I don't regret leaving the group. After all I've been through, I was glad that part was over. Although I had some mixed emotions in leaving the group because of the friendships I have built during my stay there, the bottom line is that it has to be psychologically healthy for you as well.
Since I decided on my own to leave, I don't think there are any mass manipulations.
All I can say is that the friendships you have with the members will be lost because they are instructed to no longer associate with you.
Prior to leaving the group, I've spoken to people that were leaders in the group that left before I did and they told me that they were tired of feeling guilty of not being able to convert new members. In addition, they also told me the same reason that I've stated about being in the group, like practicing this one-over-one authoritarian relationship, the compulsive giving of the contribution, and the compulsive devotion of your time to the group, no matter what the circumstances are.
I wasn't told nor advised to leave the group. I decided that I no longer benefit from staying with the group, financially, psychologically, emotionally, and spiritually. Thus, I have no regrets at all in my decision.
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2 comments:
Glad you got out Sidney! I was in for 14 years until I finally allowed myself to think about it critically and not punish myself for doing so.
What a relief to be free from the legalism and manipulation!
Good luck with your freedom.
Jen
Jen,
I'm a devouted Christian and remain committed to this day. When I decided to leave, I didn't take that lightly. It's either you put Jesus first or you put the relationships you've built throughout the years. I chose Him, Jesus, instead of the friendships since I have a better chance with Him in case I'm hell-bound.
I hope you maintained your relationship with Jesus, even though you're no longer associated with the group. It's difficult to comprehend how you put up with it for 14 years, but I won't even go into that.
What's more important is you put God first in your life, no matter what kind of challenges you will encounter in the future.
Later alligator...
Sidney
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