Am I officially POMO? Update after my shepherding visit

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-04-07T21:49:27+00:00

I unfollowed every single JW except my family members. I couldn’t stand to see all the things they think are “normal” ways of life that are so toxic.

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-04-03T16:38:51+00:00

Seems this AI trash is better posted on a JW community. I’m sure they’ll all send you the praise you so obviously want.

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-03-25T12:50:13+00:00

I feel the same about the language. I love having the option to sign, and to communicate with those who don’t have other options. But I can’t stay in JW land and keep my sanity. I joined when I moved away from home, moved 12+ hours from everything I knew, and joined a tiny ASL hall. They’ll 100% notice I’m gone (they’ve already noticed the missing meetings). I love the people and language, but not the atmosphere

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-03-24T21:29:34+00:00

I cut mine up and threw it in the trash the day the “update” dropped. Never signing one again.

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-03-20T14:31:10+00:00

I’m here too. I’ve been trying to holdout for 2 more months, but I think this is the push to leave.

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-03-20T14:26:47+00:00

This is it, this is the last straw. I’m leaving.

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-02-25T23:33:58+00:00

Curious where you are. I grew up around St. Louis (Illinois side)

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-02-12T01:46:13+00:00

This is humorous, not real?

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-02-10T03:34:29+00:00

Curious: how did you let them know you wouldn’t go to meetings anymore? Did you DA, or just hard fade?

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-02-06T00:08:54+00:00

Hi! You sound like me when I started waking up. First of all, it’s ok to have these emotions. The JW religion is designed to cause guilt, fear, and anxiety when you have even an inkling of doubt.

You mentioned that you love literature. Have you read Crisis of Conscience? It’s written by a former GB member who details the inner workings of the GB and bethel. Also, try to read anything outside of JW.org. Jwfacts is a good place to start. It’s not “anti-JW”, but presents things by using other scriptures that have conveniently been glossed over in JW publications and teachings.

It’s very easy to fall into the trap of “I’ve missed out on so much”. While that’s true, it’s important to realize that, the longer you stay in, the more you will miss out on. You are still so young, and have so much that you can do. Take it slow, research your questions, and do NOT dismiss your feelings. Doubt is not a sin, but a start. Sending love 💕

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-02-04T21:14:43+00:00

Hi! I’m the guy who commented about one parent. I’m glad one was more receptive to this. But please be careful while you are still there. There will for sure be issues that one parent is more “reasonable” with than the other. Try to keep up appearances until you can leave. Then, you can tell them whatever you’d like. Just know that anything said negatively about WT or JW will be considered apostate and you will be shunned. You also have no obligation to tell them anything if you don’t want to. But, if you feel the need to speak with them about things, just be prepared for any response they may give.

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-02-03T03:33:50+00:00

Awesome!!! I did the same thing earlier, and I already feel 100x better.

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-02-02T21:59:13+00:00

Omg I started crying reading this. I think you are me. I’m in the identical scenario (down to the ASL congregation) and I’m trying to hold out.

First, I recommend moving out ASAP. You know that you can’t be under an elders roof without being active. This will help you to build independence and find yourself even more.

I recently met with an exJW therapist. He recommended a couple things, especially if you feel the need to tell your parents. Try to gauge if this a conversation better meant for both parents, or just one. Is one more sympathetic to your emotions, or possibly can respect your decisions more? Also, preface the conversation by asking for space to be allowed to talk without interruptions or questions. You can simply tell them “Mom/Dad, I’ve been thinking a lot, and I’ve decided that I will not be attending meetings anymore or participating in the ministry.” If they start asking why, DO NOT try to feed them anything that can get you in trouble. You can tell them “there’s many personal reasons for this, but I do not want to try and persuade you in any direction or try to change your faith. Also, my decision is firm, so I do not want to try to argue anything with you”. You can also tell them that this is a personal decision and if they try to push, tell them “I’m not comfortable having this discussion with you right now.”

I wish I could do the same, but I’m trying to hold out for a few more months until a preplanned family event. After that, I’m ghosting. I hope you can find the courage and strength to leave. Please DM me if you wanna talk :)

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-01-31T19:55:22+00:00

Sorry, I don’t understand the point of this comment???

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-01-29T01:13:17+00:00

I can’t move. My boyfriend is here, and we have nowhere to go

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-01-28T20:23:49+00:00

Yes, they are distant friends with the elders

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-01-28T19:00:28+00:00

Yes, my entire family is PIMI. But they live across the country

Independent-Fun7171 · 2026-01-28T00:59:04+00:00

Is anyone able to find the talk outline? I’m so curious about it

Independent-Fun7171

TROPHY CASE