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Ex-JW: "My best friend ended his life saying he couldn't do it anymore"
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- Опубліковано 5 вер 2022
- (Voicemail no. 138) Steve calls in to report the tragic loss of his friend Daniel in hopes that he can be remembered for the man he was rather than the person his Jehovah's Witness father demanded him to be.
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Heartbreaking. This hits home as my dad, very devout JW, committed suicide a number of years ago. This religion is dangerous. RIP Daniel.
So sorry 😞
I know of a well respected Elder Overseer of BoE, Convention Overseer, LDC, pioneered for 15ish years who sadly took his life so unexpectedly a few years ago..... l hit me real hard ended up inactive were I am to this day.
@@jordaircooke7618 Sorry to hear that 😞
I’m so sorry. I had a close friend who was very devoted as well and committed suicide his daughter found him in the bathroom. This cult is destructive and I’m glad a lot of young ppl Ik are either leaving or getting DF
This post is heartbreaking. I'm so sorry that you had to go thru this. Others don't understand. The reason I'm still alive is because of my 3 children. I could go on for hours, but this is not about me. I sincerely hope you are doing ok.
Hello Lloyd, This is Steve. Thank you so much for creating a nice tribute for my friend. I struggled for several months as to whether I should share Daniel's story or not. He was extremely well known in the ex-JW community in Austin. I decided to share it because all of his close friends agreed that this would certainly be Daniel's wishes.
Daniel is the very opposite of the stereotypical evil apostate that Watchtower attempts to portray. Everyone who knew him considered him the most authentic, kind, and intelligent person. We could sit and talk about the nature of reality and the universe for hours. He and I would have the longest conversations about every imaginable subject. For instance, we white boarded in detail the entire 1914 teaching and concluded that it was literally impossible to have any basis in reality. Daniel had already woken up to an extent, but we continued to deepen our full understanding of how far the rabbit hole went. Daniel's life dream was to see humans make it to Mars. In fact, in one of the pictures on this video where the shirt says "Occupy", it says in full "Occupy Mars" which was a play on words with the "Occupy Wall Street" movement. (PS, if ex-JW works at Tesla or SpaceX, feel free to share with Elon)
Daniel really was the one that saved my life. When I went through some traumatic events around the ending of a marriage, I was extremely confused with some of the organizational policies that did not appear to align with the Scriptures. He told me, "What if things are not what you think that they are?" At the time, I was so confused by the statement, but I remember getting on UA-cam to find out if the organization had secretly been infiltrated by apostates. I know it sounds ridiculous now, but at the time, I thought that Jehovah could easily be using me. And even when I met Lloyd Evans a few years ago, I still had a small degree of indoctrination, but Lloyd was so genuine and nice. My friend was terrified to show up at the ex-JW event, and he did and absolutely loved it.
A few days before he died, he was researching on how to prove that the Ark could not possess enough water and food supplies to feed all of the animals. He was determined to show his father (who was actually a remote Bethelite elder) that the Flood story was impossible through the use of mathematics. I remember even joking with him that Satan created mathematics so that Jehovah's people would be misled by it one day. We constantly joked and trolled one another. My favorite line of Daniel was "It all makes sense as long as you don't think about it too much."
On a more solemn note, he truly loved his father and his family, and he couldn't handle breaking his father's heart. His father had already shunned his own sister for many many years until she eventually returned. So he knew that any shunning would be the last time he would see them again. In fact, Daniel's own father had already shunned his uncle who was a former Bethelite in the 1970s. That's a story to hear!
I just think it's still insane that a Bethelite elder would use his own son's suicide to promote the organization's teachings. Daniel had made the comment in the past that his dad would prefer him to die so that he would have the resurrection hope and NOT be destroyed at Armageddon by Tony Morris on an invisible flying white horse (and probably with Jameson whisky in one of his hands). At the time, I never suspected this as any indication of mental health struggles because he was simply conveying his father's belief.
Some of us joked that we should sign on to the zoom funeral with the handle name "Who is Lloyd Evans?" but we decided to let them have their peace. Interestingly, the family only used very old pictures of him in which he had no beard, AND they even got the date of his death wrong. The entire funeral was ridiculous because it talked about what "Daniel believed". Anyway, rest in peace Daniel. Love you man.
I’m truly sorry for your loss, Steve. Thank you for sharing Daniel’s story.
All the best to you Steve. Stay strong. Much love from Vancouver🫶
These are really nice memories you about Daniel.
My sincere condolences
I'm Truly sorry for your lose Steve, you have my deepest condolences. Thank you for sharing from NZ. 💔😢💔
My sympathies. Thank you for sharing this. ❤️.
When I was involved in the cult back in the mid 1970s there was a suicide of a disfellowshipped man. I was disfellowshipped in 1986 and within the first year after I had contemplated my own suicide but I went to counseling. It took over three years for me to remove the braces from my brains the cult placed on me. This video was a true tear jerking video. I am in tears as I type this. Seeing the pictures of that beautiful young handsome man who had so much life to live and to think he ended it because of what that cult did to him. Very-very sad.
I'm glad that you're still with us! Sincerely.
Very sorry for the loss of this young man....
I think WT doesn't care about the loss
Because they keep blaming people by saying :
They had mental issues.
But the question is what or who causes him those mental issues??
Crist was super kind to the disciples
When he said:
Come to me,all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I,m mild- tempered and lowly in heart and you will find refreshment for yourselves
For my yoke is kindly and my load is light.
Matteus: 11: 28,29,30.
Come to Jesus....
Not come to the yoke of WT....
I,m sure Crist will remember Daniel
The same way when the man ask Crist.
Remember me when you bring your paradise.
Crist said YES imediatly!!! To a man that did bad things all his life.....
Leave people alone.
Let Crist make his decision about each one of us individually.....
People have the tendency to be cruel to each other and be judgmental....
Here is the results about being fanatic and not apply love and consideration and respect for the value of human life.
Does that Father feels any remorse???
I,m still a believer in the scriptures.
But ...
I can't wait until all organized religion be wipe out.
@@MariaNunes-po5rc You’re applying logic to an illogical cult! They wouldn’t be able to survive without being extreme in judgment and punishment. That’s what keeps them together! Without fear and intimidation the cult cannot survive.
This is a long shot....Did the man in the 70,s live at the time in Scotland?
@@billyd5317 Yes we are
Daniel was one of my best friends too. In fact that last photo was taken with my camera.
He was an absolute gem of a human being. His loss has left a hole in so many peoples hearts.
None of us, his closest friends, saw it coming.
If you’re reading this, and struggling, please don’t suffer in silence.
There is so much help available!
Thanks Tobijah! I appreciate you sharing comments to show how his loss impacted so many of us!!
Tobijah, I am so sorry for your loss too. It's always difficult when you didn't see it coming. I appreciate the advice of no suffering in silence. That will make a person feel better tremendously. It's a good thing these video channels are here for anyone who is finding the cult too traumatic to live with. I wish many more people would leave it as only then they will be free. Hugs to you. 🤗🫂
This situation could be avoided....
How??
By showing consideration and respect for the value of human life....
Some people they show a very " religious" attitude....
But in Reality, no deep love, or feelings of compassion, or even some respect for human life.
After all GOD made life for us to enjoy.
If someone doesn't respect life that means :
They don't respect GOD either.....
Because God is the creator of life.
The only hope for Daniel and all the people who died in so Many diferentes ways ,.... will be the Great ressurection....
Crist has imense power , wisdom, all the requirements to bring him back.
And so many others who died in very unfair ways.
How great that future will be ......
Everyone will have another Great opportunity to be alive again.
Hug.
I'm afraid more and more drama like this will happen in the near future. This cult absolutely does not want to see all the harm it causes. The Watchtower prefers to put the blame on the apostates or the devil, but soon the malaise of the followers will be too strong to continue to conceal it.
For a long time I accepted the ideology that if I YEET myself, "they" win. They will not win. Rely on science when you are in this darkness. Proper meds and a skilled therapist. RIP.😔
I am very angry and revolted to hear such a testimony. There are more and more PIMOs who suffer in silence. There are more and more JW families torn apart. Cognitive dissonance is spreading everywhere even in small congregations. This cult sinks into sexual and emotional misery depression and frustrations. We are very far from the happiest people in the world. Like any organism at the end of its life, this cult decomposes by rotting from the inside.
Indeed, the notion that JWs are the happiest people is farcical, the organization is teeming with people in various stages of unhappiness and depression. Unhappy marriages, broken minds, serious doubts are widespread and eventually it will come to a head!
@Layman Phil, Some reports say up to 50% of JWs take some kind of “happy pills”.
They pretending caring about people
But they don't.
There is why Crist said:
Do not, fallow man - made rules.
Just Fallow my steps closely.
Why??
Because Crist doesn't demand the impossible from each one of us..
WT keeps demanding more and more and more.
Why??
Not because they really care
It's because their business are going down.
To bad ....
Go out there and find a Job....
Me?? 47 years there.
I,m out specially when I hear Mr. Jeffrey Jackson and All his answers at the Australian Royal Commission...
I said to myself:
I,m done .with the WT.....
I feel betrayed for 47 years...
But I hold to the Scriptures independent from being part of any organization.
Thank you very much.
I have twice put on record claims that health impacts of loneliness give government has a duty to public health to ban disfellowshipping.
2015: emergence of physical health impacts of loneliness prompted the Scottish parlt to do an enquiry into it. Edinburgh Lothian Asperger Society got invited to make a submission, and I as the only member with ideas for its content, got to write it. "Edinburgh disfellowshipping loneliness" brings up its-pdf as the second result.
I had trouble getting this item past the parliamentary clerks, who interfere shockingly with what folks can write. They looked for ways to rule it out on grounds of offending a religion, that's why I was not allowed to mention the JWs by name in it, and only by showing that they are not the only religion who do it, did I win the fight to keep it in.
2020: Scottish govt did a project with public submissions, on a human rights bill, "All Our Rights in Law", as part of its reaction against Brexit. My submission was as long as a small book, and was not suggestions, it was claims, that new human rights follow logically from existing ones. Including a human right that no deliberate inflictions of isolation be allowed, freedom of association does not include freedom of rejection, hence ban on disfellowshipping. An ebook discussing the submission, "Existing Human Rights Create New: a Submitted Claim", and the submission itself is online in 2 parts. search "uses of the court change" in quotes, and in the resulting site's menu, go to "anti-ribald policy in human rights submission"; also search "long human rights submission for us" in quotes.
@@conscienceaginBlackadder You should contact Lloyd for a video.
Horrible cult so glad I woke up
There was a young brother in my congregation who, after finding out he'd contracted HIV, was told by the elders that, among other things, he would die alone and that he had "turned his back on Jehovah", so there was nothing they were willing to do for him. He committed suicide shortly after the district convention that year. I didn't know until a few years ago that he had that interaction with the elders (a friend of mine is friends with one of the men who was an elder at the time). I also believe this is the reason why my mother hates me being gay so much (the young man was bisexual and in the military before becoming a JW).
Cold blooded elders. Where does that come from ? I know where
"Doesn't bother me."
-Tony Morris
Or the talk from Lett: “imagine a brother who has committed suicide and gets a resurrection.” Yes, the first thing he’s going to here is that Jehovah’s standards haven’t changed; you need to change. How re-assuring and comforting. All those struggles that lead to such a decision are the very same ones that you’ll be confronted with again. But this time you have 1,000 years in which to change (because you WILL need to change.) And to think that this person was somehow considering this would be of solace to his father that he now had a pass to a resurrection in the new system rather than killed at Armageddon. What a tragedy.
A truly heartbreaking voicemail, but I’m thankful that Steve shared his story, and thankful Lloyd shared it with us. I personally knew a couple whose young daughter took her own life shortly after two elders visited her while her parents were out of town (that’s a story unto itself). Apparently the elders thought the young girl was involved in things she shouldn’t have been and needed to “counsel” her, but because the girl felt she could never live up to the requirements of the WT, she ended her life after that elder visit before her parents returned home. Truly sickening the pain and suffering that the WT has caused people.
@cuddlez WOW! Just wow! You should call in to the voicemail for Lloyd Evans and share that story. That's crazy and sad to hear about.
@@stevesinclair3835 no need for a voicemail as I’ve just shared. My hope is that those who feel there’s no way out because of the oppressiveness of the WT will realize they are far from alone and that many of us have had similar feelings. Get the professional help you need and I promise you it will get better and there is life outside of the WT. Lloyd’s work is invaluable as is evidenced by how many people write and call in to thank him for all he’s done.
Strange how it happened directly after that visit from elders. I hope there was no sexual abuse involved. Poor girl
@@valhenry2154 I doubt any sexual abuse by the 2 elders was involved because most of those incidents are done by a single person. That would be incredibly rare to have two Witnesses collude in such a manner, and I've never heard of any such case. It's more likely that she knew disfellowshipping was coming.
So very sad and avoidable. Daniel looks like a wonderful person. As a parent, I cannot understand this revolting religion.
And the fear of disfellowshipping weighs heavy on people not just from shunning, but knowing that Watchtower insists those people have no hope of resurrection unless you do their song and dance to get back in, and crushes the family members hope for you who are still in.
Thank you Lloyd and Steve for handling this so well. My best friend took her own life at 34. I had many moments in life with suicidal thoughts but now im better, fading this cult. What a tragic loss. RIP Daniel.
Painfully relatable. I attempted suicide twice by age 18 in direct response to the crushing depression of being raised in this cult and the realization that my life would never be my own. I finally DA’d at 19 less than a year after my second attempt.
How awful for Daniel, awake and living 40 years in that hell. This sick cult is a killer of dreams, potential, and people.
"Killer of dreams"...that is well stated!
@@stevesinclair3835 true
This is so true and it's the reason I'm so angry and depressed that I let a whole first 20 years of me living go to waste on this cult and I want to be somebody special, not a slave who has to worship 8 men who's in charge of the thoughts of Jehovah's witnesses, it's just soooooo much rage and sadness and disaster with utter disappointment
So sorry for Daniel and for others who have suffered. A touching tribute, and I for one am both glad and saddened for knowing.
These suicides of Jehovah’s Witnesses are so terribly tragic that it seems as though they must surely shake up other JWs so much that they would be jolted into waking up about this sham of a cult. It is so sad though that the ‘rank and file’ are so extremely indoctrinated and conditioned by the Watchtower that it doesn’t really register. Jehovah’s Witnesses can be so cruel without even realizing they are being cruel thank to the callous teachings of the Watchtower. All that matters is being loyal to the Watchtower and doing the right thing by and according to the Watchtower. It is shockingly dehumanizing people lured into the Watchtower deceptive and deviously designed web it has created. The insidiousness is beyond belief.
Unfortunately many people don’t realise the number of suicides, murders and murder suicides that have taken place and will continue unless this org is shut down.
This is so sad. Heartbreaking. Daniel sounds and looked like a truly lovely man. My friend Brian committed suicidal after getting disfellowshipped for masturbation - he went to the elders for help because it was a “problem”. Ended up ending his own life rather than going thru the shinning and isolation. He was a wonderful man. I miss him.
I knew a young teenage boy who was at an assembly and just got up during a talk, walked over to the train station and jumped infront of a train. It's horrendous how this religion affects people's mental health and they can see no other way out.
They know what they done to people mental health that is why they always use the scripture where Peter ask Jesus where else would I go lord because people are so controlled its very hard iam fading but sometimes iam in tears iam confused one of my daughter who is married to an elder have come to her senses but can't leave because of her children I am worried for her iam so sorry for the death of your friend take courage and may his soul rest in ✌
Omg. So incredibly sad 😔
Heartbreaking😭
Pomo 22 years. Looking back, it seems like I have the memories of 2 different people.
I know about 8 bro/sis who committed suicide.
A doctor once told me, when I brought a sister to a psychologist clinic, If I can answer him, why so many JW suffer from mental desease.
Thank you for sharing this, Steve. I'm so sorry for your loss...
I'm thinking about the lovely, 'bubbly' old lady I used to study with. She told me how one day she found her first husband...(!)
He couldn't do it any more, being gay and being JW. And this is almost sixty years ago. How many people have died all those decades because of this cult?
Rest in Peace Daniel
Smh 🤦
The Power of these Wicked Religious Cults . . Have to be Broken !! 😧
👉 In Due Time . . THEY WILL !!! 😡
Another murder on Watchtower books that the members will never hear about
It is Satan's doing. You have to remember that.
@@minuette1752 Still drinking the kool aid I see. Do you have a flavor preference?
@@billyd5317 it's the way it's nonchalantly brought up...
@@billyd5317 Green with vodka, lots of vodka.
@@minuette1752 I see you are into numbing your capacity for thinking, and just want to swallow what you have been offered. That's sad. Why not appreciate, and use more of your extraordinary human brain and think things through a bit more?
Far to young, I wonder how much weight he felt he had on his shoulders to just be done with it all.
Yeah, I felt guilty that I could not save him because I text messaged him about 2 hours before his death. His parents lived on the West Coast, and they were talking about moving back to Austin, TX. A few months ago, he told me, "my life is over." At the time, it felt weird hearing that, and I told him that everything would work out. Apparently, the parents did change their minds about moving, but Daniel was always under tons of stress about it. It was like this cat and mouse game he played because his parents were constantly trying to trap him into making certain statements. I had read and studied the elder's book, and the joke was that I was his attorney.
From all that I have experienced, and have learned from many others, my own understanding is that people suicide when they feel trapped in an intolerable mental and emotional state, and see no possibility of changing their situation. Yes, it does feel like an overwhelming burden to some people. I can't speak for all. A suicide attempt is a way to take control when feeling powerless, and to effect the change in a perverse way of self care to stop the suffering. (You are unlikely to find that last sentence in literature, because most of what is written is by people who haven't experienced these things themeelves). There can be a moment of euphoria, even with suicidal ideation, as it seems like the only, and best way for freedom. It is a momentary sense of relief of having the answer, and finally making a decision, and having a plan that seems possible, and is the best for everyone. Finally you can become the master of it all. It is easy to forget in the moment that the burden of a body left behind for loved ones who can't understand, is far worse.
For people with clinical depression, perception is warped so that only the negatives can be fully seen. Also, perception is narrowed, like existing in a tunnel, so you can't see the other possibilities as viable as other people can easily see. The negative aspects of self assessment are heightened, such as guilt and shame, feeling like a burden to oneself and others, and so suicide can be a warped way to be a gift to others, for relieving them of all the negatives, too. That is contrary to the common belief that suicide is selfish.
Also, facing death, in any capacity, is definitely not weak. People who are suicidal already have ample strength to even contemplate death as an option. They are at that point because they have been extraordinarily strong enough not to break in a situation where they consider death as a preferable option. A new phase of live begins when a chance is taken to find viable options to effect the change they need to move through their suffering and conflict. That's where support and expert help comes in, to help see, recognise, and utilise alternatives. Recognising, and accepting genuine support will be a challenge for those with depression, because they may not think there is any point, and may feel unworthy of anyone's time or efforts.
I am a never-Never-JW, but it seems to me the Jehovah's Witnesses are perhaps one of the worst cults for hothousing these negative emotions. They are trapped mentally, emotionally and socially, in terms of their isolatied community with their 'us and them' mentality, time, and other responsibilities and commitments. They are often trapped in with abusive men, in addition to the Governing Body, cultivated by the inherent misogyny of their beliefs. They are trapped in cognitive dissonance by being expected to fit the mold, and suppress their authentic self, including thoughts and emotions. Also, thinking outside the box is judged as bad, wrong, evil, and often punishable. The mental capacity to think beyond black and white, atrophies, so it is extremely difficult, or impossible for some to see more and escape. I think JWs are one of the worst cults because it seems that they are not allowed to feel good about anything. No amount of time, money or effort given is ever going to be enough for the JW Organization. So you can't be yourself, and your identity purely as a JW is never good enough. Even the cult of Scientologist has some sense of self worth, even if based on delusion!
That people suicide after leaving the JWs demonstrates that the mental and emotional cages remain, so experienced help will save lives. I think it helps to shift perspective from fighting suicidal thinking, or other destructive thoughts and behaviours, to giving permission and allowing to entertain ideas of other more self nurturing, expressing and liberating possibilities. Death is the end of all options. It ultimately stops suffering, but also everything else. There is no opportunity to feel much relief, joy or the freedom from suffering. Being consiously free of mental cages, and unnecessary burdens, is the ultimate freedom. I used my mental cages as trellises to grow from towards the light and life. I cannot change my trapped circumstances, but I can dismantle my trellises when I am done with them being the familiar support of my world view. By using critical thinking, I dissect them, and they fall apart. I watch them dissolve to obsolete dust that blows blow away. I breathe in the freedom of greater conscious space to live.....But, that's just me! We all have our own ways to find.
This may well be my usual TMI (I could have written SO MUCH more!). I thought you might be interested, and it may help others, particularly if they have been triggered by the video or comments. There is ALWAYS a way through and out. It is up to us to choose or own adventure.
A Very Sad story Once again it just shows how much damage this horrible Organization causes
Lloyd dunno if you read this, but keep up the good work. And make sure you keep your foot on this cults neck RIP Daniel.
Heartbreaking. Thankyou Steve for speaking of this terrible sadness regarding Daniel. RIP Daniel
WATCHTOWER IS BLOOD GUILTY. Their Philosophy Is Beyond Filthy. I Have Been Pushed To The Point Where Attempted To End My Life. The Low Low Dark Cold Corner Where Your Heart No Longer Can See / Feel Love. Self Love. The Most Important Love. TELL YOUR "SELF" YOU LOVE IT. TELL IT EVERYDAY. I Love You. We are ONE. We Are Worthy. Don't Give Up FAM.
Thanks for sharing. It needs to be heard so faders know they r not alone, and that they matter to those outside of the cult.
I am so sorry for the loss of such a young life. Daniel was a handsome lovely person. Steve was his best friend. And Lloyd you are awesome to share this voicemail with us here. RIP Daniel. It makes me sick to my stomach what tactics this idiotic cult can do on someone. Damn glad I'm gone. 😩😫 how many lives have been lost to this organization? So sad.
We lost a great one in Austin! Love you, always and forever Danny! And to “Steve”, thanks for sending in the vm - you’re my courageous brother & we love you so much! Same goes for you too, Lloyd! 💔💙❤️🩹♥️
I am so happy that Daniel introduced me to you! I remember when I first heard about you, you were known as "that brother that went crazy and grew a beard". haha. It's funny how triggering beards are to Witnesses.
Thank you for this channel I appreciate the content a lot.
Wow, I met these guys at the same meet up in Austin. I'm at a loss for words
Before I started my comment I looked below to see others comments. There are way to many people just like you and me who have had friends/family succumb to suicide. If you are studying or thinking about studying with Jehovah's witnesses. Read these comments below. The practices this organization employs are dangerous and they have taken to many lives. Steve, I am so sorry for your loss.....
So sorry for your loss, Steve! I'm old enough to have lost a couple of friends, some of them younger than me, to suicide or sudden illness. It just hits so much harder, at least for me, when it's someone who should still be in their healthiest and happiest part of life. Let's remember to love and appreciate one another, every chance we get, because life doesn't leave any guarantees. Thanks for everything you do, Lloyd!
I am 76. I DA'ed myself In 2020. I have grand daughter that is one year old. We live 7 miles apart. I have never seen her. My son in law is an elder. The last time I talked to my daughter I told her if I am still alive I will meet when she is 18 whether they like it or not. Am I the only one who realizes who is really behind this "CULT" ? ? ? If you do not know I will give you his first initial. . .If you were thinking non other than "SATAN" you were absolutely "SPOT ON" ! ! ! :( :( :(
I was also anounced as dissasociated person last year although i have tried to annul my baptism so i could walk out peacefully. "Luckily i have also a mental disease so i was never disfellowshiped for breaking a their rule. But i still maintain normal relationship with my mother who still active in this organization. Long before the announement my mother already knew that i was not happy as a witness.
I believe that too.
Thank you Steve for sharing your story with us viewers. I'm so sorry for the loss of your good friend. Thank you Lloyd for exposing this horrible Jehovah's witness cult.
This breaks my hart ,I'm sorry.
Excellent video ….incredibly well handled
My son did the same thing last year, we are still in disbelief and heartbroken. He was only 21, he was POMO and supported by me and my husband, but we didn’t know he was suffering deep depression from being abused when he was only a little boy. That cult needs to disappear. By the way, my baby’s name was also Daniel 🥺🥺🥺
That's so tragic Ekaterina. It's any parent's worst nightmare. You and your husband have my deepest condolences.
@@LloydEvans
Thank you so much Lloyd, I wasn’t expecting you to reply to my comment. You helped me out a lot on my way out back on 2018, my husband was PIMO for a while until we moved out of town, we are free now but barely enjoying life due to the tragedy. Good thing is that most of my family is out and on his side as well.
I appreciate your hard work.
This really made me cry. Again another one. He was the same age as my oldest child. This is horrible. My condolences to his real friends. Jesus bless you all.
Correction: your friend was a first generation witness -- it's just overlapping, we are all one generation apparently...
Seriously though, sorry for your loss -- don't let it go unnoticed -- I lost a childhood friend in a similar way and make sure I tell every 'worldy' person I can the sick results of this cult ... Get the word out and keep this cult from recruiting any more vulnerable people
❤️
That's hilarious! Oh, we had such good times talking about the overlapping generation! We would even joke that the "overlap-dance generation will be the end of the Genital times". We also used to joke that Jesus REALLY said, "You will know the overlapping generation truth, and the complicated overlapping generation chart will set you free"! Good times.... :>(
So sorry for you loss Steve , thank you for calling lloyd to share this story about your very close freind with all of us, please keep in touch with lloyd he will always be there if you need him .....stay strong so glad you are not in that terrible cult that destroys families....
Another victim of that sinister cult .I'm deeply sorry for the lost of your friend Daniel.
A hard reality of how damaging the witness cult are .. the shunning and heartless way a person can be treated and the results. Lovely tribute Steve and so well handled Lloyd 😢
As an unbaptized teen, my Dad who never was a JW, would make me have 1 on 1 Bible studies with men he never met as a punishment to me for minor disobedience. These same men would speak of my Dad being destroyed for non believing and speak much about masturbation and nocturnal emissions. Age 17 was it for me. Parents divorced, I stayed with my Dad and he couldn't make me go anywhere anymore.
You said it Lloyd , Horrific !
Steve, 💔. We as an exjw community, send you our deepest condolences. So sad you lost your brother n best friend.
The org is horrible!
That was so sad. My condolences to the caller who lost his friend! Thanks for making this video, Lloyd.
two young bro in our cong did the same...
One more life! This is outrageous! Rest in peace, my brother!
My father suicided in 1969 aged 38 when I was aged 8 my big sister Lisa suicided in 1994 aged 36 when I was 33, even though they weren't JWs , I am a 61 yr old dissociated JW and struggle with thoughts of suicide, your channel Lloyd helps me not feel so alone thank goodness for the internet and your channel. Daniel rest in peace. Justin porter ex jw
Stay strong Justin.. Get the necessary support that you need... The story of Daniel is a very sobering one and sadly the world is a poorer place for his loss... But we, the living, must fight on... With you in your fight wherever on this planet you find yourself...
Thank you Ed for your kind reply, I take comfort from posting my videos and sharing my experience of shunning as others have helped me with their videos, Daniel's suicide has motivated me to be more of a activist like my hero Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchins and Lloyd Evans. Rest in peace brother Daniel
Thank you for sharing. I’ve felt so alone and numb. I started sobbing at 3:27 because that’s exactly how I’m thinking.
I’ve been PIMO for a decade and finally tried to tell my parents that I couldn’t do it anymore. They bashed their heads against the wall and threw themselves at my legs. Thankfully I was still able to move out but they’re never going to stop being emotionally manipulative until I give in. I promised that I would still go to meetings because my sibling is still young and active in the congregation.
But they’re still going to look at me like I’m the one destroying the family even though I did my best to be there for them. I often thought of dying because if I pretended to go back to the organization then die as if in an accident, my parents would be less sad.
I don’t know why I’m ranting. I just feel like no one understands why I’m fucked up except for you guys.
I wish for anyone coming across this comment happiness despite the odds.
Much like I’ve vented, I am also here to listen if you want to talk.
What a terrible loss… my sister almost did the same… Thank you Lloyd for your gesture on not monetizzing this video and alowing it to be a honoring moment where the ex-JW community comes together as it always should.
Steve, I'm wrapping your heart in a blanket of warm, loving support. Thank you for reaching out and sharing yours and Daniel's story.
I really wish to sue the organization for my rape and my daughter's rape which elders did not do anything and refused to give a statement which may given the case a heavier weight because my ex husband was drugging and raping our biological daughter and myself. They refused to give a statement of his confession because they South African branch ordered the coordinating elder not to give the statement.
In South Africa, there are more and more cases which elders failed to act on. One elder has raped 6 children and his case is ongoing in a South African court right now.
The part that breaks my heart the most is that he thought his Dad would prefer him to be dead, so his Dad could have the hope of the resurrection. That hit me hard, how the JWs are some caught up in their fantasy of the new world that they stop caring about what is happening in life now. To the point where they convey that they would rather someone die than have a fulfilling life outside the JWs. My parents, my Dad specifically, have said this about people. “It would almost be better if that person just died, so that their family could see them again in the new system.” I have no doubt he has said that about me. That breaks my heart, how little value they place on human life and on the mental well-being of those who leave. I knew this was a thing, but this story really hit home for me in that regard.
Steve, I am so sorry for your loss and for the loss to our community. What a beautiful human being Daniel was. ❤
RIP, same age like me 40. I have also tried killed myself. So been there. Hapily I met one person online who saved me. I dont think I would be here without him.
Thank you for this lloyd. I know you suffer yourself . Thank you for covering this .💔 . We need to remember ways to be kind . I'm so sorry to hear of these ones taking their lives .
I've never been a JW but this story is utterly heartbreaking. The JW cult literally has blood on its collective hands.
A jw mother stabbed her infant son & pulled out his intestines, she said she saw the devil in her son. This happened 3 days after she saw Lett's infamous speech (babies are enemies of God.) jw cult has an ocean of blood on their hands.
Thank you for sharing Steve. Best wishes to you and every non-JWs lives this has touched. This really hits home in a big way. RIP Daniel 💔
I’m so very sorry to hear of Daniel’s passing. This is a truly heartbreaking loss that resonates so deeply, even though I’ve never met him. I send my love and strength out to you in your grief. I’m so very sorry that your dear friend has died.
Lloyd, I’m truly grateful for all that you and other exJW activists do. While Daniel’s life was cut short by this evil cult’s manipulation, I have absolutely no doubt that what you and other exJW YT channels and support groups have done is save countless other lives that could’ve otherwise been lost to the hopelessness so many of us have felt when we left or woke up. Just allowing ourselves to wonder for a split second if we might have another life beyond the mental hell-scape of being a JW can be the same split second a person decides to keep trying … to take a deep breath and hold on just a little longer. Your videos have probably afforded many people these split-seconds of possibility, Lloyd.
Thanks you for making this video a remembrance of Daniel. May he Rest In Peace.
This video only infuriates me more to think about the stupid Ex-JW Community infighting. Let's concentrate on what is essential, mainly to help others free themselves from the grasp of this malignant cult. Keep up the excellent work, Lloyd.
The organization is so blood guilty. My heart goes out to Steve. We are all brothers. I love you Steve. I love you Lloyd. I love you all.
I went to the same hall as Daniel. I got out of the congregation before he did and we ended up bumping into each other through mutual friends once he was out too. We shared an incredible friendship together, all of his friends loved him so much. We shared so many similar interests, he was such a talented smart person and he loved life. It’s difficult to believe he’s not here anymore. Love you so much Danny, we all miss you ❤️
Always seek help, if at least get an appointment with your doctor, who can refer you.
This is more than heartbreaking.. I feel this way everyday but it hurts even more knowing when others do too. Rest In Peace, Daniel.
My Mother Believes that she is one of the anointed so you can imagine how our relationship is. At the point in this video where he says that his father would rather him dead now because of the resurrection hope instead of dying at the hand of Jehovah at Armageddon really stuck out to me. Back in 2016 I permanently left. Went through a divorce where my ex husband insisted on our daughter live with him. I had no support and no money for a lawyer and we agreed to 50/50 parenting. of course that didnt work out and he made it very difficult for my daughter and I to have any kind of relationship. At the age of 12 she came out as Bi and he without hesitation kicked her out, because I live in another part of our province my jw parents agreed to take her in since she waned to finish school there. A couple weeks ago she was asked to paint pride flags to have displayed in the city art gallery. My parents tried guilting her saying that if she loved them she wouldn't do it. She kindly refused and said her love for them has nothing to do with her art. They kicked her out. My mother has nothing to do with any of her kids including me.... AND then they play the victim. Im still Shaken and upset.
Rip good sir
Condolences to Daniel true friends
I want to call and text a crisis line. But how do I know police won't get called on me to make my life worse?
My heart goes out to you 🧡I hope sharing your story can help bring you healing.
So sad. I’m very sorry for his lost. I’m so happy I’m woke, I spoke with my 84 yr old grandmother last night and she has been a witness for over 40years… she said to me “the whole GB is a lie and she’s tired of it” I wish everyone can wake up!
When someone tells elders they are deeply depressed the solution elders frequently come up with is doing more work for the organization. When that fails unfortunately sometimes elders question a persons relationship with God. This and other suggestions by elders can cause a person on the edge to commit suicide. I know a brother on disability with multiple issues and on multiple medications. Which was well known by everyone. This brother was derided in front of other brothers for not being a servant after being in the congregation for a number of years as was said in front of others. The brother that derided him knew this brother had to leave his job to go on disability. I have seen elders deride brothers that are on anti depressants but are not ministerial servants . WhenI brought to there attention the ant depressants the elders already knew but continued to deride those brothers !
If you are a JW apologists how do you explain these things. I know two brothers that committed suicide after being brow beaten for not doing more for the organization. One brother I know was a Ministerial Servant. I doubt there was an investigation by the organization on these matters because these things continue to happen. I believe the organization prefers suicides rather than risking people working less for the organization. I have repeatedly said working for the organization because if there is a God I doubt that God is that disconnected and that callous with the well being of others. Could God possibly be that unloving ?
@ Jim Mcheming no Jehovah isn’t that unloving it’s those 8 men in New York that are unloving.. so dang Sad
@@symone3113 Thank you
It wasn't until later in life did I notice the high number of suicides in the org. Just goes to show what cults do. I never did get to the point where I was close to suicide but I did spend many years not caring to live anymore, many abuse drugs which I did for awhile also. Please get help if you can to get away from these sick frauds.
The sad thing is that JWs will just say he was troubled bc he wasn’t praying or attending meetings. And he was reading apostate material. I used to cringe when I heard bs like this!! Steve, so very sorry for your loss.
This is so tragic. I know of a JW who took her life ( 4 grown up sons and her husband an elder ) and she was 3rd or 4th generation witness . My guess is she was awake but knew if she left all her family including her son's who she adored would shun her . I keep hearing the Elton John song 'Daniel' after hearing this voicemail from Steve 😔
I grew up with emotionally abusive parents and I got pushed over the edge as a young woman . That truly is hell to experience. You have my condolences on your friend .
So sad.
Heartbreaking. Thank you for sharing his beautiful pictures. RIP Daniel 😪
I was born 6 days after Daniel in the same year. This is terrible to see.
This video is upsetting. But it's an important message. My thoughts are with you, Steve. Rest in peace, Daniel.
Horrible situation cults put people in, the pressure is a heavy heavy on ones soul..
Pray for his Soul. 😢
Wow this is so tragically heartbreaking 💔
This is so very sad. Over the years I have known a number of people who have committed suicide because of this horrible religion. I am so sorry for Steve having to lose his best friend in such a tragic way. 🥰❤️🌻
Iv struggled on and off with suicidal thoughts since being disfellowshiped 5 years ago. Its hard because there is no clean out, no loop holes out of Jehovahs witnesses. My family is damaged beyond repair. We will never be the same. All the lost family and lost friendships. The abuse Iv suffered. I struggle with ptsd everyday because of JWs cruel treatment. Sometimes it gets too much to bare.
I can imagine with the issues that someone like Daniel is facing, their JW loved ones might say something like, "You see what looking at apostate information does to you. It makes you doubt your faith and then you become depressed, and it just confuses you." A JW might blame their loved one wanting to end their own life on their loved one's apostasy. I think that the JWs' doctrine on an eventual future resurrection can be potentially dangerous to one who is dealing with suicidal thoughts. For example, a suicidal Witness might believe that "If I end my own life, at least Jehovah might resurrect me after Armageddon. He knows that I'm not in the right state of mind." That kind of thinking is dangerous. It could lead one to devalue their place in this life.
I would agree with Lloyd and Steve -- if you are able to do so as one who might be dealing with mental health issues and feel that you aren't able to cope with these issues, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional.
Yes, that is exactly the point. The future resurrection promise is a dangerous ingredient for someone vulnerable to suicidal thoughts and combined with alienation and ostracism from his own family.
@@stevesinclair3835 ,
I agree. Thanks for your response, Steve. Feelings of suicidality and religiously enforced social ostracization is a dangerous combination. Add the claims of a future resurrection which one cannot truly guarantee into the mix, and all one ends up with is a recipe for disaster.
I am going through this right in this moment but for me I have no friends to call I was born into this and as many know how we are isolated and never really form any bounds or friendship outside this religion it saddens me even more that when I look in my phone I have no one in there to call other than my mom which is the main cause of my mental state at this moment I’m such a coward I sat in my car twice today and couldn’t get the courage to do it I just want the pain to end so bad so bad I pretty sure no one will see this
Don’t do nothing desperate mate, I was in for 27yrs. Your not alone ! I’m just glad a left 2yrs ago I was really bummed out but I realized I left the indoctrination , not God ! May the Christ give you peace with in you! Remember God is love don’t ever put your trust in man
Truly heartbreaking 💔 video Lloyd. More has to be done to HELP these people. I’m thinking of an “International Commission” to look into suicides caused be religious extremism and the same for child abuse; also domestic abuse/violence. Again eye opening video and tragic.
My heart goes out the caller and to Daniel. My anger is with the fact that after contributing to Daniel's suicide, his father had the audacity to give him the last thing he could have possibly wanted: a jw funeral! I lost my brother to suicide in 2007. I truly know that pain.
Какой ужас😢
Heartbreaking
I,M. SO. SORRY. GOD REST. HIS. SOUL
To the JW who watch this video
I am curious. How did you come across this video?
Do you have a little bit doubt deep down?
this is very sad. people out here dealing with mental illness for one reason the other and they need help. my condolences to this man.
Jesus looks at a person's heart condition.
Heartfelt
No one can judge anyone, the TRUTH is if anyone is abused or judged it makes you lose your joy, even being single your judged, when you dnt do anything, if you meet a good person and the family are great then it is good for a family to grow safe and enjoy peace, not everything is perfect, issues come up, but there should be none if there is no judgement or hurtful things, alchoholic and womanizer types should strip off the qualities, liers and manipulators reap what they sow in due time... gossip about private things behind others is TOXIC, no one is a police officer, each person is who decided to get baptized and walk the path, if they chsnge themselves it's the person who decided to change or leave, we live in a free country, this is why we are in america, home of the land of the free and the brave..jeh god see it all, what happens in the dark will come out to the light, you do good you reap good, you do harm or judge others or gossip, your a busy body, 😮 in others affairs....Trust is lost, forgive but DNT be fooled...