u/InevitableFront3799

I have always known that at some point I would leave the organization, but I never thought it would happen this soon.

Like many of you, I had doubts, but I was terrified of them. I still remember feeling unsure during my baptism at 18. Instead of feeling peace, I felt dread that if I was ever honest about who I was, I would lose my family and disappoint everyone around me.

I’m 21 now, and two days ago I came out to my parents. For the first time in my life, I felt honest instead of hidden.

I don’t hate God. I still believe in Jehovah and Jesus Christ deeply. What I no longer feel connected to is the organization itself. My relationship with God feels personal now, and I don’t want to live in fear anymore.

I’m not leaving because I want to go be reckless or “worldly.” I spent years suppressing myself to keep peace with my family and congregation, but it destroyed my mental health and left me feeling empty inside.

The reason I’m posting is because I have a meeting with the elders very soon, and honestly, I’m terrified. I don’t even know where to begin or how to explain myself without sounding hateful or rebellious, because that’s not what this is.

If anyone here has gone through something similar, I would genuinely appreciate advice on how to approach the conversation and emotionally prepare myself for whatever comes next.

update guys, it wasn’t even worth questioning the organization. she does not love me and wants to marry a man and have more children. i have been fooled and if i’m being fooled in the organization, then that is my purpose, to be a fool.

how did you all leave?

i just started “waking up” and researched a bit. my relationship with Jehovah is my personal relationship and should not be based on the organization or congregation. i’m 21 and want to live life and serve Jehovah, out of faith, not based on fear. i also fell in love with someone who i should most definitely not be in love with.