Waking Up While At Bethel - ExJW Story

[@fsb2cool2care]

Hey, Jacob here. I'd like to say thanks to all that took the time to write encouraging comments. I apologize for my inconsistent use of the phrase "the truth"... sometimes I use it just for convenience and out of habit when talking to a fellow exJW. Also, sorry for being so long-winded and talking slow... I recommend everyone watch this at 1.5x speed, lol. And as far as my political opinions... well that's another great thing about being out of the JW organization... we are allowed to have them now! For what it's worth, my criticisms were directed more at the individual Trump than towards a particular political party. If you feel differently, well I celebrate your freedom to do so! That being said, I really hope any discussions this video generates will stay focused on the main issues.

[@rodywithers3536]

fsb2cool2care hey Jacob - great interview. An easy substitute for “the truth” is “the organization” - it fits perfectly in any sentence where JWs use the words, “the truth.”

[@guillermovilla9517]

Thank you for sharing your story.

[@sofiamorgan6644]

Amen to that!

[@bluelotusdiva]

Jacob. You did fine. You were great. Thank you for telling your story. Don't feel bad about using the phrase "the truth." We understood. Again. Thank you for telling your story! 💜

[@nomoresecrets3065]

fsb2cool2care amazing video. Thank you for sharing. I heard ‘fake news’ about child molesters in the congregation too. I guess there will be ‘fake lawsuits’ and ‘fake settlements’ for these REAL PROBLEMS.

[@Gigislaps]

Signs of an “evil apostate” 1. Intelligent 2. Genuine 3. Facts-based 4. Passionate 5.open/accepting 6.understanding 7.loves knowledge

[@hyp77]

@@alphacentauri2134 and Emily conway: Just LOL.

[@makundananda4946]

Well said Emily!

[@dantoinettetaylor1663]

@iAnarchist exactly

[@loureddish5783]

So true!

[@guillermovilla9517]

So true.

[@sherrellsabree50]

I appreciate videos without comedy and angry rants. Clear Facts and truthful commentary helps in my research. The experiences can be emotional and that seems to come with the process of waking up so Thank you for sharing.

[@timothysanfino4311]

Agreed

[@majikbootz5020]

Just woken up myself this scripture helped x Deuteronomy 18:21

[@friendywendy3474]

Majik Bootz I just read that verse! 😱 man This is so eyeopening...

[@stephcarlofc]

Cliff, you are an excellent interviewer and you seem very down to earth. Your YT channel is great. Keep up the good work!!

[@davemacgyver573]

Ditto to what he said! :-)

[@Shami.Hopeful.Lady777]

No natural affection....his family is cold-blooded! I'm so sorry he's has to suffer this immense pain💜

[@lawrencevincent1]

TE'KEL 927..That is an excellent observation regarding no natural affection Indeed.

[@ericjack123]

Well thought out interview and it hits so close to home. My wife and I decided five years ago after years of doubts and questioning in our own minds that we were just gonna walk away which we did. We were never disassociated or disfellowship, we just kind of faded. Within weeks I lost contact with so many friends that I’ve grown up with, and they started making excuses why they couldn’t hang out or whatever it may be. My oldest brother stopped talking to me five years ago even though I’ve reached out to him various times and my other brother has limited contact with me and I talk to my father, who is 90 years old, daily. It’s all about conditional love. We love you as long as you do what we want you to do but as soon as you deviate that Love drives up immediately. Even with the loss of most of my friends and family, we are in a better mental state and happier than I have been in 47 years of my life. I was an elder for eight years and ministerial servant for eight years and a regular pioneer for 17 years and served at Bethel for two years. It’s time I’ll never get back but they will never steal any more time away from me. So happy to be free!

[@lindalawton5399]

GREAT interview - again, and many thanks to Jacob who is most insightful! I'm passing this along to my fading brother.

[@jaellandrie6877]

This interview touched my heart tremendously. I realized the negativity of the organization and teachings through the talks and publications and am glad I am no longer subject to that intense negativity. The world/earth has so much beauty within. Thank you for the interview!

[@greatdayn4651]

I've just watched this for the second time. GREAT interview. Thank you both for your time, energy and caring spirit.

[@natashapeeters988]

Is'n it funny in jw language being spirituality strong is just following the rules of a lucrative company that's acting as a religion. . . ? Nothing to do with spirituality at all.

[@beachmom2001]

So true! Great insight into the jw way of thinking!

[@makundananda4946]

Natasha Peeters Yup!

[@dantoinettetaylor1663]

So true. I now know the reason why I felt so miserable because I wasn't born in and I tried so hard to have that kind of faith I noticed with tbe born ins (e.g. absolute faith in the faithful and discreet slave, obedience to the elders, absolute belief that everyone outside of the Org was bad association and worldly, being excited about and looking forward to new publications at the conventions,₩ etc)

[@Danielle-nz9tn]

They wanted him out because they saw that he had critical thinking skills! Critical thinking skills = grave danger to the organization (and this truth hides behind the phrase “bad associations spoil useful habits” as if they are concerned about the members’ spirituality)

[@Danielle-nz9tn]

Dantoinette Taylor I had the opposite experience as you... I WAS born into this organization, but still I used to ask myself as a child “Why, why, why did I have to be born into this religion?!? I would rather not have any of this knowledge of the “Truth” and instead have freedom to be myself. But instead I got so unlucky to have to live such a bleak life (so many rules, shaming, lack of freedom, doomsday beliefs, etc.). And I had these thoughts every day DESPITE believing (as a child) that it was all the Truth! On some level, I knew there was something wrong with the organization. It was sealed when the elders shrugged off my reports of my parents’ physical abuse of me and my siblings and their alcohol abuse. Instead they took away MY “privileges” at the meetings-for not minding the Head of the Household..

[@KayD]

Love the Bethel stories. Well done on escaping while inside!

[@diyguyawake8107]

Kelly, I was a Bethelite and elder Service overseer and Served in the foreign language Congo. Was in for 47 years and 3 years ago we wrote our disassociation letter all five of us in my family. Yes the price of true freedom is heavy at the start but I view it as a long term investment for our future, even with all that we lost at the present. I love the fact that I can choose my world view too! It’s so much more loving and human!

[@brandonfiquett]

Nice to hear another similar perspective from bethel. Resonates in ways that I never expect. Hope we hear more open up soon! Kind, compassionate, level headed and logical discussion. Thank you Fifth and Jacob!

[@debsvista2281]

Another wonderful interview! Thanks Cliff & Jacob for your efforts in getting this story out there. I have no doubt that this will help. When I was starting to venture on these forums, I was first drawn to the interviews like this and other activists. These played a pivotal part in my waking up process. Thanks again Cliff for your time & energy in creating excellent content. Jacob, thanks for your insight & courage in sharing your story. Who knows, anyone in your family who is doubting may see this and start the process of leaving the borg. One can only hope.

[@BenAndJeffsAudiobooks]

This is THE best channel exposing the JW cult on KZbin. Fascinating and informative.

[@d_e_a_n]

Exgilead misssionary channel was one of the best channels. So simple and calm and clearly presented. On such key topics. I wish he still made videos. Everyone should watch all his videos.

[@dantoinettetaylor1663]

Thanks for reminding me of this. I will go back and revisit

[@lesleyrich4130]

Loved this interview, especially the part of waking up a friend that had been disfellowshipped but yet was still mentally in. I am doing this with my sister right now. She is POMI (not disfellowshipped). Her husband is inactive too and not feeling worthy. I finally worked up the courage to share with her some info about the child abuse and it has since snowballed. She is waking up and man does that feel good. Now she will have the hard work of helping her family once she feels ready. I think we forget about those in that situation that are out physically, but still controlled mentally by the org. They need to stop living with guilt and fear so they can truly be free to enjoy life.

[@friendywendy3474]

Lesley Rich I am pomi and it is really tough! I see many things that are disturbing to me but I am so afraid...what if they are right?! I talked to my brother who is a ms and asked some serious questions...boy..did he bite my head off! 😱 hè called me an apostate and that I will die 😢

[@JillyC5]

Thank you for that, every intelligent thinking person that wakes up gives me hope that my family will at some point see TTATT. Great interview.

[@mommasuesue]

Hi Cliff thank you for this video!!!

[@loureddish5783]

He’s right about the organization never being satisfied with what we do for them, they always want more. That’s so unappreciative! Definitely not love!

[@connormusic9274]

As an ex-Jw of over 50 years; ex-elder and Bethelite myself; I can say that we were kept so busy in ministry activities that we actually didn't have much time to "think critically". When you're running on a treadmill, it's hard to get off and look at the fact that we were actually spending our time pleasing men. "Hey look at me, I put in 14 hours last month, went to all of the meetings, worked full time and raised kids!" Also gave public talks around the circuit for 26 years. Busy, busy, busy, and yeah; it's like the organization isn't happy with you for what you do; it's all about doing more! Instead of being commended for giving what we can, like Jesus commended the widow who dropped in 2 small coins into the treasury; it's all about giving to them instead of giving to God.

[@rbelton21]

That my friend was an awesome interview. Probably the best one I've seen in a long time. Both you and your guest were extremely articulate in your thoughts and right on point. So thank you again.

[@dantoinettetaylor1663]

The questions: "Do you still want to be one of Jehovah's Witnesses?" and "Do you believe the Faithful and Discreet Slave to be God's one true channel?" are the 2 questions they ask to determine if persons who express doubts have gone "apostate". Once you say "No" or even hesitate it is claimed you are unrepentant. So don't expect them to try and reason with you. Family and friends generally go along with the Elders decision

[@tellbillfader437]

My reply to a sister was Do you believe in God? Reply yes Does the GB believe in God? Reply yes So do I. She smiled. Blocked her on all social media and never spoke to her again another friend of 25 years. She tried to harrass my sin at work and got no where saying You mum has blocked me.... He asked her if she camw to buy something he aint a jw. That was the end of that line of harassing and stalking. I will call the cops if she turns up. There is a clear red sign on my door. No religious callers. Must of annoyed the stalkers and elders so bad but it felt great.

[@alpaphoenix3252]

Elders are really company men who act as human resource agents for the watchtower organization. And human resource agents act only in the best intersects of the company.

[@ms.anonymousinformer242]

How cam they expect anyone to brleive they are "Gods one true channel " if the very people eho wrote those awake magazines got their info wrong on vaccines!?? Vwccinstion and medicine from the CDC (prescription meds ,not life saving technology & surgery itself) is a greed based organisation for profit ONLY not based on true health. They use CDC as their source . how is that when I Google mapped a xonvrntion center and saw it looked like the illuminati all seeing eye ? After I already lerner about agenda21 and NWO , and other things .... How can I blreive that ? The trachings actually taught me so many things that are still true today that mainstream society is finally learning now...the same people eho rejected the tewchings of the bible (by the JWs) are now admitting to thingd like true meanings of symbolism and paganism and satanism. I was taught how government is mankind's ruling and only God should rule and my beliefs that the "system" ad I understood it 20+years ago is stil the same system it is today whixh is just rigged by MAN , for example voting ... I didn't vote before and I still will not votr for the same exact reasons as before ! Because its rigged ! I would love to meet up with real XJWs who stil beleive in God as our creator and also know about these things I mentioned sbo e. As well as the importance of living hollistic healthy lifestyle far away from the "medical" industry that actually destorys lives,and harms people. It would be so much of s pleasure for me to meet those who have my same views. Especially a man be a use when I get divorced I will be hoping to meet men who ate like minded whwn I am able to date. And eho doesn't want friends that are like minded too.

[@blues3665]

Alpa Phoenix You are spot on. I watched Jason Zelda hidden from Jehovah Witness Smoking Gun 8c, WOW, great video. I am out from this multi billion dollar company, yes it’s a company, and these 8 men in Warwick, live the life of Kings.🤮

[@MonaLisa-yb9bq]

I've been only one week free of JWs. It's been an extremely emotional week. One friend dropped me; one friend is still convinced of it being Jehovah's organization. My mom and the one friend both attacked me when I tried to tell them certain real truths. They speak of how bad apostates are yet they are damn quick to attack anyone who thinks differently or who questions the beliefs. It's heart wrenching how quick their "love" fails.

[@shaul558]

Deb C. Time to read your Bible. Get rid of that gray Bible they gave you. Get a KING JAMES 1611. Read DEUTERONOMY 28:15-68 this will show you who the real ISRAELITES are today. These curses match a group of people they fit ALL OF THEM NOT SOME ALL.

[@LisaLisa-je9dz]

Deb ..page 154 of the live forever book ..sit that on side of deuteronomy 18 verse 18 to the conclusion of the chapter..when I showed my dad that and asked him how do I defend this he couldn't say anything he said we cant and hes been there 50 years..when I think of that I cry cry cry it hurts so bad my dad 75 it hurts ..

[@LisaLisa-je9dz]

Treated my dad like that and he did free quick builds let the jw kids come over and always helped people..the good ole boy club did me same way and I never shamed the organization in the streets

[@pathologyiscool]

Hey Mona Lisa, I am a former SDA and left the church...so I can relate to leaving a religious organization that you once held so dear. I just want to encourage you as you are going through a difficult time, and it seems that things will get even more intense in the coming weeks for you. STAY STRONG Sister, and know that people you don't even know (like me) support you!!!! Keep moving FORWARD.

[@naomiwillemsen9836]

Just wondering: how are you now? It’s a ’hell’ of a ride, emotionally, to recover after leaving...

[@andymackey]

That's similar to what happened to me. I got a certified letter in the mail stating that I would be disfellowshipped for apostasy and announced on a certain date. No judicial meeting or anything.

[@SueHagen1]

Andy, I've been following you for so long and I never realized you didn't have the judicial meeting. Wow! They are so low.

[@sclass21]

They did you a favor....

[@pauletteforman]

Great to see you again Cliff 😄👍🏾! As usual, another great interview! Jacob, you're very perceptive to discern something wasn't right. I'm so happy you woke up and escaped the controlling monotonous corporate RUN-OF-MILL false disorganization. I'm so sorry you were subjected to painful disconnection from your family. Just remember: TRUTH makes enemies (Gal. 4:16); and the TRUTH you came to know exposes who THEY really are: 👉🏾 THEY prefer to love the lies of false prophets rather than love the TRUTH about their truth. WELCOME TO FREEDOM my Brother 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽😄! Enjoy the view 😎😄👍🏾

[@phase2763]

excellent Cliff. these are getting better and better.

[@cattflap1447]

Just bought a copy of "Dont sweat the smal stuff" ... great video 5th :)

[@MegaWinnetou]

WOW 🥺 How much I can relate. Plus so many eye-opening and thought-provoking reflections and remarks that help me unerstand the puzzles I am still trying to put back together. Fifth, thank you and your guests for your time and sharing! ❤️🌻

[@fsb2cool2care]

How long were you JW?

[@MegaWinnetou]

fsb2cool2care I grew up there, spent 32 years of my life there.

[@fsb2cool2care]

@@MegaWinnetou Wow. Yeah took 30 years of my life. Are you on social media?

[@MegaWinnetou]

fsb2cool2care No, I‘m not. I gave up on social media couple of years ago. Thank you for your reply. Learning to fly is hard when you were told all your life that what now you know are wings, are side-effect-product of imperfection and you‘d better keep them tamed and not even think of ever trying to spread them and soar.

[@thomastorres9591]

Thank you both for this video. Watching the interview hit home on an emotional & personal level for me. I grew up as a JW. At one point I had contemplated baptism but did not pursue it for many reasons. During my initial contemplation , I met with the elders who went over a series of questions with me. This part was okay. However, when I was asked if I had any questions, which i had. I was told at a later date that they did not feel that I was ready. In many ways I am thankful that they doubted me. Firsr off, I did not want to bring shame to Jehovah. And, I was doing so out of pressure. I wanted to please my mother who at the time was physically abusing me. ( the elders were aware, yet did nothing to counsel her) I thought getting baptized would somehow ease the beatings and cause her a d I to bond. Besides her abuse, I was being sexually abused by several brothers and a family member. Because of my mother's abuse towards me, I was afraid to tell her what was happening. Although I had hinted at what was happening, I waa left in the company and trust of these brothers. I was often paired with them in field service, and sent on bible studies alone with them. Because they held positions in the Hall, and had Elders aa parents, I knew that no one wouod believe me over them. This proved correct when I did report one incident. The brother involved had apparently confessed his sin. Except, he had stated that I seduced him. I was not invited to young people's gatherings, and was labeled a liar and trouble maker. This sent me into a deeper depression combined with the physical abuse and sexual abuse . I began to rebel, and ran away from home. At tye age of 18, I became pregnant. The beatings got worse, and although I was not active as a JW, I was disassociated. I was shunned by my own mother, who would only aoeak to me ir my daughter in the home. In public she would instruct me to walk on oppisite sides of the street. She has since passed away, but before she died we had rebuilt our relationship, and she apologized to me and even questioned some practices od the Organization. I am still healing. But I am free! No longer held captive by the falsehood.

[@yannadixon562]

Your Story is Deep Michelle I Hope you Will Be Able To Get The Real True Spiritual Help That U Need To Heal. Sorry To Hear about The Abuse That U Suffered, Me And Millions Of Other People's Have Gone through the Same Abuse. Mentally, Emotionally, And Sadly Spiritually. Sadly Religions Is So Self Centered, So All About Self What's In It For Them. It's Good To Be Truly Free From Lucifer And Demons Churches. Those Devil's Will Get There Due In The Kingdom Of Heaven Time. That Organization Superior gods.

[@thomastorres9591]

@@yannadixon562 Thank you for your kind, spiritual words. I found that sharing my story is integral to my healing. Also, prayer, and writing has been an extraordinary help.

[@saraabraham5486]

"Nothing is more powerful than an idea whose time has come. In Watchtower's case it is not an idea. Her time has come. Goodbye Watchtower!!!

[@mirandavikanderson6958]

Thank you for taking time to tell us you story, Jacob

[@pixels2u]

Very well done, thank you both!

[@rochoa2534]

I’m 29, have 2kids and am married to a wife who probably loves the organization and jehovah more than she loves me. I feel like every decision I’ve made in my life has been influenced my the organization and what we’re taught. I’m starting to “wake up”. I’ve been disassociated for about a year. I feel so alone.. what can I do? My wife doesn’t care about what I have to say when it comes to the videos I’ve been watching.. I feel so much loneliness, sadness, and anger. I feel that I missed out on making meaningful connections growing up because i was taught that only kids that were witnesses could be my friends. In time a bunch of friends a lot of the friends I did have got DFed or disassociated. I’m just venting right now...

[@janheard3826]

Sorry to hear you feel so alone. Unfortunately you will be unable to convince your wife that the JW religion is based on lies and false prophesies…that will likely only alienate her from you further. She might never wake up. You are so young…I suggest you try making connections with ‘worldly’ people and try and have some interests outside your family. You have to be so strong in your position. I really hope things get better for you. My poor father was in your position with my fanatical JW mother. She was never interested in making him happy but he stuck it out and spent his whole life in an unhappy marriage. He would have been better off leaving the marriage and meeting a new woman outside that evil religion but I think he always lived in hope.

[@adun7827]

Gracias Cliff, tus entrevistas me ayudaron a despertar recientemente, sobre todo el video donde cuentas tu historia personal. Saludos.

[@zachauley3331]

Great interview. Thank you Cliff and Jacob.

[@Stricknyne1]

It's amazing that a phantasy driven organization, without a solid foothold in reality has a status system. And within that system, people strive to reach a pinnacle that holds no value except in the eyes of the devotees. Self importance and high ego drive seem to be commonplace. I really enjoyed the interview and echo the positive comments on your interviewing style.

[@amsevensix]

Great interview Fifth and Jacob! Jacob, I loved to hearing your point of view and your genuine concern for people including jdubs. I agree, they are victims and deserve kindness and understanding especially from those of us that have walked in their shoes. I'm sorry to hear your family is shunning you. I hope some of them at least wake up before it's too late to truly know you. I wish the same for you fifth. Thanks for sharing!

[@exjwfabianc3010]

Gracias Cliff por tan buena entrevista, es bueno ver a dos personas inteligentes, maduras, respetuosas y pacificas dialogar con tanta lógica, saludos desde Buenos Aires, Argentina!!!

[@avarias0001]

Ooo

[@Gail_]

Great interview and insights of the world view, Jacob. There are a lot of wonderful people who are nice just because, with no ulterior motives. I was 4th generation too.

[@autenticoverdadero5369]

Muchísimas gracias Fith impresionante la entrevista muy buenos razonamientos y conclusiones,y muy buena ayuda para poder liberar a muchos que tienen dudas. Gracias también por estos Videos y los subtítulos en español un cariñoso saludo desde España

[@ooklathemok7322]

Fifth, Excellent, well thought out interview. Jacob's story will touch many lives. I appreciate both of you gentleman's logical, reasonable, and kind approach when presenting this information.

[@27suissemocha]

Another awesome interview. Thank you both for sharing this story. It’s one thing when the rank and file leave but it’s totally different when someone of such a high caliber in the organization decides to leave.

[@fsb2cool2care]

Thank you for the kind words. I'm glad to be a low-caliber normal person now.

[@jessicanerpio-cauldwell4987]

I'm a Born in JW... I disassociate at 22 today at 63 I've tried many times talking to my still in today JW family....they have accepted me as I am and made it CLEAR to me they want to remain a JW.... I'm grateful my Mom n Sister still talk to me ..it's really hard for me to accept they're JW Stand... I get SAD knowing they've been Brainwashed it's true they're waiting for the Big "A" ... holding on to the Promise of Everlasting Life n the Resurrection.... waiting for the Next Life not Living in this Life.... I guess "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff" can have a different meaning Too....😲🤨🤔

[@emcaeyer5731]

Jessica Nerpio-cauldwell hi! I'm 22 and also recently woke up, I've been disfellowshipped for three years and trying hard to come back but felt so sad and unable to. Like I was never going to be good enough. I finally started researching them and realized I do not need to come back! I don't want to be in a cult. My twin is still in and will not talk to me and it hurts so much. My mom barely talks to me as well, but at least I get little snippets here and there. I have no one, no friends, and I'm all alone in a new city I had to move to to escape the ties of the cult. I was engaged to a brother and he and I both got disfellowshipped together. He's still going back, but I had to move to escape him and the religion. Maybe we can be friends! Since we are the same age. I'm SO happy your family still talks to you! It warmed my heart hearing that, I hope they come around one day for you 💕

[@jessicanerpio-cauldwell4987]

@@emcaeyer5731 Fast forward it's been 2 years past I'm 65 now...and my Disassociate/Apostate stand is taken more seriously by my Still in JW family... today my Sister n Mom shuns me...WT ORG (Cult) GB has made it clear about Apostates...One day the Shunning Policy Will take it's toll because so many JW families have been teared apart and JW Membership has not increase...and that's the Truth...🤔🤨👏

[@saintejeannedarc9460]

I'm so sorry both of you have had to go through this. I hope you find a regular church where you can start to make new friends. There are all sorts of hobby groups to join as well, maybe crafting type things if you do that. I had some JW's come to my door recently. They were very kind and in a way an answer to prayer, since I'm still recovering from a terrible break up and they caught me in the morning all vulnerable and my story came out. I feel bad for these lovely and compassionate ladies to be in a group like this.

[@shelbymarsh8721]

Fifth, your best interview yet 👍

[@saraabraham5486]

As a person, "one" cannot make mistakes that are common to human beings. It is a Cult indeed!!

[@glorialeach7301]

I just looked up ExJw Gilead Missionary, I’m going to watch each one of them. 👍 I remember a time when you would not be able to get through to me. BUT looking back, I was ALWAYS asking MYSELF questions. I don’t think, even as a child, that I truly believed but when you are surrounded by it because of family you don’t ask questions OUT LOUD. 😄 I been out 30 years. Take care 🥰

[@VictoriaOz]

Fabulous interview Fifth.. and thank you Jacob .. there were so many good points to take away from this which will help others. One of the best interviews I have listened to so far.

[@Grussell97]

A round of applause to Jacob for sharing his story. This truly is the best description of the religion.

[@fsb2cool2care]

Thanks Gethin!

[@denishartley3828]

Really superb unbiased analysis of Jehovah's Witnesses. So many good points it needs watching twice. I hope Jacob you write a book. And how your family did what they did to you proves theres no true love in this Org. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@linvest8466]

Something was telling me that something was wrong with the Watchtower study on Sundays, I felt like I was being manipulated. I quit commenting for a year or more before I realized what it was. We were parroting JW words, being manipulated to believe it's teachings without making sure that what is being presented throught the Watchtower was really reflecting Jesus' words and that of his Father. When I finally began to read Jesus' words, I could see how different his teachings were when compared to Watchtower teaching. I made Jesus' teachings my own and no longer followed the Watchtower and it's governing body class. " The song, ' Make the truth your own".... make Christ's words your own'.. John 14:6

[@WhiteXXdog]

All through middle school and most of highschool. I had a friend who was JW. We where great friends for about 10 years and it wasn't untill our senior year did the friendship collapse and I came to find out that he had kept our friendship a secret from his parents and younger brother the entire time. (That was probably a good thing for both of us in the long run). Him being JW never bothered me one bit because I didn't care and also because he had always shrugged it off saying he was forever "on the fence" with his family's beliefs. That being that, he had spent quite a lot of years sneaking out, coming to partys, and getting intoxicated with us other guys, typical dumb highschool kid shit. We NEVER put pressure on him to be like us by drinking, smoking, skateboarding and having an uncontrollable lust for rock and roll. We liked what we liked and never cared if different people hung out with us. All that mattered is that you possessed kindness in your heart. From where our JW friend was coming from, he must have admired that about us so much more than we could have even imagined. Though we were close and the good times always seemed to be rolling, we never really understood just how hardcore our friends JW situation truly was. We didn't think much of it and just let the good times keep rolling... One day (about halfway into our senior year) he came to me and wanted me to get my hands on some hard alchohol for him. It was nothing new, all I had to do was take the money, call so&so's big brother or whatever and BOOM it was done. I gave him the bottle and he was on his way. He was busted by his parents that night and that was the time when my other friends and I did some research and quickly realized just how fucked JW people are to their own children. We concluded that they most likely threatened every single aspect of his life and let the church decide his ultimate full punishment. We never saw him again... that was 7 years ago and I still think about him all the time and wonder what really happened. Did he stay with the JWs and pursue life with the stability of his family like every kid wants? Or did they kick him to the streets where he was lost, lonely and helpless right before a pivotal point in most kids lives, High School Graduation. Either way, I get depressed thinking about it, wish I could go back in time and get to the bottom of it. I miss the guy so much it hurts.

[@missharris1513]

He’ll find you 🤞

[@SunnySecular]

Great interview. Turned left around 56:ish but then came back around.🤣Glad I watched until the end.👍🏾

[@Josephinejefferies]

Great interview. I can empathize with how he had to leave the truth. I had to move countries to get myself unshackled. Thank you for bringing this insightful guy to our attention.

[@BantheBans]

How'd you wake up? To paraphrase: "The songbook didn't have my jams" 😂 love it

[@Koco1923]

😂😂😂

[@thomastorres9591]

I never understood how JW's could preach about Love, yet they were quick to shun a member for falling short. And they would instruct us on how to engage worldly people in field service , in hopes of securing a home bible study. So much hypocrisy

[@MRLD438]

DETRÁS DE LA CONTRADICCIÓN E INCONGRUENCIAS ,NO HAY MÁS QUE MENTIRAS

[@marygabel7543]

Shunning is based upon a situation in The Bible where a man was openly sleeping with his own mother -in-law, but still attended church. He was kicked out of the church in order to wake him up to leaving his sinful ways. This is an extreme. Yet the JWs see fit to kick their own members out for many sins. It is the old legalism creeping into religion that Paul called out in Romans because The Laws primary value is to get ppl to recognize their own sinfulness...and therefore their need for Jesus and God's grace thru what Jesus did on the cross. In every church where this sort of thing happens (religion becomes a set of rules first) people fall to self pride. "Well, I'm not perfect, but at least I don't do this or that sin". If they judge others by the Law, they will be expected to keep ALL of the Law, perfectly. Since they will not be able to, they will not have a good chance at any sort of reward by God, whether in Heaven (as Bible teaches) OR a paradise church (what JWs believe)

[@RiverDanube]

Wonderful interview Jacob.

[@elsepoulsgaard9691]

Thanks for your excellent interview....they're truly helpful for everyone who is starting to think for themselves. 👍

[@jackieventer2485]

I really appreciate Jacobs story and honesty. I like that he didn’t stoop to a low level and just presented his facts.

[@fsb2cool2care]

Thank you

[@stilllearning7539]

This video is very informative!! You are very strong Jacob. Thank you so much for this video! God bless 🙏

[@anaceciliahannickel5814]

My family put up a wall very quickly as well. I thought they’d want to know why and would be concerned about me being “spiritually sick”, but instead they treated me like I was prideful and didn’t even want to engage in dialog to see what had made me change my mind. I think because the society puts so much pressure on appearance, on not stumbling others, I felt like I needed to clear my name. I also didn’t want them to think I left to just go sin and do worldly things... but now I see that it was a waste of time. It’s if no use. The society’s rules on shunning makes it very easy for them to dehumanize us and stick with the orgs narrative that we’re disease minded and harmful to their spirituality. It’s sad and hurtful, but realizing that made it easier to forgive (to an extent) and move on with life. Much love goes out to all the ex jws who are struggling to just live. You can do it!! It gets better ❤️ thanks for these interviews fifth! Much appreciated!

[@adrianarivera8729]

Gracias por los subtítulos Fifh, no sabes como nos ayudas. Excelente trabajo👍🏻. Saludos cordiales

[@davemacgyver573]

Thank you Fifth, for this great interview. WOW Jacob, I felt so many similarities with your story. Not that I ever went to Bethel, but your sincere and genuine character. I very much like that you are a deep thinker and have remained an upstanding admirable person. When you stated that you haven't taken up celebrating birthdays, or celebrating Christmas, and that it was very important to you, that your family know you left for a good reason....I can sooo relate with you on that. Your calm and thoughtful manner of speaking, has intrigued me to look into Noah's Ark story....and also JWfacts. I have been out for about 20 years, and it is nice to meet people who aren't angry or bitter that fall into the WT accusation of how apostates behave. Thank you Jacob for sharing your very touching story. I wish you happiness and success in life, it would be great to maybe meet you some time.

[@desialley6607]

As a child growing up in Jw organization I feel deeply connected to those like myself who see the "cult" not religion this group is. My father's family are still active and they don't speak to me... no loss cause my uncle who is my dad's bro in law is an Elder and when my dad passed after being shunned my uncle came to funeral and lead services. He basically said all the wrong things like well my dad is doomed and if we plan on not having same demise we must seek truth. My dad was my hero my uncle ruined his memory and that I can't forgive. Not to mention my aunt did not attend and this was her older brother. It breaks my heart to see those in organization losing grip as my family has. Thank u for these videos it shows me I'm not alone

[@jenm9099]

I've been DF'd since I was 18. My Dad has full on shunned me for about 18 years now, and watching this gentleman's story hit home. I have to say, looking at this with fully out eyes, disfellowshipping is INSANE. It's emotional blackmail, cruel and NOT a loving provision. It's a sick manipulation from a cult.

[@bernadettekelly2772]

It occurs to me !! That some of these appointed elders love the importance of the position to be able to crush any Human feelings or INTELLEGENCE, that threatens there egos and status in this organisation . And so they close ranks with each other without questioning whither the person in question could have a point ? A kangaroo court ! I believe if Jesus stood before them under any questioning ! They would disfellowship him on the spot !

[@ElectricEarth]

I don't know about being "ego" driven, but yes, elders would disfellowship Jesus because he would speak a truth that Jehovah's Witnesses do not currently understand. That's why Jesus foretold that the prophet "Elijah" would be sent to God's organization in order to "restore all things" (Matt. 17:11). I am that prophet and you can see that restoration work on my channel.

[@riseupnow7037]

You hit the nail on the head!!!!! Couldn’t agree more!!!

[@davemacgyver573]

How true! My brother was a ministerial servant, and he actually voiced doubts about this religion to me before I saw any. He even saw some hyprocracy among the body of elders, when they were seeking to unjustly disfellowship me. But unfortunately, before it was all over, my brother loved his position as a "ministerial servant" more than he did REAL TRUTH and he lacked courage to stand by my side. He allowed fear of man to silence him, then turned his back on me.

[@davemacgyver573]

@Eternity With Christ ,since leaving the JW's I now believe the new testament was corrupted by Paul. I seek to keep the Torah as Yeshua and the other apostles did, and were even commended in Revelation for having done. There was a form of Judiasm which Zechariah kept and was named as "righteous" (Luke 1:5,6) for, that Jesus also taught, but which differs from the hyprocracy of certain Pharisees....you should go check that out. When I first read where it stated Zechariah was able/capable of keeping ALL the laws, statutes commandments, ordinances blamelessly.....the false teaching that we inherited sin from Adam (as only Paul taught) convinced me Paul was a liar and a false prophet.

[@mrssusanlight2023]

I am impressed with your ability to think outside the box! Seeing cracks in the organization through a new song book that is not uplifting. Realizing another book is giving you more comfort than the bible. You are a truly amazing and intelligent individual. Best wishes for your future!

[@caribbeanqueen7406]

Excellent interview.

[@lady6164]

That songbook was my trigger too. Felt like mind control music. Like they were purposely slowing down the brainwaves so the Hypnosis could begin.

[@fsb2cool2care]

Exactly! Good to know it wasn't just me.

[@beanm9948]

I def didn’t like the new songbook. I loved the nostalgia of the older one. What’s funny, is if they wanted to keep people in, USE that nostalgia with the songs to keep people coming back. New songbook big turnoff in addition to all of the other feelings I was having that it was a bunch of made up stuff.

[@johnnyruins9025]

Thanks for a great interview very solid points made about the jw and all the false teachings.

[@bribabie9854]

50:00-50:20 is so true. Being raised in the watchtower I was always taught that associating with those outside the congregation is bad.and when I got older and started to become friends with “worldly” people actually helped slowly open my eyes. I saw that there were some good people in the world . They inspired me to do good things and even helped me to be more independent.

[@reinaldofranco2966]

50:00 like this part where he said JWs are dark and despressed. So true, they say they’re the most happiest people but I think they just put on a show.

[@tonymorrisdeturd9321]

Yep... Been there, done that. 😫

[@l6E66A6h]

Great interview! Fantastic question about the general public’s view of the plight of the JW.

[@ellanes77]

Again Excellent Interview. Its exciting to learn Im not alone in my thoughts and motivations.

[@TinyMaths]

This is the second interview (the first one was with Tony, the guy that had to be masked up for fear of being discovered) where elders bent the rules in order to disfellowship someone. Thinking about this, the same thing happened to a friend of mine years before I eventually got DF'd. They asked him to come to a judicial committee and because he wasn't present, they just disfellowshipped him in his absence. Crazy thing is, it didn't occur to me how unjust that was, to not hear him out and to not give him a 'fair' trial. I'll never know (because I don't know where he is now), but I wonder if he had essentially rejected their authority already and that's why he didn't attend the judicial. Right now, I can't figure out how I accepted that as ok. The more cases I hear the more apparent it is that there were a lot of abuses. AND a lot of 'sneaky' behaviour to get people DF'd.

[@incognitofade9574]

He's right, they don't want to reason from the scriptures anymore. If you go up to a cart all they want to do is give you a card to go to the website or playing those videos. So now it's not a teaching work anymore. It's a judgement work going on so they aren't making as much effort. Oh!! Is that "new light"??

[@bgramirez966]

😅 so true and the reasoning from the scriptures book they don't even use anymore

[@ariyahn.a3900]

Great interview. Thumbs up. Great job guys. It is so challenging when family ,and so called friends turn their back on you. Personal opinion, l feel empathy for those whose eyes are opened but empathy from afar the one still manipulated.

[@shelleyfinch9697]

I think it's true regarding contact. My family made excuses to contact me when I had been df'd all the time they thought I might come back when I "cleaned up my life", however since they realise that I've been researching the organisation and don't agree with it I've heard nothing

[@carlaelliott1932]

Jacob seems to have a sweet heart. I’m glad he’s free and thriving. We who have been raised in the JW religion/cult (Second Generation) have an unusual life experience. 50 years later and I’m still so glad to be free.

[@clarkgrayhame1250]

Excellent interview, very interesting.

[@elizabethlevine4263]

Excellent interview! Thank you

[@elisenieuwe4649]

That book you mentioned looks interesting. I will read it as well. It seems to be full of good practical wisdom that we can all use i our life's. 'Don't sweat the small stuff'.

[@SueHagen1]

The second part of that title is : Because it is all small stuff

[@ShoNuffSoulBro1]

Don’t Smell the Sweaty Stuff 😆

[@janheard3826]

Cliff - you are such an excellent interviewer…you should be employed on a radio talk show and utilise your amazing skills to earn a living from.

[@DancingQueenie]

I love what you said about how you're happier, less judgmental, more loving/forgiving, more open to the beauty of life now that you're out. I'm an ex-Mormon and I had the very same experience. Like coming out of a cave into the light.

[@sollasollew3208]

Fifth your hair has fallen off your head and onto your chin, I think it's time for a backroom talk with some spiritual brothers to council you on genetics. Anyway enough WT nonsense, thanks for your hard work in producing content that makes a difference to so many.

[@glorialeach7301]

I always liked the word Agape Love, means unconditional BUT never felt it. So many things you two have discussed is so very much like it was for me 30 years ago. It’s still going on.

[@wendysealy909]

Thank you Jacob. You rock!!!😊

[@fsb2cool2care]

😊😉

[@jrow0524]

OMG!! I felt exactly the same as his friend in Tennessee! It's amazing how many of these stories are so similar to mine.

[@suchenliao2517]

Great interview!! Thank you for sharing your life experiences

[@lawrencevincent1]

If this guy cannot endure it then that reaffirms for me how difficult and awkward this org is.

[@blues3665]

vincent Lawrence enjoy your freedom, it’s great being out.

[@DVines-sz4nn]

This sharing from of you both is beyond words for me. What a beautiful 🎁 to us! I have been out for years and have no doubt that I made the right decision for me and still the pangs of leaving off everything you thought you knew and understood to be true hurts. Being Devoid of everyone you thought you knew for years just hurts! Feeling so alone and afraid to trust others outside but unable to run back is beyond words until you just do it is a task. It is not easy to reform oneself anew but we must. Tearing down the constructs of control must be done. Examining just how this control was established into us in the first place is essential. We were Parroted everything by others who were parroted. We were taught and then went about recruiting others to do the same. This is not truth nor is it liberty. It is not in keeping with the scriptural knowing that Jesus spoke of "the truth that will set us free" as John 8: 32 tells. It is more mind games. Who is more depressed than this group yet they suffer silently awaiting Armageddon ( another fearful teaching intended to enslave) while they use prescribed substances though medicinal to treat diagnoses that are just depression seeking release. I am not surprised that too many sicknesses are rampant in their cult. The secrets are eating them up and thus the alcohol abuse since they can escape legally and privately and thus maintain their status. Some would rather die than change. Those who continue to give their power away instead of investigating the group should ask themselves just what are they afraid of? And why can't they launch an investigation of what they claim to stand upon? Is this not what examining the scriptures to see if these things are so as did the ancient Bereans in the book of Acts? They must know that they may have to take a stand and leave out from among them. They might discard and do some burning of books as did the bereans. This interview healed a lot of things for me. I concur with everything revealed about his personal experience even down to the sitting person in residence at the white house! He reflects much! Ty so!

[@pjewellful]

Thanks for these great videos!!

[@meghandelarosa2443]

Love your videos Cliff! You seem like a kind hearted person❤

[@michellem2042]

Good interview

[@jorgebarrios2353]

Gracias por tu información está lleno de valiosa información y que bueno que ya estás recuperado de ese duro golpe por parte de tu familia. Dios todopoderoso está contigo porque eres un buen hombre con un gran sentido justicia.

[@consuellachiquita7509]

I agree, Ex-Gilead Missionary's videos were the very first videos I watched when I started researching. His videos are excellent!

[@piperjohnson4808]

Thank you for all you do! I enjoy your videos! The information is priceless!

[@rosafiol4611]

Gracias por el vídeo. Gracias por la exposición de este hombre ex betelita. Al fin somos libres. Bendiciones a los dos por vuestro tiempo.

[@ArtfullyMusingLaura]

Great interview as always.

[@sparrowhawkguitarboy]

I totally understand what Jacob said at minute 22:00, that is very disappointing when you are doing all that you can, and then a fatty jerk Elder or Circuit Overseer comes and tell you "you can do more". I remember when I was 14 I was so happy that my congregation will have a new kingdom hall, that I left the regular pioneering work aside to focus in helping to build that kingdom hall. When I reported less than 50 hours that month, then the Circuit Overseer came and told me off, for not being preaching as I used to. I went home and starting crying because I felt that treatment so injust, and I believed that Jehovah was looking my heart and he knows that what I made by dedicating full time after school to help in the kingdom's hall building.

[@Gr8Believer]

If you can quote the Watchtower then you're spiritual. As JT say's you can ask questions but you can't question the answers.

[@saffronhammer7714]

I completely agree with his take on JWs, and his awakening process was similar to mine. It is so very good to be out, awake, and free; finally living a good and peaceful life, open to giving and receiving unconditional love. I also highly recommend Steven Pinker's "Angels of Our Better Nature."