10 ways you are worse off as a Jehovah's Witness

(Cedars' vlog no. 172) In this video I scrutinise the words of Governing Body helper William Malenfant in a video recently uploaded to JW Broadcasting ("Sacrifice With a Willing Attitude") in which the claim is made that nothing Jehovah's requires of his worshippers is bad or harmful to them. I respond with my list of 10 ways in which becoming a Jehovah's Witness will leave you worse off.
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[@archangel5627]

I needed a blood transfusion when I was born and luckily for me, my father decided to save my life by going against Watchtower Bible doctrine and gave me a blood transfusion. My father, mother, and myself were looked down upon in our congregation because of that. We eventually left and never looked back.

[@Jamisonurquhartshirley23]

You saw the light, I for one cannot believe these ppl are a tax exempt religion...tax exempt...see the blokes in your hall, check their bank accounts out...there's a rigid hirachy n its wicked

[@SonicGamerGirl2006]

I'm SO glad your parents are able to save you, even if it came at a hefty cost for your parents. Thank goodness you're here! 😊😁💙

[@eltonjohntributedeantorkin197]

They are all a sack if shit!

[@truthseeker-jwnightmares4351]

I was born into the JW Cult. I remember as a child, I used to lay awake in fear thinking that Armageddon was coming and I was not a good enough person. I would dig out the cuticles from my thumbs as a nervous tick. Now that I am a full grown man and totally awake from the cult, I still notice very strange fears and social difficulties.... Leaving the Organization was the best thing I have ever done, it was a terrible way to live.

[@truthseeker-jwnightmares4351]

Peter Smallwood, Yes actually it does change it.... It is for man to die and be judged. The bible backs that up, look around and the evidence backs that up as well. The Generation of 1914 is DEAD, the "Millions now living" have all died, the Governing Body have been exposed in public testimony under oath at the Australian Royal Commission for covering over an epidemic of child molestation. Jeffery Jackson of the GB admitted that the Society was NOT GOD"S ONLY CHANNEL OF COMUNICATION or ONLY TRUE RELIGION. The Watchtower Organization joined the UNITED NATIONS in 1992..... They have been exposed owning stock in military weapon manufacturers and cigarettes.... Sorry Peter, they are not "The Truth." They taught you lies.... Is the event at the place called Armageddon going to happen? It never came in 1914, 1925, 1975 nor before the generation of 1914 passed away... If it comes I have no fear because I have faith in Jesus Christ. But really, I just live every day and enjoy my life as Jesus Recommended. I accept the free gift of salvation based on faith and grace as promised in Ephesians 2:8. I dwell in peace and joy and love since I turned my back on Jehovah's false religion and it's false teachings.

[@truthseeker-jwnightmares4351]

Peter Smallwood, The generation of 1914 would have to be 120+ and a quick Google search will show you the oldest living person 117 as of today. Take a look around Peter, most people die in their 70's and 80's. Come on Peter... Wake up........ And the millions now living were promised by your "Faithful and Discreet Slave" that they would NEVER DIE. Peter, that is a FALSE PROPHACY no matter how you try to dance around it.

[@truthseeker-jwnightmares4351]

Peter Smallwood, Do you fill out time card and turn them in to your field overseer? Do you submit to organizational requirements such as not growing a beard or getting tattoos? If your own family was disfellowshiped by the Organization would you not uphold that arrangement? You can lie to me Peter but don't lie to yourself... You are a slave of the Governing Body; you will do as you are told by them and you will think what they tell you to think. Those are the facts. In fact I challenge you to go tell your elder body that you don't serve the Governing Body and see what happens to you.

[@imlamar2011]

I seek the truth too somewhere I read that the 144.000 are virgins I been scared of the end forever thinking I would be fuel for the 🔥

[@imlamar2011]

You can't grow a beard thats what kinda threw me off

[@MinhPlus2]

I used to study and attend meetings regularly, working towards becoming a door knocker and eventually being baptized, and your post are incredibly eye opening and have helped me make the decision to walk away from this religion. They guilt and pressure you so much to believe your life, if not as a witness, is so bad and wicked... kudos to your videos!

[@Joe-rw3vt]

Hi there 😉 Go Raptors Go.

[@mandyg5747]

Don't walk away from Jehovah or His Son - serve Him and do what the Bible tells you to not what any religion or organisation tells you but do not turn your back on Jehovah because of what this man is saying. He is not up to date on many things. I fear for new ones as I do not think that they are taught the scriptures as deeply as in the past or given the grounding that I have. I cannot go to meetings now because of illness due to abuse but that does not weaken my faith but then my faith has never been solely in the organisation. 2 meetings a week is too much for me - you should have been around when it was 3! And you can talk to people about Jehovah and Jesus without going from door to door. Many ways to tell people the good news. Don't give up on your faith not matter what silly rules they try to place on you. We can only feel pressured if we let it make us feel that way. Difficult I know but living without my Friend Jehovah would be unbearable in this world. No where is safe. and BTW most religions put pressure on you into doing more and more etc.. I know I have been to other churches and meeting place and have to marvel at the faith of the attendees going week after week listening to boring talks that hardly mention the bible. At least at the KH you actually learn things not as deep as it used to be but still better than the average church and that is just my observation not what I have been told.

[@mandyg5747]

@Adriel Ramos Its not a cult - just a religious organisation that has some stupid man made rules just like any other! What we must all do is read and check our bibles just as the Apostle Paul commended the ancient Boreans for doing. Once you quote your Bible no one can condemn you or argue against it but you have to KNOW it first. Pray and all will be revealed. So much scare mongering on here that it is laughable. I know I have been in the centre of the congregation and on the edges looking in. Going to meetings or any church for that matter will not save you - that is a man made belief. Only FAITH in the One True God and the Ransom Sacrifice of His Son Jesus Christ is what will save anyone.

[@williamlevy6964]

but it's the truth. You're just too weak to uphold a holy lifestyle.

[@jeongin6024]

You were so close guys this is not a cult please believe me i am one

[@Kamille721]

My JW grandmother died from a simple bleeding ulcer because she refused a blood transfusion. It was painful to watch her slip away knowing the fix was readily available and easily administered.

[@stubbieholder1117]

Well thank goodness she has the hope of the resurrection, hope your there to welcome her back Kamille :-D

[@randallgay706]

Kamille Stich read the bible. about blood

[@deepblack2193]

Why wasn't she offered iron infusion by the hospital?

[@onetravlnnurse]

@@deepblack2193 What the heck will iron do if you need blood!

[@deepblack2193]

@@onetravlnnurse its used to reduce chances of needing a blood transfusion nowadays to boost youre level of red blood cells because Blood transfusion is not the medical professional's first choice anymore if u looked it up you would know. In my third child birth I had it

[@ponyyonder1959]

Nice One, Lloyd. Thank-you. Try being a 65-year-old woman who wakes-up and leaves. Uh... I have no husband. He left me years ago. Children shun me and grandchildren do not know me. I haven't worked gainfully anywhere. I was active in ministry and Home-schooled 5 children. 35 years of lies. I have nothing and no-one, but, I am free of the insanity. I will heal and may have a few years to enjoy life not being micromanaged.

[@brandinmaxwell2334]

PonyYonder no that's not true if u dont know who Jehovah is ur not gonna die stupid head

[@ponyyonder1959]

Thank-you, Dear Kayla.

[@shannonm.4087]

I will pray for you. You sound like a very brave,intelligent, and open minded woman. You have alot to offer the world, please don't forget that!!

[@janetreece475]

You will be fine, my life is similar but I keep positive. these fools are crazy ,you cannot have a decent conversation with them, they are in la la land. everything is scripted if you have a death in the family they have a scripture ready and walk away. putting it mildly robots. you cant have friends at all the whole bunch is bananas I would rather be dead than be in paradise with them, but wait being with them would be like being in HELL! NUTT CASES!

[@farmerfennell9817]

Stay strong mom...we are here for you

[@MsTuliplady]

Raised in the cult. Left at 17, 21 years ago. Fantastic video. Much applause to you. Agree with every point.

[@Jamisonurquhartshirley23]

Well done brother...

[@bsublime8416]

No one realizes the constant self deprecation a past Witness deals with when leaving “the truth”. I watched this video out of curiosity, I thought I was over the guilt my family inflicted upon me for hurting them by leaving. I really REALLY appreciate the time and effort put into this video, it’s nice not to feel alone in being ostracized.

[@RevengeOfTheEmpath]

“Why wouldn’t we want to offer sacrifices to our great God?” It’s so cultish I can’t even...

[@colinjava8447]

What would god do with a dead goat or dead person anyway, if god can make 2,000,000,000,000 galaxies I don't think he wants a dead goat.

[@covertfade5867]

I do hope that any Jehovah's Witnesses who wish to comment on this video remember that they will need to actually present facts and arguments to support their case: insulting Lloyd and just ranting about Jehovah being awesome will just make you look like crazy fanatics. If you're really in the True Religion, give us the facts that prove it. If Lloyd is lying or incorrect, give us the facts that prove it. If all you can do is throw insults, that tells us something about the strength of your argument.

[@covertfade5867]

Surely facts and evidence are the things that help you decide if those kind of religious claims are correct, yes? Thus, if someone wants to make those claims, they need to provide evidence if they want to convince others?

[@covertfade5867]

I think we may be at an impasse here.

[@georgetheracistkid5424]

Come the the kingdom hall you'll see

[@magikfrog2]

Covert Fade I agree with what you are saying. However, there is so much context Lloyd has brought up in this video. It’s a lot easier for you to research for yourself. I’ve done my research.

[@barbarahedges1791]

They can't. They can show you a few scriptures taken out of context to try and prove their men are the chosen. Gee, God said the Jews are his chosen people, made them promises and he doesn't break a promise.

[@saffronhammer7714]

Wicked Person = non-JW (WTS definition)

[@karlaherrera2671]

I was raised a JW, after high-school I was not allowed to go to college even though I had the grades and determination to go. My parents did not allow me to as "Jehovah didn't want me to go" so instead of getting a degree I was pioneering. I was so unhappy. Now that I'm out and free I'm trying so hard to get my degree. 8 years later.

[@amircoolboy100]

Wow! Im lucky to suspecting this religion/cult from little age.. Instead of you I would go to study, if that's what you wanted in the first place.

[@joelmontsdeoca3414]

I used to be a Mormon and they would use the exact same tactics of control. It resulted in me having a life long Identity crisis.

[@khriskingtv4494]

Thank you !!!!!! Being a teenager I soon hope to get of this cult. I have had detrimental experiences and appreciate you enlightening my consciousness.

[@LloydEvans]

Good luck Christian! You are very lucky for figuring it out early in life! :)

[@didineanatol5949]

Go far away for college and don't look back

[@jordangardner5965]

Free yourself as soon as possible. Don't let those people stifle your personal growth. I have been there and done that. Once you are free you won't regret it.

[@khriskingtv4494]

+Jordan Gardner Thank you its a pain dealing with people who "claim" to know god , but in reality are hypocrites, but I am keeping my distance until I graduate.

[@khriskingtv4494]

+Jordan Gardner Yes I really want to be free so bad and it seems like the people I am around try fill your mind with negative thoughts making a mental slave. I hope I could find God elsewhere but there

[@agrant5697]

Thank you for these videos. I dated a JW for 2 years and he caused alot of trauma with his abusive behavior. He is born JW and doesn't believe anything else When I left him, I decided to learn about the practice so I can understand him better and have a level of empathy for him. These videos have helped me heal from the relationship because good God he did not have the tools to treat a woman respectfully and grew up in a fucking cult. I feel some male JW use the practice to be misogynistic in the name of Jahovah. Keep up the wonderful work. Thank you sir

[@lydiatownsend7789]

I agree that the doomsday outlook affects you in more ways than one way... It makes you view life as almost worthless, making things better is worthless, including all other activities. It's a depressing outlook. My parents always think the news is terrible and it's a sign the end is near.. It's unbearable.

[@1chadmon]

I am so glad to have found your videos. I have been disfellowshipped since 2006. People who haven’t been in the cult cannot truly understand the dynamics. It is a comfort to listen to you.

[@jordanhalkier81]

Very good video, I was never brought up in the religion but my mum converted and got baptised in 2007 and she is still a Jehovah Witness now. I started to study with them and I became an unbaptised publisher but I was secretly a gay man so I knew that they didn't agree with homosexuality and I was hiding it from my mum who didn't accept it and that made me feel shameful and scared about what my mums reaction would be if I came out. I got onto the second bible book and I just had to stop my study because I didn't like the man who I was studying with, he became very annoyed and angry when I didn't fully understand something that we were reading and I literally felt scared to go to his house to study with him and the other reason was because of my sexuality. Now I am out to my mum and of course she doesn't accept the gay lifestyle but I can live my life as a gay man and be happy. I have to say that I feel so sorry for the ones who are gay in the organisation who don't have a choice to live the life that they want and to be who they are. It really infuriates me when people in the organisation say that they choose to be celibate and to not experience love with someone. No one would choose a life like that and it's not like any of the outcomes are good and I actually said that to my mum once and she literally had nothing to say. The child abuse cover ups for me was the light bulb moment that I realised that this isn't the true religion and it's sad that the people in the organisation don't know about what the governing body are hiding and they are clueless about what happens behind closed doors.

[@jordanhalkier81]

Bernadette Kennedy I know my own mind and I don't need anyone to confuse me into what I think about Jehovah Witnesses and their doctrine.

[@jordanhalkier81]

Peter Smallwood I think you need to go and see someone because Satan didn't tell me that I was gay, it was something that I realised once I got into my teenage years and if you are one of Jehovah Witnesses then why are you watching John's channel when he isn't a Jehovah Witness anymore. It's called apostate material and Jehovah God would want people to be less judgemental and less ignorant, you obviously need to be told about that because you certainly don't have love in your heart, it's hatred. Can I just say that Jehovah Witnesses have been preaching about Armageddon for over 100 years now, and still they are preaching about this new world. Don't you think that Jehovah Witnesses are just a religion who breaks promises every time. I probably have more chance on winning the lottery that's how unlikely that Armageddon will come.

[@carlisroy6666]

Peter Smallwood You sound just like a Pharisee.

[@owl2944]

Peter Smallwood keep your fucked up opinion to yourself you crazed bigot.

[@franmorrison1080]

Jesus choose that life of celibacy , but never imposed it on anyone else, it is a choice

[@jeremystangness1592]

I was raised in "the truth" but was never pressured into baptism (Praise Jah) so I still have a relationship with my family. My Aunts are quite devout, in fact one is a missionary in Namibia, and the other one recently asked me if I ever watch the online material. I told her yes, I like to keep up with what is coming out of the organization. She was pleased as they take this to mean I still have the " right heart condition" and given the right circumstances I will come running back to "the truth". In reality, every time I watch or read some new JW material it strongly reinforces in me the conviction that I do not belong there. I feel this so strongly that at times I even allow myself to imagine the situation that everything the organization has ever said was true, and when Armageddon comes I will be destroyed along with all the wicked if I do not repent and return to the safety of "Jehovah's Organization". Even if this is in fact the case, I would rather face eternal non existence than live forever in a world filled with people incapable of independent, creative thought. Of course most Witnesses are incapable of believing that anyone who has been raised in "the truth" will not at some point have an awaking to the inescapable fact that it is The Truth, and come running back to Papa.

[@hansjuergenkohlhaas871]

Papa don't preach (Madonna)

[@lindelwanothandongcobo8863]

It's not the truth

[@sourcedrop7624]

Having a robust education really allows a person to grow and contribute to society, and growth and contribution are basic human needs which allow a person to feel fulfilled.

[@meandyou2469]

I was involved in that evil teaching. My friend got me in it. He was in college to do something with his life, but the elders discourage him because the END of was at hand. He dropped out of school and went door to door then he got out of that cult. He went to depression no school no real job now he's sick and that cult is the blame for his failure today. Its sad anymore going into it please help them not to get involved, they are very destructing.

[@claytonbenignus4688]

Are there any Ex-JW support groups? That would be a good video.

[@t_m_420]

I 100% agree with you! I remember being an unbaptized publisher and constantly felt like the world could end any minute and I would have vivid nightmares of Armageddon. Being in the organisation also gave me a false view of non-jehovah's Witnesses and I thought if I made friends with anyone in school or college who were non-believers I could endanger my chance of surviving Armageddon and I would upset God. Now, I live my life quite contently and freely. I feel at peace with myself and the world. I no longer view the people around me as future leftover corpses at Armageddon, I view them as I view myself- a human being. I have left the JW's for over a year now and I can honestly say I have made the right choice for me, even though at times, at the back of my mind I think "what if they are right?", but that's because it has taken so long to adjust my mind set and focus on the present and how I live my life now, instead of being in a constant state of worrying about the future and fearing for my life & others lives.

[@t_m_420]

Bernadette Kennedy I completely respect your beliefs and I am, in no way trying to belittle them, I am glad that you have found peace in the Bible and with your relationship with God, however for me personally, I have found peace in the essence of people, mediation and remembering that I am just like anyone else on this planet, I'm not separate from the world because we all contribute to the world and depend on each other. Not in a financial way, although there is that aspect, but I mean in the way that is simular to the ying yang symbol, two contrasting colours, always being interdependent on each other. You cannot have self, without other, you can't have darkness without light and so on. It reminds me that whether I'm aware of it or not, I have an impact on the world and what I say and do, attracts what happens in my life, just as much as anyone else, therefore I try my best to be a positive person and view negative experiences as learning curves. Sorry for my rambling and thank you for you time! Have a good day! ☺

[@krissi_sue4861]

Lost In Wonderland Wow! That sounds exactly like a comment I would write. I was a unbaptised publisher,too. I viewed everyone, who wasn't a JW as a future corpse too, had nightmares and daydreams about Armageddon and a constant sinking feeling in my stomach, when I heard about a earthquake or a tsunami in the news. I thought: "That's it! Armageddon is coming any minute now!" I left the organisation 3 years ago. I'm mostly at peace with myself, my emotions and with the people around me now. I met a lot of lovely people "in the world" once I opened up and stopped shoving them aside because they're "wordly". They are humans. Just like you and me. I still have occasional nightmares about satan, demons and Armageddon. Tonight was such a night for example. But that's a sideeffect of constant indoctrination and fear since early childhood. Stay strong and positive! :) Your life is beautyful as it is. You don't have to wait for a "paradise" to be happy. It took a lot of courage from you to leave and make your own choices, and I admire that. Have a nice day!

[@t_m_420]

Krissi_Sue I'm so sorry you had to go through that, I'm also glad you can relate to my story. Thank you so much for your encouraging words! it really hit home what you said. I felt the exact same way! I think when you're told to see the outside world as a massacre filed, you almost have to view "worldy people" as just the wicked ones who's corpses will be left for Armageddon in order to become emotionally detached from them and as horrible as that sounds, it's a real thing when you're a JW or in the organisation. I am so glad you have found wonderful people outside the religion who uplift you and encourage you to be yourself. I have found a great group of friends too, who I wouldn't have met if I was still in the JW religion. I am almost 20 years old now and to be honest, I'm glad I hadn't spent most of my life in the religion and am now free to make my own choices but the after-affects are still there too, simular to what you mentioned. I'm still working on myself and still building my confidence to trust in myself and deal with certain issues and I really hope you can move past the after-affects of the organisation too and be fully clear of them! Thank you so much for your comment and I hope you have a nice day too!

[@t_m_420]

Bernadette Kennedy Haha, thank you! It is nice to have a conversation without unnecessary insults or conflict, just two different opinions that are respected.

[@stellaorvad2519]

Lost In Wonderland May I say Welcome Home Friend xxxx

[@rawlyroo5975]

My little friend died at 4 years old after he was injured when a car hit him and his parents refused blood, This level of legalism is extremely unhelpful .

[@dopeanimemind7049]

Peter Smallwood huh??

[@kennyshortcake999]

In England the child would be made a ward of court and medically treated against the JW parents wishes, thank goodness.

[@ogenmatic]

My tipping point was the weekly bible reading following the Taliban killing 100+ kids in a school in Pakistan (Dec 2014). One of the points brought out by a brothers talk was the strength of god as evidenced by a single angel killing 185,000 in one night. It made me put the power of god through death in true human terms. It made me realize that taking the bible in literal terms meant that god was responsible for some horrific destruction and sure has similar plans for the future. Thanks for your posts. Always keeps my decision to walk away in perspective.

[@mandyg5747]

God was not responsible for the Taliban killing all those poor children - the Taliban were. Knowing the power of one angel makes me feel safe because it means that God certainly has the power to bring justice to those who do evil deeds like this. Those Assyrians were soldiers who were going into battle against the Israelites. Do you know how cruel they were to their captives? They put peoples eyes out and cut of their noses and ears. Jehovah saved his people from that fate. Wars in recent years are just as terrible and cruel if not worse than those Assyrians. I am glad that God is not a pacifist but will bring justice. Plus don't forget that God can bring back to life all those who have died so dont be afraid for the future. I am sorry that you took it the other way. I am grateful for the resurrection and a chance to live in a peaceful world. True - I did not relish being there with some of the JWs that I know as some really do need to raise their vibration and learn how to look after the planet etc but since Jehovah has promised that all will be safe then I will not have to worry about them taking longer to sort themselves out. I can understand you walking away from the organisation but not Jehovah Himself. Don't get me wrong - I have not been properly for years due to ill health and I actually hate organised religion. No religion seems to be able to get it right or protect everyone as there are always bad people who hide behind a mask of goodness but living without my Heavenly Father - that I cannot do.

[@petyrbaelish1718]

How many other witnesses here used to have their dad's make up pretend/simulation 'manner' and serve it for breakfast while reading the days text or eat it for desert in the evening? I remember it like yesterday. It was like rice pudding. Had that stuff at least 5 times a week when I was about 11. We would even sit around the table pretending that we were Israelites in the wilderness, holding hands, and went through a spell of dressing up in traditional biblical clothing. We did this on Friday nights. We also often sang bible songs at the table while eating the 'manner in the evenings'. The reason we did this was because my dad was convinced he would need to feed the organisation with manner in the 'new system' that was imminent and wanted to be prepared. Nuts, right? My family even had an emergency medical kit in the house on standby for the impending 'end'. I remember asking my parents about it and they said we needed the medical kit because we don't know if the world will end tomorrow or not, and that we needed to be prepared. I even remember going to the house of another JW family and seeing their doomsday medical kit, discussing it and comparing who's was better, with my dad and their dad laughing about it for ages. Our congregation was obsessed with these medical kits. And most insane of all... I remember a 4-5 year old boy at my kingdom hall submitting a track sheet with 35 hours of weekly door to door service. How he fitted all that in alongside school was beyond me, but I know he used to go out door to door after school for a few hours each evening and went out knocking all day Saturday and all day on Sunday after the meeting. His parents would submit 60 hours a week, put it that way. 24/7 witnessing basically. That isn't even the insane part. The insane part was that boy then getting baptised at the age of 8. He was even giving talks on the platform each week by 10 as well. Indoctrinated was an understatement!

[@lindelwanothandongcobo8863]

Very very sad but don't worry that boy will be part of our squad one day

[@mandyg5747]

That is absolutely crazy. I heard about these emergency kits from my mum and she and i both laughed at the ludicrousness of it. If you say that you rely on Jehovah and trust Him to save you, why would you do this kind of thing? Isn't that the opposite of faith? Sorry that your dad was like this. It is nuts. Children getting baptised is foolish too. Jesus was 30. I was 18 when I got baptised. It was too young but I do not regret dedicating my life to Jehovah at all, but then I am only serving Him and His Son Jesus - no one else nor any organisation. Sadly not many have this view. Maybe I am just awkward and of the view do not tell me what to do! I know what is in the Bible and if what you are telling me aint it then mind your own business. Ha Ha...

[@ellenorbjornsdottir1166]

Manna*

[@angiemayxo]

i grew up as a JW, stopped being one when i was a teenager. thank you for your video, found it very interesting.

[@codyb8238]

I need to hear you on the Joe Rogan Experience. Thank you for this.

[@marciathehooligan3861]

Even when I started "studying"i was asked "but is he REALLY your friend"? My ex boyfriend was having heart surgery and he needed me and they expected me to write him off

[@williamgarrido6814]

When I left, they would stop in front of house and stare me down very cult like

[@ziggylaurie2268]

Probably envious

[@pansepot1490]

My mom hates the guts of Jehovah Witnesses, not the people, the cult. I was inclined to think her aversion was exaggerated but now I have reconsidered my position. Thanks for the insights.

[@dizzydarling4215]

Lloyd I studied with the JW's for 10 years. Went to numerous events and met alot of followers. I really enjoyed learning about the Bible which was my aim in all of it. As a dejected Catholic I was bereft of it. I was never invited to be baptised. I was always questioning their ideas. Overall I didnt suffer any adverse effects but I did feel rejected by them as I liked discussing issues with them, in particular one woman who was very giving in her time with me. In the end she gave up on me - I was too much work for little return. Still I go to the Hall for meetings when it occurs to me that I could do with some cong time. I pray to Jehovah all the time. I havent lost that connection. I really enjoyed listening to you speak about the Mosaic law as we both know that law is long dead. When Jesus arrived that law became obsolete. The explanation of how it all comes together and what is Gods will and what has been replaced is mixed up in their teachings. To read from Psalms and take it literally like the reader in the video you showed does highlights the degree to which you simply must take out of it what you can and leave the rest. I was never baptised. I'm glad I wasnt because I wasnt prepared to go All In. I'm one of the goats, apparently. They are the Sheep.

[@donotknow_35.]

I left over 20 years ago. I always questioned everything about their teachings was deemed as a trouble maker. I was harassed by alot of the members. I was broke and almost ended up homeless.

[@sarahdean5088]

I feel so sorry for the kid's who are dragged round by their parent's to knock on doors. the last Jehovah's Witness lady that knocked on mine had her teenage son with her, now I find out that nice polite lad can't even have a wank let alone get life saving treatment. What a shame!

[@boopityleyna]

Lloyd, thank you for your posts. I've been out for almost 4 years and I am happier than I've ever been. I only wish that I could show your perspective to my family and former friends. I truly feel sorry for them.

[@moniquedelaney7958]

Now, this is what I call ‘ calling a spade a spade ‘ . Well done !

[@amandamorrow324]

I've heard few arguments on religion so methodically and eloquently presented. Thank you.

[@belleashleigh]

My very first questioning of jw teachings was asking my mom why our neighbor's daughter (only girl my age in our rural neighborhood) and her family would die in Armageddon. I said "they believe in God (they are baptists) and are nicer than some witnesses I know". She said I could be friends with her and she agreed with me that maybe not all the "nice people" wouldn't die at Armageddon. But she also told me I couldn't tell our jw fiends about that. Also, my brother, who was an elder at the time, told me straight to my face that "dinosaurs were made up by scientists who want to prove there's no god". 😡😡

[@BigMikePlays]

belleashleigh lol geez

[@laceya85]

belleashleigh I think it is so crazy how EVERYONE JW says shhh don't tell the other witnesses that... my step children are told this by their jw mother a lot!!

[@LloydEvans]

I respect your mom for allowing her humanity to shine through, but it says a lot about the religion you've been born into that you are to keep your true views and opinions quiet and outwardly embrace the official doctrine. It perfectly highlights the level of control.

[@belleashleigh]

John Cedars - thanks for that. She was the best mom ever. I realize now, as an awake adult, how much trouble she could have gotten in for the things she taught my brothers and I as kids - she was very "peace & love" from the 60s onward. She downplayed it around the jws because it was definitely unpopular back then! She just wanted to believe so badly that there was "something" else out there and just couldn't let go of what she thought the religion was all about, even after she found out it wasn't. I hope that makes sense. Anyway, she saved me from a lot and always fought for me. Moms are the best. I miss mine terribly. ❤️😪❤️

[@lorrainenaidoo6144]

John Cedars you are bitter. You need to make peace with Jehovah.

[@aluk2408]

The rejection of higher education is strange. They'll happily go to see a consultant but will actively discourage their own children from becoming one.

[@dohk1105]

They're one step away from calling not witnesses infidels

[@krimitt1]

Thanks Lloyd your work is very appreciated I was raised in the "truth" haven't been active since about 18 and spent some of my adult life worried about dying at Armageddon started waking up about 7 years ago and it has been a slow progressive process

[@pamelaecovert193]

Good work John/Loyd.. 65 year veteran of the cult. I have nightmares to this day. My whole family is still there. just lost my mom 92 years old and the last thing I heard her say in the hospital was Jehovah Please!. I will haunt me till the day I die I am sure. I often wonder if there is anyway out of this hell. I knew from when I was little girl that it was not right and just did not know what to do. I have long since been gone from the Kingdom hall but cannto seem to escape the feeling of guilt and entrapement from it all. God bless you. Pam In Houston Texas.USA

[@LloydEvans]

Wow, that's a heartbreaking story. I am sorry you are still feeling the effects of the cult after all these years. Well done for figuring it out, and thanks for the encouragement. :)

[@dawnelizabeth1828]

John Cedars Dear John, I've been out for 14 years and I still have nightmares as well, so I get it. Take care. Thanks. Your loyal listener, Dawn Elizabeth

[@WitnessForJesus]

pamelae covert - your story is so heartbreaking. I came to believe that God loves us. My channel has videos which discuss the teachings of JWs and compare them to the bible. You may find them helpful. With care, Dawn

[@stellaorvad2519]

pamelae covert You will Gain Strength " Believe in Your Self"...For Nothing Touches the Heart More or Gains Strength Than Your Own Heart...That Wonderful Feeling you are "You" You shall do what YOU LIKE AND BE WHO YOU ARE...YOU are FREE YOU ARE YOUR OWN KEEPER. .You are a GOOD PERSON..and member of Society..and YOU HAVE A GREAT MIND A KIND MIND YOU ARE PROUD TO BE " YOU" and YOU SHALL BELIEVE WHAT YOU LIKE TO BELIEVE xxx

[@AmazingAceDocs]

JW only believe that 144,000 people are going to heaven. Everyone else is going to hell. Its a pathetic, brainwashing religion. I am sorry for your loss. Please do not let anyone else near this filth and keep yourself from it as well. Join a baptist church. Know the Lord as the Holy Bible (KJV based on Geneva Bible) tells it. *Not the NWT that is created by JW and is complete heresy.* See my video on "The Bible Way to be Saved" - just go to my channel it will pop up instantly. God Bless.

[@alicejoyce7906]

Thank you, I am learning so much from you. I am not a JW but I know a family who are. It makes me feel so sad/angry for them and their grandchildren. I wish they would wake up and smell the rotten cult they are in.

[@johnc.8298]

"Abstain from blood." Check out the entire passage of this scripture in the book of Acts. It is regarding paganism in which animals were strangled and blood spattered around in in frenzied pagan temple rituals. Paul was condemning these pagan temple rituals. "If you abstain from blood" (and the other blood rituals) you will do well". Nothing more is implied beyond this context of paganism, certainly not modern medical practises which saves lives. During the 60's, the Watchtower prohibited organ transplants. They considered it "cannibalism" since the recipient is "living off the flesh of another person". Now it is considered a matter of "personal conscience". I can't help but wonder how many people died during this 7-8 year prohibition period. How many children lost their Mom' or Dad, or parents lost a child? Such a grievous error which no doubt cost lives. A very sobering thought considering the arbitrary prohibition against modern blood transfusions. Arbitrary dictates? Consider the irony that dialysis (blood leaves the body to a machine then returns) is acceptable but storing your own blood in preparation for a surgery is prohibited. Definitely an arbitrary distinction to which you have no say in the matter as a JW. What happened to "personal conscience"?

[@johnc.8298]

Mr. Cedars: Do you have a video which documents your story of growing disenchantment with "God's Organization" and your journey towards disassociation? No doubt it would be helpful to many and interesting to others. sincerely, John

[@LloydEvans]

There's no single video summarising my story, but you can read about it - either in my book, The Reluctant Apostate, or in my JWsurvey article "A Prisoner No More."

[@alastairhopkins245]

The book of Acts is not a book of instructions. It is the sequel to Luke's Gospel - but it can be a sequel to any of the four Gospels. It is an account of how the church began and the issues within the early church. This passage in Acts (Chapter 15 Verse 29) is really Paul addressing the problem of divisions of Christians who had been Jews and of Christians who had been Gentiles. The important thing to remember here is that the original Bible was not split into chapters and verses - this came later so we could easily look up the man things which were said.

[@doglover12345andfr]

My friend from elementary school was a JW. I was not, and I never understood why she did the things she did. I have not seen her in years because she moved away but I really hope she was able to leave the religion.

[@madelinepearmain9241]

when I was studying in the late 1980's; I was told that there would be a lot of nice people that would die at Armageddon

[@davidmcconnell3734]

It's a cult, plain and simple

[@cuisor]

Just my recent experience as a JW. I bought a new car a few months ago, and I was called by the circuit overseer to private discussion with an elder about my material world view. And that I could have done more with an older car and use that money to promote JW interests and help in new territories. Also that I set a bad example in the congregation. And "brothers" that can't afford a new car that are offended and I damage their spirituality.

[@HollyOak]

What the dude from JW is saying is chilling for a number of reasons. He's using voice modulation to manipulate the listener. Pauses, slowing and softening his tone of voice are deliberately done to create emotional responses in the listener. He says god is good and everything required is good - to set up a logical connection, to then make his next statement appear to be also good by association. God is good - what he requires is good - what he does is good - therefore, his wiping out non believers is good. He says this in a matter -of-fact tone to prevent people doubting; He then goes on to say the elimination of the wicked is good - at this point, notice the change in speech pattern. It's very subtle. His voice becomes softer, more slowly paced, almost wistful when saying it's only being done so believers can live in peace and worship 'their great god'. He does this to elicit feelings of being persecuted in the listener, blaming the non believer (it's because of them we can't be who we truly should be and a longing for a better time to come. That is where it gets dangerous. Right after deliberately manipulating the listener to feel this way he goes on: He quickly moves over it all being very good what he's going to do and then 'So why wouldn't we want to offer sacrifices to our great god - willingly.' Imagine what this would do in the mind of someone who's unstable. It sets up a logical course of thinking that leads straight to it's OK to go and murder people (sacrifice them) because it's their fault we don't have paradise now.

[@lainiwakura1776]

This reminds me of a classmate of mine a couple years ago who was a Jehovah's Witness and when I mentioned the shunning, he just kinda blew it off as no big deal.

[@ooin_otaku4282]

Or they see it as an act of love🙄

[@catherinewacker141]

My mother died in 2000 for not getting blood after an out patient procedure took a turn. Awful what we went through!

[@julianafioreph.d.7978]

Thanks Lloyd Evans for sharing. I am not a a J.W. my brother joined the cult as an adult and it has ruined our relationship. He is brainwashed and I am powerless. So frustrating, so it's good to know that some people get out.

[@korolr]

"Happiness is the only good. The time to be happy is now. The place to be happy is here. The way to be happy is to make others so." - 19-th century American speaker, philosopher and atheist, Robert Green Ingersoll.

[@AmyKrugerDKCCB]

My husband and I left 5 months ago. No regrets because we felt they just let saying the same thing all the time. They talk about Satan the most and how fast Satan can get you and to always pray he won't get you. They also talk allot Jehovah, but hardly about Jesus. I am glad to be out and free. For now I have a personal relationship with God and Jesus whom I love very much.

[@thatsomalidudemudug868]

I like the way you said " god and Jesus " alot chistians think Jesus is good god.

[@sandycochran9361]

I felt so free after I left. That organization was truly a burden, literally

[@Keithbarber]

I am glad I knew a disfellowshipped witness so I saw what they were really like 20 years ago, so was warned off of joining them, and they are even worse today Disfellowshipping and shunning are the worst thing about the witnesses

[@lingfoosing]

Lloyd, this is an excellent video. So clear. Thank you!

[@junebug-jh3xk]

I am a non JW, and I can see that I wouldn't last a day in this bullshit.

[@T120RT]

You absolutely kick ass, Lloyd. I love your videos.

[@randallgay706]

Bum Rush this guy is a liar

[@khanwh74]

Twisted reasoning fr GB helper. How can destroying 99.9% of wicked ones and preserving 0.1% be good?

[@z.madden2751]

For the whole "its just a theory" argument I never find it helpful to tell them to look up what a theory is under the scientific definition. I just ask them if they have kids, if they do I ask if we can test out germ theory on the youngest, then offer to procure some antibiotic resistant bacteria for the test; MRSA usually does the trick to scare them. If they say no I say "C'mon its just a theory.".

[@teresapercival616]

This organization is absolutely cruel and EVIL.

[@orangesplease6763]

Hi I'm an athiest living with jw parents, it's hard, but I manage. tho I am mostly worried about my little brothers who are 10-12yrs who are forced to partake even though they don't particularly want to wake up early to knock on doors and go to 3 hour meetings. Is there a way I could maybe help them know about what the 'real world' is like. I've tried to teach them about how homosexuality and transgender are completely normal and not sinful but that's about all I could do in secret.

[@kylescheer9454]

Oranges Please im an atheist who just woke uo a month ago and has to live with JW parents too. Atleast I'm not alone in dealing with this crap

[@veryexperiencedcamel]

I grew up as one and am very thankful I had plenty of positive influences on my life that other kids maybe didn't. However around age 15-17 I started developing serious major sleep disturbances. Sometimes only sleeping 2 hours to an hour or less for what seemed like weeks at a time. Super vivid dreams/and nightmares about everyone I knew getting slaughtered. By 18 I was pretty paranoid. Doing better now. Serious sleep deprivation seems to be a common theme.

[@elisabait3730]

So agree with. You. I've been wasting 20 years in this organization. My life is beginning right now sinice I dissociated few days ago. Thanks for this video

[@METALVLOGUK]

I always thought of JWs as benign, obviously this isn't the case. Since I found this channel I literally feel angry when I see them in the high street with their pamphlets and junk.

[@arimonL]

I believe this channel to be an educational one. We aren't much better if we go around being angry with people for simply being a JW. They don't show it openly , but I can't tell you how many times while out in service we mumbled things under our breath as we left a doorstep of someone who didn't take the literature. Things like , "Okay it's your funeral". Or "you idiot". Since leaving the Borg, I've committed myself to be accepting of others beliefs and cultures. Even If I don't personally agree with it.

[@montesmoni]

You know, most of those in the street are brainwashed. They don’t know anything else and have allowed manipulators to dictate their views of the world and others. Don’t hate them. Have pity on them.

[@mandyg5747]

Most of them are kind and good people. You are not deceived. A lot of what he said is true but much of it is not. It is the same as in any religion - majority follow blindly, those who speak out eg moi - are not liked and some are wicked Covert Narcissists. Does not change the truth in the bible or its message or the fact that the True God will step in to save the planet. Lets face it - so called intelligent man has done more harm to the earth this last 2 centuries that at any other time. There are many sites on here just JW bashing. One woman even had the audacity to read paragraphs from a study watchtower saying that elders were not told to report child abuse and yet she deliberately left out the paragraphs that actually told them to do that very thing! Blatant deception. I posted several messages directing people to the place that they could find that article and read the whole thing for themselves. Nothing is secret you see all the books he has collected? They are all WT publications so he can quote or misquote as he likes. It is up to each of us to judge as we find not what others tell us. I find that the majority of people no matter what religion or view point are good but there are some truly evil people around hiding in every walk of life that ruin it for the rest of us. I know 100s of JWs and plenty of friends of other religions, so i can say this first hand. I also have been subjected to abuse and violence by 10 so called JWs so I can tell you that not all are good. I have every reason to hate the organisation but I am not so stupid as to let my personal experiences cloud my thinking and judgement. I still pray to and love Almighty God and I do call Him Jehovah because He told me to. That wont change because of my bad experiences.

[@deepblack2193]

They not the only ones brainwashed so are Muslims and many other cults out there that are indoctrinated

[@UngovernableDouche]

I missed so many opportunities when I was young. It's funny because I was drawn toward a certain path and had many hints as to where I should go with my life. I felt deep down that it was my optimum trajectory. But the organization is brilliant in the way it teaches you not to trust your inner voice. Any desire not in line with their will is of Satan. It breaks my heart if I dwell on it too long. I feel like now I'm trying to play catch-up in my own life. However I'm extremely grateful that I was finally able to listen to that voice and walk away from that horrifying cult.

[@crazystorm1489]

When I started to study I was so excited to tell everyone about it, when i did my life went from being good to bad, everyone around me such as friends, work colleagues, family and general public just started to stay away from me, if it wasn't for my wife who supported me through that hard time not sure what I would done, I spoke to the elder I was studying with and he said that its really good to be pursecuted so I just kept on accepting it, im so glad to be out now, I feel sorry for for the people still in this cult, trapped because there whole support network is in it, the governing body are so cruel

[@richardbruning]

Definitely one of your most compelling videos. Well said.

[@marvincderuyscher9676]

I feel like the fist of reason has just punched me.

[@tiago.ramos.]

Yup point number 1 is the highest! But in my opinion shunning is definitely the 1st belief/comandment that should be abolished… after that at least people would be less afraid of leaving, taking a blood transfusion or denounce a pedophile

[@tomsmith3799]

Thank you so much for what you do . I am an ex Jehovah's Witness I can tell you first-hand that it is a cult and growing up in that cult and being in it was one of the worst things that has ever happened in my life I feel that it raped the childhood away from me not physically but mentally and emotionally please keep doing what you're doing no matter what anybody says it's really hard to put into words what an experience it is to be an ex Jehovah's Witness and being in that religion unless you have gone through that experience yourself

[@francisvalentinemixes5277]

I have a friend whose a jw. so long as we keep religion out of it, our friendship works very well. hes in school to become an IT tech and I will be going to school to become a welder. We get lunch all the time, we are going to a car meet this summer and were going to a Shinedown concert... hes a great guy, and its a shame that it seems im his only true friend outside of the organization...

[@tesscrawford8708]

Great video thanks Lloyd! I've been wondering for months now...what order are your books filed in?

[@LloydEvans]

Smaller books, booklets and Bibles are ordered by publication date, along with yearbooks and daily texts - apart from Studies in the Scriptures, which are ordered by volume. :)

[@cryptojedii]

Man you are the absolute BEST!! Thank you for putting together literally hundreds of videos like this...and best-believe I'll find a way to watch them ALL -- Old and New!! Haha Much appreciated from Chicago!!!!

[@brucesims3228]

You get the Path you earn. When you abdicate responsibility for your spirituality and let somebody else declare your Truth for you, don't be surprised if you wake up at the end of another person's life.

[@jezebelwhat5254]

Thank you Lloyd! Love number 8 so true!

[@PocketJen]

I'm so happy I never got baptized I dont think I really experienced too much of this scary stuff because my mom stopped going when I was like 12. And in turn I'm crazy happy that my mom still loved and talked to my older brother when he left the religion while we were still adamantly going. I always questioned everything I was taught but eventually I believed it all and was on my way to getting baptized but DODGED A BULLET THERE YEAAAA

[@LORELLism]

You made it out of organized religion! Good job! Now it's time to wake up all the way! 🙏

[@coreypriest9933]

VERY useful. I’m glad you took the time. I wish I HAD the time! You’re fantastic.

[@anglo-scottishasatrupagan3620]

Jehovah's Witnesses hoping for the end of billions of lives. Hence, mass genocide. I'm sorry, I'm not going to worship a god who wants to cause world-wide murder. As a Nordic Asatru Pagan, we (my brothers and sisters, including myself) don't have genocidal Gods. I would know - I've done the homework. If you love what I say, I'm great with that. If your against what i say, you are entitled to your opinion. Great video and thank you for your posting! Blessed be! May the Gods guide you and protect you on your quest for the evidence-based truth and evidence-based science! )O(

[@scottpeterson7500]

JW’s remind me of the classic movie,the Wizard of Oz: Jehovah is the big scary head with all the fire and booming voice; the Governing Body are the funny little man behind the curtain who is the only Jehovah that actually exists. It’s all just crazy 🍌🍌🍌

[@sandycochran9361]

Right. Until you finally pull the curtains up, then you see the full scam.

[@alanburchardt1045]

Thanks Lloyd for the truth keep shining light

[@randallreed9048]

To your correction: Astronomical, not Astrological: I would suggest that there were strong astrological connections between Babylonian (and many other) ancient astronomical observations and their implications for how people should live or what they should do.

[@edgarsteele]

Thank you Lloyd!

[@astleyj9796]

Hey John Cedars I'm in it still but I'm trying to fade. How can I avoid the calls on my phone to turn in my report? I don't want to be rude but I want to be left alone... My gran is a devout Witness and cant deal with shame. I'm afraid of dealing with this so if you have any tips I'd really love that 😊

[@sourcedrop7624]

if they pursue you, you only have 2 options (i think): tell them to hit the road (which is a bad idea - will lead to more attention and punishment), or tell them you have a new job or something that doesn't allow you to ever go to meetings or service, and hope they forget you, or be prepared to put on the pouting face. "aw, brother timekeeper, satan's system is just so hard, i have to work such long hours." something like that.

[@Sunflower048]

Astley J ... I've been gone for three years and today I got a text from a friend that I work for who's a witness to come and talk to me with an Elder who used to just walk right passed me at the hall, they aren't gonna leave you alone until they make you suffer and lose everyone you know, I've already lost all my family, but I guess that's not enough, they want more.. I told them to leave me alone and I didn't want to talk about anything to anyone of them. I tried to fade, but I just couldn't stomach those talks anymore knowing it was a lie, so I just walked away cold turkey.

[@astleyj9796]

Thanks for replying to me everyone. My situation is kinda rough... so I am a dependent adult at home ànd I share a car with my Witness gran. This means I have to carry her to meetings every Sunday so I cannot avoid going there... I think about blocking them on my phone but they call from all kinds of numbers and will just tell gran they are coming over...

[@erink779]

Astley J This is a very difficult situation, and I empathize with you. I also had to make a difficult decision a year and a half ago, which led to my disfellowshipping. I was questioning whether I wanted to be a witness anymore, and what it was that was keeping me in the religion. I knew that I shouldn't be in it for fear of losing family and friends. Contrary, I knew I should be in it because I wanted to, not because of the repercussions that come with leaving. I also looked at the fact that "falling away" or becoming "inactive" was not an option for me, if I didn't want them pestering me. I live 10 minutes from the Kingdom Hall, and my parents who are witnesses lived 5 minutes from me. I knew that elders or the sister who had been studying with me at the time, and my parents would not leave me alone if I started to go rogue lol (for lack of a better term)I felt there was no other way to be left alone. It isn't right to be guilted into or stay in a religion because of fear. I can't give you an answer as to what you should do, but I can tell you that despite the heartache of what I have lost, I am a happier person and I've been learning how to move forward from this even though it never goes away. I give you my most sincere wishes that whatever it is that you decide, you'll be happy and able to live a fulfilling life.

[@dr.richmann4477]

Fill out time slips for an entire, one for each month. Put down 1 hour, 1 R.V., 1 placement and give all 12 reports to Mr. Timekeeper. When they visit just say, "I don't want to answer any questions." " I really don't want to discuss my personal beliefs with anyone." Just keep on repeating these sentences. and just say "I really don't want to have a conversation with anyone' and walk away to your bedroom. Close and lock the door so the Elders can't come in and molest you.

[@matthewscott1091]

❓Can anyone tell me I’m curious. So I know that JW culture/Watchtower abhors higher education. But, hypothetically.. Lets say a man who never went to college gets a low level, low pay job but works himself up to a prominent position in a company. Or let’s he opens his own business that becomes highly lucrative & successful. Would that still be frowned upon even though he never went to college? ❓❓❓

[@tamarrajames3590]

Another interesting and well presented set of concepts. You are very well-spoken, and while you are taking a stance in opposition to a specific group, you do so without giving way to anger and hyperbole. Your calm presence of mind and self possession is refreshing and much appreciated. You have another well deserved thumbs up from me. 🖤🇨🇦

[@AmazingAceDocs]

Evolution is a THEORY and only a THEORY!! Just like the theory of gravity and the theory of relativity. Its all bullocks. /joke :)

[@jackb1803]

Just like electron theory. It's true! Just grab 2 wires out of the electrical wall socket and nothing will happen to you.

[@theocelot6772]

I would rather be destroyed then be forced to be a Jehovah's Witness for eternity.

[@randallgay706]

The Ocelot when that come you will wish you have listen to the jehovah witness but it will. be to late

[@loriwhalen2321]

Amen to that!

[@jasmineduran6731]

Randall Gay go be a troll somewhere else and stop making Jehovah’s Witnesses look even worse than they already are! Bully!

[@tomwolfe9358]

My sister had a neighbour several years ago who’s little daughter died on the operating table because they refused to let her have a blood transfusion. Her father received a vicious beating one night and they moved away.

[@annaleonardi6299]

Your very right Sir ...I was a single parent had a friend who I briefly studed with We had no lights I had to save to pay the bill..my two younger children were with me ...the Witness woman took us in so I could save I was working during the day long story short she kicked us out because I spilled bleach in front of the washer spilled on the rug..the Elders told her to kick us out said d I was using her...God knows that was not the case

[@eddie51arz]

I REFUSE TO LIVE MY LIFE UNDER CONFORMITY. I'm so glad I went to college even when all the elders & congregation told me not to. What's so unfortunate is there are tons kids in the congregation that have a desire for higher education (specifically a four year university) and they turn down scholarships & the opportunity to go to school just because of an unofficial rule.

[@sourcedrop7624]

I still remember the look on my teachers faces when I turned down their offers to get into college early. They just couldn't understand. I felt sorry for them at the time. I feel sorry for myself now. I'm doing my best to make up for it though. It's never too late!

[@dortesandal4303]

This was so good, Thank You. Have you ever done a "follow the money - discover the lie" angle on JW?

[@LloydEvans]

Thanks! It's a good suggestion. Unfortunately, I'm not much good at financial investigations, and I'm not sure there's much financial evidence to work with (due to Watchtower's lack of transparency) even if I was.

[@beautyaddict08]

I am a relatively new subscriber. I have never been a JW but I guess I am one of those 'car crash' bystanders you sometimes refer to. With that said, from the age of 11 to 16, I befriended a JW boy in my secondary school class. We were both really intelligent and excelled in our studies which was a factor in forming the friendship. I remember struggling with his intention not to pursue college as he was going to concentrate on bringing the 'truth' to others. He literally stood head and shoulders over our classmates with how academically gifted he was. I also spent five years worrying every time he got a cut or was injured during football in case he died if the injury required a blood transfusion. I often wonder what happened to him. You talking about education and parents making decisions about transfusions really hit home!

[@juliepeat4402]

I would just like to add that as a JW you have to give up taking any part in the celebration of Christmas, Birthdays, Easter, Bonfire Night and many other days which everyone else looks forward to ,plans for ,and enjoys as a happy family time, making memories and setting and enjoying the passing on of cultural and family traditions. JW Children grow up being denied these celebrations because the organisation teaches that these things are pagan. For JW children there is no tooth fairy, no visit from Santa, no dancing around the maypole, no dressing up for Halloween, no fireworks on November 5th( in the U.K) Also Parents mustn’t gamble, place bets on horse races or even buy a lottery ticket or enter a competition to try to win a prize. The celebratory days are deemed ‘Pagan’ and the other things I have mentioned are ‘seeking your own advantage’ This is a sad and needless deprivation of pleasure and all for what ? …… the hope of a Paradise that never comes.

[@margaretvalentine5957]

Helps to know the nitty gritty details of the JW cult!!

[@BigMikePlays]

gave you seen the remember lots wife videos... i swear it was like a south korean soap opera with so many sterotypes

[@liplockednomore]

In a nutshell, great job, Lloyd👊👏👍

[@xarzu]

Lloyd, this work you are doing is more valuable than gold !!

[@daniboy9198]

Awesome video, very indepth. I'm both wicked AND Armageddon fodder! 😀

[@roidroid]

lol, the God-is-Good! = Allāhu-akbar! thing was brilliant to point out.

[@kevinerosa]

Was beaten into it from 5 yrs old to 18. From 1985 to 1998 so alot of child abuse back then for me and alot of my friends at the time. Was even in the KH in Brooklyn that bethelites and high profile members visited. It was about 15 minutes from bethel and is a picture of some of the brothers was in one of the books. I got to meet one of the brothers that WT used to portray the angel in the revelation book. I thought that was so cool..lol. To this day at 40 yers old i still kind of cringe when I say happy holidays to someone. Even something normal like sex took me a while to not feel guilty. I almost went back until one of the "brothers" i grew up with left and contacted me and became an "apostate". His dad was supposedly annointed. So that really solidified my choice. I pray for the others and good luck moving on.

[@confusedparrot3545]

Next project for me is responding to the incorrect use of the term "apostate". It's a blanket word that's blindly thrown around by my family that's still in to encompass anything that is critical of watchtower. I think Lloyd has a video on this topic which will, as with other topics, will be my first stop to begin that research. Another good one Lloyd! Enjoying reluctant apostate as well, about halfway done reading it. I cant thank you enough for your activism work.