"When I stopped believing, my marriage disintegrated"

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  • Опубликовано: 5 ноя 2024

Комментарии • 359

  • @Straightupto1
    @Straightupto1 3 года назад +160

    Don’t give up, it gets easier I was married for 30 years and when I realized I could no longer go door to door or meetings because my son was DF unjustly my marriage ended when I realized my marriage was only based on being a JW and not love I walked away. No regrets

  • @trishayamada807
    @trishayamada807 3 года назад +123

    Emotional blackmail is EVIL, it is never from a place of love, it’s always about control.

    • @mylife-23
      @mylife-23 3 года назад +8

      Yes

    • @Nathan-jq1uw
      @Nathan-jq1uw 3 года назад +6

      Wow. You nailed it. Emotional blackmail. That's exactly what JW shunning is.

    • @marwatson7408
      @marwatson7408 3 года назад +2

      Trisha Yamada Exactly right it is about control, emotional blackmail and I never understood it.

    • @trishayamada807
      @trishayamada807 3 года назад +2

      @@marwatson7408 exactly. And I can not see that as love or a loving act. It is a purely conditional relationship, either you believe exactly as we do or we will treat you as if you do not exist because we love you? Really? It’s a common tactic of cults that’s for darn sure.

  • @debbiepa1954
    @debbiepa1954 3 года назад +111

    I married an older brother in the congregation .In the mid to late 70’s there were few promising ,financially responsible brothers. I was encouraged to marry this brother who would treat me well and raise the children according to Bible principles. Sadly.I loved him as a spiritual “agape’”brother .Someone who would be good for me . I knew the day prior to the marriage that I was not physically attracted to him I remained married for 17 Years until he passed suddenly from a stroke. Afterwards.I realized I would never remain with the JWs mentally . I left and remarried a non JW .I could never put myself in a loveless (non Eros )marriage again.

    • @alans.wendelschafer6588
      @alans.wendelschafer6588 3 года назад +11

      So glad you aren't in a loveless marriage anymore.

    • @Ava2969ny
      @Ava2969ny 3 года назад +7

      @Debbie Gies -- how did you remain married for 17 years? Did you consider canceling the wedding when you realized that you were not physically attracted? I can tell you that there are many couples who are like "friends with benefits" because they were encouraged to marry someone for the wrong reasons, like a title like "pioneer or ministerial servant." Did you have a hard time dating for the first time outside of the org?

    • @zorgon410
      @zorgon410 3 года назад +6

      That is sad that he lived an unloved existence .... I hope you find love in this life. Stories like this makes this academic person wish for reincarnation or an afterlife. If you marry for financial stability... that is not love... sad. I hope there is more.

    • @debbiepa1954
      @debbiepa1954 3 года назад +10

      For the record, I was honest with this older brother. Almost from the very beginning he sensed my being "aloof" towards him. I was respectful but it was obvious to him that there was no romantic gestures of any sort.. He also convinced me that it would be a wise move on my part to marry him for finances as well as a strong love of Jehovah.

    • @rodywithers3536
      @rodywithers3536 3 года назад +3

      @@debbiepa1954 all the best Debbie. Very touching comments. 💗

  • @theyoutubeanalyst3731
    @theyoutubeanalyst3731 3 года назад +118

    Omg, my jaw dropped when he mentioned the sexual abuse case, when they said "but it's a worldy girl", and then prayed, and then just moved on, what the actual fuck.

    • @chriscortez2036
      @chriscortez2036 3 года назад +34

      It’s a misanthropic supremacist doomsday cult, but it still scares me how little regard or value they have for human life or relationships. If you decline to join them, they will instantly see you as worthless, disposable, disgusting, “ungodly”, evil, and deserving of annihilation. It’s an insane, sociopathic way of thinking. If you do not accept the authority of the governing body and conform to their beliefs, they will view you as worthless and undeserving of care.

    • @Nathan-jq1uw
      @Nathan-jq1uw 3 года назад +27

      @@chriscortez2036 Chris, everything you said is bang on. That's why I am always taken aback when I hear "But Jehovah's Witnesses are such nice people, they're just mislead." Really, how nice of a person can you be when you are gleefully rubbing your hands together and looking forward to forever worshipping the god/monster that slaughtered billions of humans so that you can dance on their graves in some new system?

    • @Kate-ue9gf
      @Kate-ue9gf 3 года назад +14

      @Nathan Steinhoff - exactly these so call nice people want to see the entire humanity slaughtered so they can go to their petting zoo! The nice people effect is there brainwashing to glue on the smile on your face and wear nice clothes to look like nice people. But scratch the surface and wow!!!

    • @morningglory9288
      @morningglory9288 3 года назад +6

      @@Nathan-jq1uw the God they worship, Jehovah, is Satan the devil. He is the most evil God imaginable who sees nothing wrong in killingg 100's of thousands men, woman, children and babies in the old Testament, Hebrew scriptures. He also LOVES animal and human blood sacrifices.
      Exodus 29:17, 18 "Cut the ram into pieces, and wash off the internal organs and the legs. Set them alongside the head and the other pieces of the body,
      18 then burn the entire animal on the altar. This is a burnt offering to the LORD ; it is a PLEASING AROMA, a special gift presented to the LORD."
      This is the same God JW's worship, and they still give human blood sacrifices to him through the refusal of life saving blood transfusions.
      They also look forward to the day when this evil God destroys over 8 billion people on this planet taking them into their new paradise earth. Then they can continue to worship and glorify their Jehovah/LORD who is Satan for all eternity.

    • @dennisconstantine624
      @dennisconstantine624 3 года назад +3

      Yeh shows the disconnection from reality.

  • @opietwoep1247
    @opietwoep1247 3 года назад +85

    My deepest scar of being an exjw. Every NORMAL desire for having a relationship with a woman made me feel like a weak spiritual person. To this day I fight it. If I wasn’t the luckiest guy in the world to find my wife some 30 years ago. I would be in the nut house for sure by now. Thanks for sharing your story and helping me get my head in order.

    • @carolsimpson4422
      @carolsimpson4422 3 года назад +5

      Do you mean a relationship? Or sex? Don't worry - everyone has to deal with that to some degree. Especially women. Because even in the secular world we are all judged by who we love and who we touch. I lived with a man my parents disapproved with, and they judged his education and culture. I wasn't in "trouble" for premarital sex- but I was marginalized in other ways.

    • @opietwoep1247
      @opietwoep1247 3 года назад +5

      @@carolsimpson4422 everything I was a messed up teenager.

  • @joannecheckley1280
    @joannecheckley1280 3 года назад +34

    Great interview. Wishing Luke all the best and hope he is able to keep his relationship with his son. X

  • @user-ki2yt6mc4p
    @user-ki2yt6mc4p 3 года назад +20

    I have seen him locally at convention when I was in. Thanks goodness he made it out too

    • @mardi63
      @mardi63 3 года назад +6

      It’s such a great feeling when you hear of people you know waking up and leaving !

  • @ladybud8292
    @ladybud8292 3 года назад +45

    I feel such sadness for him as a father.. Being shunned and having a son still in i couldn't imagine. I hope he fights for his son. ✌💙

    • @jaredpetersmith914
      @jaredpetersmith914 3 года назад +1

      His son is 7 I think he said, I doubt he’s baptized yet.

    • @jadedstar7442
      @jadedstar7442 3 года назад +3

      I feel such compassion for him all around. Not only is it an adjustment when your beliefs change; but EVERYTHING evolved around his life. His wife. All his relatives on BOTH SIDES. His work was with witnesses. Talk about starting a new. 😩🙏

  • @theoracle56
    @theoracle56 3 года назад +7

    I really enjoy the interviews the most. I was a 3rd generation and experienced all types of emotional manipulation. Thanks for sharing.

  • @catmeow333
    @catmeow333 3 года назад +31

    Great interview LLoyd, I’ve really missed your long-format interviews 🧡 love from USA

  • @dianaofmarkham
    @dianaofmarkham 3 года назад +8

    Luke, thanks so much for sharing your story. Keep strong and take each day one day at a time.

  • @outtadarkness1970
    @outtadarkness1970 3 года назад +39

    If I had all the money my "brothers and sisters" screwed me and my parents out of over the years I would be sitting pretty!

    • @kathyfitzsimmons1489
      @kathyfitzsimmons1489 3 года назад +1

      My dad sent 60,000 of his inheritance when his parents died to the society. If my grand parents had ANY idea he would do that, I'm sure they wouldn't have left him anything. They were not witnesses.

    • @outtadarkness1970
      @outtadarkness1970 3 года назад +1

      @@kathyfitzsimmons1489, Yeah, but the GB aren't money grubbers! 🤬

  • @gloriasanmartin3712
    @gloriasanmartin3712 3 года назад +5

    Thanks so much for the interview.

  • @rexdrabble4988
    @rexdrabble4988 3 года назад +30

    My son is JW and he utterly lives for it,,It strokes his ego..

    • @gailcullinan
      @gailcullinan 3 года назад +8

      An escape from reality

    • @carolsimpson4422
      @carolsimpson4422 3 года назад +4

      It does seem to cater to men's needs. I wonder what women get out of it?

    • @gailcullinan
      @gailcullinan 3 года назад +8

      @@carlosfasano800 Why would he be on drugs in the streets if he was not a JW? Terrible comparison to make which sounds like atypical JW gaslighting. Were he not a JW he could get a decent university education and join the work force and build a great life!!

    • @gailcullinan
      @gailcullinan 3 года назад +4

      @@carlosfasano800 A terrible thing that you said to that lady. A complete lack of empathy and.without conscience which goes hand in hand with JW gaslighting and brain washing. Are you a spy on this channel?

    • @NIL0S
      @NIL0S 3 года назад +1

      I think men / women is a bit of a false dichotomy when we're talking about motivations and falling under the influence of a high control cult.

  • @erice1717
    @erice1717 3 года назад +14

    Luke, you're awesome. It does get better. You seem like an extremely capable and ethical guy. Go do awesome shit. You're free now.

  • @cherylseebreth328
    @cherylseebreth328 3 года назад +20

    Somebody, please, please make a movie about this org. It will be reviewed as a tragic comedy. Box office hit.

    • @joannecheckley1280
      @joannecheckley1280 3 года назад +4

      Have you seen Apostate or The Children's Act? Very telling, not a lot of comedy though. 😔

    • @cherylseebreth328
      @cherylseebreth328 3 года назад +4

      @@joannecheckley1280 No girlfriend. Haven't seen it. Guess it was really bad. My God! Feeling silly now for my comment. In my defense, though, some of their beliefs and behaviour can be so moronic, it is laughable. Hence, my "tragic comedy" faux Pas. I saw the paed documentary on the oxygen channel. I cried. I am an ex JW and not totally cold and heartless. Please forgive. Can you point me to where I can see the movie/documentary to which you refer. Was it specifically about Watchtower? Thanks in advance.

    • @stevenclarke5606
      @stevenclarke5606 3 года назад +3

      @@joannecheckley1280 yes I have seen Apostate , and it’s a very powerful and moving film.

    • @joannecheckley1280
      @joannecheckley1280 3 года назад +3

      @@cherylseebreth328 i think they could make some great comic sketches about the governing body, a bit like Yes Minister. I paid to watch Apostate, about a mother with 2 daughters. One needin blood transfusions, and one who was an unwed mother. I think it was on Amazon. The Children's Act was on normal TV. Starred Emma Thompson who had to judge on a child's blood transfusion case and the aftermath of her decision. Both very well acted and thought provoking.

    • @cherylseebreth328
      @cherylseebreth328 3 года назад

      @@joannecheckley1280 Thanks much. I'll search. Stay safe!

  • @marlowebster487
    @marlowebster487 3 года назад +24

    Preparation for a convention presentation woke me up, they were not interested in the facts and twisting what and how I should present the information relating to someone they disfellowshiped because he questioned the governing body and wouldn’t relent.

    • @opietwoep1247
      @opietwoep1247 3 года назад +4

      Yes I started to wake up to hear a conversation part I knew was all lies to just make the story end with an unbelieving mate getting a Bible study

    • @marlowebster487
      @marlowebster487 3 года назад +6

      @@opietwoep1247 Two many half-truths, it a good thing you listened keenly ❣️

    • @opietwoep1247
      @opietwoep1247 3 года назад +6

      @@marlowebster487 I faded around 2001 but woke last year. It’s crazy how they controlled me even being away so long

    • @jimmyb3158
      @jimmyb3158 3 года назад +5

      There is more to this story. I would love to hear it.

  • @eyesontheprize5
    @eyesontheprize5 3 года назад +8

    I liked what he said "it's not just that you are leaving but that you can PROVE why and no one will listen" so true!
    Also to him...for the blood doctrine if he hasn't came across the fact that white blood cells are in breast milk...after nursing 3 kids that totally blew up that doctrine for me. I can feed them but couldn't save them with a transfusion.

  • @blackqueen7147
    @blackqueen7147 3 года назад +8

    Great 👍 Conversation! Thank you 🙏

  • @TheCanadiangringa
    @TheCanadiangringa 3 года назад +8

    I was 4 th gen. Out 22 years. Family has never met my 20 year son. My marriage did not last when I disassociated myself. I have so many similar stories! Good luck.

  • @rockpadstudios
    @rockpadstudios 3 года назад +9

    This was a great video - thanks for sharing it with us Luke. I love my Sat / Sun mornings and I'm gratefully for each one that I don't have to go out in service.

  • @arbeats1939
    @arbeats1939 3 года назад +18

    That’s my boss! Let’s go Luke!! 🙌🏽

  • @benajminpadilla6360
    @benajminpadilla6360 3 года назад +18

    I have never heard of ANYONE'S baptism being nullified. EVER. Shoot.....If this option is truly valid. There is LOTS of ppl who wish to have their own nullified. Especially, those baptized as children who had ZERO idea what they were getting into. This nullification of baptism is making up rules. I wish some of us knew who this person is. This could be a class action lawsuit to have their own nullified. "What's good for the goose is good for the gander".

    • @elsieortiz-sotop6233
      @elsieortiz-sotop6233 3 года назад +3

      Couldn’t agree with you more

    • @morningglory9288
      @morningglory9288 3 года назад +1

      I was baptised on false pretenses, as I was never informed of their shunning practises they enforce amongst disfellowshipped or disassociated members. Had I known this BEFORE I got baptised, I may never have taken that step.

    • @opietwoep1247
      @opietwoep1247 3 года назад +2

      @@morningglory9288 because the books I studied with are now obsolete so is my baptism.

    • @ready2danceagain
      @ready2danceagain 3 года назад

      @@opietwoep1247 😉

    • @ready2danceagain
      @ready2danceagain 3 года назад

      @@morningglory9288 👍

  • @Danny-Ditch
    @Danny-Ditch 3 года назад +7

    what a great interview. You are an inspiration sir, thanks for sharing your story with such candidness.

  • @benajminpadilla6360
    @benajminpadilla6360 3 года назад +34

    "We were Mormons born in Salt Lake city". Beautifully said.

    • @robertshaw7692
      @robertshaw7692 3 года назад +7

      Honestly I have met about 30 Mormons that used to be Jehovah's Witnesses

    • @AB-yk1fn
      @AB-yk1fn 3 года назад +3

      I've often thought the same thing, since waking up

    • @instasingingvids3529
      @instasingingvids3529 3 года назад +6

      @@robertshaw7692 so sad. Cult hoppers

    • @alans.wendelschafer6588
      @alans.wendelschafer6588 3 года назад +3

      It's very true. Mormon also tell their followers to avoid Anti Mormon material. And, there are apostate Mormons. Some even use the word "Apostate."

    • @benajminpadilla6360
      @benajminpadilla6360 3 года назад

      @@alans.wendelschafer6588 Yep.

  • @4minuteman429
    @4minuteman429 3 года назад +5

    Omg I cannot believe how similar my marriage experience was to this story. Wow. You took the words right out of my mouth. To know I’m not the only one helps. I wish you well.

  • @rdhawk929
    @rdhawk929 3 года назад +5

    Great interview. Best to you Luke. Thank you for sharing your story.

  • @TheAtlarchy
    @TheAtlarchy 3 года назад +33

    I remember getting JWs angry at me when I told them I am asexual... I also felt like their practices were not at all resembling the things Christians do in The Bible... that got me in trouble when I was a kid and then I avoided those topics, but I did find peace in Orthodox Church in the end... believe it or not, but they are drastically better when it comes to sexuality (or lack of it) and there is no fear of drastic death for a single thought or feeling you had...

    • @colinellicott9737
      @colinellicott9737 3 года назад +8

      Glad to hear you jumped out of the JW fire, but sounds like you just found a frying pan. Take a few more leaps and join us here in this wonderful wide clear cool ocean of freethinking here on our fabulous blue marble.

    • @TheAtlarchy
      @TheAtlarchy 3 года назад +9

      @@colinellicott9737 I am a free thinker who happens to believe in God. I am happy exercising my freedom of association and freedom of religion.

    • @John-bo4eq
      @John-bo4eq 3 года назад +4

      @@colinellicott9737 not everyone leaving JWs should become an atheist/agnostic. Churches offers community and hope which you don’t find or it’s hard to find somewhere else

    • @TheAtlarchy
      @TheAtlarchy 3 года назад +4

      @@benajminpadilla6360 I am Polish Orthodox. Also Greek and Russian Orthodox Churches (like the polish one) are in communion. We do not have a single leader, but multiple united (in communion) communities...
      It is a weird road if I get to say so myself. Thank you for the good wishes. I feel at home here and wish to become a monk, like I dreamed since I was a child... something never available in the JW corporation...

    • @mylife-23
      @mylife-23 3 года назад +4

      IM ACE TOO! 🙌 eyyy

  • @jeanniejewel2272
    @jeanniejewel2272 3 года назад +3

    Thank you for sharing your story with us viewers. The more that people wake up the better. Keep exposing the cult.

  • @Bad80y1
    @Bad80y1 3 года назад +16

    Another great interview. Enjoy hearing these experiences. In many ways I think we can already relate to your guests many hardships, challenges, and feeling of loss. I’ve earlier in the year woken up thanks to you Lloyd, and don’t miss one of your daily videos. At the beginning I binge watched a lot of your videos. Not even close to seeing all of them from the beginning of your journey into activism. Every JW In Focus episodes I have seen every episode. It was the Child Sex Abuse fiasco that really shattered my beliefs and the Australian Royal Commission that showed me this cult is 100% a man made organization. So Lloyd cudos to you and many others out there with Channels. Many are waking up because of coming across your channel.
    When I watch your rebuttal’s I find myself having to fast forward the speakers because of the anger and cringe worthiness I feel and just listen to your commentary. I’m trying to free myself from the many years of brainwashing/indoctrination I had pounded into me for over 50 years. They really disgust me at this time period (especially those 8 GB Charlatans along with the helpers). Does anybody else feel like I do of avoiding the actual talks? Please let me know.

    • @morningglory9288
      @morningglory9288 3 года назад +4

      I love hearing about ones who have recently woken up. I think YES! Another one has left this horrible ruthless brainwashing cult.
      I pray for the day when my two adult children wake up and my daughters husband. Saddly I've lost all contact with them which hurts more than words can say. 😥
      If you want to watch videos at a faster speed, there are three vertical dots at the top right hand corner of the video. Tap those and you can adjust the video speed to your liking. Gets through them way faster 😁😁😁

    • @islandgirl5609
      @islandgirl5609 3 года назад +4

      Yes I find it harder and harder to listen to the GB…they enrage me at times

    • @Bad80y1
      @Bad80y1 3 года назад +1

      @@morningglory9288 - ya I feel bad for you as a parent. If only they knew Shunning was a abuse mechanism copied from the Catholic Church. Watchtower really reamed them out for excommunicating their members. Then 5 years later they decided to shun. Once again a man made religion. It doesn’t even mention shunning in the scriptures. Brainwashing is Watchtower’s method. Fear mongering as well.

    • @Bad80y1
      @Bad80y1 3 года назад

      @@islandgirl5609 - Ya it’s difficult to watch. Thanks for answering my question.

    • @SisterOfTheFireflies181
      @SisterOfTheFireflies181 3 года назад

      Absolutely agree. I fast forward bc I can't tolerate watching/ hearing them speak--and I've been out 45 years (never baptized).

  • @rockpadstudios
    @rockpadstudios 3 года назад +9

    Wow - they assign brothers to make sure you stick to the talk script? They never used to do that either.

  • @shimae1964
    @shimae1964 3 года назад +14

    i like that you did that. You shunned them, not them you

  • @Shutterbuggy.
    @Shutterbuggy. 3 года назад +9

    Wonderful interview! The bravery it must have taken to stand up for what you believe in and risk it all knowing the consequences, especially when you're 3rd gen and the pressure is so intense 😭 So proud of you Luke 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 It will get easier, I promise 🙏🏻

  • @Mr.Magic_O
    @Mr.Magic_O 3 года назад +4

    This was very encouraging.
    In the last month I have watched two stories of two different individuals that were able to wake up, recently, in a very short time, once they were exposed to the truth about the truth.
    Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed with a mind set that will allow them to do that. But it is wonderful to know that at least a few are.
    Congratulations on your new found freedom!

  • @ckybltz
    @ckybltz 3 года назад +7

    I LOVE that he used the phrase “Bethel weird” 😂😂😂

  • @LJDavisfamily6
    @LJDavisfamily6 3 года назад +4

    “So I hear your having some doubts”
    “Uhh, I think it’s a doomsday cult”
    😂😂🤣🤣

  • @bearwoody
    @bearwoody 3 года назад +33

    I'm still totally confused about the divorce issue. Why is divorce okay in these circumstances when JWs have always taught that adultery is the only marriage contract breaker? And not even life-threatening domestic violence? How does the society justify a workaround for apostasy?

    • @outtadarkness1970
      @outtadarkness1970 3 года назад +27

      Because you are not Scripturally free to remarry. It is all a shell game to keep their members isolated from outside influences. They don't really care about your safety; just their control.

    • @rockpadstudios
      @rockpadstudios 3 года назад +7

      They didn't used to do this at least not when I was in - another example of overstepping. The bible was written for an early time, we eat pork, lobster, etc.

    • @P8nplays
      @P8nplays 3 года назад +12

      Things have changed drastically I don’t doubt they made it more forgiving so people can leave unbelieving partners instead of being woken up by said partner. Kinda funny I hope more people wake up from this farce of a cult

    • @carolsimpson4422
      @carolsimpson4422 3 года назад +14

      @@outtadarkness1970 exactly. Legal divorce is fine in such cases. They just won't let the spouse who stays jw to remarry because it's not a religious divorce.
      What gets me confused is why it's okay to let (usually) women languish without hope of every having a spouse again and thats 'scriptural' - yet the catholic church is just terrible and ridiculous because nuns and priests can't marry...make it make sense 😅

    • @outtadarkness1970
      @outtadarkness1970 3 года назад +8

      @@carolsimpson4422, Hypocrisy at its best! That is the only explanation I can come up with.

  • @writerinc
    @writerinc 3 года назад +3

    I'm glad you are free...the feeling is priceless!!

  • @beachmom2001
    @beachmom2001 3 года назад +2

    I really enjoyed this video. I have been awake for about 6 years so sometimes I wonder why, if I need to, continue to watch ex-jw videos. The thing is, I feel like I have PTSD from my experience with jws. It is therapy for me to watch some of these videos. This is one of them.
    I too was in the religion in the World Headquarters area. I don't know why, but I always feel compelled to mention it. I understand more now. When I was a believer it really felt like a 'spiritual paradise. I met witnesses from all over the world. We had Gilead students, Walkill and Patterson and relocated Brooklyn Bethelites in my congregation. I feel that is why I was a POMI for so long. It really had a hold on me because I felt like the people I knew were very serious about the religion. They were nice people that I would say to myself when I had doubts, 'well if brother so and so believes in this it must be true' So glad that we all have woken up.

  • @Hammface
    @Hammface 3 года назад +12

    @24:26 I absolutely empathise
    with the gentlemen here. I was in the exact same position. When I had doubts and stop going to the meetings my wife left me. (I had a judicial committee formed that I just didn’t go too) I wish I had fought harder for my marriage, but as Lloyd said, I had the mindset of “well if I am not a witness she won’t love me ever again”. I look back on it now and I wish I had said “ I love you, but I can no longer be a JW. I often wonder if things would of turned out differently.

    • @gloriasanmartin3712
      @gloriasanmartin3712 3 года назад +4

      I did tell my husband, l love you so much but I can't be a jw any more ,a marriage of 25 year finish, he said to me "well I married a Cristian women"
      His lost.

    • @morningglory9288
      @morningglory9288 3 года назад +2

      @@gloriasanmartin3712 JW's are not christians though. They do not recognize Jesus as a God worthy of all glory and worship. If they did, they'd never shun anybody for the true God is a God of LOVE.

    • @milham76
      @milham76 3 года назад

      @@morningglory9288 Rolling my eyes.

    • @oseus8686
      @oseus8686 Год назад

      @@morningglory9288even jesus was not christian. They is no bible verse saying he was christian.

    • @morningglory9288
      @morningglory9288 Год назад

      @oseus8686 I agree, he didn't belong to any religion.

  • @ruthieboots4325
    @ruthieboots4325 3 года назад +2

    Thank you for contributing to that chorus of voices, nicely said. Great interview Lloyd, thanks

  • @milham76
    @milham76 3 года назад +4

    Can't even say how impressed I was by this interview; Lloyd who asked wonderful questions to help keep the information easy to relate to and understand and Luke for his empathy and intelligence. I watched it alone and found myself saying " Right on" and " Wow" out loud. Really hope some of Luke's family will watch this out of curiosity and maybe give it some thought.

  • @kittylove2975
    @kittylove2975 3 года назад +5

    JW's NEVER ask why you leave... You're just abandoned‼️

  • @indelyn7143
    @indelyn7143 3 года назад +2

    Thanks for the interview. People waking up - it never gets old

  • @rockpadstudios
    @rockpadstudios 3 года назад +18

    Seriously years and years ago I would look at the bra pic's in the Sears Catalog - lol. Come on you have to be a dam robot not to start looking at women. This is so stupid, the people that are in the leadership positions are the ones lying about it.

  • @jenniferjames346
    @jenniferjames346 3 года назад +4

    It was hard being a young woman in the hall and seeing these younger high school boys getting privileges. They didn’t know their own minds at that age and didn’t come off as very serious about responsibility. All because they were born a male and I was born a female. It was even worse thinking about these poor older sisters that had been pioneering for years and they had to listen to these young guys too.

  • @yogi19581
    @yogi19581 3 года назад +1

    One of the very best interviews I've seen, I can prove it but I don't have a voice. Awesome 👌

  • @jadedstar7442
    @jadedstar7442 3 года назад +2

    Luke, you are such a sweet heart ❤️. This difficult right now, but you will get through it fine. The best thing is to not cause waves when making your point. Especially to your son and wife. Let her know if she ever wants to hear why you changed your views, she can ask. Ease in with your son as he gets older. Let him do the talking, but ask him questions how he feels about that. And then your job is involved too.
    If you didn't admit to any grounds for divorce; I would be mean and hide any relationship until she breaks. Let her but the elders through her frustrating.
    Find someone you can talk to about what's going on. Maybe a neighbor. Someone older. Just ask them if you don't mind if you can air things out to them about your life. It seems important to you that you want to be heard. A lot of churches have study groups that are glad to help. Praying for the best for you 🙏.

  • @freedomparadisechick6564
    @freedomparadisechick6564 3 года назад +4

    Great interview and wish him the best ☺️

  • @barryroberts7159
    @barryroberts7159 3 года назад +16

    With all due respect an Elder at 26??
    Kinda contradicts the term Elder.

    • @morningglory9288
      @morningglory9288 3 года назад +3

      We had younger elders in the the congregation I attended, 20, 23 yr olds 🤔

    • @lukedygert1256
      @lukedygert1256 3 года назад +1

      Yes totally agree

    • @ready2danceagain
      @ready2danceagain 3 года назад +1

      @@lukedygert1256 in the 70's, I believe that my husband was made an elder at age 26 also. It was even very young for that time, but our congregation was "out in the boondocks, and there weren't many people to choose from.
      I believe the shortage of men has forced the GB to go younger & younger. Congratulations on your awakening, thx for speaking out, it will help and inspire others.
      607 vs. 587 (along with CSA) was our awakening also.
      You're right, if you don't know how important 1914 & 1919 are to the Borg, you will not care about 607.
      Take care, good luck with your son. Do super fun things with your son, let him do baseball, football, etc. THAT can help a kid. Hang in there

  • @rodywithers3536
    @rodywithers3536 3 года назад +2

    Quite simply, a highly informative conversation that resonates long after its viewing. Lloyd your careful yet empathic questioning encouraged this very likeable and intelligent young man to reflect so well upon what he’s been through and what lies ahead. I wish Luke every success on his journey - and yes, if he can preserve his relationship with his son. Having an eye on the longer term will help him do that.

  • @richbreath_
    @richbreath_ 3 года назад +7

    Good interview

  • @donsnider4607
    @donsnider4607 3 года назад +1

    I was a tour bus driver that did 10 day trips to Georgetown, Washington Holocaust Museum, Brooklyn, Patterson and Pinebush and Wallkill. Interesting to hear this man talking about living there. I was there q10 trips a year for over 200 trips. Got to see and deal a lot about what he talked about. These tour busses were like potential wives passing by. You get to see people for over a week, lots of booze at duty free and alcohol stops on the trip.

  • @HaydenHoneywood
    @HaydenHoneywood 3 года назад +7

    Only took 3 mins and already talking boobs 😂😂 seriously though great to hear your story Luke, a lot resonated there. Love these candid 1 on 1 interviews Lloyd, keep them coming 👍

  • @tierraaguaybosques9236
    @tierraaguaybosques9236 3 года назад +5

    Sorry and Happy for you, at the same time. Family ties are fragile compared to the strength of cult ties. Don't miss what you never had. It sounds too extreme, but it is realistic. You lived your life as a character in a script. When you handed back the script, there was no place for you on that stage. I wish you the best in this new life. It can shock you at times, but it's not as bad as we were told; and everything that happens outside, happens inside as well.

  • @heidikelly3160
    @heidikelly3160 3 года назад +2

    I agree with what he said about people on the fringe....they seem to stay in longer more because they don't truly know the teachings inside and out. They are deeply influenced with the emotions of guilting and fear by the GB.

  • @cheryllakin6736
    @cheryllakin6736 3 года назад +2

    Hope your relationship with your son stays free and healthy. To me that would be the most frightening part of this waking up prosses

  • @tamaraheseltine4455
    @tamaraheseltine4455 3 года назад +3

    Great, video. My only concern is that his wife is playing it VERY NICE now so she can keep maximum influence, especially with friends, relatives on her son. The pressure is probably on his son through his mom, and others to say things, do things, to change his fathers decision. Also, if kids are getting baptized at the age of 8, and the father is no longer living in the home he may lose his relationship all together. Custody now may be his only real window to help his son escape. I would suggest he talk to a divorce lawyer who deals with cults and as he said "DO THE RESEARCH" and consider all the options.

  • @cl509
    @cl509 3 года назад +2

    Lloyd do a show about famous witnesses . I never realized Eisenhower was a Bible Student until 1952....is that true ?

  • @alans.wendelschafer6588
    @alans.wendelschafer6588 3 года назад +2

    @9:00 I knew a guy from my hometown who pioneered for a year so he could go to Bethel. He wanted to give it a try for a month. Went there for a month, came back.
    Never heard from him again. Never went to another meeting or met with the Elders. Never had anything to do with the religion.
    For years, I just thought he simply went off the deep-end.

  • @Scott_From_Maine
    @Scott_From_Maine 3 года назад +2

    I'm trying to think if I ever went to the elders to voluntarily confess something. I don't think I ever did. Of course, they came to me about things they found out from various sources.

  • @Letts_prey
    @Letts_prey 3 года назад +3

    13:20, I remember that “sick feeling”. It’s a feeling that dawns with a heavy weight, that it’s all false, all fake. It’s a horrible feeling, it’s a horrible place to be. It doesn’t leave you, until you leave, and it only gets weightier the longer you turn a blind eye to it.
    Great interview. Thank you both.

  • @ALLTHENEFFYNESSCraftyChannel
    @ALLTHENEFFYNESSCraftyChannel 3 года назад +2

    The part where he said they don’t give you a voice. It’s part of the abusiveness of the religion. Which is why I left.

  • @FallenGrace-rj1iu
    @FallenGrace-rj1iu 3 года назад +2

    My son had a similar situation as the “worldly girl”. Because he never took to the truth it was brushed under the rug and no one was warned about my ex! Just sickening

  • @saffronhammer7714
    @saffronhammer7714 3 года назад +3

    “Governed by a book; it’s so bizarre,” in reference to the elders guidebook .
    Same is true for the Bible.

  • @thedemysticist6730
    @thedemysticist6730 3 года назад +2

    I was totally "Bethel Weird"! I had no idea how the real world worked when I left.

  • @SPDATA1
    @SPDATA1 3 года назад +1

    Great interview! 👍 Thank you!

  • @giovannamonroe7177
    @giovannamonroe7177 3 года назад +1

    When it comes to custody of your child, remember your rights. Never dismiss that he could be exposed to child predators because of how these people protect abusers. You can definitely get the authorities involved to protect him and yourself 💗.

  • @JC-be5cc
    @JC-be5cc 3 года назад +1

    Please fight for full custody! Being raised a jw is horrible. The bullying, the doomsday nightmares, the idea of thinking everyone around you will die. I still remember the nightmare I had at age 11, My mom and I walking in a line of people on the 10 freeway in Los Angeles, building collapse everywhere, waiting to be judge by Jesus.

  • @vincentcross9148
    @vincentcross9148 3 года назад +1

    It’s so sad to realize he might not ever get the response many of as ex witnesses wish we could get. I have been berated and insulted for not wanted to be a witness and it’s a dark sad feeling.

  • @MrMrmetro
    @MrMrmetro Год назад +1

    There is no friendly way to leave. Luke is right. You can have many facts but you can not say a word. I, too, have been through similar. After they kicked me out unjustly for a second time I knew I had to do something.

  • @ritamariekelley4077
    @ritamariekelley4077 3 года назад +1

    I left the catholic church when the scandal broke and I've never looked back. I live in Mormon Utah. It's amazing how similar these cults are, especially the shunning. Religion is so divisive, when it's supposed to unify. By nature, religion is exclusionary. I love your countryman, Christopher Hitchens.

  • @jeneb52
    @jeneb52 3 года назад +1

    Wow I am still amazed by the variety of one's waking up, and there journey out of the cult! Be happy you're free, even though it cost you your marriage.

  • @dennisconstantine624
    @dennisconstantine624 3 года назад +7

    When Luke said the first thing he did was type in Boobs I thought Man your on the road to normality.

    • @yah7130
      @yah7130 3 года назад +1

      Lol🤣

    • @alans.wendelschafer6588
      @alans.wendelschafer6588 3 года назад

      Who else thought the first thing he was going to do is go on RUclips and type, "Big boobs?"

  • @buruku34
    @buruku34 3 года назад +1

    LOVE your Channel.

  • @blackqueen7147
    @blackqueen7147 3 года назад +6

    What song is that at the end!

    • @John-bo4eq
      @John-bo4eq 3 года назад +1

      Duplex Heart - Not Forever

    • @John-bo4eq
      @John-bo4eq 3 года назад

      I would also recommend Human Touch - Promise not to fall

  • @auxiliarypublisher8397
    @auxiliarypublisher8397 3 года назад +1

    Best wishes Luke.. Now that you've unplugged you are totally awake.. You've had the chance to see behind the curtain what with elder and bethel "priveleges"

  • @truthseekeratheist9105
    @truthseekeratheist9105 3 года назад +16

    God always knows even if you can hide your sin from others! He’s like Santa Clause

    • @jamieangel3766
      @jamieangel3766 3 года назад +4

      Except he gives none presents!

    • @cruisindownthestreetinmy6490
      @cruisindownthestreetinmy6490 3 года назад +9

      he see's you when you're sleeping.
      he knows when you're awake.
      he knows if you've been bad or good so, be good or face psychologically damaging consequences!!

    • @Valisk131
      @Valisk131 3 года назад +8

      Yup. God is exactly like Santa Claus, completely fictitious. A man-made construct in man,s own image. A supreme, all-powerful deity who worries that a man doesn't play with his own "willy."

    • @maryannlockwood7806
      @maryannlockwood7806 3 года назад +3

      He knows if you been bad or good so be good for goodness sake!😆🎅🏻

    • @maryannlockwood7806
      @maryannlockwood7806 3 года назад +1

      @@jamieangel3766 🙋🏻‍♀️

  • @ericmichalowski9582
    @ericmichalowski9582 3 года назад +1

    Very good stuff I agree with the point what meaningful contribution do Witnesses make to society I struggle to find any

  • @vincentcross9148
    @vincentcross9148 3 года назад +1

    Jeez I feel your pain and dealing with exactly the same thing…

  • @GG-kv8vv
    @GG-kv8vv 3 года назад +1

    You are so young...you and your son will be great. You have a choice of a different life...the best to you.

  • @andreawhittaker9117
    @andreawhittaker9117 3 года назад +10

    Sadly, JWs need to shun elevates their imagined good standing in the Congregation. The circumstances don't matter....following instructions do. I disassociated recently and the response from close "friends" begged for content. Conditional friendships hurt. 😓

    • @morningglory9288
      @morningglory9288 3 года назад +1

      As well as conditional family love does too.

  • @hikinghockinghills1297
    @hikinghockinghills1297 2 года назад

    It is an amazing and wonderful life on the outside! Good for you!

  • @Bruceylancer
    @Bruceylancer 3 года назад +1

    23:28 "Yes, I want you to still be in my life but you can't talk to me about these things" - man, that's EXACTLY what's going on in my life now! But it's going on for 2 years now. It feels absolutely horrible. Can't figure out what to do.

    • @lukedygert1256
      @lukedygert1256 3 года назад +1

      So sorry to hear, it’s a horrible situation. I am in no position to say what’s the right or wrong way to handle things, but hopefully it helps to know there are many of us in same boat. My ex even watched … (shocking for a current believer) and basically said.. “see! Even Lloyd said you didn’t fight for your marriage!” I think it’s a gross oversimplification because I’ve seen time and time again this situation is impossible to get over, and she basically told me to stay quiet and we were in hell (until she saw me speak about it). But who knows, some may get their spouses out with tremendous patience.

  • @arhondacook6059
    @arhondacook6059 3 года назад +1

    At first I thought you just didnt love your wife... but you explained so well why you feel you need to divorce an probably both of you saved years of heart ache. I remember something about being "unevenly yoked." Such a mature decision.

    • @lukedygert1256
      @lukedygert1256 3 года назад

      Of all the comments this means the most to me. Thanks for taking time to think about it all. It’s sad no matter what, but I truly believe it would not have been healthy for either party.

  • @MrWhit30
    @MrWhit30 3 года назад +2

    No JW experience but I became a Southern Baptist in my 40s mainly to try and solve marital problems. Told myself I could believe "metaphorically" if it made her happy. It didn't solve anything and just created more problems.

  • @MJ-ej5ok
    @MJ-ej5ok 3 года назад +2

    Good interview…. However certain parts are missing ….. how did he know about Raymond France book? How did he really wake up? Why did the brothers stop paying him? Did he stop going to the meetings? …..welcome to your freedom hope there is a party 2

  • @oseus8686
    @oseus8686 Год назад

    Luke, I love your T-Shirt!! Did you print just for yourself or did you make available online?

  • @rapperhostile
    @rapperhostile 3 года назад +3

    I love the anti deppressants. And thanks for talking about sexuality. This is therepy so.. thx

  • @terrypreston197
    @terrypreston197 3 года назад +1

    Brave guy . All the very best

  • @GG-kv8vv
    @GG-kv8vv 3 года назад +1

    Questioning is everything.

  • @NIL0S
    @NIL0S 3 года назад +6

    "Tibor era" 😄

  • @liamjay6181
    @liamjay6181 3 года назад

    Watching this video @32:00 about a sexual abuse issue not being reported or not by the elders. I remember when I was still a JW back in 2017, we have this individual who was accused of sexually abusing an elderly where this brother use to work at here in California. I remember hearing the same thing about the elders not reporting the allegations to the authorities. What ended up happening was “the brother who was being accused of touching an elderly patient” just flew back home to his home country and never came back before the police and ombudsman came to do an investigation.

  • @trellusg
    @trellusg 3 года назад +2

    Nineteen minutes in, I actually still don’t understand what this vague “getting screwed over by who you thought were friends” is about - I wish this had been explained better.

  • @truthseekeratheist9105
    @truthseekeratheist9105 3 года назад +21

    God made us imperfect and expects perfection l. It messes your head.

    • @trishayamada807
      @trishayamada807 3 года назад +5

      And here we say it’s against human rights when North Korea damns three generations to their work gulags for the transgressions of a family member, yet God can keep this going for 6000 years but that’s love, good, just. Oh, but then when they realize that is actually horrible, you get told we can’t understand god’s ways; god is mysterious. Yeah, it’s like god isn’t there or real, imagine that!

    • @opietwoep1247
      @opietwoep1247 3 года назад +7

      @@trishayamada807 i always wondered why not make us perfect after the flood? He had a fresh start

    • @outtadarkness1970
      @outtadarkness1970 3 года назад +2

      @@opietwoep1247, Good point!

    • @Xerfing
      @Xerfing 3 года назад +1

      @@opietwoep1247 I got the very same question as a kid.

    • @ksturmer5388
      @ksturmer5388 3 года назад +1

      God didn't do shit. Magic, doesn't exist.

  • @BlackCanuckTO1970
    @BlackCanuckTO1970 3 года назад

    Luke has a no nonsense vibe about him. I like it.

  • @rosiej.1473
    @rosiej.1473 3 года назад

    Agree with so many comments on here. The "fringe" JW are the worst for waking up. My husband is still in, but doesn't reach out, doesn't dress up or turn his video on for ZOOM meetings. When we went to real meetings he went to 3/4 of the mid week meetings and of those about 1/4 of them he left at the half. We had to come to a comprise we only take one Saturday off of service a month, he wanted more off. I was so in so devout, but when I got the slap in the face I needed and finally saw how they do not follow scripture but policy I was out. He is still in and I just shake my head and tell him, if he is not going to do it right, why do it? He has no answer. Confused the heck out of me.

  • @originalserpent1834
    @originalserpent1834 3 года назад +2

    Your darkest days are ahead keep going never give up.

  • @pimo4098
    @pimo4098 3 года назад +1

    Way to go Luke! Come for a visit in CR and we'll grab a whiskey!

    • @lukedygert1256
      @lukedygert1256 3 года назад +1

      Oh… im going 😎 hopefully end of Jan! We can party haha

  • @Bubbles-ym9mu
    @Bubbles-ym9mu 3 года назад

    Good point how would you share the same space having worldly friends..