED!, See also Acts 2:36, Heb 1:5, 1 john 5 Isa 9:6 the word Prince in the Prince of Peace means PATRON ANGEL also Leader. WHO IS the ONE LEADER that we have? Jesus. Now, that same exact Hebrew word was used for Daniel 12:1 which is used for Michael the Archangel. So are you saying there are MANY LEADERS now
I can tell y'all have a great relationship, especially when y'all crack up together. Humor is so healthy in a relationship!! Loved your story. I've been out since the mid 90s.
Born in the cult, never baptized, a part of me never believed and the other part of me wanted to believe so hard. Following you on IG now, thank you for this video, it was truly refreshing, it takes courage to take each step to the exit from that cult bc you very well know how bad the ones that stay behind will antagonize you.
Awesome story, thank you for adding your voice to our community. You guys are a power couple! P.S. I peeped the panda in the background. Already such a cool channel to sub too. Can't wait for future videos. I am so happy you have your freedom now!
Shout-out to Cam, the exjw who makes these! He brought them for the kids at a meetup and I had to put it back there as an Easter egg for the video! Good catch!
Incredible video. Thank you for sharing! I made the mistake after being born in of getting baptized at 12. Got in trouble for being a teen and disfellowshipped and kicked out at 18. I have 3 older brothers. Nearly all of them have shunned me since I was 18. My own mother has strong shunned me my whole life. I am now 46. It’s a horrible cult and shunning is a human rights violation of epic proportions. That parents can so conditionally love their children, it’s deranged.
Great job you two. Your core persons might be the same in one way, but with limitless use of your thinking capacity and ability, you are opposite of what you were being JW's. That makes you very different people in a great way. You are a compliment to each other, welcome to the EX-JW community of open minds and freedom. We love you.
Yay you two!!! Excellent job! Bring on more videos! I also have childhood trauma. I didn’t raise my children in that cult. However, residually it seeped in to raising them. 😢 Even tho we did all the holidays. But, I had no idea that it happened until I woke up. Bite model! Is your answer! ❤❤❤ much love!
PLEASE continue uploading! Your story is going to help countless amounts of indoctrinated people. Many of whom aren't even JW's in addition to the ones that are. You were both a pleasure to watch and I'm happy for you and your family. We need more people like you, willing to speak on it. Much love to you both and thank you for this.
"Grey is hard." Brilliant observation. That is the allure of high control cults. You aren't burdened with the ambiguities and moral quandaries of life. Such a lovely, intelligent, wise couple. A true pleasure to listen to.
Thank you for your commitment to continuous learning. You did a lot of work to come to your decision as we all should. They don’t want you to pursue a college education because it often involves critical thinking- which those who do not want you to think often reject. I wish you both well. You’re both beautiful people.
I started studying in my 20’s while away at college. I got baptized in about a year. I faded when they suggested I drop out of school to go into the full time ministry and left completely after a bad group trip. They wanted too much control over my life.
Your story brought back many memories about what it meant to be young and dating or young and married in the org. I am so happy that you both left and that you can raise your children to be their best, authentic selves. Kudos to you!
Just in case the message didn't go through, I have been having problems with the internet. Just seeing how much love you have towards each other convinces me a Heavenly Father does exist. Im so sorry for all the confusion you went through my ex husband was destroyed by his JW parents,I am so joyful Micah's parents have the love of true God in their hearts.
Watchtower is being PROTESTED on September 13th 2024, in Washington D.C at the WHITE House. Join the protest. Shun No More 2024. Let's collectively come together and let our voices be heard. Watchtower must get defunded
Your comment is nothing but b.s because the government doesn't fund The Watchtower. More importantly, JW would never accept nor ask for governmental funds. 🙄
@Pioneerakpomedaye Watchtower has a prosecution complex & rightfully so. The leadership are FRAUDSTERS, CRIMINALS, AND DECEIVERS.. It is time for watchtower to be held accountable.
Thank you for telling your story, I enjoyed listening to it. My last meeting was 5 years ago next month. I can’t imagine leaving the organization and not having the experiences of Ex-JWs on UA-cam to listen to, it’s helped me more than anything else.
Wow! I thought growing up Apostolic /Pentecostal was bad. Reflecting back the church really controlled our lives. Glad you two found freedom and truth. Blessings ❤
Excellent video. I woke up by seriously studying the Bible w/ the literature and realized there is so much the Society conveniently is silent on. It was like flipping a pancake: one day I believed it was the truth then quite suddenly realized it was all a crock. ALL a lie. I left w/o needing to discuss my decision with anyone. I was 49 years old. I had been a publishers since I was 5. I had pioneered, I had done everything asked of me. I am now 74. I am grateful for my freedom. I hope your video helps others to face their doubts.
I’m new to the EX-JW community myself, and i love to hear the stories of so many ex members . We all have different stories, and it’s so sad, so many of us wasted our time and lives . I hope to interview many ex members. People really need to hear these stories
For most of my life I had been searching for the truth of God. I strolled through many different sects of Christianity and eventually settled on JWs. On and off I would study with someone who happened to knock on my door. I truly enjoyed their approach to The Bible. My final teachers were in a new state I had moved to. I went through the whole of all the studies and the time came to make the decision to join up. The interesting aspect was that while studying I would do independent studying / researching. Just as you both Micah and Taylor did too. Eventually I came to what I consider to be the truth, that the God in the Bible is not real. When I declined to continue forth w/JWs, they completely dropped me. My mechanic who was JW began charging me full price, promised invitations to Pampered Chef parties never arrived, it was all very comical. Final thought - the truth does set you free and I will be forever grateful in living life in truth. I appreciate learning about your journey to the truth too M & T and wish you two the very best !
Its so cool they have each other. Ive been out of the organization since 2019. Finding it hard to find community and a partner 😕 Sorry for the loss of your brother Taylor
I love ya'll! Glad I found you as a waning JW! Your story seems to mirror mine so much. My downward spiral was also losing four loved ones back to back (to illness and then car accidents). I also suffer from social anxiety something terrible, and I think that comes from feeling like I'm always being watched. You guys should watch Alyssa Grenfell about her experiences as a Mormon.
I always admire the couple that leave this cult together. I did the best I could in fading by marrying a "worldly" woman! And guess what....you wouldn't believe how many things I can blame my wife for lol. Christmas tree? Yup my wife! Birthdays for me and my kids....my wife. I'm not disfellowship and my parents have an active part in my kids'lives but they know damn well not to question my household goings cause my wife will put them right into their place. THATS why witnesses are taught to only marry in the congregation. With a worldly wife they have zero control over things. Glad you guys made it out together!
Glad to see new channel. My wife and I just left the organization March 2024. I think we gonna have to put our video on UA-cam aswell
@QuestRader life is beautiful outside of this cult. In a sense I think It's easier for me than others because I was the only one in Family that got sucked into it back in 2014, plus 4 of my good friends also left (i still have my support system) But you right, we lost money, time and energy. I dropped out of college because the Elders said I couldn't be a Ministerial servant if I was still in college. I'm only 32, I will now enjoy the rest of my life
Looking forward to watching your “Why I left” video down the road. ❤
Us too. We left last memorial
The JW wake up in droves 🎉🎉🎉🎉
congratulation
Welcome to the EXJW community!!! It's so sad Taylor's mom is missing out on having a relationship with her grandchildren. But the plus side is your children get to live a life without limiting their potential or ambitions. You get to be parents who can actually love your children unconditionally.
Couldn't have said it better myself!! ❤️
@@questionscommentsconcernsJesus is Jehovah
Before Abraham was I AM .. Jesus said
@questionscommentsconcerns Did you ever think ofbecoming a Christian?
❤
@Katchancellor Everywhere you go people teaches love, how on earth they teaching that way the opposite.
Yall don’t understand how relatable and not alone you are. Ex Jw, ministerial servant and pioneer here that left during the pandemic because I was gay. Lost all my family but with the help of therapy and chosen family I’m now on the road to living the REAL best life ever!! Keep the content coming and thanks for sharing. Genuinely happy for you both! 🙌🏾
Not to pry, but were you abused in the organization like so many people's stories?
@@slowboywhiteboardv4 thankfully I wasn’t! To be fair I actually had two great parents and a pretty “healthy” upbringing… minus the part about it being a cult lol
I was lucky enough to be Gay which made me leave, however I met a woman at the door who was very nice and I was very young and gullable. I bcame a Pioneer and this was pre 1975. At that time they were disfellowshipping people who did not believe the cover of the awake which said more or less The generation that saw 1914 could not die before the New Order would be here. I started reading old books, I learned atout 1799 1874 1914 1925 as well as 1975. I heard a worldly song I gotta be me and it went right to my heart. I left had no friends and decided it was my truth. Been with my life partner (Now Married) 53 years. I feel God blessed me and got me away from All religion. I pray to God and that is it . great life.
Yes God does not dwell in any handmade buildings. As 17:24-28 @djbof
Gay is a sin ! Stop trying to put that on to JWs own your sin and roll.
I lost my job, husband, friends, family and home all in one day. It was worth being shunned. I left back in the day when there was no internet to help me figure it out. Still shunned after 25 years, but happy!
In my experience, you don't necessarily have to be disfellowshipped from the organization in order to feel the adverse effects of the indifference and lack of love of some congregation members or family.
If you miss meetings or don't have a significant share in the ministry or any other reason that would tag you as "spiritually weak" will be enough reason for some to slowly step away from your circle of influence ( friendship ).
Woww, stay happy and strong.
The internet existed 25 years ago…
UA-cam and blogs did not exist ! It's a different time
@@TheCanadiangringa There’s no such thing if someone showed remorseful or repentant. I wish you are indeed truly happy as you claimed.
Hey from Metro Atlanta (Conyers). I dropped out of Georgia State University and was in the cult for 35 years. Woke up in 2021. I'm so glad you woke up early. I'm not bitter but life would be more comfortable had I finished my education and not worked part-time to put in more time in field service.
Oh yeah, we are extremely close! Around McDonough/Stockbridge area. I definitely feel fortunate that we woke up early but waking up at any point is something to be proud of!
Oh, I understand me too. I got persuaded not to get educated. I didn’t even get my GED or fitness college and now I’m 57 years old but I am working with it. What a disgusting CLT we came out of. We are all brave.
Also from that area…glad to see we made it out. Praying for our loved ones to realize the truth about the truth…
Heyy!! Loganville area here, I woke up last year and disassociated last month. It feels like such a breath of fresh air 😌
Yea, its definitely tuff realizing that everything you sacrificed for a long chunk of your life was nothing more than a sacrifice for a televangelist organization. It sucks because they bribe you with false eternal life in exchange for actually enjoying your life and making something for yourself… really hard to reminisce 😢, but the bright side is everyone that leaves on there own terms feels such a breath of freedom! Congrats to anyone who has left! You can now actually do whatever you want without constraints! I left at 18 from my kingdom hall, just left unofficially faded pretty much 😂, no regrets, I now see how ridiculous the Organization was.. my mom brought me the news that women can now wear pants 👀I gave her the craziest look.. thats how progressive the oraganizations members think they are 😅
Hello!! I am an ex-JW from Harlem and I feel liberated on a whole new level! I wish you and children the best of love and happiness.
Hey y’all! Welcome to The Best Life Ever (REAL VERSION). Thanks for being so honest and open, I loved hearing your experience, especially the love you have for your children. That’s the biggest thing I’ve noticed having left the bOrg years ago: the lack of natural affection among hardcore JW’s. You’re so fortunate to still have your parents in your life. Treasure them!🥰
Getting pregnant and having a baby woke me up. I realised I was in an abusive relationship with the religion. The expectation on women is soo toxic and I witnessed my friends being abusive towards their children to fit in with their expectations. I never any loving support except from my husband who was at the time getting bullied for his involvement in supporting me and wearing a beard. All the blinds started to fall off. We both left as a family and we are soo happy now. We get to experience real love and joy. We are both non religious and don't subscribe to any indoctrination.
You left religion but do you have a relationship with GOD and do you read the Bible 💜
I have met some other moms in the community who are JW through my work. I do notice how tough they can be on their children!! pure shaming and bullying which I'm sensitive to
@@Katiegirlluv B.S!
Left JW community will never be happened when you read the bible and understand it will. No one is perfect in this world so why i bothered other people says. My mind is knows who god is, love him with all my heart and soul, worship him.
And the very important is your relationship with him 🙂
@@LadiLyric60RV
They're non religious. Meaning they don't practice anything and just focus on themselves
For our marriage is nothing better then go out from WT. Me and my husband, we made this decision in 2023. I was fourth JW generation . Golden child, pioneer and good girl. Now I'm finely learning what is world and life about. ❤
It feels so different. There are stages of grief and bitterness that hit like a rock. But it passes and the joy of the real Jesus Christ our Savior is so much more of a life. ❤
@@Kaytoop-ph9wd Right on
We were raised Pentecostal. My oldest brother (16 years older than me) became a JW when he married his wife. He is still a JW. Recently, I told him that if he gets shunned for any reason, just know, you have us and you know we love you. We are close so he thanked me and told me he loved me too. Anyway, thanks for sharing your journey away from the JW's.
Unconditional love always wins out ❤
Acts was brief and ceased ( gifts) when post canon. Study some good Bible teachers. Rev gene kim in the bay, yt, les fe(dick through the bible. Two great ones!!! My bio sis was in it, died in it. Very sad. G luck , go Book, it's not that complicated w a good pastor teacher . Halloween I don t but it's evil in it's origin. I think it's fading into a day of kids and stores, parades. Imo
Those smiles from ear to ear show the happiness. Me and wife escaped in 2022. THIS is the best life ever!
My wife and I left 3 weeks ago. Wrote our letters, met with the brothers and told them to destroy our publisher record cards and cease all communication
Which church are true according to the Bible in this world? Because many churches are not true according to this scriptures, Matthew 7:21-23,Roman's 10;1-3,2Corintians 11:12-15,2thimoty 4:3-4,2Peter 2:1-3,1John 4:1.
May I ask you what made you take that decisión?
@@meganagetro6302 But your ignore my simple question 😭
@@vusimngomezulu2500 I don’t understand
@@meganagetro6302 tired of the brainwashing and double standards
I loved that yall said you’re still the same people. That’s one thing that has always been so apparent in the jw community, they assume your crazy, or mentally unstable when you leave. As if it’s impossible to change you’re belief systems and still be sane. I’m proud of y’all both for telling your stories. And reminding so many that were not alone in such isolating circumstances .
Yeah, you're taught there's never a good reason to leave. People who do either must be immoral or crazy. We're proud of y'all too!
Good Day. I hear so many people leaving that cult and that’s a great move. My question is since you left have you both accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior? A relationship? You tried an organization I hope you come to know Jesus Christ.❤God bless you.
I started to wake up in 2017....i was pimo til 2020....pandemic was perfect for me to fade out...i am so thankful all 4 of my kids are out as well!
I am 79 and listening to you’ll sounded my life as JW. I left over 42 years. Best decision I made.
@@joycelemonier4132 what made you leave ?
That's encouraging. Left 5y ago at 30yo and still sometimes not sure if there's a good life ahead. But at least I saved my kid from this cult early on. Not early enough tho, missed out on making real friends before school etc.
Joyce Good For You
Cheers to you both! I am glad you were able to leave the JW organization. I grew up a JW, my father was an Elder and I was a Ministerial Servant from age 17-19. I left over 20 years ago and know how hard it can be to leave. It can be very lonely when you leave but I am glad that you had each other. My best to you both and your family. Thanks for sharing your story.
So I left my first comment before listening to the entire video. I am so sorry for the loss of your brother, Taylor. I lost my mother when I was 14. My brother was disfellowshipped when he was in his mid 20's. I was still going to the Hall but refused to not talk to him. I would sit next to him at meetings and if I didn't, I would go up to him after the meetings and ask if he wanted to go to dinner. I got talked to by the Elders multiple times and I kept telling them, I lost my mother and will not stop talking to my brother while he is alive. They kept talking to me but I really didn't care. I am so sorry for the time you lost with your brother. Things like that really upset me when people lose time with their loved ones because of religion. Again, my best to you guys. So glad you left. The world is a better place for you speaking out and leaving that organization.
When leaving this occult why do yall fill your alone and can't live a HOLY LIFE WITH CHRIST JESUS ARE YALL SO BLIND THAT YOU AFRAID TO STEP OUT ON FAITH, GOD NEVER TOLD ANY OF US TO BELIEVE IN FALSE GOSPEL BUT HIS GOSPEL HE PREACHED THAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GOD TRUTH AND MAN TRUTH MAN IS A LIAR AND GOD IS TRUTH THERE'S ONLY ONE GOD THE LORD JESUS CHRIST FOLLOW HIM ANF AND BE SAVED REPENT OF YOUR SINS GET BAPTISED THE RIGHT WAY ACTS 2:38 READ ACCEPT JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY NOT SOME MAN RELIGION
Your very fortunate I was 60 yrs old my son woke me up. You guys are young
I left about thirty years ago. I am closer to God now, than I ever was then.
It was drilled in our heads that life here on earth is not to be enjoyed ; not to be worldly. A Godly relationship is so important. It creates so much peace and happiness in life. Its almost impossible to measure up to all the restrictions of JW'S! Freedom to serve is so wonderful.
@@angelawhitfield7498 How are you CLOSER to God now that you left Jehovah??! You must mean you’re now closer to that false god since you left the True God, make it make sense‼️
Most truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.q John 13:16 . Jesus was SENT BY GOD - and called as SERVANT OF GOD. Acts 4:27
WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL
THE BIBLE teaches that Jesus was MADE As Lord and Christ and as Son (ACTS 2:36, Prov 8, HEB 1:5), CREATED/PRODUCED/INSTALLED (Prov 8) , COME INTO BEING/MADE (Mat 21:42 - egeneto) and GIVEN LIFE by the Father - John 5:26 and it uses TODAY (Heb 1:5), and uses future tenses and is a prophecy in Isa 9:6 (Isa 9:6, - WILL BE) . If you are called MADE AND CREATED AND GIVEN LIFE, and NEVER CALLED in the BIBLE as Creator or Maker , then you are A CREATION. ALL FROM THE BIBLE
From the Lord was this (this is referring to the chief cornerstone who is Jesus) , the word WAS is egeneto (made or came into being) - Matthew 21:42 and the exact Greek word used in John 1:3 - MADE, egeneto (came into being) - JESUS WAS MADE/CAME INTO BEING FROM THE FATHER , yes, Jesus was MADE/CREATED!, See also Acts 2:36, Heb 1:5, 1 john 5
Jesus in FACT mentioned the FATHER IS GREATER than I am. JOhn 14:28. BEFORE he WAS SENT, the Father is ALSO GREATER than Jesus.
Most truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.q John 13:16 . Jesus was SENT BY GOD - and called as SERVANT OF GOD. Acts 4:27
AFTER his resurrection the FATHER IS STILL GREATER than Jesus - WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL
@MsShiLadyBlendz How do you know how close I am to Jehovah God? You have no right to judge me nor my intentions.
@@angelawhitfield7498 I was NOT judging you in No way, shape or form. Your words were you are now closer to God, which you know God’s name is Jehovah. Help me understand how you are closer to God and at the same time you left Him? Is there something I’m missing?
@@Mr.DC3.1914 JESUS IS ONE GOD THERE'S NO OTHER GOD BESIDE HIM HE ALONE IS GOD WHEN YOU SPEAK ABOUT JESUS CHRIST YOUR TALKING ABOUT THE FATHER, JESSUS IS ONE GOD NOT THE FATHER AND GOD JUST ONE JESUS CHRIST IS ALL IN ALL
WELCOME TO YOUR FREEDOM! I'M SO GLAD YOU GUY'S LEFT TOGETHER!
Yeh they can’t cut it so they should leave
@TheMedibankprivate You sound angry, why? I am not a JW ever, just leave be, work on yourself
@@TheMedibankprivate
Jealous much ?? 😏
@@akatheheretic3014 jealous? 😂😂 lmao at this comment
@@TheMedibankprivate
. . . and yet , you're Still Here !
Humm 🤔
I commented earlier, but I have to say sorry for your loss. I was born into this cult in the 70s. I always had doubts but stayed in... not wanting to disappoint my parents. I got baptized at 32... yes 32....living in Canada, away from my parents. I grew up in the Caribbean but was so indoctrinated... so yes, 32 years old, I took the plunge.... but considered myself an on the fence JW. In 2019, I woke up. My parents were here on vacation with my nephew (my sister passed away at the age of 28), so my parents adopted her son. It was a 6 week vacation. We did the international convention and a family road trip. 3 weeks into the trip, my nephew goes to the washroom in my house and drops dead. We had just got home from the meeting, he didn't even change out of his clothes. I was never the same. I started therapy because I could not deal with a 13 year old dying right in front of my eyes. I woke up after that. My whole life unraveled. I disassociated a year ago.
Oh my goodness. I'm so sorry to hear that. I can't even begin to imagine. Thanks for sharing what you went through. I hope you're doing better now ❤️
WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL
THE BIBLE teaches that Jesus was MADE As Lord and Christ and as Son (ACTS 2:36, Prov 8, HEB 1:5), CREATED/PRODUCED/INSTALLED (Prov 8) , COME INTO BEING/MADE (Mat 21:42 - egeneto) and GIVEN LIFE by the Father - John 5:26 and it uses TODAY (Heb 1:5), and uses future tenses and is a prophecy in Isa 9:6 (Isa 9:6, - WILL BE) . If you are called MADE AND CREATED AND GIVEN LIFE, and NEVER CALLED in the BIBLE as Creator or Maker , then you are A CREATION. ALL FROM THE BIBLE
From the Lord was this (this is referring to the chief cornerstone who is Jesus) , the word WAS is egeneto (made or came into being) - Matthew 21:42 and the exact Greek word used in John 1:3 - MADE, egeneto (came into being) - JESUS WAS MADE/CAME INTO BEING FROM THE FATHER , yes, Jesus was MADE/CREATED!, See also Acts 2:36, Heb 1:5, 1 john 5
Isa 9:6 the word Prince in the Prince of Peace means PATRON ANGEL also Leader. WHO IS the ONE LEADER that we have? Jesus. Now, that same exact Hebrew word was used for Daniel 12:1 which is used for Michael the Archangel. So are you saying there are MANY LEADERS now?
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss this is so heartbreaking its very hard losing someone but two in a short while is devastating my heart goes out to you wish all the best for the future cherish the time you now have left stay focused on life.❤
I’m SO sorry 😖
@questionscommentsconcerns thank you... I'm doing great. Therapy has helped alot.
I love seeing these videos pop up on my suggested videos. I was disfellowshipped back in 2013 when I was 18 and haven't been happier. So happy you two have found happiness. Freedom is priceless. Much love from your brother in NYC.
I watched this again, and I’m just so impressed at how well everything is covered!! ❤❤
It’s one of the best stories of coming out, I’ve seen 🥰
Hey I was mad at God for a long time after I left the JW Org. Then I found out years later, I was just mad at the JW Org for what they do, God had nothing to do with it. Many many years later I became a born again Christian. It's about the relationship with the Lord, not religion. Once you find the real truth in life it is so much easier. It's about Grace and Mercy and Jesus doing the work for us, because God so loved the world He gave His only Son so that we could spend eternity with Him. To just not believe in Him because of a bad life experience with religion is a true deception. I have prayed for many years for God to open the JWs eyes so they can see it's NOT the truth but a lie made by man. Ask God to show you the truth and He will. When I heard the JWs are waking up, I know that God answered my prayers as HE always does. God Bless you both and your little family. Just please never give up on the True Creator who loves you so much. You will be whole when you believe what is true.
Most truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.q John 13:16 . Jesus was SENT BY GOD - and called as SERVANT OF GOD. Acts 4:27
WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL
THE BIBLE teaches that Jesus was MADE As Lord and Christ and as Son (ACTS 2:36, Prov 8, HEB 1:5), CREATED/PRODUCED/INSTALLED (Prov 8) , COME INTO BEING/MADE (Mat 21:42 - egeneto) and GIVEN LIFE by the Father - John 5:26 and it uses TODAY (Heb 1:5), and uses future tenses and is a prophecy in Isa 9:6 (Isa 9:6, - WILL BE) . If you are called MADE AND CREATED AND GIVEN LIFE, and NEVER CALLED in the BIBLE as Creator or Maker , then you are A CREATION. ALL FROM THE BIBLE
From the Lord was this (this is referring to the chief cornerstone who is Jesus) , the word WAS is egeneto (made or came into being) - Matthew 21:42 and the exact Greek word used in John 1:3 - MADE, egeneto (came into being) - JESUS WAS MADE/CAME INTO BEING FROM THE FATHER , yes, Jesus was MADE/CREATED!, See also Acts 2:36, Heb 1:5, 1 john 5
Jesus in FACT mentioned the FATHER IS GREATER than I am. JOhn 14:28. BEFORE he WAS SENT, the Father is ALSO GREATER than Jesus.
Most truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.q John 13:16 . Jesus was SENT BY GOD - and called as SERVANT OF GOD. Acts 4:27
AFTER his resurrection the FATHER IS STILL GREATER than Jesus - WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL
@wimpee3 you are absolutely right! Amen and Amen again!
I pray you both don’t let the experience with JW turn you from the real truth and having a relationship with God. It is my prayer that you find a Bible teaching church and grow in the true knowledge of GOD.
Please reach out to the teachings of Jackie Hill Perry and her husband Preston Perry
Oh my goodness! I’m so glad to have read your post. I’ve been watching the UA-cam videos of the many people who have left the JW’s. My heart goes out to them. Years ago I studied the beliefs and teachings of the JW’s. It was to establish my true identity with what made me different as a born again Christian believer in the deity of Christ Jesus. I spent a great deal of time in my study. I came to the full conclusion that I have the truth of God’s Word. Reading John chapter one made it very clear to me. When researching the Greek translation of that verse of scripture proved that the New World Translation missed it. No Greek, student or scholar would translate that scripture as such. That’s not all. It was many other scriptures and teachings that I didn’t agree with. The main thing in my study brought me to the fact that I had the truth of God’s Word and I didn’t have to look any further. This study period drew me closer to my Abba Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit. I’ve been walking this walk in Christ Jesus for a long time and there is no turning back for me.
As I watch those who are leaving the organization my heart is hurting for those who are now claiming to be atheist or agnostic. They are mad at God because of the lies of man. The Lord has placed on my heart to pray for each person to come to the understanding that you have come to. Our Heavenly Father loves us so much that He gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross for our sins. He has filled us with His Holy Spirit so that we can live our life dedicated to Him and spend eternity with Him, Jesus, and Holy Spirit.
I’m going to be praying with you my , Sis for those who have left to come into the knowledge of the true and living God and have a personal relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
God bless you.
Yes!!! So happy y’all made this❤️
Thanks to y'all for encouraging us to make it!
Thank you for sharing your story. It is great to hear others talk about what life is like growing up a Jehovah’s Witness. Pioneering was the hardest and honestly the worst time of my life because I dealt with some much. I was only 19 and I went another city 30 minutes away and they just kept telling me to give my life over to this cult and I was burned out. I didn’t even have a real personality outside of being a JW and I was depressed all the time but wearing always wearing a smile. I had so much going on internally and in 2022 I knew I couldn’t do it anymore. It felt like I gave it everything I had and I gained nothing from it. No real friends, strained family relationships, and no real foundation as a person. It’s been 2 years since that was my life and I am the happiest version of myself I’ve ever been. I’m happy we all can finally take a deep breath and stop allowing all those people to judge us based on this made up lifestyle. Take care! Wishing you both the absolute best!
Great video you two. I can totally relate to this. The greatest thing I learned as a JW, is to never become one.
I am so happy you guys are out and still have each other. As a born in exjw, it literally feels like I grew up in a hostage situation. I personally am teetering between being a Diest or an Atheist. But I cheer for every one of us who escapes. I hope you guys post more videos, and I'm subscribed just in case 🫶🏾.
❤Love you both, one of the hardest decions any of us could possibly make. I admire and value your strength in identifying your morals and your personal beliefs and navigating a new path and destiny which you are in control of. Thank you both for sharing your story's with the world. Beautiful family with an immensely beautiful life ahead!
We love you and yours too bro ❤️
Very proud of both of you at least you left when you're still young you have your whole life ahead of you now I left 45 years ago. Take it from me you made the right move.❤
Much love! Your story resonated a lot with me. I’m former SDA, now atheist. There are many similarities to JW. Thanks for highlighting the importance of education. I think higher education played a role in my deconversion. I already had major doubts but that was the push that helped things along and got me out of the echo chamber I was in. I never understood how predestination could exist alongside free will. If God knew I was going to pass the test, why do I have to study. That caused a lot of suffering later because I had no accountability in my life. Nothing I did truly mattered because God said it was so. I also know the empty feeling of having believed in one thing your whole life and then “nothing”. It’s not “nothing” though. I respect those who find purpose in religion but I believe any ideology that discourages a questioning attitude is a dangerous one. It’s the reason I’m such a huge skeptic now. Although I had doubts all my life, I knew I would never go back when I was about 15/16 and was groped during a church service. No one did anything. And this was after I had given up and been denied so many things “for my protection” but when it came down to it nobody protected me from a known predator. I left the church at 18 and over a decade later, I have zero regrets. There are several things that alarm me about religion. The brainwashing is so pervasive that people do not analyze their own beliefs. When someone lives through a tragedy, it’s because of God. But what about every other innocent person that did not survive a tragedy? Then it’s still “Gods will” and he has a purpose even when we don’t see it. Even the state of America doesn’t surprise me. If you believe Jesus walked on water then these right wing conspiracies are much easier to digest. At the end of the day religion is just thought control. As you said, it does make sense to an extent. The idea of heaven makes earthly suffering “ worth it”. Without science people couldn’t explain why the sky was blue or predict disasters, illnesses were mysterious etc. Now I believe it’s about capitalism. If you can sate the ignorant masses that this life doesn’t matter, they aren’t going to question the systems that oppress them nearly as much.
Thanks so much for your comment. Our neighbors are SDA and super sweet people. They actually remind me a ton of a lot of JWs that I know. And one of my friends from college married a girl that grew up SDA. I didn't realize how many similarities there were between our experiences until we were telling them why we left and she was saying how much she related. I'm sorry you went through all of that, but I'm happy that you've used your experience to grow. And yes, I'm completely with you on the issues with capitalism and classism. Keep on questioning!
You make it sound like SDA's discourage Higher Education.
SDA's and JW's may compare to a few things but nowhere near on the level of education.JW's leave school between 15-17 and that's the end of their education anything beyond High School is deemed as Satan's territory. SDAs go on be doctor's, teachers etc you won't find any JW's like that most are window cleaners and gardeners.
SURE capitalism is what is suppressing America even though it's the same system that promoted innovation in the medical field (seen as when independent doctors went out of their way to make a certain type of eye surgery significantly cheaper for the masses). Same system that pays people's bills (small businesses make up 80% of America's employment).
And could go on and on. But the way I see it, you're one of those sceptics who are too lazy to do actual research and learning. I was like you once. Do your research and find out the truth before stating a very uninformed opinion on what the truth is.
First thing is that i wanna say sorry for what happened to you. I don't know what sort of "church" that is but s*xual harassment is a very and I mean VERY serious issue in my culture and church. Something like that can't be allowed to slide. Just like with everything there are bad people parading as kind persons. The Lord warned us of this in the scriptures. Secondly, again to me you seem lazy and uninformed. You should at least talk to someone very well versed in the bible, both atheist and Christian. God gave you free will. This sentence alone should've told you to actually study so you dont fail. But it sounds like instead you ignored them and focus on on predestination with some denominations seem to unfortunately believe. The same type of followers in Christ that do not pray, don't have reverence for the Lord, don't attend church and just do whatever they like with no guilt. I'm saying that you need to actually read the scriptures, discuss it with others, even if they're not Christian and try to understand what it's saying. Because God gave us free will, our future is in our hands. He knows our future but he did not choose them, he let us choose them.
Also every theory was once a conspiracy. Please think more critically or did you forget MKultra was a thing? You dismiss every idea that you dont like while some embrace all even those that upset them in order to find truth. You should be more tolerant and open to new ideas like some Christians e.g Michael Knowles and Charlie Kirk
But again this is not to say any of us are better than others or I am better than you I am just criticising your content because I believe you have done no information searching to actually confirm if even a single thing you say is true.
"If God knew I was going to pass the test, why do I have to study. That caused a lot of suffering later because I had no accountability in my life." This quote stood out to me because it was very confusing. "Why do I have to study?" How does that have anything to do with God? You study to get and education, learn. Your goal was just to get by? God already knowing your future caused you a lot of suffering?
My grandparents are JW but my mum left before she had me. I actually found Christ aged 19 and have been a Christian since. I do appreciate this video because it's such a big move, not easy to leave at all. But I just want to say please don't give up on GOD. He loves you sooooo much and still has a plan for you BOTH. God really works all things out for our good, I know it may not seem like it now. Before I was saved, I just prayed that the LORD would reveal himself to me and he did. I know he will do it for you both because he really does care about you. God bless you...I'll be praying for you guys :)
Amen
Amen God is love
I think for me, after becoming a historian, the Bible itself doesn't make a whole lot of sense. And all the additions to other Christianity is indeed mixed with paganism.
I truly relate to so much of your experiences. Thank you so much for your transparency. I am so sorry for your brother passing.
I am 52 and woke up in 2011/2012, after being raised a JW from age 4. By the time the pandemic started I was going to UA-cam regularly and had found the parts of the ExJW community that helped me heal and worked for me. I also never looked at anything "apostate" until several years after leaving. I hope you continue to share because there is so much power in storytelling. Hold on tight and continue to fight for your family's happiness. I am so glad y'all woke up. I truly understand. Wishing you all the best.
Bro! Glad to see yall make a video! Looking forward to hearing more from you.
Lol you and I talked about this a long time ago! So it's finally happened!
So happy to hear your story. Listening from Canada
Thanks for listening! ☺️
Taylor, I just wanted to comment and say thank you for sharing your experience with us. I'm currently only at 31:10 but I had to pause and comment as it's amazing how similar our experience are - even down to an initial "divided household" mom introducing the family to "the truth" and your experiences nursing, pioneering, being so diligent and suffering burn out and excema flare ups. Our path has been so similar. I've currently been "inactive" for the past 2 years and it's been a journey of processing my experiences and discerning how I want to lead my life with more peace and joy. Thank you again for sharing your experience, it's so needed as at times I have berated myself feeling that I was too sensitive, but I am learning how to be more compassionate to myself and to others and learning that we all have different emotional and physical needs and that pushing myself to the point of exhaustion is never needed.
Your video was recommended on Reddit, so nice to hear your stories. I appreciate the you delivered your points of view. So gracious, humble and honest.
I used to be a JW. I'm inactive and have been for many years. I too have questions. I used to feel quilty about missing meetings and having issues with the elders but when I discovered about the governing body becoming a member of the UN, the scripture came to mind about "do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers. I knew then if this organization were the truth, they no longer had that position in God's eyes. Then I heard about the child abuse cases and the asounding numbers of victims. I was shocked. It made me sick to my stomach.
Any power the elders once had over me is gone. I think you're a cute couple and you should live your life as you wish. The JWs are controling and misuse their leadership. I'm never going back now that my eyes are fully opened. You're not wrong to question them. Never let anyone control your thoughts or opinions. God gives us all the same amount of air to breath and your questions and feelings should be between you and your makers.
Thank you for posting this. My husband was born and raised in JW. When we meet he was disfellowedshipped ( I hope I spelled right) for a couple years. But the trauma and hurt was so strong. It was like my husband missed out on so much and the hurt of his family not being in his life hurt the most. So watching this gives more insight on to what my husband experience. Thank you. Through prayer and counseling he is doing better. Thank you
My heart goes out to you guys! Im single and a former ministerial servant and regular pioneer. I finally made the decision to leave the organisation 11 months ago via slow fading; reasons being not believing the bible as Gods inspired word anymore and being in disagreement with many of Watchtowers' harmful policies.
Ive essentially lost all but 2 friends in the faith who seem to want to still associate with me but only occasionally. Of course as I move on with my life and meet a nice woman and move in together etc then at some point they will find out and find a way to disfellowship me which will obviously mean obligatory shunning as you know! Just trying to work as much as I can atm to cope while building new friendships and experiences. One day at a time! Love John (false name for obvious reasons haha)
Ah and also I am very fortunate to still have my immediate family not shun me as only my mother is still an active JW. She is disappointed that ive left but wants me to be happy.
I'm sorry you have lost so many friends. And definitely, one day at a time! ❤
@@questionscommentsconcerns thanks mate :)
@@JohnTurner678 During the memorial video on the Anthony Morris Returns channel (created by a former elder/pioneer) there is some discussion about avoiding unnecessary committees after a person has faded. They really don’t have the control they would have you believe, it’s just a hard thing to wrap your head around when you are accustomed to intrusion into every aspect of your life. It wasn’t the focus of the video but somewhere in the Q & A. Really good info from a former elder who knows what’s up.
Happy for you! Just don’t meet with the elders and they can’t disfellowship you. You owe them nothing! Best wishes
Thoroughly enjoyed your video! I have quite a number of things in common with you- a kid about the same age, nursing school, tragic death in my fam of someone i had shunned, and some other things. I think your video will really help PIMOs/PIMQs. Hope you make more content, it's very good!
It's always so cool to hear people who have had and are having similar experiences. Helps us to know we're not alone! We definitely have a few ideas for future videos!
I enjoyed you all chat/story. Stay beautiful and enlighten ex jw. People need to hear. I lost a family member through (death). The leaders of this organization has a lot to answer to.😢
My wife and I are both disfellowshipped and are in a similar journey, would love to talk with y’all. Glad you guys are still together doing well!!!
Hey man, there's an email in the description if you wanna shoot a message over!
@@questionscommentsconcerns Oh great! We just sent you a message, again such a great video!
Hey! happened to see your message and my heart went out to you. I decided to leave this comment above but guessing you would not circle around to see it, I thought I'd post it here. I pray you both find your way forward in accordance with God's will as He deeply loves both of you and is very aware of your situation.
I am glad you found your way out. The Jehovah Witnesses I imagine can put a bad taste in people's mouth because it's more about religion (trying to do good enough to be saved) rather than a real relationship with God that's based out of being accepted by God through His merit (not our own). The JW's put God as a too distant thinking only 144,000 go to heaven for example, but the Bible teaches that believers are actually seated with Christ in the heavenlies NOW (a spiritual union where we can know Him personally NOW). There's so much hope in true biblical truth where we don't try to earn our way anywhere but are fully accepted and loved through Christ (His perfectness covers us when we accept Him.) From that place of freedom we enjoy relationship with Him and follow Him from there. The JW's put a lot of effort in for having such little hope compared to true followers of Christ.
The 2 that said they are disfellowshipped isn't the right terminology as of August WT, now it's, " you were REMOVED" from being a JW😅
The elders went by the secret elder book
Wow- congrats for getting out and the compassion and love you showed for others, especially your children and yourself!
I am in powder springs! I'm so happy you two stuck together through this transition. You are an inspiration to many.
Im so glad I found this channel. Me and my husband are EXJW with crazy family history after our awakening (different times and circumstances for both), 14 years later I'm still healing and working on myself because is was a lot. Hope you guys have or make a community of like-minded people were we can reach and support each other.
Congrats.... glad your mind is free from cult and control
Truly cannot express how happy I am for you both!! I left when I was 18 (almost 28 now!) and never looked back since. So many things you talked about are things I also struggled with and I'm so happy to see that I'm not alone. Having family and friends out of the organization is so crucial and I'm so happy y'all found that 😊 Wishing you and your kids all the love and happiness in the world!!
I love your video. The moment you rattled off "australopithecus," I knew I'd like you, haha! It's great that there are so many exjws telling their stories -- everyone will find a story to relate to. For me, yours is particularly resonant, and I'm glad to have found your new channel. You have wonderful chemistry as a couple and infectious laughter. Thanks for posting! I've subscribed and am looking forward to your next ones!
Thanks for watching! Glad to know there are some other nerds out there that get it! 😂
You two are adorable and so authentic. I loved hearing your story.
I’m so happy for you and your children that you woke up and have many years ahead to live your best life.🎉❤🎉❤
Appreciate your story so much! Thank you for sharing the deep, personal, and uncomfortable with all us strangers! I really appreciate Taylor's story and shared tears as I share a similarity there.
Micah, your description of how you soley used logic, intelligence, and fact based research to come to your conclusion is so encouraging. It took a relative to help me begin questioning, then I was able to break the bubble and start to think for myself with real logic instead of the hard-wired programming. It was gradual as I began to uncover public info of their corruption -their stock holdings of PhillipMorris (tobacco) research led me to discover the assemblies were just large money grabs, and discovering the luxury propery rentals they run, all while poor programmed JWs clean, detail, and run facilities with not even a meal as a thank you. And now more recently they got sanctioned in court not once, but several times for lying in the Montana CSA case. They also got fined for destroying evidence. JWs will never look, because of the fear mongering not to. They are complete hyporcrites and liars under a creepy facade.
I seem to find that its mostly the earnest hearted truth seekers that want to live authentically that are usually more inclined to explore whether what they've been doing for so long is really truth. Love for truth can override condition because its that thing that keeps poking until it's answered bc it's what the soul really wants. Actual truth. Not a fantasy just because it's convenient and what everyone friends and family is doing. I hope for all exJWs to post their stories here. We need them! Beautiful job guys.
It's so strange how things have changed. I was a regular pioneer for 4 years between 84-88 from the age of 17. Back then, it was 90 hours per month. I went to Pioneer School at London Bethel. 90 hours of not carts, no letters just knocking on doors in wind rain or snow. If you 'missed your hours', you were counselled. I married a min servant at 21 and moved to his congregation in Belgium, where I experienced extreme racism IN THE CONGREGATION. After 7 years in an emotionally abusive marriage, I left and returned to London and took that opportunity to fade. That was the darkest time because i had no friends, was a single mother, and my mother was not supportive. That was 25 years ago now. So much more has happened, but that's for my book... I always say I've already had 6 lives. I'm about to start my 7th... next month, I'm going to a writer's retreat in Costa Rica to jump start my memoir. Watch this space...it's going to be called '7even Rounds'.
Could I ask you about your racism experience?
I’m so happy you still have a relationship with your parents. I still have the strongest bond with my mother. My family hasn’t shunned my brothers and I even though they still have their beliefs and we have ours. I’m so grateful to say so because I know not everyone’s situation is the same. Thank you both for sharing your stories! Best of luck to you both.
I'm just glad you left together. So many marriages 'in' never make it out.
Appreciate your transparency ❤
I left and can live in my authentic truths
I was also raised in this cult. Got out 40 years ago, but they still controll one of my daughters not allowing her to talk or see me. Congraduations on getting out before you had children. You just gave your life a major gift that you will never regret!!! Life outside is the beauty of who God really is.
You two are a delight! Thank you for sharing your story with us. ❤️ 💕
You two are fun to watch and listen to. It’s apparent that you enjoy each other. Love that!
Just wanted to say am sorry for your loss. Lost my son when he was 22. Young father. Wife. All ahead of him. He would have been 39 this month. Still miss him everyday. But I still see him in grandkids. Their smiles. Silly jokes. Laughs etc. The pain of loss does not go away but it gets easier. Im thankful I had him. Blessings on your journey.🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Thank you both, been out for 10 years now and still feel alone and it’s not easy to remember that there are those who understand!
I love your video absolutely truthful, I really hope others who are captive see this, thank you.
I’m and ex Mormon and I love to hear the tales of people who left high demand religions . Thanks for sharing your story .
You guys!! Thank you for sharing your story. So much that you’ve both said resonated. Thank you
I completely enjoyed your stories and it’s awesome that you both go out together.
I no longer believe and left the church a few years ago but my husband continues to attend. I grew up in a Methodist church and started going to a Baptist church at 15. I stop believing because it never really made sense to me how believers could pray but bad things still happened to them. Then I started to study the Bible and it was a wrap. Dealing to the death of family and seeing young people suffer and die. It piled on and I couldn’t turn back.
Thanks for having the courage to share your story.
Thank you for sharing your story. I enjoyed listening and seeing the love and respect you share with each other, and I love the way you question the things you have been taught. I have also had to do this and found out that there are so many lies that we were taught in education and religion.
Sorry for your loss, both of you, I lost my younger brother in 2015 and I still miss him like yesterday. I am glad that you left a former Publishing company turned into an estate and investments company.
What a breath of fresh air to hear you both express your feelings coming out of this wicked religion, totally can sympathize with you both as I experience these doubts and was a victim of these twisted teachings. I hope present JW can benefit and learn from your experience and free themselves from this cult. It is so sad that so many people are trapped from coming out due to being worried of losing friends and family within the organization. This religion destroys and ruin so many families on the doctrine that is administered by the evil Governing Body that pretend to have any directions from the high almighty... if there is one that exist.
JW is a work of the devil not God
Hello, thank you so much for your video. This helps in the healing process for so many.
Another couple 💑 leaves the big O. Good for you guys. Nothing seems to make any sense. The Tower is slowly grumbling.
Do you mean crumbling or grumbling or both? (wink. wink.)
Im 41, and was born into the JW Organization up until about 23. I studied twice while still in high school, but never made the final commitment. I believe in Jehovah and his good works; he has saved my life numerous times especially when i was young. The problem I had was with the leadership in the Kingdom Hall and the politics that went with it. Also, my mom who deals with mental illness, the elders treated her very bad which ultimately left a bad impression on me. I still don't celebrate holidays, or partake in a lot of worldly activities but I was taught that doesn't matter if you still dont get baptized and attend the meetings and field service 🤷🏼. I go about life doing what my inner voice tells me what is right, and i know god sees my heart.
I'm sorry for your loss 😢 You guys seem like a really cool, well rounded couple. I'm glad you two were able to stick together through this mess. It's sad what this organization has taken from so many of us, so I'm glad you made it out in tact together.
Thank you for your story. So many similarities to my families awakening! My husband was an elder 15 yrs and servant 10yrs before that. We had two children in their mid 20’s when we all came out. Both kids and I pioneered years and did ASL as a family. We came out the end of 2018. What a journey! Enjoy the experience of raising your little ones in freedom🥰. Your fellow apostates 😜
Most truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.q John 13:16 . Jesus was SENT BY GOD - and called as SERVANT OF GOD. Acts 4:27
WHO IS OVER ALL? Ephesians 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. GOD and FATHER is OVER/ABOVE ALL and that "All" includes the SON so they are NOT EQUAL
THE BIBLE teaches that Jesus was MADE As Lord and Christ and as Son (ACTS 2:36, Prov 8, HEB 1:5), CREATED/PRODUCED/INSTALLED (Prov 8) , COME INTO BEING/MADE (Mat 21:42 - egeneto) and GIVEN LIFE by the Father - John 5:26 and it uses TODAY (Heb 1:5), and uses future tenses and is a prophecy in Isa 9:6 (Isa 9:6, - WILL BE) . If you are called MADE AND CREATED AND GIVEN LIFE, and NEVER CALLED in the BIBLE as Creator or Maker , then you are A CREATION. ALL FROM THE BIBLE
From the Lord was this (this is referring to the chief cornerstone who is Jesus) , the word WAS is egeneto (made or came into being) - Matthew 21:42 and the exact Greek word used in John 1:3 - MADE, egeneto (came into being) - JESUS WAS MADE/CAME INTO BEING FROM THE FATHER , yes, Jesus was MADE/CREATED!, See also Acts 2:36, Heb 1:5, 1 john 5
Isa 9:6 the word Prince in the Prince of Peace means PATRON ANGEL also Leader. WHO IS the ONE LEADER that we have? Jesus. Now, that same exact Hebrew word was used for Daniel 12:1 which is used for Michael the Archangel. So are you saying there are MANY LEADERS now
You do you buddy:)
I can tell y'all have a great relationship, especially when y'all crack up together. Humor is so healthy in a relationship!! Loved your story. I've been out since the mid 90s.
Hi Micah and Taylor. Thanks so much for sharing your story. Love your channel. 😊
Born in the cult, never baptized, a part of me never believed and the other part of me wanted to believe so hard. Following you on IG now, thank you for this video, it was truly refreshing, it takes courage to take each step to the exit from that cult bc you very well know how bad the ones that stay behind will antagonize you.
I pioneered when you had to do 90 hours a month! I’ve been out 25 years. Nice to see y’all out and happy!
Awesome story, thank you for adding your voice to our community. You guys are a power couple! P.S. I peeped the panda in the background. Already such a cool channel to sub too. Can't wait for future videos. I am so happy you have your freedom now!
Shout-out to Cam, the exjw who makes these! He brought them for the kids at a meetup and I had to put it back there as an Easter egg for the video! Good catch!
MY CONDOLENCES FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART AND SOUL SIS.
Incredible video. Thank you for sharing! I made the mistake after being born in of getting baptized at 12. Got in trouble for being a teen and disfellowshipped and kicked out at 18. I have 3 older brothers. Nearly all of them have shunned me since I was 18. My own mother has strong shunned me my whole life. I am now 46. It’s a horrible cult and shunning is a human rights violation of epic proportions. That parents can so conditionally love their children, it’s deranged.
Great job you two. Your core persons might be the same in one way, but with limitless use of your thinking capacity and ability, you are opposite of what you were being JW's. That makes you very different people in a great way. You are a compliment to each other, welcome to the EX-JW community of open minds and freedom. We love you.
You said it all
Yay you two!!! Excellent job! Bring on more videos! I also have childhood trauma. I didn’t raise my children in that cult. However, residually it seeped in to raising them. 😢
Even tho we did all the holidays. But, I had no idea that it happened until I woke up. Bite model! Is your answer! ❤❤❤ much love!
PLEASE continue uploading! Your story is going to help countless amounts of indoctrinated people. Many of whom aren't even JW's in addition to the ones that are. You were both a pleasure to watch and I'm happy for you and your family. We need more people like you, willing to speak on it. Much love to you both and thank you for this.
"Grey is hard." Brilliant observation. That is the allure of high control cults. You aren't burdened with the ambiguities and moral quandaries of life.
Such a lovely, intelligent, wise couple. A true pleasure to listen to.
I really enjoyed your show! 🎉 welcome from Western Washington!!
Thank you for your commitment to continuous learning. You did a lot of work to come to your decision as we all should. They don’t want you to pursue a college education because it often involves critical thinking- which those who do not want you to think often reject. I wish you both well. You’re both beautiful people.
I started studying in my 20’s while away at college. I got baptized in about a year. I faded when they suggested I drop out of school to go into the full time ministry and left completely after a bad group trip. They wanted too much control over my life.
Your story brought back many memories about what it meant to be young and dating or young and married in the org. I am so happy that you both left and that you can raise your children to be their best, authentic selves. Kudos to you!
Thank you for sharing your story. Your both loved, from one exjw to you all. I hope one day we all meet up at exjw convention🎉
Just in case the message didn't go through, I have been having problems with the internet. Just seeing how much love you have towards each other convinces me a Heavenly Father does exist. Im so sorry for all the confusion you went through my ex husband was destroyed by his JW parents,I am so joyful Micah's parents have the love of true God in their hearts.
Watchtower is being PROTESTED on September 13th 2024, in Washington D.C at the WHITE House. Join the protest. Shun No More 2024. Let's collectively come together and let our voices be heard. Watchtower must get defunded
Your comment is nothing but b.s because the government doesn't fund The Watchtower. More importantly, JW would never accept nor ask for governmental funds. 🙄
Lies, I tell you! All lies!
@@StAndrew65 what happened? What is all lies?
It'll add to the persecution complex and strengthen their faith actually lol
@Pioneerakpomedaye Watchtower has a prosecution complex & rightfully so. The leadership are FRAUDSTERS, CRIMINALS, AND DECEIVERS.. It is time for watchtower to be held accountable.
Thank you for telling your story, I enjoyed listening to it. My last meeting was 5 years ago next month. I can’t imagine leaving the organization and not having the experiences of Ex-JWs on UA-cam to listen to, it’s helped me more than anything else.
Good see that your out bro!
Haha same to you bro! I was just telling somebody about us playing in the creek and woods growing up. We made it out!
You two are so inspiring..love your intellectual and emotional support for one another❤
Wow! I thought growing up Apostolic /Pentecostal was bad. Reflecting back the church really controlled our lives. Glad you two found freedom and truth. Blessings ❤
They exercise a lot of control as well and it can be toxic.
Excellent video. I woke up by seriously studying the Bible w/ the literature and realized there is so much the Society conveniently is silent on. It was like flipping a pancake: one day I believed it was the truth then quite suddenly realized it was all a crock. ALL a lie. I left w/o needing to discuss my decision with anyone. I was 49 years old. I had been a publishers since I was 5. I had pioneered, I had done everything asked of me. I am now 74. I am grateful for my freedom. I hope your video helps others to face their doubts.
I’m new to the EX-JW community myself, and i love to hear the stories of so many ex members . We all have different stories, and it’s so sad, so many of us wasted our time and lives . I hope to interview many ex members. People really need to hear these stories
For most of my life I had been searching for the truth of God. I strolled through many different sects of Christianity and eventually settled on JWs. On and off I would study with someone who happened to knock on my door. I truly enjoyed their approach to The Bible. My final teachers were in a new state I had moved to. I went through the whole of all the studies and the time came to make the decision to join up. The interesting aspect was that while studying I would do independent studying / researching. Just as you both Micah and Taylor did too. Eventually I came to what I consider to be the truth, that the God in the Bible is not real. When I declined to continue forth w/JWs, they completely dropped me. My mechanic who was JW began charging me full price, promised invitations to Pampered Chef parties never arrived, it was all very comical. Final thought - the truth does set you free and I will be forever grateful in living life in truth. I appreciate learning about your journey to the truth too M & T and wish you two the very best !
Congratulations you both woke up. A new life of freedom for you both.
Its so cool they have each other. Ive been out of the organization since 2019. Finding it hard to find community and a partner 😕 Sorry for the loss of your brother Taylor
Thank you both for sharing your story.
I love ya'll! Glad I found you as a waning JW! Your story seems to mirror mine so much. My downward spiral was also losing four loved ones back to back (to illness and then car accidents). I also suffer from social anxiety something terrible, and I think that comes from feeling like I'm always being watched. You guys should watch Alyssa Grenfell about her experiences as a Mormon.
I always admire the couple that leave this cult together. I did the best I could in fading by marrying a "worldly" woman! And guess what....you wouldn't believe how many things I can blame my wife for lol. Christmas tree? Yup my wife! Birthdays for me and my kids....my wife. I'm not disfellowship and my parents have an active part in my kids'lives but they know damn well not to question my household goings cause my wife will put them right into their place. THATS why witnesses are taught to only marry in the congregation. With a worldly wife they have zero control over things. Glad you guys made it out together!