I watched your first video and I must say: it is one of the most articulate, intelligent, reasonable, and stunningly BEAUTIFUL accounts that I have ever heard from a former witness--online, in conversation, or anywhere else. I just want you to know that you have been heard and I can appreciate your perspective as it deeply reflects mine. As for anybody else giving criticism in an unconstructive manner--if they can't understand your perspective after watching your video, well just know you have nothing else to justify or rationalize about what you have done in your life; that is your business, your life, your opinion, your being you. I don't know you, but damn... I am very proud to say that I heard your story and it really made my day. Best wishes to you and the infinite landscape ahead of you that is the rest of your life.
Wow, I’m honestly speechless reading this Thank you so much for taking the time to share that-it really means a lot. I was debating whether to even make a video, and to hear that it resonated with you on such a deep level is incredible I completely agree with you, too-at the end of the day, it’s our own journey, and as long as we stay true to ourselves, that’s what matters most. I’m really glad that sharing my story could make your day, and I appreciate your support more than you know✊
What's up Thanom? You probably don't remember me but we worked together in bethel for a little bit before you transferred department. I remember you were a good dude and well liked, glad to see you woke up and made it out! ✊
In a month I’m going to become an uncle, and I'm so sad. I was raised a JW by my mother, along with my older brother. We grew up poor, with a father who had a short temper. We were taught that all the hardships we faced were because of this corrupt world, but that the end was near, the new world was coming. I had very few friends, outside the congregation I wasn’t allowed to and inside there weren’t many kids my age. I missed out on a lot, but whatever, there would have been time for all that after Armageddon. The first time I seriously questioned my faith was in 2018, when I was in high school. My mother began having panic attacks and fell into depression. We had always been taught that people are most open to "the truth" when they're at their lowest, and there I was at my lowest questioning the organization, the irony. Then the pandemic hit, and had the time and space to research. When it was time to choose a university, I knew I needed some distance from home to get the freedom to explore life outside the religion. That was five years ago, I’ve been physically in mentally out since. The plan was to fade away, but two years ago, I met the person I want to spend the rest of my life with, and I want to tell my family, I really wanto to, but I’ll be shunned. My brother, my only best friend growing up through every hardship, is about to become a father, and I know I won’t get to see his child grow up. I won’t even be part of his life anymore. It breaks my heart. I’m exhausted from living a double life, torn between being true to myself and holding on to the people I love. I wish I could wake them up, but you are right, it only happens when it starts from ourselves. Still, I can’t shake this sadness. It hurts knowing that no matter what, I’m going to lose one of the people I love most.
I understand. It’s a tough period in your life now. No one should go through something like that. I don’t hate witnesses, but despise the religion! Take good care of yourself!
I am so sorry. This is so wrong! I can say from experience you’re going to have a lot of emotions at first and a lot of anger maybe you can just focus on your new situation and your own life. We’re going through that right now so I totally understand. The good part for me is most of my families Already gone the ones that matter anyway. I’m 68 in the process of well I’m already being shunned just because I’ve made my opinion known. So I have one friend who’s hanging on a thread. But as soon as the announcement is made well you know how that goes. I’m so sorry you got a little nephew that’s never gonna know you. Not right!
I don't hate JW's either. If and when they come to my door (very rare these days), I am very polite, kind, and I socialize with them at the doorstep. I know the brutality of door-to-door. I never tell them I'm an Ex-JW, because I know they are cult-programmed to shut down immediately. They often remark, "You know a lot about us" and I just say I have family in. I stick to just 1 thesis for the visit and don't let them dart all over the place. They often divert when anxious onto something they feel comfortable with. Fun fact: Recently around the Memorial, 3 JW women came to my door and 1 younger one was in pants! I knew about the pants already, but I played dumb about JW's Pharisaical wardrobe and grooming mandates. "I've never seen a JW woman in pants!" I exclaimed. One middle-aged JW women boasted, "It's the new arrangement!!!! And men can wear beards too!!!!" She seemed totally thrilled and convinced that I would somehow be impressed, maybe because I have a beard. I thought it weird that she was coaxing me to the Memorial because I'd feel comfy as a bearded-man. I asked, "Who *exactly* arranges this arrangement?" It got awkward, and we talked briefly about their New York apostles telling millions of JW's what to wear and facial hair. I closed with, "It sounds all Pharisaical to me." That word triggered the 3rd older woman who raised her eyebrows, and she seemed to be thinking, "He knows too much. Hmmmm." They excused themselves. I declined the watercolored tract for the Memorial. I said, "For many reasons-- but since you brought up wardrobe-- I wouldn't ever join a religion that dictated such minutiae in my life. That tells me that a lot of other things are going to be highly controlling." We departed with smiles.
I resonate so much with several of the points in both this video and the first one. People wake up when it's ready for them to do so and when they are willing and ready to do so. It's a personal journey (for me I started the "fading" away over 20 years ago - it was very difficult at first). The only way to heal from stepping away from the organization is to live your most authentic self (with all it's bumps and bruises). I too refuse to live in the victim space or the negative-hate space. I don't voice angry, mean, hateful things about the organization. I just don't care what they think about me. I don't answer to them. Everyone has the right to believe what they want to believe. My personal philosophy is a "live and let live" kind of paradigm - it's the only way my marriage survived this for so long. I was lucky - my partner is still a JW and stayed with me even when I stepped away (we had a young child at the time, who is all grown up now - but we are still together even if it is not perfect). Our worlds are very different - they have their friends, and I've had to rebuild my friend group. I won't waste my time with people who will only be friends with me on a conditional basis. There have been times I've dealt with profound loneliness, even being married, but I have also pursued what brings me joy. I lived a dream and got a college education (BA, MA, PhD) and built a career. I like who I have become, and I have never regretted the decisions I made in stepping away from the religion. I appreciate your focus on living an authentic life and giving yourself the time to explore what is meaningful to you. I'm cheering you on!
After being programmed and brainwashed for so many years, it may seem selfish to say, “I have woken up on my own and so should they.” However, I truly believe it is a personal decision. Communicating my thoughts with a Jehovah's Witness can be very challenging. Therefore, I think it's best for them to seek out the "truth" on their own.
Hey there, PIMO here and just watched both videos. Thank you so much for putting these together. Even though your intent is not to wake someone up, these videos provide immeasurable comfort to those that are starting the process. I can thank you enough. You've had more positive impact on the world with just these two videos than you'll ever know.
❤thanks for your story i truly enjoyed it very much both off them. I lk eft 2020 as an 80.yrs old was born in had no regrets . Yes i agree about unconditional love accepting the person for who they are conditional is not letting people walk over you . I still.have my faith not attached to any church . Have learnt so.much since leaving lost family and friends. Many blessings to you. From Australia
Hey Thanom, first thing first, thank you for uploading and sharing your story with us. I watched part 1&2 and I can definitely relate and nodded my head so many times throughout things that you mentioned that runs through our head once we wake up. Tommorow I will turn 1 month becoming Pimo and I had also dedicated my entire 20’s to this organization which hurts in most parts. But now I can definitely make choices as a 31 yr old female to actually use my 30’s to achieve so many goals that is frowned upon this org. I’m glad you can achieve yours too and you will! Just like you I have my brother also who has been out 4years and have been great with being closer like before after I mentioned to him of becoming Pimo a few days ago. I’m glad I got your 1st video as recommended on RUclips since it’s great to know that I’m not going through this major change on my own since our generation has more access to find support groups. Keep up with your videos as they will continue to help others.
Thank you so much for your content. I've been struggling a long time with a lot of the teachings. I've only just started to do research myself and it's absolutely heart breaking finding out you've been brainwashed your entire life. I don't regret being raised in as a witness because I have raised my children with good morals and values but I was balanced with them and wanted them to make their own choices in life. I've been married to an amazing man for 30 years whose family are all witnesses but he never got around to being baptised. Our wedding was a wake up as my pioneer friends weren't allowed to attend because he wasn't baptised. I've spoken to a few of my friends and they are also all starting to wake up. Hearing your story has been very helpful and not in a hateful way. I will continue to live my life guided by love in my heart ❤️
I really appreciate your journey, once you uncover the lies, you can’t live the lie any longer! You are courageous and brave for speaking out. I appreciate how you presented your story not to put blame on the victims. Very sensible! 🥰 Take your time in rebuilding your life. 😉 You are a great son! 🙌🥰🙌
I myself have come to the conclusion that they are not entitled to know what I believe. My beliefs shouldn't have any bearing on what they themselves believe. I told my family a long time ago when they tried that box ticking exercise by asking me about what I believe to straight up tell them " does it really matter what I believe"? We will not see eye to eye anyways so let's skip all this formality. They love telling others that " I can't live the truth for you" but then are all dependent on what you believe so they can feel better about their own faith. Life is too short for all that kind of headache. Glad you made it out!
My dad had a huge problem with me putting up a mini christmas tree in my house last year and told me it made him uncomfortable. I told him I was sorry about that but I am allowed to put whatever I want in my own house and that I would never put one up in his house if I still lived there, because I respect him and his beliefs, but I can't do that if he doesn't respect mine as well. He didn't bother me after that.
The way you articulate will continue to bring you loyal viewers. Im happy for you man. Its tough but im happy for you. One of the best things i learned was how many GENUINELY nice people there are in the world! we were soooo fooled lol
Thank you so much for sharing your story! I’m looking forward to seeing you embark on living your life freely and seeing you be able to follow your dreams. Life is so much happier when you escape the cult!
I really appreciate your journey, once you uncover the lies, you can’t live the lie any longer! You are courageous and brave for speaking out. I appreciate how you presented your story not to put blame on the victims. Very sensible! 🥰
I watched your video because near 50 years ago JW's preyed on my brother, he was lonely, isolated and vunerable, our family never recovered. He eventually got out but his sons won't talk to him, when they have come to our door I am overcome with fear my husband would believe them and i find myself in foetal position crying and shaking. They are a death cult. Hearing you gave me hope.
Wow!! Your story was so clear and impactful. As you told us about your experience, I was captivated 100%. But I want to say that I am extremely happy😀 for you. You appear to be a true human living his Authentic life. I’m proud of you and thankful that you was willing to share your story. I hope your life is tremendously blessed.
U are one of a kind, I am glade u woke up early in ur life! Now is when ur life begins! U have done good with our 3 pound brain, but do not give up on a creator of us. The math is to great to over look a designer who ever he is!
Great outlook on life after leaving. I have said similar things about not wasting time regurgitating WT propaganda but actually diving into things that we weren't allowed to do in the past. For example, getting opinionated into politics and creating a political identity. I fell in love with politics and holidays, and I focus more on that and try to share that side of me on my channel. I do a live political show every Tuesdays 9pm EST and I LOVE it. It makes me so happy to hear exjws and their ideas about politics. On another note, I am so happy you still have communication with your mother. My mom has wiped her hands with me last year and only reaches out if there's a hurricane passing by. It's so disingenuous and fake that I normally ignore it because it will get me angrier than anything. And I'm so done with that, I've moved on so much that I can't stoop down to that level anymore. So even though I lost my entire family I have only 1 cousin and my father who I keep genuine communication with and who I have in my life. I also am married with my 3 children who are my life. I homeschool them and we spend every moment together. I rather do this and be alone than go back and have everyone. It was a hard decision, but I am happier in the long run, and I know that it WILL be worth it, whether I see now or not, freedom IS worth it. Freedom also isn't free it's expensive as hell. And I've lost myself along the way, but I became so much more than I ever could've if I would've stayed. "Waking up" is a choice. And I'm glad I did it even when I really didn't want to wake up. And I see these types of videos weekly it is shocking. But it's validating that YES, we made the RIGHT choice. I value TRUTH over comfort. Thank you for sharing your story with us. I love your channel!
What helped me was just knowing what it felt like to feel free from all the rules. That was enough for me to not doubt I was making the right decision. Once I let go, I couldn't put all that weight back on my shoulders. I was free to be myself and away from people who loved me strictly for what I believed in instead of for who I really was. I used to constantly pray for help to understand things that didn't make sense to me and to be who God wanted me to be according to Jehovah's Witnesses. Now I can relax without feeling guilty for not doing everything I needed to do. In normal life we have a long enough list already. I believe God loves us for who we are as long as we don't hurt ourselves or others. Life doesn't have to be so complicated. At the same time nothing is black and white. Everyone is different and thinks differently and I think that's a good thing.
I have rebuilt my life after I left the org. because I have the time now and I can make decisions that benefit myself not an org.. it’s an individual decision,,.
So impressed with you. Such an a amazing young man. I was lucky, my husband and I are still together after 42 years and awake. I feel the same way you do about God and religion. exJW's make video's because when you leave you loose everything. Not a religion, it's a cult!! Glad you are out and have your Mom. Love to you!
I have appreciated a number of things in your first video and in this one. Thank you, Thanom, for sharing your story. I am the mother of grown sons. I felt so touched in this when you spoke of your mom and how you feel about her and the relationship you are still able to have even though she is still inside the org. She is blessed to have a son like you. My hope is that you will be led by Holy Spirit to get to know Jesus. The narcissistic god you described in your first video is made partly by Watchtower and partly by poor so called Bible scholars. The concept that God is a triune godhead actually is in the Bible. It was not a man made concept that was voted on in the Council of Nicaea. I can tell that you are a bright person who is not afraid to do research from your story in part 1. That took courage to do because of the possible consequences of losing your loved ones. You have faced that now and have seen that you can survive that. It takes courage to embark on a journey to know God-the God of the Bible- with the goal of beginning a real relationship with Him. After what we have been through in the org, we long to be free of shackles on our mind. While it is true that a relationship with God involves being willing to submit to Him, I am finding that is nothing like submitting to a narcissist as we were in the org. Of course, it is yours to choose to seek the real God or not. I wish you the best outcome for your life.❤
There’s no benefit to prolonging the course of poison, but part of a healthy deconstruction could include watching videos (like yours) of people who were able to think a thought whole. JW thought stoppers are built into our infantilized stream of consciousness to the extent that it can be difficult to “grow up” and think clearly. This impedes the process of independent research. Listening to people who have taken the time to show their work is a way that we can still rely on others for help as we choose to grow. Sharing your journey, including how you broke out of the groupthink on a scriptural and academic level is a kindness and a great benefit to others. Thank you for prioritizing truth and sincerity over comfort.
I totally agree with you I was in the situation in Taumarunui congregation burnt my collection of Harry potter that was important to me. I am free what you said in the video made a difference between faith and my relationship with Jehovah is shining through
Wake them up? Every video that goes online is a true witness to the dishonesty in JW. The very 1st thing I did when Jesus revealed Himself to me I was filled with the Holy Spirit was weep before the Lord for my family to come out. 3 of my sisters have come out without me saying 1 word about it to them. Pray. Pray for it to come down from the top down and the oppressed set free. ❤
8:48 I realize there are conditions in any relationship. For me, unconditional love means I accept the person for who they are. Not for how they chose to believe. Faith is personal. How people chose to believe (or not) is none of my business. I accept people and remain open and meet people where they are in life. I left JW in 2011/2012. My thoughts and beliefs have constantly changed & evolved. I never want to be stuck or set in a position - that's no different than when I was a JW. There's zero growth in that. Take your time and learn who you are! Give yourself grace and patience (something that was never truly given in JW cult).
💜Hating someone else is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. It's a waste of energy. It is hard, but it's better to focus on yourself. Make up for lost time and INVEST IN YOURSELF! YOU ARE WORTH IT!💜
I won't lie. I had some genuinely good moments in the kingdom Hall, but I had way too many bad ones. I've been bullied, abandoned and treated just horribly even by older ones. I've had people lie and gossip about me and my family because we don't go to meetings much because my mom and I tend not to feel good due to chronic illness. When I was a kid, my mom was always sick and in the hospital. A lot of the members of my congregation didn't even care. They never visit or asked if we were okay. (We did have one family who was sweet however, I don't want to take away from that) I'm still trying to make friends in the organization, but I literally can't because they don't like me. I'm always ignored, they always say they wanna hang out and then they ignore me or they give me weird looks and it makes me so anxious. I've been treated better by "worldly" (i hate that word) people than witnesses my whole life. It doesn't help that im bisexual and I prefer women and have a girlfriend because I just want to be happy. I'm so tired of being depressed because I'm always stuck having to be someone I am not. I am also terrified, I've always been a JW so leaving is genuinely so utterly scary to me because it's the only life I've ever known. I started realizing two years ago because I started thinking a lot, like why is the new system not here yet? Why are people still dying? Why are we still having wars and so much hatred? I can't understand it. I always ask my parents this. They are very lovely and sweet but it's still just so hard to understand. Once I get on my feet properly I am going to leave because I just can't anymore. Thankfully my mom is very sweet and understands why I want to leave, even she knows how badly I've been treated, especially by guys. She even said she wouldn't stop talking to me and that she still loves me which does make me feel so much better. I can't wait to be free. To celebrate my first birthday, my first Christmas & Halloween, to be able to do things I couldn't because I was always held back by being a JW. But I also don't hate the JW, I could never hate them unlike other people who utterly hate them. I just think that, for me, it's not good or healthy. I’ve met very nice people in the religion.
@@lavishty_ My heart goes out to you in your situation. You seem like a balanced person and you’ll crush it in the real world. Stay strong, and take one step at a time 💪
I also don't like to necessarily think of love as unconditional, sounds very co-dependant, maybe the only true unconditional love there can be is that of a parent to their child. The next best thing is-as you already so eloquently put it-acceptance, honesty, also with yourself. I've found preciously little of that inside the JWs.
I think your channel should show us how you go about reclaiming your life after leaving a high control religion. You sound like a native English speaker and speak Thai while living overseas. Seems like you have a unique perspective worth chronicling.
8:50 Well Jesus promoted unconditional love i.e “love your enemy” which speaks to love even if someone did you wrong because In essence killing someone with kindness has a lasting effect on a person & as a result they no longer want to be your enemy but in turn want to love you back. That’s why I find it odd how you think the Bible is false yet there is timeless wisdom that can help shape your life to fullness separate from JW’s distorted reasonings from the scriptures. Where God is not narcissist but instead wants you appreciate what he’s created for you.
So everything having been heard, u r all Jehovahed out and the switch has been flicked off. U r one of those rare people who figured things out for yourself, did the Mahi, dug deep, and researched. All the best Thanom, from New Zealand. Kai Ora for yr Vlogs.
You asked about advice on leaving and creating a Life worth living. I disassociated in 1994 after 7 years. My entire family is "worldly" so they gladly welcomed me back, but I had to repair relationships after being such an arrogant little shit of a Jehovah's Witness, not participating in family holidays etc. and being a know-it-all on God. I've seen so many Ex-JW's jump right into another "Truth"-- it's like the cult programming was not dealt with, and they just changed costumes. Sooooooo many Ex-JW's who, metaphorically, use the same dance moves, but on a different dance floor. To me, these ExJw's haven't gone through the process of utterly NOT KNOWING. For once in their lives, just NOT KNOWING the truth and not being know-it-alls. "I don't know" is the most enlightened Ex-JW stance I see. So my advice to new Ex JW's? Rest in NOT KNOWING ANYTHING. Just explore, but don't commit. Date, but don't marry, so to speak.
Glad you made that decision i was there to for 16 years left after my divorce im just a beter person without that in my life it destroyed my life my kinds also left enjoy your life you only have one
My unconditional love is its inclusive, and and we do not have to walk the same path, or think the same things, but still like who they are and how you enjoy their company. I’m 66, been out 25 years, I’d go on with the whole story but it’ll be too long 😂 (my sons were 5th generation before we left)
Hey welcome to the outside world. There is a lot to discover, it's been more than 40 years for me. Married to the girl who I was hanging with at convention when I was 16 and she was 13. Our first experience was when I was 21 and she was 18, I'm now 66. I left and never went back to the organization. Long story, but I eventually got married to someone else, likewise she did to a elder. She found me on Facebook about 8 years ago, I was now free, she said she was still in love with me, divorced her elder husband, was kicked out for a while, we are now married so she was able to get back in. I am the only one out in my family. My story is long, wish you the best. What ever you need to know about the new world, l am your guy.
My husband disassociated because he campaigned for the environment, for Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth and he went to Parliament and protested. He couldn't do that and be a Jehovah's Witness. Then he got reinstated, moved congregation to Ireland. Met me and brought me to the meetings. We got engaged so he got reproved and broke it off. I came back to England but he followed me and we got married. We went back to meetings when I was expecting our son, told the elders, he got brought to judicial, but only 2 elders there and not 3. It turned out they had misunderstood him when he'd told them his whole story starting with the disassociation years back and thought he was still disassociated, not reinstated in the middle. After his suicide, they told me he was about to be reinstated 1 week later and they also couldn't understand why the newspaper reporter had put that he'd been disfellowshipped. Both my husband and I had thought he was disfellowshipped for marrying me. It was all a mistake and my husband had not bothered about correcting their wording when they'd announced him at the meeting as disassociated rather than disfellowshipped as he said to me it was the same thing anyway. But this is not of God, not any of it. My father-in-law was really angry with the elders and wrote a strong letter to them before he and my mother-in-law got out eventually just before they died. My kids are so messed up by all of this and we are going to make a film one day about my story. I just pray they recover as they are adults and have suffered all their lives. My full testimony is on my channel. Some of it is a bit quiet and in the dark as my kids were in bed and looks a bit strange, so I will have to redo it one day.
I totally understand where u coming from..however...the reason I watch exjw activists vids is bc I have to question everything I was taught..so many things I believed without a shadow of a doubt and now humbling myself once I realized so many of my thoughts/beliefs were warped... I lived w alot of guilt n shame truly believing JW teachings ..really sucks to go through child indoctrination. It creates childhood trauma and our triggers stem alot from this. At times i was judgmental and believing my family were "fake JWs" when in reality they are just brainwashed. At one point I was so angry and bitter bc my parents and siblings shun me and haven't contacted me at all in over 3 years. I love them very much. I no longer feel broken...I feel sorry for them..they are proud people just like u mentioned...I hope they snap out of it whether they reach out to me or not.. I've moved on... This cult destroys families and that's why support other ex jw who are doing the research. I want to get this story straight (the reality of who this cult really is) but thats just me.. Wishing u all the best ❤️ I attempted to share with caution with close jw "friends" ..that was a mistake..they think ive gone crazy..😊
Brother, first of all congrats on waking up and escaping that cult, happy for you man. I’m not here to talk to you about religion but I know you like learning and growing in your pursuit of the truth. I encourage you to read the gospels of Matthew, Mark Luke and John but not in the NWT try the ESV you will quickly realize that the watch tower made many changes to match their doctrine in the botched translation that is the NWT.
But thanks for sharing your story, my gf is a JW and in my efforts to understand her better I started researching this topic and your story has helped me greatly. Wherever life takes you next I hope that you succeed and keep growing. I love you, I’m praying for you and your family
Recovering from the trauma of indoctrination in a high control religion is a difficult process. If you need help, check out Marlene Winell’s book, Leaving the Fold - A guide for former fundamentalist and others leaving their religion.
Great video's Thanom! So happy for you and I'm so sorry for what you have been through. I woke up in October of 2022. It was right as meetings were just going back to the hall. My husband woke up about 2 years before I did. I tried to prove to him that this was the truth and I woke myself up. It was the 1914 doctrine for us too, that same watchtower in 2011 that you mentioned in your last video is what starting waking me up. I remember being so confused, I felt like I was missing a piece of information, and I didn't understand how there could not be a answer to one of the primary teachings. It's really confusing when you have believed something for 30 years and then just all of a sudden, it's wrong. Love from Canada
I was PIMO ELDER for a number of years while my Wife was 110% PIMI and it was haaaaaaard. But thank God for the 2023 Annual meeting, that shit woke my wife up! lol. And now we both PIMOs 😆😆😆 But we always laugh about how stupid these JW are... look at each other and roll our eyes at meetings. Fun Times. My Family is why we still stay... She is ready to GO!!! LOL.
All you say is correct regarding the leadership of the Organisation my own experience rings true to yours and is very thoughtfully explained to all concerned, Yes, there are Pros and cons to all things we follow in this life, but none are free of human Bulsht because we are surrounded by it in politics, religion, science, traditions commerce pressuring us to accept their version of truths and also will change that 'truth' as new info is discovered, or, as the light becomes brighter!!! Sorry, my sense of irony! To me, that is the point of belief, the only one who explains why we search and fail to find peace and truth in humans... whoever he chose to help us understand his purpose and our current problems are of our own making, yes, he knows humans will let him and us down.. and he said as much 'time, and time again' even from within the JWs...Yes, even from the top table, in fact, he said 'the end will not come unless they have exposed themselves'... (the apostasy first) All this is taking place as we speak, those who trust in humans 'as leaders' will be disappointed and leave or are disfellowshipped for telling this truth, these are those who expect this to take place because they understood what has happened before. meaning God did not lie to us, humans do!
Bro I met 2 JWs at a farmers market in San Diego Ca yesterday and they seemed very cautious of me as soon as I started telling them about my supernatural spiritual experience from God. 1. I prayed one day and was supernaturally healed by God instantly. 2. The spirit realm opened up to me and I’ve seen angels and demons. Hear the voice of God. It’s a real relationship supernaturally. 3. I was transformed, (born again) completely changed. I was baptized or filled with Holy Spirit. These things happened to me as a non religions guy. I was damaged and prayed for help one night and He God came and did all this to me instantly showing me the truth. He exists, Jesus is God, and is here to give these loving gifts to humans. I went to damaged and violent to supernaturally healed and living towards all. I’m new to God how can these religions not know the truth??????? I’m new and they’re aren’t but I know more truth than them. The guy couldn’t look me in my eyes as I spoke of my hearing and experiences I found it weird. And they said they don’t believe in hell??? What Bible are they reading??? The KJV speaks of hell. I’m so confused about all the “church world” morning to JWs and Muslims they all don’t know the truth. I feel sorry for them. The woman was very nice but the man was very stand offish man. I was like bro something is wrong with you. He didn’t seem very happy. He kept telling me what is the real name of God?? I don’t think that matter rite now I’m telling you about transformation power and healings God wants to give lol. I’m so confused at people who are religious. Have supernatural encounters with God and they must line up with Bible scriptures kjv or nkjv. I’ve had visions, dreams, I heard God speak to me, it’s not schizophrenia lol. Oh the dead dry religions of this world.
You know Thanom after watching part 1 of your video, I stopped at where your wife is dealing with your situation. While resuming where I left-off 39:17, I am now confused by your wording about your disassociation letter and seeing the elders in person with an ultimatum of proving about your inquisition in determining if you'd stay a witness or not in my opinion in comprehension is your condemning own your consciousness. I say this because I thought, after learning and growing into the religion with meeting attendance, going from door to door (illustrating and witnessing to the people from the bible) to getting baptized, being a pioneer, and onto bethel not to mention the where the need is great you'd know about the bible front to back without needing affirmation from the elders to give you a reason to stay within the organization which is where I am confused by. I would think your religion would be a self-determined endeavor, but now you've proven yourself to be a liar considering your apparent ambivalent to all of a sudden come out with contradicting against yourself. I just don't get why are they the blame for your search for truth because if that's the case your way of conveying the bible to unknowing people who wants to better their own life through you your aspiration to serve God was an all in vain feat? I just don't understand how you lost tract of the how JW are following bible scriptures just as any other religion or college if you're studying Theology. The more you talk the more it is apparent that you are not satisfied with your life in or out of the religion and I'm not speaking from a JW viewpoint but a worldly person with logic not serving the religion. For a better reason in making an early choice of not continuing JW studies at a young age was an advantage for me when compared to you and how you are handling leaving the religion is one thing but to condemn religion (God) in general will be a much bigger issue you'll have to deal with. I genuinely wish you the best in searching for yourself.
Unconditional love may be on the same level of forgiveness: I can forgive, but that doesn't mean I can go back to trust. Trust is a possibility perhaps, but it's in a different realm. If I love my child unconditionally, and he is a serial killer in prison, I would visit him, I would tell him I am still his mother and will always love him, but if he escaped, I would turn him in. Love is love, action is separate. THe love "Jehovah" had for me when I was a JW wasn't unconditional, as he would discard me like garbage (or contaminated garlic bread) and a mother who loves her child would not. JWs are also taught that in the paradise, they will forget the love they had for their apostate child, and it would not be brought to mind. They would have new family. They are taught that their child is like a serial killer, when in fact, they are more interested in truth and are a good person.
Unconditional love. Romans 8.31-39. God had to do alot of work in me to understand His unconditional love in Christ after the lies in JW about Him. Im not sure that anyone can really love unconditionally unless experiencing the love of God 1st hand for yourself. If He did it for me He will do it for anyone who comes to Him. Jesus said Come to Me. Call on Me. Believe in Me.
Take this from someone who self exited, luckily not baptized in 2006, 20 years old, as an atheist. The damage has not set in for you yet dude. I didn't get counseling, it would have helped streamline the process A LOT. I would highly suggest not making the mistake of toughing it out alone like I did. It doesn't make you a victim, it's just extra help. As far as activism, there are children trapped by their brainwashed parents and family, if there's a chance I can help just one not suffer needlessly, I'll do it. At the end of the day it doesn't have to be one's entire personality, we're on the same page there 😂
I watched your video and as a believer, I find surprising that you you don't believe in a christian God. Did you ever have an encounter with God as JW ? In your first video, you talked about God being an narcissist and the nature created by a possible high power but in not too much detailled. Can you make a longer video about your believes now ? What led you to don't believe in Jesus anymore ? Is it historical facts, science, etc ? Because, I kinda feel like you were saying "God is mean, and I want to have fun now so bye bye" and for me, it seems there is more that led you to your present stance
I feel like JW a false messiah. They preach their org saves not Jesus. The same goes for the rest that say they only ones to have it right. The only chosen ones.
Losing weight is a lot easier if you are given the tools to succeed. I know nutritional info in the US is kinda shitty compared to my own country, as is access to affordable healthy food. You are basically saying you would refuse to help someone who wants to be helped. If your neighbour wanted to lose weight but didn't have a car or access to public transport, would you give them a lift to the gym when you were going? Sad that you defend JW's when they cause so much pain to so many. I'm sure there are videos made by exJW's that you watched that helped you. Shame you wouldn't do the same for someone else. I'm glad you are out, but if I watch videos by exJW's, I prefer that they have some kind of moral compass.
What a story, thank you for sharing it with us ,,,, listen, I listen (pun intended LOL) to a wonderful RUclipsr/podcaster, his name is Stacy Bowmann, his channel is called Surviving Paradise, I would say is one of my Top 5 former JWs, like myself, that I take it as therapy, every-single-episode, and the one I remembered just now is this one: ruclips.net/video/evP-EBcP66Y/видео.htmlsi=Eso8Tyq9grSadl6r I hope you start listening to him, we all have a story, I still can’t tell mine, my Mother still alive, I love her deeply, perhaps after she is no longer around I will share my experience. Please know you aren’t alone, Thanom, there’s THOUSANDS of us out here. I send you a big hug and lots of positive energy, take care of yourself 🫂
There are 2 “absolute dates.” One of which is 539, the date in which Cyrus conquered Babylon over night. One of the first things they did was release the Jews who ended up back in Jerusalem in 537bc. Jehovah said the land would be desolate 70 years, (Dan 9:2) so count back 70 years you get from the Bible 607. Believe man, or believe Jehovah? (Psm 146:3) 587 = only 50 years desolation
Actually the first deportation to Babylon happened in 606 BC and Jerusalem fell in 587 BC which means there was still a king in Judah so the “appointed times of the nations” JW doctrine couldn’t have started until 587 BC. But let’s say you’re right and the last king reigned until 607 BC, it still doesn’t work because JW say 360 days equal a year which is a lunar calendar but then they use the Gregorian calendar which is a 365 day solar calendar to arrive at 1914. Do the math, it doesn’t add up.
Ok...im not gay at all but your a good lookin guy i was going to wait to say this just in case you were still married. Dude....imma be honest...this is going to be harsh but witness girls SUCK!! hahahhaha Your good lookin , young and go to the gym. Im sure your work ethic is fire. Enjoy yourself and if you choose then enjoy your journey in the search for a woman who WILL love you unconditionally.
First let me start off by saying, I am so sorry about your marriage. New Subscriber here. Now, when it comes to the Bible being the word of God, have you considered this: Have you ever stopped to think about how advanced humans are? We can send messages from the moon to Earth, create artificial intelligence, and so much more. But then why do some people doubt that God could send a letter to His children to guide them on the best way to live a happy and successful life? I mean, think about it. If we can do all these incredible things, why couldn't GOD, our HEAVENLY FATHER have the power do something as simple as sending a message to us? The Bible is a message from God to show us the way. So why is it so hard for some people to believe that GOD is GREATER than we are? Maybe it's because we can't see Him or touch Him like we can with our technology. But just because we can't physically see or touch something doesn't mean it's not there. We have to have faith in things that are beyond our understanding. Just like we have faith in the technology that allows us to communicate with each other across vast distances. So why not build your Faith that we do have a HEAVENLY FATHER, that GENUINELY LOVE and CARE about us. He is looking out for us and guiding us through life? The Bible may not have been sent via email or text message, but its teachings have stood the test of time and continue to inspire and guide BILLIONS of people around the world. Maybe you need to realize, there is a DIVINE PLAN for each of us. So next time you doubt the existence of God or question the validity of the Bible, just remember how smart humans are and how much we are capable of. If we can do all this, why couldn't God send us a letter too?
I hope you are not serious😢The Bible is not as a letter or e-mail from God. The Bible is a book of myths and man made stories. The catholics collected them at the account of nicaea to make the Bible. Therefor it is full of mistakes and contradictions. You should not use it as a guideline because the book is horrendous. The God of the Bible approves, manslaughter, slavery, genocide, murder of children, abuse, theft, opppressing of women and so on.
Next time please write a script, you're rambling on, and not coming to the point, it is tiring. This is a one-sided conversation that I'm already bored to hear.
I watched your first video and I must say: it is one of the most articulate, intelligent, reasonable, and stunningly BEAUTIFUL accounts that I have ever heard from a former witness--online, in conversation, or anywhere else. I just want you to know that you have been heard and I can appreciate your perspective as it deeply reflects mine. As for anybody else giving criticism in an unconstructive manner--if they can't understand your perspective after watching your video, well just know you have nothing else to justify or rationalize about what you have done in your life; that is your business, your life, your opinion, your being you. I don't know you, but damn... I am very proud to say that I heard your story and it really made my day. Best wishes to you and the infinite landscape ahead of you that is the rest of your life.
Yeah I came here to say the same, your a smart guy Thanom, I enjoyed listening to you.
Wow, I’m honestly speechless reading this
Thank you so much for taking the time to share that-it really means a lot. I was debating whether to even make a video, and to hear that it resonated with you on such a deep level is incredible
I completely agree with you, too-at the end of the day, it’s our own journey, and as long as we stay true to ourselves, that’s what matters most. I’m really glad that sharing my story could make your day, and I appreciate your support more than you know✊
What's up Thanom? You probably don't remember me but we worked together in bethel for a little bit before you transferred department. I remember you were a good dude and well liked, glad to see you woke up and made it out! ✊
Silly comment bro
@@Chris-zh1ffwhy?
@@codyc7012 Come to Thailand Cody 💪
@codyc7012 are a lot of current or former bethelites waking up from what you see?
awesome ,lol
Amen to that remark “ I’m the same person as I was before” Me too. I just left that organization.
In a month I’m going to become an uncle, and I'm so sad. I was raised a JW by my mother, along with my older brother. We grew up poor, with a father who had a short temper. We were taught that all the hardships we faced were because of this corrupt world, but that the end was near, the new world was coming. I had very few friends, outside the congregation I wasn’t allowed to and inside there weren’t many kids my age. I missed out on a lot, but whatever, there would have been time for all that after Armageddon.
The first time I seriously questioned my faith was in 2018, when I was in high school. My mother began having panic attacks and fell into depression. We had always been taught that people are most open to "the truth" when they're at their lowest, and there I was at my lowest questioning the organization, the irony. Then the pandemic hit, and had the time and space to research.
When it was time to choose a university, I knew I needed some distance from home to get the freedom to explore life outside the religion. That was five years ago, I’ve been physically in mentally out since. The plan was to fade away, but two years ago, I met the person I want to spend the rest of my life with, and I want to tell my family, I really wanto to, but I’ll be shunned.
My brother, my only best friend growing up through every hardship, is about to become a father, and I know I won’t get to see his child grow up. I won’t even be part of his life anymore. It breaks my heart. I’m exhausted from living a double life, torn between being true to myself and holding on to the people I love. I wish I could wake them up, but you are right, it only happens when it starts from ourselves. Still, I can’t shake this sadness. It hurts knowing that no matter what, I’m going to lose one of the people I love most.
Be strong and go at your own pace
I wish you the best. You will be ok.
Stay strong
I understand. It’s a tough period in your life now. No one should go through something like that. I don’t hate witnesses, but despise the religion! Take good care of yourself!
I am so sorry. This is so wrong! I can say from experience you’re going to have a lot of emotions at first and a lot of anger maybe you can just focus on your new situation and your own life. We’re going through that right now so I totally understand. The good part for me is most of my families Already gone the ones that matter anyway. I’m 68 in the process of well I’m already being shunned just because I’ve made my opinion known. So I have one friend who’s hanging on a thread. But as soon as the announcement is made well you know how that goes. I’m so sorry you got a little nephew that’s never gonna know you. Not right!
I don't hate JW's either. If and when they come to my door (very rare these days), I am very polite, kind, and I socialize with them at the doorstep. I know the brutality of door-to-door. I never tell them I'm an Ex-JW, because I know they are cult-programmed to shut down immediately. They often remark, "You know a lot about us" and I just say I have family in.
I stick to just 1 thesis for the visit and don't let them dart all over the place. They often divert when anxious onto something they feel comfortable with.
Fun fact: Recently around the Memorial, 3 JW women came to my door and 1 younger one was in pants! I knew about the pants already, but I played dumb about JW's Pharisaical wardrobe and grooming mandates.
"I've never seen a JW woman in pants!" I exclaimed.
One middle-aged JW women boasted, "It's the new arrangement!!!! And men can wear beards too!!!!" She seemed totally thrilled and convinced that I would somehow be impressed, maybe because I have a beard.
I thought it weird that she was coaxing me to the Memorial because I'd feel comfy as a bearded-man.
I asked, "Who *exactly* arranges this arrangement?"
It got awkward, and we talked briefly about their New York apostles telling millions of JW's what to wear and facial hair.
I closed with, "It sounds all Pharisaical to me."
That word triggered the 3rd older woman who raised her eyebrows, and she seemed to be thinking, "He knows too much. Hmmmm."
They excused themselves. I declined the watercolored tract for the Memorial.
I said, "For many reasons-- but since you brought up wardrobe-- I wouldn't ever join a religion that dictated such minutiae in my life. That tells me that a lot of other things are going to be highly controlling." We departed with smiles.
I resonate so much with several of the points in both this video and the first one. People wake up when it's ready for them to do so and when they are willing and ready to do so. It's a personal journey (for me I started the "fading" away over 20 years ago - it was very difficult at first). The only way to heal from stepping away from the organization is to live your most authentic self (with all it's bumps and bruises). I too refuse to live in the victim space or the negative-hate space. I don't voice angry, mean, hateful things about the organization. I just don't care what they think about me. I don't answer to them. Everyone has the right to believe what they want to believe. My personal philosophy is a "live and let live" kind of paradigm - it's the only way my marriage survived this for so long. I was lucky - my partner is still a JW and stayed with me even when I stepped away (we had a young child at the time, who is all grown up now - but we are still together even if it is not perfect). Our worlds are very different - they have their friends, and I've had to rebuild my friend group. I won't waste my time with people who will only be friends with me on a conditional basis. There have been times I've dealt with profound loneliness, even being married, but I have also pursued what brings me joy. I lived a dream and got a college education (BA, MA, PhD) and built a career. I like who I have become, and I have never regretted the decisions I made in stepping away from the religion. I appreciate your focus on living an authentic life and giving yourself the time to explore what is meaningful to you. I'm cheering you on!
Love hearing this. Very happy that you + partner are still together. And your philosophy is very practical
If you don't have God, you got nothing but vanity, confusion, temporary pleasure, and ignorance.
After being programmed and brainwashed for so many years, it may seem selfish to say, “I have woken up on my own and so should they.” However, I truly believe it is a personal decision. Communicating my thoughts with a Jehovah's Witness can be very challenging. Therefore, I think it's best for them to seek out the "truth" on their own.
Thanom, I love your spirit. I’m so glad you know your strengths and when to Flex.. live your life ❤
Hey there, PIMO here and just watched both videos. Thank you so much for putting these together. Even though your intent is not to wake someone up, these videos provide immeasurable comfort to those that are starting the process. I can thank you enough. You've had more positive impact on the world with just these two videos than you'll ever know.
❤thanks for your story i truly enjoyed it very much both off them. I lk eft 2020 as an 80.yrs old was born in had no regrets . Yes i agree about unconditional love accepting the person for who they are conditional is not letting people walk over you . I still.have my faith not attached to any church . Have learnt so.much since leaving lost family and friends. Many blessings to you. From Australia
I applaud you for seeking truth. I also pray that you also find peace in truth one day
Hey Thanom, first thing first, thank you for uploading and sharing your story with us. I watched part 1&2 and I can definitely relate and nodded my head so many times throughout things that you mentioned that runs through our head once we wake up. Tommorow I will turn 1 month becoming Pimo and I had also dedicated my entire 20’s to this organization which hurts in most parts. But now I can definitely make choices as a 31 yr old female to actually use my 30’s to achieve so many goals that is frowned upon this org. I’m glad you can achieve yours too and you will! Just like you I have my brother also who has been out 4years and have been great with being closer like before after I mentioned to him of becoming Pimo a few days ago. I’m glad I got your 1st video as recommended on RUclips since it’s great to know that I’m not going through this major change on my own since our generation has more access to find support groups. Keep up with your videos as they will continue to help others.
Thank you so much for your content. I've been struggling a long time with a lot of the teachings. I've only just started to do research myself and it's absolutely heart breaking finding out you've been brainwashed your entire life.
I don't regret being raised in as a witness because I have raised my children with good morals and values but I was balanced with them and wanted them to make their own choices in life. I've been married to an amazing man for 30 years whose family are all witnesses but he never got around to being baptised. Our wedding was a wake up as my pioneer friends weren't allowed to attend because he wasn't baptised.
I've spoken to a few of my friends and they are also all starting to wake up. Hearing your story has been very helpful and not in a hateful way. I will continue to live my life guided by love in my heart ❤️
Thank you for sharing your story. I am 81 and feel my life was basically wasted.😊
You are still here, still have your life, don't look back with regrets, keep being you
Jesus is real.
Heaven is real.
Hell is real.
Will you win or lose ?
You still have a little time left to win.
I really appreciate your journey, once you uncover the lies, you can’t live the lie any longer! You are courageous and brave for speaking out. I appreciate how you presented your story not to put blame on the victims. Very sensible! 🥰
Take your time in rebuilding your life. 😉
You are a great son! 🙌🥰🙌
I myself have come to the conclusion that they are not entitled to know what I believe. My beliefs shouldn't have any bearing on what they themselves believe. I told my family a long time ago when they tried that box ticking exercise by asking me about what I believe to straight up tell them " does it really matter what I believe"? We will not see eye to eye anyways so let's skip all this formality. They love telling others that " I can't live the truth for you" but then are all dependent on what you believe so they can feel better about their own faith. Life is too short for all that kind of headache. Glad you made it out!
My dad had a huge problem with me putting up a mini christmas tree in my house last year and told me it made him uncomfortable. I told him I was sorry about that but I am allowed to put whatever I want in my own house and that I would never put one up in his house if I still lived there, because I respect him and his beliefs, but I can't do that if he doesn't respect mine as well. He didn't bother me after that.
Don’t ever stop posting. I love your voice and your perspective and it’s gonna be a lighthouse for way more people thank you think
So proud you taking a stand for your self for yr own spiritual journey.
I love your vibe & your energy 👏🏽 so much of what you say resonates!
The way you articulate will continue to bring you loyal viewers. Im happy for you man. Its tough but im happy for you. One of the best things i learned was how many GENUINELY nice people there are in the world! we were soooo fooled lol
Thank you so much for sharing your story! I’m looking forward to seeing you embark on living your life freely and seeing you be able to follow your dreams. Life is so much happier when you escape the cult!
Ditto the sentiments above and want to add…have babies while you’re still young ☺️
You can check out but you can never leave...thank you for sharing , hope it helps with the healing we need when we know we were duped.
You’ve made so much progress in such a short amount of time ! Well done. Love these videos.
You are in the right frequency! I appreciate you taking the time to share your story Thank you!
I really appreciate your journey, once you uncover the lies, you can’t live the lie any longer! You are courageous and brave for speaking out. I appreciate how you presented your story not to put blame on the victims. Very sensible! 🥰
I watched your video because near 50 years ago JW's preyed on my brother, he was lonely, isolated and vunerable, our family never recovered. He eventually got out but his sons won't talk to him, when they have come to our door I am overcome with fear my husband would believe them and i find myself in foetal position crying and shaking. They are a death cult. Hearing you gave me hope.
its nice to hear people with similar experience
Wow!! Your story was so clear and impactful. As you told us about your experience, I was captivated 100%. But I want to say that I am extremely happy😀 for you. You appear to be a true human living his Authentic life. I’m proud of you and thankful that you was willing to share your story. I hope your life is tremendously blessed.
Well done. Great videos. I like the way u keep it real.
Great stuff. ❤
U are one of a kind, I am glade u woke up early in ur life! Now is when ur life begins! U have done good with our 3 pound brain, but do not give up on a creator of us. The math is to great to over look a designer who ever he is!
Great outlook on life after leaving. I have said similar things about not wasting time regurgitating WT propaganda but actually diving into things that we weren't allowed to do in the past. For example, getting opinionated into politics and creating a political identity. I fell in love with politics and holidays, and I focus more on that and try to share that side of me on my channel. I do a live political show every Tuesdays 9pm EST and I LOVE it. It makes me so happy to hear exjws and their ideas about politics. On another note, I am so happy you still have communication with your mother. My mom has wiped her hands with me last year and only reaches out if there's a hurricane passing by. It's so disingenuous and fake that I normally ignore it because it will get me angrier than anything. And I'm so done with that, I've moved on so much that I can't stoop down to that level anymore. So even though I lost my entire family I have only 1 cousin and my father who I keep genuine communication with and who I have in my life. I also am married with my 3 children who are my life. I homeschool them and we spend every moment together. I rather do this and be alone than go back and have everyone. It was a hard decision, but I am happier in the long run, and I know that it WILL be worth it, whether I see now or not, freedom IS worth it. Freedom also isn't free it's expensive as hell. And I've lost myself along the way, but I became so much more than I ever could've if I would've stayed. "Waking up" is a choice. And I'm glad I did it even when I really didn't want to wake up. And I see these types of videos weekly it is shocking. But it's validating that YES, we made the RIGHT choice. I value TRUTH over comfort. Thank you for sharing your story with us. I love your channel!
What helped me was just knowing what it felt like to feel free from all the rules. That was enough for me to not doubt I was making the right decision. Once I let go, I couldn't put all that weight back on my shoulders. I was free to be myself and away from people who loved me strictly for what I believed in instead of for who I really was. I used to constantly pray for help to understand things that didn't make sense to me and to be who God wanted me to be according to Jehovah's Witnesses. Now I can relax without feeling guilty for not doing everything I needed to do. In normal life we have a long enough list already. I believe God loves us for who we are as long as we don't hurt ourselves or others. Life doesn't have to be so complicated. At the same time nothing is black and white. Everyone is different and thinks differently and I think that's a good thing.
This resonates with me as well. The variety is what makes it beautiful
Well done again😊
I have rebuilt my life after I left the org. because I have the time now and I can make decisions that benefit myself not an org.. it’s an individual decision,,.
So impressed with you. Such an a amazing young man. I was lucky, my husband and I are still together after 42 years and awake. I feel the same way you do about God and religion. exJW's make video's because when you leave you loose everything. Not a religion, it's a cult!! Glad you are out and have your Mom. Love to you!
❤️
I have appreciated a number of things in your first video and in this one. Thank you, Thanom, for sharing your story. I am the mother of grown sons. I felt so touched in this when you spoke of your mom and how you feel about her and the relationship you are still able to have even though she is still inside the org. She is blessed to have a son like you. My hope is that you will be led by Holy Spirit to get to know Jesus. The narcissistic god you described in your first video is made partly by Watchtower and partly by poor so called Bible scholars. The concept that God is a triune godhead actually is in the Bible. It was not a man made concept that was voted on in the Council of Nicaea. I can tell that you are a bright person who is not afraid to do research from your story in part 1. That took courage to do because of the possible consequences of losing your loved ones. You have faced that now and have seen that you can survive that. It takes courage to embark on a journey to know God-the God of the Bible- with the goal of beginning a real relationship with Him. After what we have been through in the org, we long to be free of shackles on our mind. While it is true that a relationship with God involves being willing to submit to Him, I am finding that is nothing like submitting to a narcissist as we were in the org. Of course, it is yours to choose to seek the real God or not. I wish you the best outcome for your life.❤
❤️
This video have help me a lot , in making my decision.
Good luck!
Good luck in your continued journey of Life! Bonne Année... 🗼✌🏾🎅🏽🍾🌈💐🗽👍🏽👏🏾🤗
Thank you for your honesty!!
There’s no benefit to prolonging the course of poison, but part of a healthy deconstruction could include watching videos (like yours) of people who were able to think a thought whole.
JW thought stoppers are built into our infantilized stream of consciousness to the extent that it can be difficult to “grow up” and think clearly. This impedes the process of independent research.
Listening to people who have taken the time to show their work is a way that we can still rely on others for help as we choose to grow.
Sharing your journey, including how you broke out of the groupthink on a scriptural and academic level is a kindness and a great benefit to others.
Thank you for prioritizing truth and sincerity over comfort.
Hey Bro thanks For sharing. Really appreciate your manner of presenting your thoughts. Awesome. :)
Appreciate it bro
I totally agree with you I was in the situation in Taumarunui congregation burnt my collection of Harry potter that was important to me.
I am free what you said in the video made a difference between faith and my relationship with Jehovah is shining through
Thank you for your videos!
Wake them up? Every video that goes online is a true witness to the dishonesty in JW. The very 1st thing I did when Jesus revealed Himself to me I was filled with the Holy Spirit was weep before the Lord for my family to come out. 3 of my sisters have come out without me saying 1 word about it to them. Pray. Pray for it to come down from the top down and the oppressed set free. ❤
8:48 I realize there are conditions in any relationship. For me, unconditional love means I accept the person for who they are. Not for how they chose to believe. Faith is personal. How people chose to believe (or not) is none of my business. I accept people and remain open and meet people where they are in life. I left JW in 2011/2012. My thoughts and beliefs have constantly changed & evolved. I never want to be stuck or set in a position - that's no different than when I was a JW. There's zero growth in that. Take your time and learn who you are! Give yourself grace and patience (something that was never truly given in JW cult).
💜Hating someone else is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. It's a waste of energy. It is hard, but it's better to focus on yourself. Make up for lost time and INVEST IN YOURSELF! YOU ARE WORTH IT!💜
I won't lie. I had some genuinely good moments in the kingdom Hall, but I had way too many bad ones. I've been bullied, abandoned and treated just horribly even by older ones. I've had people lie and gossip about me and my family because we don't go to meetings much because my mom and I tend not to feel good due to chronic illness. When I was a kid, my mom was always sick and in the hospital. A lot of the members of my congregation didn't even care. They never visit or asked if we were okay. (We did have one family who was sweet however, I don't want to take away from that) I'm still trying to make friends in the organization, but I literally can't because they don't like me. I'm always ignored, they always say they wanna hang out and then they ignore me or they give me weird looks and it makes me so anxious.
I've been treated better by "worldly" (i hate that word) people than witnesses my whole life. It doesn't help that im bisexual and I prefer women and have a girlfriend because I just want to be happy. I'm so tired of being depressed because I'm always stuck having to be someone I am not. I am also terrified, I've always been a JW so leaving is genuinely so utterly scary to me because it's the only life I've ever known. I started realizing two years ago because I started thinking a lot, like why is the new system not here yet? Why are people still dying? Why are we still having wars and so much hatred? I can't understand it. I always ask my parents this. They are very lovely and sweet but it's still just so hard to understand. Once I get on my feet properly I am going to leave because I just can't anymore. Thankfully my mom is very sweet and understands why I want to leave, even she knows how badly I've been treated, especially by guys. She even said she wouldn't stop talking to me and that she still loves me which does make me feel so much better.
I can't wait to be free. To celebrate my first birthday, my first Christmas & Halloween, to be able to do things I couldn't because I was always held back by being a JW. But I also don't hate the JW, I could never hate them unlike other people who utterly hate them. I just think that, for me, it's not good or healthy. I’ve met very nice people in the religion.
@@lavishty_ My heart goes out to you in your situation. You seem like a balanced person and you’ll crush it in the real world. Stay strong, and take one step at a time 💪
When you have children you will understand unconditional love.
I think you're right
Unless you’re a witness & that child gets disfellowshipped! No one should be put in that situation!
Yeah… that’s not true for JWs, if that child doesn’t want to be a JW. That child is then dead to them.
@@RebelRosey I don’t think parents will stop loving their child even if DFed. Remember, JWs consider DF an act of love.
My parents are both still jws, how could I hate them for believing the things I used to believe as well?
I enjoyed this video.
I also don't like to necessarily think of love as unconditional, sounds very co-dependant, maybe the only true unconditional love there can be is that of a parent to their child. The next best thing is-as you already so eloquently put it-acceptance, honesty, also with yourself. I've found preciously little of that inside the JWs.
Does sound a bit co-dependent doesn't it? But, yes nothing like love between parent and child
I think your channel should show us how you go about reclaiming your life after leaving a high control religion. You sound like a native English speaker and speak Thai while living overseas. Seems like you have a unique perspective worth chronicling.
8:50 Well Jesus promoted unconditional love i.e “love your enemy” which speaks to love even if someone did you wrong because In essence killing someone with kindness has a lasting effect on a person & as a result they no longer want to be your enemy but in turn want to love you back.
That’s why I find it odd how you think the Bible is false yet there is timeless wisdom that can help shape your life to fullness separate from JW’s distorted reasonings from the scriptures. Where God is not narcissist but instead wants you appreciate what he’s created for you.
So everything having been heard, u r all Jehovahed out and the switch has been flicked off. U r one of those rare people who figured things out for yourself, did the Mahi, dug deep, and researched. All the best Thanom, from New Zealand. Kai Ora for yr Vlogs.
You asked about advice on leaving and creating a Life worth living.
I disassociated in 1994 after 7 years.
My entire family is "worldly" so they gladly welcomed me back, but I had to repair relationships after being such an arrogant little shit of a Jehovah's Witness, not participating in family holidays etc. and being a know-it-all on God.
I've seen so many Ex-JW's jump right into another "Truth"-- it's like the cult programming was not dealt with, and they just changed costumes. Sooooooo many Ex-JW's who, metaphorically, use the same dance moves, but on a different dance floor.
To me, these ExJw's haven't gone through the process of utterly NOT KNOWING. For once in their lives, just NOT KNOWING the truth and not being know-it-alls.
"I don't know" is the most enlightened Ex-JW stance I see.
So my advice to new Ex JW's? Rest in NOT KNOWING ANYTHING. Just explore, but don't commit. Date, but don't marry, so to speak.
Insightful, I'm feeling this one right here. Thanks!
Glad you made that decision i was there to for 16 years left after my divorce im just a beter person without that in my life it destroyed my life my kinds also left enjoy your life you only have one
Y son lives in Bangkok too, Nonthaburi and Samut Safran, I don’t remember the spelling. He was a need greeter and elder once.
You are wise. Thank you.
👍👍👏👏Good for You are out from that cult.👌
life is laced with lies the feelings remains after the glitter fades
Been in 'pimo' for 2 years cant wait to finally be free ❤
My unconditional love is its inclusive, and and we do not have to walk the same path, or think the same things, but still like who they are and how you enjoy their company.
I’m 66, been out 25 years, I’d go on with the whole story but it’ll be too long 😂 (my sons were 5th generation before we left)
Hey welcome to the outside world. There is a lot to discover, it's been more than 40 years for me. Married to the girl who I was hanging with at convention when I was 16 and she was 13. Our first experience was when I was 21 and she was 18, I'm now 66. I left and never went back to the organization. Long story, but I eventually got married to someone else, likewise she did to a elder. She found me on Facebook about 8 years ago, I was now free, she said she was still in love with me, divorced her elder husband, was kicked out for a while, we are now married so she was able to get back in. I am the only one out in my family. My story is long, wish you the best. What ever you need to know about the new world, l am your guy.
Can you explain why they don't talk to people who approach the carts?
My husband disassociated because he campaigned for the environment, for Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth and he went to Parliament and protested. He couldn't do that and be a Jehovah's Witness. Then he got reinstated, moved congregation to Ireland. Met me and brought me to the meetings. We got engaged so he got reproved and broke it off. I came back to England but he followed me and we got married. We went back to meetings when I was expecting our son, told the elders, he got brought to judicial, but only 2 elders there and not 3. It turned out they had misunderstood him when he'd told them his whole story starting with the disassociation years back and thought he was still disassociated, not reinstated in the middle. After his suicide, they told me he was about to be reinstated 1 week later and they also couldn't understand why the newspaper reporter had put that he'd been disfellowshipped. Both my husband and I had thought he was disfellowshipped for marrying me. It was all a mistake and my husband had not bothered about correcting their wording when they'd announced him at the meeting as disassociated rather than disfellowshipped as he said to me it was the same thing anyway. But this is not of God, not any of it. My father-in-law was really angry with the elders and wrote a strong letter to them before he and my mother-in-law got out eventually just before they died. My kids are so messed up by all of this and we are going to make a film one day about my story. I just pray they recover as they are adults and have suffered all their lives. My full testimony is on my channel. Some of it is a bit quiet and in the dark as my kids were in bed and looks a bit strange, so I will have to redo it one day.
I’m so sorry that happened to you !
I’m so sorry that happened to your family !
I totally understand where u coming from..however...the reason I watch exjw activists vids is bc I have to question everything I was taught..so many things I believed without a shadow of a doubt and now humbling myself once I realized so many of my thoughts/beliefs were warped...
I lived w alot of guilt n shame truly believing JW teachings ..really sucks to go through child indoctrination. It creates childhood trauma and our triggers stem alot from this.
At times i was judgmental and believing my family were "fake JWs" when in reality they are just brainwashed. At one point I was so angry and bitter bc my parents and siblings shun me and haven't contacted me at all in over 3 years. I love them very much. I no longer feel broken...I feel sorry for them..they are proud people just like u mentioned...I hope they snap out of it whether they reach out to me or not.. I've moved on...
This cult destroys families and that's why support other ex jw who are doing the research. I want to get this story straight (the reality of who this cult really is) but thats just me..
Wishing u all the best ❤️
I attempted to share with caution with close jw "friends" ..that was a mistake..they think ive gone crazy..😊
Brother, first of all congrats on waking up and escaping that cult, happy for you man. I’m not here to talk to you about religion but I know you like learning and growing in your pursuit of the truth. I encourage you to read the gospels of Matthew, Mark Luke and John but not in the NWT try the ESV you will quickly realize that the watch tower made many changes to match their doctrine in the botched translation that is the NWT.
But thanks for sharing your story, my gf is a JW and in my efforts to understand her better I started researching this topic and your story has helped me greatly. Wherever life takes you next I hope that you succeed and keep growing. I love you, I’m praying for you and your family
Recovering from the trauma of indoctrination in a high control religion is a difficult process. If you need help, check out Marlene Winell’s book, Leaving the Fold - A guide for former fundamentalist and others leaving their religion.
How many woke up from that cult just this year 2024? ✋ Raise ur hand 🎉
Or put a year on when did you wake up 😁🥰
Great video's Thanom! So happy for you and I'm so sorry for what you have been through. I woke up in October of 2022. It was right as meetings were just going back to the hall.
My husband woke up about 2 years before I did. I tried to prove to him that this was the truth and I woke myself up. It was the 1914 doctrine for us too, that same watchtower in 2011 that you mentioned in your last video is what starting waking me up. I remember being so confused, I felt like I was missing a piece of information, and I didn't understand how there could not be a answer to one of the primary teachings. It's really confusing when you have believed something for 30 years and then just all of a sudden, it's wrong.
Love from Canada
The concept of loving a person and loving the concept of a person is hard to understand for me. Could you explain?
I was PIMO ELDER for a number of years while my Wife was 110% PIMI and it was haaaaaaard. But thank God for the 2023 Annual meeting, that shit woke my wife up! lol. And now we both PIMOs 😆😆😆 But we always laugh about how stupid these JW are... look at each other and roll our eyes at meetings. Fun Times. My Family is why we still stay... She is ready to GO!!! LOL.
All you say is correct regarding the leadership of the Organisation my own experience rings true to yours and is very thoughtfully explained to all concerned, Yes, there are Pros and cons to all things we follow in this life, but none are free of human Bulsht because we are surrounded by it in politics, religion, science, traditions commerce pressuring us to accept their version of truths and also will change that 'truth' as new info is discovered, or, as the light becomes brighter!!! Sorry, my sense of irony!
To me, that is the point of belief, the only one who explains why we search and fail to find peace and truth in humans... whoever he chose to help us understand his purpose and our current problems are of our own making, yes, he knows humans will let him and us down.. and he said as much 'time, and time again' even from within the JWs...Yes, even from the top table, in fact, he said 'the end will not come unless they have exposed themselves'... (the apostasy first) All this is taking place as we speak, those who trust in humans 'as leaders' will be disappointed and leave or are disfellowshipped for telling this truth, these are those who expect this to take place because they understood what has happened before. meaning God did not lie to us, humans do!
How do you handle the loss of family and friends?
Apparently waking up ain't going away anytime soon.
I wanna visit you! In December!! What’s ur social?!
Hot Mess? Not
Bro I met 2 JWs at a farmers market in San Diego Ca yesterday and they seemed very cautious of me as soon as I started telling them about my supernatural spiritual experience from God.
1. I prayed one day and was supernaturally healed by God instantly.
2. The spirit realm opened up to me and I’ve seen angels and demons. Hear the voice of God. It’s a real relationship supernaturally.
3. I was transformed, (born again) completely changed. I was baptized or filled with Holy Spirit.
These things happened to me as a non religions guy. I was damaged and prayed for help one night and He God came and did all this to me instantly showing me the truth. He exists, Jesus is God, and is here to give these loving gifts to humans. I went to damaged and violent to supernaturally healed and living towards all. I’m new to God how can these religions not know the truth??????? I’m new and they’re aren’t but I know more truth than them.
The guy couldn’t look me in my eyes as I spoke of my hearing and experiences I found it weird. And they said they don’t believe in hell??? What Bible are they reading??? The KJV speaks of hell. I’m so confused about all the “church world” morning to JWs and Muslims they all don’t know the truth. I feel sorry for them. The woman was very nice but the man was very stand offish man. I was like bro something is wrong with you. He didn’t seem very happy. He kept telling me what is the real name of God?? I don’t think that matter rite now I’m telling you about transformation power and healings God wants to give lol. I’m so confused at people who are religious. Have supernatural encounters with God and they must line up with Bible scriptures kjv or nkjv. I’ve had visions, dreams, I heard God speak to me, it’s not schizophrenia lol. Oh the dead dry religions of this world.
Hi mate I left almost 10 years ago but only woke up about 6 months ago. Message me if u want to know more mate
Are you disfellowshiped? I can SAY HELLO TO YOU NOW!
You know Thanom after watching part 1 of your video, I stopped at where your wife is dealing with your situation. While resuming where I left-off 39:17, I am now confused by your wording about your disassociation letter and seeing the elders in person with an ultimatum of proving about your inquisition in determining if you'd stay a witness or not in my opinion in comprehension is your condemning own your consciousness. I say this because I thought, after learning and growing into the religion with meeting attendance, going from door to door (illustrating and witnessing to the people from the bible) to getting baptized, being a pioneer, and onto bethel not to mention the where the need is great you'd know about the bible front to back without needing affirmation from the elders to give you a reason to stay within the organization which is where I am confused by. I would think your religion would be a self-determined endeavor, but now you've proven yourself to be a liar considering your apparent ambivalent to all of a sudden come out with contradicting against yourself. I just don't get why are they the blame for your search for truth because if that's the case your way of conveying the bible to unknowing people who wants to better their own life through you your aspiration to serve God was an all in vain feat? I just don't understand how you lost tract of the how JW are following bible scriptures just as any other religion or college if you're studying Theology. The more you talk the more it is apparent that you are not satisfied with your life in or out of the religion and I'm not speaking from a JW viewpoint but a worldly person with logic not serving the religion. For a better reason in making an early choice of not continuing JW studies at a young age was an advantage for me when compared to you and how you are handling leaving the religion is one thing but to condemn religion (God) in general will be a much bigger issue you'll have to deal with. I genuinely wish you the best in searching for yourself.
Unconditional love may be on the same level of forgiveness: I can forgive, but that doesn't mean I can go back to trust. Trust is a possibility perhaps, but it's in a different realm. If I love my child unconditionally, and he is a serial killer in prison, I would visit him, I would tell him I am still his mother and will always love him, but if he escaped, I would turn him in. Love is love, action is separate. THe love "Jehovah" had for me when I was a JW wasn't unconditional, as he would discard me like garbage (or contaminated garlic bread) and a mother who loves her child would not. JWs are also taught that in the paradise, they will forget the love they had for their apostate child, and it would not be brought to mind. They would have new family. They are taught that their child is like a serial killer, when in fact, they are more interested in truth and are a good person.
Unconditional love. Romans 8.31-39. God had to do alot of work in me to understand His unconditional love in Christ after the lies in JW about Him. Im not sure that anyone can really love unconditionally unless experiencing the love of God 1st hand for yourself. If He did it for me He will do it for anyone who comes to Him. Jesus said Come to Me. Call on Me. Believe in Me.
Take this from someone who self exited, luckily not baptized in 2006, 20 years old, as an atheist. The damage has not set in for you yet dude. I didn't get counseling, it would have helped streamline the process A LOT. I would highly suggest not making the mistake of toughing it out alone like I did. It doesn't make you a victim, it's just extra help.
As far as activism, there are children trapped by their brainwashed parents and family, if there's a chance I can help just one not suffer needlessly, I'll do it. At the end of the day it doesn't have to be one's entire personality, we're on the same page there 😂
I watched your video and as a believer, I find surprising that you you don't believe in a christian God. Did you ever have an encounter with God as JW ? In your first video, you talked about God being an narcissist and the nature created by a possible high power but in not too much detailled. Can you make a longer video about your believes now ? What led you to don't believe in Jesus anymore ? Is it historical facts, science, etc ? Because, I kinda feel like you were saying "God is mean, and I want to have fun now so bye bye" and for me, it seems there is more that led you to your present stance
youtube works off of Algorithms similar subjects pop up
The Witnesses I know are not poor. I also don't believe most of them are victims.
I feel like JW a false messiah. They preach their org saves not Jesus. The same goes for the rest that say they only ones to have it right. The only chosen ones.
You left a coult not a religion
Losing weight is a lot easier if you are given the tools to succeed. I know nutritional info in the US is kinda shitty compared to my own country, as is access to affordable healthy food. You are basically saying you would refuse to help someone who wants to be helped. If your neighbour wanted to lose weight but didn't have a car or access to public transport, would you give them a lift to the gym when you were going? Sad that you defend JW's when they cause so much pain to so many. I'm sure there are videos made by exJW's that you watched that helped you. Shame you wouldn't do the same for someone else. I'm glad you are out, but if I watch videos by exJW's, I prefer that they have some kind of moral compass.
Egibe family
It’s time to get rich my boy you wasted enough time now it’s time to really live and learn about stocks and etf and real estate
What a story, thank you for sharing it with us ,,,, listen, I listen (pun intended LOL) to a wonderful RUclipsr/podcaster, his name is Stacy Bowmann, his channel is called Surviving Paradise, I would say is one of my Top 5 former JWs, like myself, that I take it as therapy, every-single-episode, and the one I remembered just now is this one:
ruclips.net/video/evP-EBcP66Y/видео.htmlsi=Eso8Tyq9grSadl6r
I hope you start listening to him, we all have a story, I still can’t tell mine, my Mother still alive, I love her deeply, perhaps after she is no longer around I will share my experience.
Please know you aren’t alone, Thanom, there’s THOUSANDS of us out here. I send you a big hug and lots of positive energy, take care of yourself 🫂
There are 2 “absolute dates.” One of which is 539, the date in which Cyrus conquered Babylon over night. One of the first things they did was release the Jews who ended up back in Jerusalem in 537bc. Jehovah said the land would be desolate 70 years, (Dan 9:2) so count back 70 years you get from the Bible 607. Believe man, or believe Jehovah? (Psm 146:3) 587 = only 50 years desolation
Actually the first deportation to Babylon happened in 606 BC and Jerusalem fell in 587 BC which means there was still a king in Judah so the “appointed times of the nations” JW doctrine couldn’t have started until 587 BC. But let’s say you’re right and the last king reigned until 607 BC, it still doesn’t work because JW say 360 days equal a year which is a lunar calendar but then they use the Gregorian calendar which is a 365 day solar calendar to arrive at 1914. Do the math, it doesn’t add up.
1 Timothy 4:1 is the reason you left
Ok...im not gay at all but your a good lookin guy i was going to wait to say this just in case you were still married. Dude....imma be honest...this is going to be harsh but witness girls SUCK!! hahahhaha Your good lookin , young and go to the gym. Im sure your work ethic is fire. Enjoy yourself and if you choose then enjoy your journey in the search for a woman who WILL love you unconditionally.
I hope that your ex-wife wakes up
First let me start off by saying, I am so sorry about your marriage. New Subscriber here. Now, when it comes to the Bible being the word of God, have you considered this:
Have you ever stopped to think about how advanced humans are? We can send messages from the moon to Earth, create artificial intelligence, and so much more. But then why do some people doubt that God could send a letter to His children to guide them on the best way to live a happy and successful life?
I mean, think about it. If we can do all these incredible things, why couldn't GOD, our HEAVENLY FATHER have the power do something as simple as sending a message to us? The Bible is a message from God to show us the way.
So why is it so hard for some people to believe that GOD is GREATER than we are? Maybe it's because we can't see Him or touch Him like we can with our technology. But just because we can't physically see or touch something doesn't mean it's not there.
We have to have faith in things that are beyond our understanding. Just like we have faith in the technology that allows us to communicate with each other across vast distances. So why not build your Faith that we do have a HEAVENLY FATHER, that GENUINELY LOVE and CARE about us. He is looking out for us and guiding us through life?
The Bible may not have been sent via email or text message, but its teachings have stood the test of time and continue to inspire and guide BILLIONS of people around the world. Maybe you need to realize, there is a DIVINE PLAN for each of us.
So next time you doubt the existence of God or question the validity of the Bible, just remember how smart humans are and how much we are capable of. If we can do all this, why couldn't God send us a letter too?
I hope you are not serious😢The Bible is not as a letter or e-mail from God. The Bible is a book of myths and man made stories. The catholics collected them at the account of nicaea to make the Bible. Therefor it is full of mistakes and contradictions. You should not use it as a guideline because the book is horrendous. The God of the Bible approves, manslaughter, slavery, genocide, murder of children, abuse, theft, opppressing of women and so on.
Next time please write a script, you're rambling on, and not coming to the point, it is tiring.
This is a one-sided conversation that I'm already bored to hear.