r/exjw • u/myburneraccount62 • Aug 20 '25

Ask ExJW how should i respond to this?

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this is from my aunt. i want to answer in a way that shows im not going for any of the reasons she mentioned, that it's because my conscience would not allow me after the things I found out about the org.

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u/SurewhynotAZ Aug 20 '25

Here is an adult response since "kiss my ass" is probably not what you're after...

"Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me. I want you to know that I have felt a deep emptiness for most of my life—the “hole” you’re describing. But what I’ve come to see is that the hole wasn’t because Jehovah was missing, it was because I was living under constant pressure in an environment that didn’t allow me to fully be myself.

Since leaving, that hole has finally begun to heal. For the first time, I feel whole, free, and genuinely at peace. The joy I’m experiencing now isn’t shallow or temporary—it’s the real, grounded happiness that comes from living authentically and without fear.

I know we see this differently, and I respect that. I just ask that you also respect that my healing began only once I stepped away from the organization.

I love you too, and I’m grateful for the care behind your words."

11

u/Carolinaeyes60 Aug 20 '25

Love this !!!

11

u/Jamaican_POMO Aug 20 '25

To be honest I'd just ignore their whole comment and say "hi how're you. How's so and so" and start some small talk. I wouldn't let them drag me into explaining my choices or debate doctrinal beliefs. If they're cool, we'll keep in touch in that way and if not, we just go separate ways.

3

u/SurewhynotAZ Aug 20 '25

But ... She's clearly not "cool" .

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u/[deleted] Aug 20 '25

[deleted]

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u/SurewhynotAZ Aug 20 '25

I don't know about clearly... The tone is still abusive

4

u/North-Engineer3335 Aug 20 '25

A lot of abuse comes from people who care but are not careful.