"Unfortunately belief isn't a choice, it's a conclusion. I didn't choose to stop believing in the same thing as you. It just happened. I simply don't believe it, and no amount of hatred from you is going to change that." I couldn't have said it any better, bro.
True Faced that's kind of like me, I was raised Baptist and I guess I can't not believe in Jesus. I do however believe that jahovahs witnesses are false religion. I don't shun anyone who I believe is a sinner. I am a sinner, I've definitely done more bad things than they did. I will remind them that Jesus saves but not all the time. I am a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. And I will never be an atheist, because it's impossible, I can't not believe. But I don't shun people like the jahovahs witnesses and I believe that they are a false religion. I am a sinner, but I'm Jesus's sinner. I may be a failure, but I'm Jesus's failure. I may make a million mistakes and sins, but the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ has saved me. He can save you too. Just ask Him. Pray to Him. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all, amen.
I was raised baptist, I attended a Christian private school, and went to bible camp, but after I started researching science, and realized that it was all utter horse shit and I could never put everything in words as great as those
This video is very raw emotionally! I think the single worst aspect of high control cults is the practice of shunning. Telltale, at least now you know who your true friends and family are at long last. We ALL support you and your channel. Out of your pain you have birthed something truly beautiful!
This was so sad and beautiful, shunning is so sad and terrible, the watchtower needs to be stoped, it seemed like you had a great relationship with him and its so sad that they made him shun you.
When i came out, my biological mom told me that i'm just somebody else in her daughters body, and pretty much blamed me for killing her daughter. (Again. First time she did that was when i was few years old kid, and told me that if my sister had never died, i wouldn't have been born. Then she tried to kill herself because my sisters death, again pretty much pinning it on me.) few of my relatives are Jehovan witnesses whom i have seen only once or twice in my life. Then there are few priests and a lot of Christians. I rarely see my younger brother cuz he lives in foster family. At one point i didn't see him at all for 3 years. My dad still calls me by my birth name which i understand, but he continuously calls me his daughter, girl or something super girly, and he continiously points out how he sees me as a girl till my social security number is changed. I cut my ties to my biological mom year ago, cuz she cared more about drugs and alcohol, than her own kids, and she never really acted like parent. Still, them calling me by my birth name is pretty much least of my worries. Most of my relatives aren't really on terms with me, and half of my classmates are new age nazis. They have pretty much hated me since the first day without any reason. Surprisingly, my grandma turned out to be one of my most accepting relatives, even tho she still sometimes wishes for it to be just a phase. She is my only relative, who sometimes calls me by my chosen name. She is bit of drunk tho, and pretty religious, but she tries her best to be as openminded and accepting as possible.
he probably thinks the body dysmorphia is a result of your mother saying you're somebody else in her daughters body. but im sorry to hear that. it does get better, though. give it time. and good luck
I have been shunned by my entire family since I was 21, I never got to see my mother or father again before they both died. My sister had a daughter 13 years ago and I still have not meet or talked to her. Getting shunned is hard, and I feel everything you do. I think the watchtower society might just be the most corrupt organization on earth.
I am on the same page as you, though not to your degree. I left mormonism, but I can't move out as I am only a teenager. It hurts to see my family go to church every Sunday and see them get swallowed up by the cult more and more every week. While Mormons don't shun, they do continue to try to reel you in constantly. I was jealous of my pet cat because he wasn't forced to be Mormon. It brainwashed my family. The worst part is, mormons are taught from a young age that if someone is trying to tell you it's a cult, it's the adversary speaking from their mouth, so no one listens to you.
At least you made it out. I wish I could go back and wake my younger self up from this brainwash. I can’t really openly identify as an atheist because I come from a Mormon family who believes it’s their job to map out my life the way they want it to. And they breathe down my neck on this shit. In the past year I started using my head. Realized that their imaginary friend named god hasn’t done shit for me
As a nonmormon resident of utah, I tell you that there are no and I mean NO groups that aren't controlled by the Church. Boy scouts, nope! Baseball, no! Playing dungeons and dragons, compleatly controlled by the church. Its such bs, I have never met a non mormon in a position 0f power.
I'm sorry you went through this, Telltale. And I'm sorry it's happening again with your niece. Nobody should have to go through that pain. We're here for you, and we believe that everything you're doing is worth it. You have to be the voice, you have to speak up for all those the watchtower society has hurt, that way you can bring an end to the pain. We're all standing behind you. Never give up.
Telltale I just wanted you to know that you've touched so many lives. Not just those hurt by cults but also ones like mine. Your videos helped me understand how easy it is for someone to grow up with a belief and never question it. And knowing that helped me to finally be okay with who I am. I'm going by a different name than my birth name and my parents aren't to accepting of it. Your videos got me through that and got me to the point where now I understand that people disliking me because of my name, my sexuality, or anything else is just beliefs they were taught. You've really inspired me, and so from the bottom of my heart I just wanted to say thank you.
I am being ostracized for listening to these and other atheist video's as well as other educational video's. This is my only escape from this pain. My family, many of my childhood friend's an many other's. The hardest part is some people still do talk to me and at the end of the day I would help them even at the cost of my life. I got my face cut to help a stranger, I have put my life up for shit often, yet a part of the reason is to prevent others from feeling unnecessary pain, but another part is the easiest way to escape the pain is to end it all. I dont believe suicide is in anyway reasonable, just or proper, I would prefer to live and fight even if I have to suffer, if I help another, but the feeling of calm that over takes me when I feel as if I might not survive, the momentary rush which enhances me in a natural desire to do I can gives me clarity on the bigger picture. I am hurting while watching the young experience the same mental manipulation and suffering and the Emotional knee jerking. The words, "do it because I said so" is the worst form of mental abuse which directly leads to a irrational corruption of the mind. The fact is, we are a damaged generation born into a world steadily falling apart because of the continuous deception and illusion of reality we are being fed.
It's videos like these that make me realise how lucky I am for living in the UK where cults are that rare. I've only had a JW knock on my door once and I was 12 they left a leaflet which neither me nor my parents read. You've got to reject the poison and heal the wounded.
This hit home. I'm going through a situation similar to this though, not caused by religion. I hope he comes out of the brainwashing and can once again be your brother.
You are so strong for just continuing on, and so much strength was needed just to post this. Life's been difficult, but you've made the best of it, and I admire you for that. Keep being strong, man.
There was a documentary in Estonia (where I'm from) about former Jehovas Witnesses. We watched this in our social science class at school. I don't remember it exactly but here's the story: A woman who was in a hard life situation with kids, living poorly and feeling hopeless, joined the organization, by feeling welcomed and loved and hopeful. The kids started wondering why they didn't celebrate Christmas anymore and the mother started feeling guilty about it, taking Christmas away from her kids suddenly. She talked about the instructions for the world end. There was a list of things you should always have packed: water, clothes, credit card (What good will a credit card do?), etc. She found friends there. Now one day, she gave birth to another child. The baby was in a dangerous condition and needed a blood transfusion. Somewhere in their version of the bible was said that blood had to be untouched and pure or something like that. Without the transfusion there were little chances that her child would survive and if would, he'd be blind. If she did allow the transfusion she wouldn't be welcome anymore and would burn in the world ending as her friends and Jehovas Witnesses said. She was left to choose between her religion and the life of her child. Of course she chose her child, she said that if her child would've survived but be blind, he would one day ask why he was this way, and she would have to answer, that it was because of her choices. If she had chosen that for her child, She couldn't live with the guilt. The baby lived and was healthy. The woman was cast out of the cult and absolutely shut out. Her "friends" wouldn't talk to her and if they were to meet at the street, they'd pretend they don't know her. She claimed she was happy to get out of there and feels sad for the people who have been fooled into this religion. There is a Jehovas Witnesses kingdom hall just by the road where I take the bus to school everyday. Every time I look at it and think of these real life events. I am sad that this has to exist and a bit disgusted that they'd praise that woman if she would've let her son possibly die or lose his sight. I am happy to be born into the family I am in, with reasonable thoughts about religion and not pushing it onto me. So sorry about what you've been trough, at least your friends and loved ones now, matter and will always be there!
This is beautiful. You wrote this very well. I hope that one day Shawn or any person you loved that has shunned you will come to their senses. There's always hope to rebuild. Good luck
You are not alone..... It hurts everyday but you proved to be stronger, he is blind, he lost a person like you, you are worth so much. Thank you for every second you spend trying to explain our pain.
That was beautiful. I can't relate exactly, but I was once good friends with a girl from the International Church Of Christ who was allowed a "hiatus" from the Church as a teenager. She went _absolutely _*_wild_* and slept with all of my platonic male friends, my then boyfriend's friends and ultimately tried to sleep with said boyfriend (who couldn't stand her and told me). I dumped her, then she went back & was baptized a Born Again Christian. P.S. Her parents claimed I was responsible for her promiscuity, drug use & other foolish behaviour. I wasn't.
that happens. ya it was intended to show my viewers that i understand their pain. im a lot better off now than i have ever been, personally. but there are many out there who feel the same way as i did in the video
Mackenzie B I'm sorry you had that happen to you. Nobody deserves that kind of pain. Not you, not anyone else. It is not your fault, religion makes people do crazy things.
Mackenzie B I'm so sorry. At least my life took me in a different direction from my ex "best" friend - both geographically and otherwise. Also, I felt really guilty for a long time as I had initiated what I've since learned is essentially shunning. I accidentally discovered a few years later that *she* considered *me* _persona non grata_ and does to this very day (I sent her an ill-advised dm via Facebook one Christmas Day).
Dom Laudenbach It's very kind of you to say so - I always refused to take accountability for her behaviour because I discouraged a great deal of it, but I did initiate what amounts to "shunning" on a small scale. I'm guessing that she was on the brink of doing that herself anyway as her parents were very keen to get her back into the fold. They provided incentives which included lining up an apprenticeship so she could leave School before finishing High School (which used to really puzzle me) and a rent-free apartment around the corner from their house.
I'm leaving a JW congregation soon. I'm just dreading this. . . I give you my support, Telltale. I hope you know we care about you even if we don't know you personally.
It is really horrible.I even can't imagine what would I do if my mother did this to me.It is horrible when rules of the cult become stronger than mother's love.
I didn't lose my best friend, not because of religion, but because of another type of unhealthy relationship. I hope he finds his way back, where he can actually be himself, but I doubt it.
I’m so glad I found your channel. Your well articulated insight into JW, your informed and accurate understanding of science is wonderful. And, anytime you bring Alpha Force Zero is adorable. The love you exude for her is heartwarming.
Amazing! Glad you shared this, this is every thought and every word every single one of us who have gotten out wish our family and friends could not just hear with their ears but really really take it all in. The words we wish they could actually come to grips with and truly understand without trying to deny things by preaching the same crap that has been vomited from the platform time and time again brainwashing members to believe that their way is the only way. I wish with words so eloquently and perfectly put together were actually able to change what they still believe and help them to realize just how fd up and asinine the entire religion really is. I hope you continue on with this channel, it has helped so many, like myself, knowing I'm not alone like they wish for me to feel and I don't need them to take over my life and tell me the correct way to live it or what I should and shouldn't believe in. Thank you for sharing this letter many times I've had so much of what you said go through my mind when I think about my so called "family" members who refuse to talk to me unless it is to remind me the end is near and my life style is not only going to get myself destroyed but also my children (this has to be the number one thing they say to me that just grates EVERY SINGLE nerve in my body and brain, I want to tell the one uttering those words to go F**k themselves in the most respectful way possible of course lol) this makes my blood boil and I'm very angered by the thought that this so called loving God these ppl believe in would destroy innocent kids because a grown adult makes choices he doesn't like. Is this "god" a fucking 3 year old throwing the biggest narcissistic tantrum ever?! Cuz that's kind of how it seems...
I am deeply sorry this has happened to you, and to everyone else who has gone through this. No religion should support shunning, it is even more sad that they say they support love at the same time. I am very grateful that you are spreading awareness about this! Keep doing what you are doing!👍
No one can ever be truly alone even if family isn't always there that's something I learned having depression and anxiety and one will always fine the light in there life
I entered a new rabbit hole that I never knew of.. but whoever you are dude from different universes I can understand this sorrow, feel ya. Must be terrible, so much so that makes you feel cold and apathetic from so much frustration. :/
This shit legitimately hit so hard for me. This is a beautiful letter and I'm so proud of you for having the courage to do this. Utterly amazing work telltale.
What a brilliant video! Thank you for that! I was trying to find a way to say what I need to say to my parents that shunned me and keep pushing me to go back. Writing a letter like you did is perfect! I'm getting married next Jan 21st and, to do that, I'm traveling to my home city in Brazil and, of course, they won't attend. I will write a letter give it to them expressing all my feelings about all this, just like you. Thank you very much for that! I understand your pain more than I wanted and I share it. Keep up! You're a very intelligent person that would be wasted in JW.
I haven’t got much to say but I sure do respect you, I could never imagine how hard it must have been for you. Never let anyone of those witnesses take something special from you again
Dude, I want to let you know that no matter how alone you feel, always remember that there are people ready to listen and care about you. That’s why we are here. Thats why you have 23 thousand subs. Always remember that strangers are family that you haven’t met
How I was Shunned by JW's. When I was 13 years old I moved from a big city to a very small town where my parents grew up. I had 18 people in my graduation class. I met a wonderful girl that lived a couple of miles from me, and we fell in love at 13 years old. Her mother was a devout JW. We were inseparable for the last 5 years of school. Religion was never an issue to us. I went to a Baptist church as a child and teenager. All of a sudden when we graduated She left me and never told me anything. She was supposed to go visit Her aunt (which was a JW) in another town for 2 weeks. I was going to ask Her to marry me when She got back. 3 months after graduation I heard from Her, She had met someone new, a JW. I went to talk to Her but was turned away by Her and Her mother. She would not talk to Me or have anything to do with Me. I was basically told by Her mother, " You are not one of us, you and your feelings don't matter, go away (SHUNNED, PSYCHOLOGICAL TORTURE). She was not the same person I knew and loved for 5 years. I was heartbroken and took a long time to recover. I to this day still have, at 62, once or twice a year a nightmare of Her leaving Me. There were other issues I had for a long time. After some research in recent years, I learned I had or have Post traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I am a very strong person and I moved on with my life. She married this person after only knowing Him for a month, a JW. She admitted to a friend She had made a horrible decision. Her mother had guilt tripped Her not to marry me, if so She would be disobeying God. She had been brainwashed by Her mother and aunt and pressured to marrying this other person. Her mother had this planned for years before we graduated. What a horrible thing to do to your daughter, and Me, to let us love each other for 5 years knowing after graduation Her mother was going to split us up. She was told a lie that when I went to college I did not want to be tied down. So Her mother knocked Her down and then began the major brainwashing. How cruel. I have never been to church since then, I do believe in God though, just don't participate in religion, I woke up. After 24 years I rarely thought of Her. I had not seen Her for 24 years except at my Father's funeral halfway through this time period. One day in 2000 while on Vacation in Colorado something came over me and I could not get Her out of My mind. This was so intense I had to find out about Her. This drove me crazy for several days. So I drove to the small town where we grew up to find an old high school friend to find out about Her. As we were sitting in the front yard talking, low and behold She drove by and my friend flagged Her down. We instantly reconnected. We just didn't know at the time we both had this experience. Long story short we decide to have a high school reunion and the 3 of us went about putting this together. After 6 months of a few meetings about the reunion we knew we had to talk about what each of us were feeling. We did, she got divorced and 6 months later we were married. She chose Love over Religion. It has been 19 years. We are very happy at 62 years old and deeply in love with each other. She did tell me after being married for awhile that Her mother admitted to making a mistake and should have let Her marry Me. Her mothers actions resulting from JW brainwashing caused Her to live 24 miserable years with someone she really did not want to be with and that mistreated Her and was unfaithful to Her in the last few years of Her marriage to Him. Our reuniting caused great healing to Me. I still though can't forgive Her mother, who had passed away before we reunited, for what she did to the two of us. We never got to have children together and raise a family together. I dont have any children. I didnt even want to date for 5 years. I was very lonely for a long time, a part of Me had been taken from me. We have been very happy for the last 19 years. She is still a JW, only because that is where Her only friends are. I have slowly over 19 years been breaking Her brainwashing by the JW's. Again She chose Love over religion.
As a person who was raised religious but not abusively, I can still say that my ex-beliefs caused my depression and anxiety. I can't trust a soul and I know how it feels to have people slowly fade away from you then just abruptly cut you off from the love they once gave. But regardless we make it through, the ones that had it easier and the ones that had it harder alike. We stand side by side. TOGETHER
I understand this pain so deeply having lost many friends, one of them Like a sister, when I left Holiness. Not all of them actively shun me. Some "believe I may not have received the holy ghost and still have a chance" but many others "know I had something" and they make up all kinds of nonsense about me that then gets relayed to my husband behind my back.
Wow. I had no idea. While I can clearly hear the hurt in your voice for how you have been treated, I also hear the joy for life, self, and others in spite of the hurt. I can hear the fight in you, and the fortitude to sally forth though you face terrible odds against the attack. That is why through the sadness of your words I hear the cry of bitter triumph as you focus on the future. Fortunately most former believers do not have to deal with that kind of betrayal and shunning but you are an inspiration because you have come as far as you have despite the abuse. And for that, good sir, I raise my glass in a toast to your success. Cheers, mate.
thanks. im ok now. after 10 years. the pain has turned to bitter hate. but there are others starting on this same path so i wanted to make sure they knew that i understand their pain
Telltale, this is a little un related to this video specifically but I just wanted to thank you. I spent a long time being confused about my religion and trying to make excuses for myself because I was too afraid to stray from the norm. Granted my situation isn't quite as extreme as yours is but I'm glad you stayed strong through all your hardship because you inspire. Again thank you.
This video made me fall to tears! I just resently got shunned by the Jw. I have much love for you! I'm watching your videos every day. Your filling my mind white clerty. Your a huge motivation! Tank you so much! All my friends and most my family looks at me as I I'm dead. It's reely hurts! It's reely dose, so much. It's more but it's just to hard for me to tell.
wow this is powerful stuff my friend! it pains me to know that this happens to so many individuals! youre a strong human being & im happy that you found some form of peace!
I think this is a truly beautiful video. You were willing to express this absolute sorrow you felt and expose what some would consider weakness just to say the words you can’t say to your brother, despite desperately wanting to do so. This is just so deeply meaningful it actually brought me to tears. This way with words- just raw emotion- it’s truly amazing. Thank you for making this video. I really think these types of videos are what connect people on TH-cam and help both current Witnesses and ex witnesses. Just thank you.
while i personally cannot relate to religious shunning or any form of religious abuse, i felt that through this i could understand. every moment of this from the diction to the delivery was stuffed with pure emotion and conveyed such a massive arc of pain and sadness from betrayal of a loved one and in that, i can relate. the empty shell of a person who once held so much is tortuous regardless of how they became what they are. i hope that one day you'll have your friend back, that he can see the truths of the brainwashing and abhorrent behavior of the watchtower society and you can rekindle the friendship you two once shared. i send my best regards for you and your family in this new year and all to come.
This was a very powerful and heartfelt message. I hope your brother sees this and actually thinks about it for a while, rather than dismiss it as nothing more than the word of some apostate. I'm wishing the very best to you and your family, and I hope you get your brother back!
Wow, just wow Telltale. The way you describe the pain that you have gone through hurts my heart. You are strong, brave, and a true survivor. Even though your mother is brainwashed, the shunning of her own child is nothing short of pure evil. I do have questions though. I admire the fact that you are mature enough to allow the woman who shunned you to have a relationship with your daughter. However, do you worry that she is probably trying to brainwash her into becoming a J.W.? Do you think that she may one day break her heart by shunning her as she did to you if she does not become a J.W.? Worst of all, do you ever worry that your mother may one day convince her to become a J.W. and convince her into shunning you also?
she IS trying to brainwash her. but actually im very confident in her ability to resist the brainwashing. and also i dont really let her see her without supervision anymore
That is fantastic, I absolutely applaud you for being the bigger person in this situation. I personally don't know if I would be able to find the inner strength to allow the one I love the most to be around the person who would do so much damage to me. I think that you are a wonderful person for all that you do. I will be a subscriber to your channel for life. I am also going to become one of your patrons (no kiss please, but I would love to shake your hand someday). Finally, I thank you so much for your response.
I think it is valuable, allowing access. If you would not allow your daughter to see her grandmother you risk being the "bad guy". My mom was not in a cult, but she tended towards verbal and emotional abuse due to some unaddressed mental issues. I was getting counseling while I allowed my children to go visit my mom on weekends, etc. My counselor was happy to advise me on how to coach my children into coping with and politely calling out grandma on her behavior. My kids learned that even people you love and want to trust may try to manipulate you for their own wants and needs and how it is healthy to put firm boundaries in place. My kids are strong, healthy people who get respect in relationships because they give respect and demand respect. My mom has gotten better as well. It is very humbling to be the one throwing tantrums when your grandchildren stay calm and comfort you while still refusing to let you mistreat them. Your daughter will do fine. :)
This was deep as hell, telltale. I hope your family comes to their senses sometime in their lifetime. Don't worry, you have us here. We support you, man. Don't give up, keep going.
We're all people. Religion doesn't make us different as if we are both not human. If my friend converts I do not care. If my friend believes in a God that wants genocide but can be loving as a person then I won't hate them. And a parent... My own and I are distant. But I don't really love or hate them. I just wish religion wasn't such a barrier and problem.
It's been a year since I've spoken to my Mom, I was shunned away for being gay, went against her values. It sucks, because I think about my mom a lot unconciously and as much pain as she has inflicted on me... I still love her, and I hope she opens her eyes and realizes Im just tying to be happy like she always wanted.. Please keep making these video's, because you speak from the heart and have such a gift in the way you express yourself. Thank you!
I have no religious affiliation, but today, I left the classroom of the best teacher, best friend, and greatest role model I've ever had for the very last time. When you said "why would a benevolent God split two people like us" I broke down sobbing and I'm actually shaking as I type this. I can't imagine how you must feel
Touching. I admire your way of representing painful things in calm and objective way. You must have been processing and acknowledging a lot of stuff before you started doing these vids. Thank you.
"You always make everyday such a special day. You know how, by just your being you. There is only one person in the whole world like you, and people can like you just the way you are". -Mr. Rogers
I lost my best friend too. The last time I ever spoke to her was when I told her I was leaving the religion. It's been 6 years and I miss her a lot. It's one of the worst parts of what the religion did to me. I keep wondering what might have been. She was pregnant and now has a daughter I've never met. I hate what this religion has done to all of us. Thank you for sharing your story.
First off I’m glad you made this because it resonated with me deeply. I lost a friend to religion. I wasn’t shunned, but she slowly stopped telling me about her issues. She didn’t believe I would have a Christian perspective on them. As I began to see I was losing a friend I started to tell her about the fallacies of the Bible I admit it pushed her away, but I believed the only way we could be friends again is by her seeing all of it was bullshit and she could talk to me about anything. Years later we still talk every once in a while, but it’s just painful to think our friendship was ruined because of our differences. I’m relunctant to tell anyone about atheism in fear I will push them away of be judged. I miss my friend and I cry from time to time because I know our friendship means nothing.
"Unfortunately belief isn't a choice, it's a conclusion. I didn't choose to stop believing in the same thing as you. It just happened. I simply don't believe it, and no amount of hatred from you is going to change that."
I couldn't have said it any better, bro.
True Faced 👍 👍 👍
But truly could this message change his faith since it is not choice
True Faced that's kind of like me, I was raised Baptist and I guess I can't not believe in Jesus. I do however believe that jahovahs witnesses are false religion. I don't shun anyone who I believe is a sinner. I am a sinner, I've definitely done more bad things than they did. I will remind them that Jesus saves but not all the time. I am a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. And I will never be an atheist, because it's impossible, I can't not believe. But I don't shun people like the jahovahs witnesses and I believe that they are a false religion. I am a sinner, but I'm Jesus's sinner. I may be a failure, but I'm Jesus's failure. I may make a million mistakes and sins, but the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ has saved me. He can save you too. Just ask Him. Pray to Him. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all, amen.
I was raised baptist, I attended a Christian private school, and went to bible camp, but after I started researching science, and realized that it was all utter horse shit and I could never put everything in words as great as those
Has anyone been to the Street Epistemology channel? Lot's of great videos there asking various people why they believe what they believe...
Sorry that happened to you, man.
*Thorry
This video is very raw emotionally! I think the single worst aspect of high control cults is the practice of shunning. Telltale, at least now you know who your true friends and family are at long last. We ALL support you and your channel. Out of your pain you have birthed something truly beautiful!
Beautiful just beautiful.
This video... You... You know how to make me cry.
We're all here for you, just like you're here for us. Thanks for sharing. We're building a community strong enough to overcome the toxic bullshit.
This was so sad and beautiful, shunning is so sad and terrible, the watchtower needs to be stoped, it seemed like you had a great relationship with him and its so sad that they made him shun you.
Piano Made Of Noodles BTW, I love your YT name! 😊 🌻
JW Suicides Thanks, yours is amazing!
This was one of the few things wich touched me and made me cry for real. I seriously have all my respect for you...
thanks
The pain is real. I lost a friend when i I came out. My ex still forses my birth name on me...
you arent alone
Telltale No one is. Even if it feels like it.
When i came out, my biological mom told me that i'm just somebody else in her daughters body, and pretty much blamed me for killing her daughter. (Again. First time she did that was when i was few years old kid, and told me that if my sister had never died, i wouldn't have been born. Then she tried to kill herself because my sisters death, again pretty much pinning it on me.) few of my relatives are Jehovan witnesses whom i have seen only once or twice in my life. Then there are few priests and a lot of Christians. I rarely see my younger brother cuz he lives in foster family. At one point i didn't see him at all for 3 years. My dad still calls me by my birth name which i understand, but he continuously calls me his daughter, girl or something super girly, and he continiously points out how he sees me as a girl till my social security number is changed. I cut my ties to my biological mom year ago, cuz she cared more about drugs and alcohol, than her own kids, and she never really acted like parent. Still, them calling me by my birth name is pretty much least of my worries. Most of my relatives aren't really on terms with me, and half of my classmates are new age nazis. They have pretty much hated me since the first day without any reason. Surprisingly, my grandma turned out to be one of my most accepting relatives, even tho she still sometimes wishes for it to be just a phase. She is my only relative, who sometimes calls me by my chosen name. She is bit of drunk tho, and pretty religious, but she tries her best to be as openminded and accepting as possible.
H H stay strong brother. It gets better.
he probably thinks the body dysmorphia is a result of your mother saying you're somebody else in her daughters body. but im sorry to hear that. it does get better, though. give it time. and good luck
I can't imagine what it must be like to be rejected by everyone you knew like you were. I'm happy for you that you were able to find a better life.
I hope this helped you lift some weight off your chest. Hope it made you feel better!
I have been shunned by my entire family since I was 21, I never got to see my mother or father again before they both died. My sister had a daughter 13 years ago and I still have not meet or talked to her. Getting shunned is hard, and I feel everything you do. I think the watchtower society might just be the most corrupt organization on earth.
you arent alone. stay strong
Telltale thank you. It helps me to know someone else is going through what I am
I am on the same page as you, though not to your degree. I left mormonism, but I can't move out as I am only a teenager. It hurts to see my family go to church every Sunday and see them get swallowed up by the cult more and more every week. While Mormons don't shun, they do continue to try to reel you in constantly. I was jealous of my pet cat because he wasn't forced to be Mormon. It brainwashed my family. The worst part is, mormons are taught from a young age that if someone is trying to tell you it's a cult, it's the adversary speaking from their mouth, so no one listens to you.
At least you made it out. I wish I could go back and wake my younger self up from this brainwash. I can’t really openly identify as an atheist because I come from a Mormon family who believes it’s their job to map out my life the way they want it to. And they breathe down my neck on this shit. In the past year I started using my head. Realized that their imaginary friend named god hasn’t done shit for me
As a nonmormon resident of utah, I tell you that there are no and I mean NO groups that aren't controlled by the Church. Boy scouts, nope! Baseball, no! Playing dungeons and dragons, compleatly controlled by the church. Its such bs, I have never met a non mormon in a position 0f power.
Another potent-as-hell upload, this hits me where it hurts telltale.
I'm sorry you went through this, Telltale. And I'm sorry it's happening again with your niece. Nobody should have to go through that pain. We're here for you, and we believe that everything you're doing is worth it. You have to be the voice, you have to speak up for all those the watchtower society has hurt, that way you can bring an end to the pain. We're all standing behind you. Never give up.
thanks, i appreciate it. i won't
Telltale I just wanted you to know that you've touched so many lives. Not just those hurt by cults but also ones like mine. Your videos helped me understand how easy it is for someone to grow up with a belief and never question it. And knowing that helped me to finally be okay with who I am. I'm going by a different name than my birth name and my parents aren't to accepting of it. Your videos got me through that and got me to the point where now I understand that people disliking me because of my name, my sexuality, or anything else is just beliefs they were taught. You've really inspired me, and so from the bottom of my heart I just wanted to say thank you.
I am being ostracized for listening to these and other atheist video's as well as other educational video's. This is my only escape from this pain. My family, many of my childhood friend's an many other's. The hardest part is some people still do talk to me and at the end of the day I would help them even at the cost of my life. I got my face cut to help a stranger, I have put my life up for shit often, yet a part of the reason is to prevent others from feeling unnecessary pain, but another part is the easiest way to escape the pain is to end it all. I dont believe suicide is in anyway reasonable, just or proper, I would prefer to live and fight even if I have to suffer, if I help another, but the feeling of calm that over takes me when I feel as if I might not survive, the momentary rush which enhances me in a natural desire to do I can gives me clarity on the bigger picture. I am hurting while watching the young experience the same mental manipulation and suffering and the Emotional knee jerking. The words, "do it because I said so" is the worst form of mental abuse which directly leads to a irrational corruption of the mind. The fact is, we are a damaged generation born into a world steadily falling apart because of the continuous deception and illusion of reality we are being fed.
LegioDecemGJCAESAR Do not commit suicide.
Take some time for yourself, or go somewhere you wouldn't normally. Maybe meet some new people.
Stay strong mate, you are making the right choice.
It's videos like these that make me realise how lucky I am for living in the UK where cults are that rare. I've only had a JW knock on my door once and I was 12 they left a leaflet which neither me nor my parents read. You've got to reject the poison and heal the wounded.
Cried through the whole video, you Rock man😰 every word resonated. This Fall will be year 30 going through this shit, I'm beyond tired.
i understand
we'll make it through
Annette Black I haven't experienced the same thing, but I send my heart out to you. You are amazing no matter what. Don't forget that.
Dom Laudenbach Thanks man❤
Annette Black It's nothing really mate, just helping out where I can.
I can't imagine the pain from being hated by your own family.
Lmao
This hit home. I'm going through a situation similar to this though, not caused by religion. I hope he comes out of the brainwashing and can once again be your brother.
You are so strong for just continuing on, and so much strength was needed just to post this. Life's been difficult, but you've made the best of it, and I admire you for that. Keep being strong, man.
"Cold silence has a tendency to atrophy any sense of compassion"
That's a cool line. Somebody should put that in a song.
Wow this is wow.....this is deep and the unemotional voice makes it even more sad.(that's how your voice sounds to me)
Sergeant Malleo Boku Hetalia
Roan lol yeah
God damn telltale, I can't handle all these feels
I also know what its like to lose a best friend, so this really hits me
You don’t deserve any of this. You are a good person. I’m kinda crying right now.
thanks for listening
There was a documentary in Estonia (where I'm from) about former Jehovas Witnesses. We watched this in our social science class at school. I don't remember it exactly but here's the story: A woman who was in a hard life situation with kids, living poorly and feeling hopeless, joined the organization, by feeling welcomed and loved and hopeful. The kids started wondering why they didn't celebrate Christmas anymore and the mother started feeling guilty about it, taking Christmas away from her kids suddenly. She talked about the instructions for the world end. There was a list of things you should always have packed: water, clothes, credit card (What good will a credit card do?), etc. She found friends there. Now one day, she gave birth to another child. The baby was in a dangerous condition and needed a blood transfusion. Somewhere in their version of the bible was said that blood had to be untouched and pure or something like that. Without the transfusion there were little chances that her child would survive and if would, he'd be blind. If she did allow the transfusion she wouldn't be welcome anymore and would burn in the world ending as her friends and Jehovas Witnesses said. She was left to choose between her religion and the life of her child. Of course she chose her child, she said that if her child would've survived but be blind, he would one day ask why he was this way, and she would have to answer, that it was because of her choices. If she had chosen that for her child, She couldn't live with the guilt. The baby lived and was healthy. The woman was cast out of the cult and absolutely shut out. Her "friends" wouldn't talk to her and if they were to meet at the street, they'd pretend they don't know her. She claimed she was happy to get out of there and feels sad for the people who have been fooled into this religion.
There is a Jehovas Witnesses kingdom hall just by the road where I take the bus to school everyday. Every time I look at it and think of these real life events. I am sad that this has to exist and a bit disgusted that they'd praise that woman if she would've let her son possibly die or lose his sight. I am happy to be born into the family I am in, with reasonable thoughts about religion and not pushing it onto me. So sorry about what you've been trough, at least your friends and loved ones now, matter and will always be there!
I feel like that one dislike is from Shawn.
Well, now there are TWO dislikes......where's your theory NOW?!!!! lol
Its Shawn and Jehovah!!!!! XD
This is beautiful. You wrote this very well. I hope that one day Shawn or any person you loved that has shunned you will come to their senses. There's always hope to rebuild. Good luck
This video made me cry. I thought this was a touching and heartbreaking story. Thanks for sharing it man.
You are not alone..... It hurts everyday but you proved to be stronger, he is blind, he lost a person like you, you are worth so much. Thank you for every second you spend trying to explain our pain.
We love you telltale
This was awesome, Telltale, it was beautiful.
Funny Bunny that was beautiful
That was beautiful.
I can't relate exactly, but I was once good friends with a girl from the International Church Of Christ who was allowed a "hiatus" from the Church as a teenager. She went _absolutely _*_wild_* and slept with all of my platonic male friends, my then boyfriend's friends and ultimately tried to sleep with said boyfriend (who couldn't stand her and told me). I dumped her, then she went back & was baptized a Born Again Christian.
P.S. Her parents claimed I was responsible for her promiscuity, drug use & other foolish behaviour. I wasn't.
that happens. ya it was intended to show my viewers that i understand their pain. im a lot better off now than i have ever been, personally. but there are many out there who feel the same way as i did in the video
Lida Hall If you know that you weren't responsible, that's all that matters.
Mackenzie B I'm sorry you had that happen to you. Nobody deserves that kind of pain. Not you, not anyone else. It is not your fault, religion makes people do crazy things.
Mackenzie B I'm so sorry. At least my life took me in a different direction from my ex "best" friend - both geographically and otherwise. Also, I felt really guilty for a long time as I had initiated what I've since learned is essentially shunning. I accidentally discovered a few years later that *she* considered *me* _persona non grata_ and does to this very day (I sent her an ill-advised dm via Facebook one Christmas Day).
Dom Laudenbach It's very kind of you to say so - I always refused to take accountability for her behaviour because I discouraged a great deal of it, but I did initiate what amounts to "shunning" on a small scale. I'm guessing that she was on the brink of doing that herself anyway as her parents were very keen to get her back into the fold. They provided incentives which included lining up an apprenticeship so she could leave School before finishing High School (which used to really puzzle me) and a rent-free apartment around the corner from their house.
This video is both sad and beautiful.
This whole guys life is a tragic novel. God damn man, so sad.
I'm leaving a JW congregation soon. I'm just dreading this. . . I give you my support, Telltale. I hope you know we care about you even if we don't know you personally.
thanks. you have my support too. good luck
Chloe Fite Me You are strong, you got this. Good luck, I believe in you.
A year now. How has it been?
Remember, if your friend shuns you they aren't a real friend
Wow..that’s some powerful stuff Telltale
I'm so sorry you had to go through that :( this was a beautiful video
Poignant and beautifully written.
thanks
Sincere, beautiful and thought provoking!
I really hope Shawn sees this and reflects on it. I really hope you guys get back together as friends. I really wish you the best, Telltale Atheist
This video is a real tear jerker. I feel your pain bro,that watchtower corporation is pure evil.
It is really horrible.I even can't imagine what would I do if my mother did this to me.It is horrible when rules of the cult become stronger than mother's love.
I’m sorry you experienced this
I could hear the raw pain and emotion in your voice and it broke my heart.
I am so sorry. I hope you find peace someday. ❤
I didn't lose my best friend, not because of religion, but because of another type of unhealthy relationship. I hope he finds his way back, where he can actually be himself, but I doubt it.
Legitimately made me sad that a cult could do this to your family.
I’m so glad I found your channel. Your well articulated insight into JW, your informed and accurate understanding of science is wonderful. And, anytime you bring Alpha Force Zero is adorable. The love you exude for her is heartwarming.
you are the most serious person I’ve Seen and never ever stop telling the truth and never ever forget their are hundreds who care about you
i won't. i hope my subscribers dont forget that people care about them too
Amazing! Glad you shared this, this is every thought and every word every single one of us who have gotten out wish our family and friends could not just hear with their ears but really really take it all in. The words we wish they could actually come to grips with and truly understand without trying to deny things by preaching the same crap that has been vomited from the platform time and time again brainwashing members to believe that their way is the only way. I wish with words so eloquently and perfectly put together were actually able to change what they still believe and help them to realize just how fd up and asinine the entire religion really is. I hope you continue on with this channel, it has helped so many, like myself, knowing I'm not alone like they wish for me to feel and I don't need them to take over my life and tell me the correct way to live it or what I should and shouldn't believe in. Thank you for sharing this letter many times I've had so much of what you said go through my mind when I think about my so called "family" members who refuse to talk to me unless it is to remind me the end is near and my life style is not only going to get myself destroyed but also my children (this has to be the number one thing they say to me that just grates EVERY SINGLE nerve in my body and brain, I want to tell the one uttering those words to go F**k themselves in the most respectful way possible of course lol) this makes my blood boil and I'm very angered by the thought that this so called loving God these ppl believe in would destroy innocent kids because a grown adult makes choices he doesn't like. Is this "god" a fucking 3 year old throwing the biggest narcissistic tantrum ever?! Cuz that's kind of how it seems...
I'm really glad you feel comfortable enough to share this, especially with how absolutely painful it is. Stay strong
I hope Shawn sees this fantastic video.
Hate isn’t the opposite of love, indifference is 😞
I am deeply sorry this has happened to you, and to everyone else who has gone through this. No religion should support shunning, it is even more sad that they say they support love at the same time. I am very grateful that you are spreading awareness about this! Keep doing what you are doing!👍
will do. thanks.
This was oddly inspirational and beautiful. 💖💖💖
No one can ever be truly alone even if family isn't always there that's something I learned having depression and anxiety and one will always fine the light in there life
I entered a new rabbit hole that I never knew of.. but whoever you are dude from different universes I can understand this sorrow, feel ya. Must be terrible, so much so that makes you feel cold and apathetic from so much frustration. :/
This shit legitimately hit so hard for me. This is a beautiful letter and I'm so proud of you for having the courage to do this. Utterly amazing work telltale.
glory to the man that has the strength and courage to forgive his brethren for wronging him.
What a brilliant video! Thank you for that! I was trying to find a way to say what I need to say to my parents that shunned me and keep pushing me to go back. Writing a letter like you did is perfect! I'm getting married next Jan 21st and, to do that, I'm traveling to my home city in Brazil and, of course, they won't attend. I will write a letter give it to them expressing all my feelings about all this, just like you. Thank you very much for that! I understand your pain more than I wanted and I share it. Keep up! You're a very intelligent person that would be wasted in JW.
thanks. im glad there are people out there who can relate. good luck. we'll make it through
I haven’t got much to say but I sure do respect you, I could never imagine how hard it must have been for you. Never let anyone of those witnesses take something special from you again
Dude, I want to let you know that no matter how alone you feel, always remember that there are people ready to listen and care about you. That’s why we are here.
Thats why you have 23 thousand subs.
Always remember that strangers are family that you haven’t met
i appreciate it. im ok now. i made the vid so my subscribers know they arent alone in the struggle
How I was Shunned by JW's. When I was 13 years old I moved from a big city to a very small town where my parents grew up. I had 18 people in my graduation class. I met a wonderful girl that lived a couple of miles from me, and we fell in love at 13 years old. Her mother was a devout JW. We were inseparable for the last 5 years of school. Religion was never an issue to us. I went to a Baptist church as a child and teenager. All of a sudden when we graduated She left me and never told me anything. She was supposed to go visit Her aunt (which was a JW) in another town for 2 weeks. I was going to ask Her to marry me when She got back. 3 months after graduation I heard from Her, She had met someone new, a JW. I went to talk to Her but was turned away by Her and Her mother. She would not talk to Me or have anything to do with Me. I was basically told by Her mother, " You are not one of us, you and your feelings don't matter, go away (SHUNNED, PSYCHOLOGICAL TORTURE). She was not the same person I knew and loved for 5 years. I was heartbroken and took a long time to recover. I to this day still have, at 62, once or twice a year a nightmare of Her leaving Me. There were other issues I had for a long time. After some research in recent years, I learned I had or have Post traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
I am a very strong person and I moved on with my life. She married this person after only knowing Him for a month, a JW. She admitted to a friend She had made a horrible decision. Her mother had guilt tripped Her not to marry me, if so She would be disobeying God. She had been brainwashed by Her mother and aunt and pressured to marrying this other person. Her mother had this planned for years before we graduated. What a horrible thing to do to your daughter, and Me, to let us love each other for 5 years knowing after graduation Her mother was going to split us up. She was told a lie that when I went to college I did not want to be tied down. So Her mother knocked Her down and then began the major brainwashing. How cruel. I have never been to church since then, I do believe in God though, just don't participate in religion, I woke up.
After 24 years I rarely thought of Her. I had not seen Her for 24 years except at my Father's funeral halfway through this time period. One day in 2000 while on Vacation in Colorado something came over me and I could not get Her out of My mind. This was so intense I had to find out about Her. This drove me crazy for several days. So I drove to the small town where we grew up to find an old high school friend to find out about Her. As we were sitting in the front yard talking, low and behold She drove by and my friend flagged Her down. We instantly reconnected. We just didn't know at the time we both had this experience.
Long story short we decide to have a high school reunion and the 3 of us went about putting this together. After 6 months of a few meetings about the reunion we knew we had to talk about what each of us were feeling. We did, she got divorced and 6 months later we were married. She chose Love over Religion. It has been 19 years. We are very happy at 62 years old and deeply in love with each other. She did tell me after being married for awhile that Her mother admitted to making a mistake and should have let Her marry Me. Her mothers actions resulting from JW brainwashing caused Her to live 24 miserable years with someone she really did not want to be with and that mistreated Her and was unfaithful to Her in the last few years of Her marriage to Him.
Our reuniting caused great healing to Me. I still though can't forgive Her mother, who had passed away before we reunited, for what she did to the two of us. We never got to have children together and raise a family together. I dont have any children. I didnt even want to date for 5 years. I was very lonely for a long time, a part of Me had been taken from me. We have been very happy for the last 19 years. She is still a JW, only because that is where Her only friends are. I have slowly over 19 years been breaking Her brainwashing by the JW's. Again She chose Love over religion.
As a person who was raised religious but not abusively, I can still say that my ex-beliefs caused my depression and anxiety. I can't trust a soul and I know how it feels to have people slowly fade away from you then just abruptly cut you off from the love they once gave. But regardless we make it through, the ones that had it easier and the ones that had it harder alike. We stand side by side. TOGETHER
I understand this pain so deeply having lost many friends, one of them Like a sister, when I left Holiness. Not all of them actively shun me. Some "believe I may not have received the holy ghost and still have a chance" but many others "know I had something" and they make up all kinds of nonsense about me that then gets relayed to my husband behind my back.
I’m taken aback. I’m so sorry you had to go through something like that!
Wow. I had no idea. While I can clearly hear the hurt in your voice for how you have been treated, I also hear the joy for life, self, and others in spite of the hurt. I can hear the fight in you, and the fortitude to sally forth though you face terrible odds against the attack. That is why through the sadness of your words I hear the cry of bitter triumph as you focus on the future.
Fortunately most former believers do not have to deal with that kind of betrayal and shunning but you are an inspiration because you have come as far as you have despite the abuse. And for that, good sir, I raise my glass in a toast to your success. Cheers, mate.
thanks. well said. cheers
**clink**
❤❤❤ this was beautiful. I'm sorry you're going through this.
thanks. im ok now. after 10 years. the pain has turned to bitter hate. but there are others starting on this same path so i wanted to make sure they knew that i understand their pain
..... sorry, sobbing
As hard as it was..You had to say it..out loud and for all to hear the cry of human justice! Bravo!!
Telltale, this is a little un related to this video specifically but I just wanted to thank you. I spent a long time being confused about my religion and trying to make excuses for myself because I was too afraid to stray from the norm. Granted my situation isn't quite as extreme as yours is but I'm glad you stayed strong through all your hardship because you inspire. Again thank you.
I'm so sorry about your niece. I'm so sorry about your best friend. You don't deserve this. You don't deserve any of this. No one deserves this.
This took some serious guts, Dude. Thank you.
ps
You made me cry.
thanks
This video made me fall to tears! I just resently got shunned by the Jw. I have much love for you! I'm watching your videos every day. Your filling my mind white clerty. Your a huge motivation! Tank you so much! All my friends and most my family looks at me as I I'm dead. It's reely hurts! It's reely dose, so much. It's more but it's just to hard for me to tell.
I'm sorry you are still being affected by this cult.Great video ,easy to tell it is from the heart.
wow this is powerful stuff my friend! it pains me to know that this happens to so many individuals! youre a strong human being & im happy that you found some form of peace!
thanks
I think this is a truly beautiful video. You were willing to express this absolute sorrow you felt and expose what some would consider weakness just to say the words you can’t say to your brother, despite desperately wanting to do so. This is just so deeply meaningful it actually brought me to tears. This way with words- just raw emotion- it’s truly amazing. Thank you for making this video. I really think these types of videos are what connect people on TH-cam and help both current Witnesses and ex witnesses. Just thank you.
You're amazing. I can hear in your voice and words how much this hurt you, and I can imagine it as well. Keep doing this.
Dude, this is amazing. The feels are strong with this.
while i personally cannot relate to religious shunning or any form of religious abuse, i felt that through this i could understand. every moment of this from the diction to the delivery was stuffed with pure emotion and conveyed such a massive arc of pain and sadness from betrayal of a loved one and in that, i can relate. the empty shell of a person who once held so much is tortuous regardless of how they became what they are. i hope that one day you'll have your friend back, that he can see the truths of the brainwashing and abhorrent behavior of the watchtower society and you can rekindle the friendship you two once shared. i send my best regards for you and your family in this new year and all to come.
This was a very powerful and heartfelt message. I hope your brother sees this and actually thinks about it for a while, rather than dismiss it as nothing more than the word of some apostate. I'm wishing the very best to you and your family, and I hope you get your brother back!
Hearing your voice, talking abiut this, makes me sad and I only hope that you can continue thrive.
This made me actually cry, one of the few videos that did. We're here for you telltale and we're here for your whole new family
Wow, just wow Telltale. The way you describe the pain that you have gone through hurts my heart. You are strong, brave, and a true survivor. Even though your mother is brainwashed, the shunning of her own child is nothing short of pure evil. I do have questions though. I admire the fact that you are mature enough to allow the woman who shunned you to have a relationship with your daughter. However, do you worry that she is probably trying to brainwash her into becoming a J.W.? Do you think that she may one day break her heart by shunning her as she did to you if she does not become a J.W.? Worst of all, do you ever worry that your mother may one day convince her to become a J.W. and convince her into shunning you also?
she IS trying to brainwash her. but actually im very confident in her ability to resist the brainwashing. and also i dont really let her see her without supervision anymore
That is fantastic, I absolutely applaud you for being the bigger person in this situation. I personally don't know if I would be able to find the inner strength to allow the one I love the most to be around the person who would do so much damage to me. I think that you are a wonderful person for all that you do. I will be a subscriber to your channel for life. I am also going to become one of your patrons (no kiss please, but I would love to shake your hand someday). Finally, I thank you so much for your response.
I think it is valuable, allowing access. If you would not allow your daughter to see her grandmother you risk being the "bad guy".
My mom was not in a cult, but she tended towards verbal and emotional abuse due to some unaddressed mental issues.
I was getting counseling while I allowed my children to go visit my mom on weekends, etc. My counselor was happy to advise me on how to coach my children into coping with and politely calling out grandma on her behavior.
My kids learned that even people you love and want to trust may try to manipulate you for their own wants and needs and how it is healthy to put firm boundaries in place.
My kids are strong, healthy people who get respect in relationships because they give respect and demand respect. My mom has gotten better as well. It is very humbling to be the one throwing tantrums when your grandchildren stay calm and comfort you while still refusing to let you mistreat them.
Your daughter will do fine. :)
This was deep as hell, telltale. I hope your family comes to their senses sometime in their lifetime. Don't worry, you have us here. We support you, man. Don't give up, keep going.
We're all people. Religion doesn't make us different as if we are both not human. If my friend converts I do not care. If my friend believes in a God that wants genocide but can be loving as a person then I won't hate them. And a parent... My own and I are distant. But I don't really love or hate them. I just wish religion wasn't such a barrier and problem.
It's been a year since I've spoken to my Mom, I was shunned away for being gay, went against her values. It sucks, because I think about my mom a lot unconciously and as much pain as she has inflicted on me... I still love her, and I hope she opens her eyes and realizes Im just tying to be happy like she always wanted..
Please keep making these video's, because you speak from the heart and have such a gift in the way you express yourself. Thank you!
That hit me harder than I was expecting.... Right in the feels man
I’m only two minutes in and I think I’m starting to tear up-
I have no religious affiliation, but today, I left the classroom of the best teacher, best friend, and greatest role model I've ever had for the very last time. When you said "why would a benevolent God split two people like us" I broke down sobbing and I'm actually shaking as I type this. I can't imagine how you must feel
Touching. I admire your way of representing painful things in calm and objective way. You must have been processing and acknowledging a lot of stuff before you started doing these vids. Thank you.
"You always make everyday such a special day. You know how, by just your being you. There is only one person in the whole world like you, and people can like you just the way you are".
-Mr. Rogers
I lost my best friend too. The last time I ever spoke to her was when I told her I was leaving the religion. It's been 6 years and I miss her a lot. It's one of the worst parts of what the religion did to me. I keep wondering what might have been. She was pregnant and now has a daughter I've never met. I hate what this religion has done to all of us.
Thank you for sharing your story.
i understand. thanks for listening
Deep. I hope you and you your brother can talk someday peacefully. Keep up the good vids Telltale!
im so sorry you had to deal with this. I feel so lucky to have mother who loves me no matter what. I hope you will see your brother again.
No one could have said that better! Beautiful!
First off I’m glad you made this because it resonated with me deeply. I lost a friend to religion. I wasn’t shunned, but she slowly stopped telling me about her issues. She didn’t believe I would have a Christian perspective on them. As I began to see I was losing a friend I started to tell her about the fallacies of the Bible I admit it pushed her away, but I believed the only way we could be friends again is by her seeing all of it was bullshit and she could talk to me about anything. Years later we still talk every once in a while, but it’s just painful to think our friendship was ruined because of our differences. I’m relunctant to tell anyone about atheism in fear I will push them away of be judged. I miss my friend and I cry from time to time because I know our friendship means nothing.
these onions... I feel for you, Telltale.
1:18 Thanks for drawing my heart.
Edit: I relate to this so much. I was never a JW but I understand what it feels to be shunned by someone.