Michael Jackson’s Children Attend Local Kingdom Hall Of Jehovah’s Witnesses With Aunt
Michael Jackson’s children, Prince Michael I & II, and Paris were spotted Tuesday entering the local Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s with their aunt Rebbie Jackson, a nanny, and cousins. It is apparent that the children are being enveloped within the Jackson family interior.
***ALL comments on this post will be HEAVILY MODERATED. Religious intolerance is STRONGLY discouraged!***
Tracey Ricks Foster
The kingdom hall is the place to be for that family, what they are learning is about the kingdom hope, a hope of one day seeing their love ones come alive again. The bible teaches that God’s kingdom is the only cure for mankind’s problems. Katerine and other family members believe that, that is why they are attending meeting there at the kingdom hall.
You are doing a great job Katherine and family, you are showing others that Jehovah is a God of comfort and worthy of honor.
Toni Taylor
July 16, 2009 at 3:46 am
Thank You, Toni, for reading The Kaleidoscope Factor!
I positively agree with you….
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 16, 2009 at 4:18 am
Tony I used to be one of Jehovah’s people and my heart never left the truth, I’m so glad that Michael made the provision to left the greatest gift of all the knowledge of Jehovah to his kids, and will all hope for the ressurrection when the dead will rise and live on paradise on earth . To Katherine keep on doing the fine works and Jehovah will be with you as always been.
Rosa
July 17, 2009 at 10:09 pm
Please see the reply that was made on the subject. Thank you!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 7:39 pm
How heart-warming it is to see the children receiving the comfort of God that they need through Katherine and Rebbie’s family and close friends. May God bless them all at this difficult time!
Sean from Canada
July 16, 2009 at 5:08 am
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0ApsWx7Bg0
Here is a video of them with their songbooks. Isn’t this wonderful that they are having exposure to the truth?
Kevin Jess
July 16, 2009 at 4:04 pm
Thanks for the link, Kevin!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 16, 2009 at 4:53 pm
“Actually”, I was not df’d, but left. Baptism is between the individual, Jesus and Jah. The pledge of allegiance made to Society,with regard current baptismal questions in the Witness’s is NOT scriptural.
It USED to be proper, but since the NWT came out, that pledge has changed.
Their NOT following what the bible says in this regard.
Joe Blow
July 17, 2009 at 9:23 pm
Michael’s will was made in 2002. As late as last year, Michael Jackson was attending Kingdom Hall meetings with his mother and sister, chldren in tow.
If he didn’t want his children to be associated with JW’s, then Michael Jackson could have left Janet, La Toya, Marlon, Randy, Tito, Jackie, Jermaine, Liz Taylor, Diana Ross, Berry Gordy, Emmanuel Lewis, Brooke Shields, Dr. Conrad Murrary, Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson or anyone else in his circle guardianship.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 7:31 pm
As if those poor children haven’t been through enough. Now they will be getting forcibly indoctrinated into the JW cult
Alex
July 16, 2009 at 6:16 pm
Well, at least they won’t be lied to and taught that a fat white man is going to come down their chimney bringing gifts, or that bunny rabbits lay eggs once a year. Nor will they be taught that invading other countries and starting a war based on a lie is the ‘Christian’ thing to do. They will also be taught that cheating people out of their money in a bonsai scheme or inflating housing loans to ridiculous amounts that eventually caused a worldwide financial crash and recession in the name of ‘Christianity’ is wrong.
You can say what you like about Jehovah’s Witnesses, but I will tell you this: you won’t find a Jehovah’s Witness at the bottom of any of the mess that is being played out on the world stage today or any day. So, cult or no cult, I am thinking that ‘Christianty’ as it is being or so-called practiced amongst the masses, is the REAL cult, and not Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Thanks for reading The Kaleidoscope Factor, Alex! Thanks for your comment!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 16, 2009 at 8:33 pm
While I tend to agree with you that all the other religions in the world are evil as well. I strongly urge you to research the JW’s a little more. What you will find is an unbelieveable amount of crimes perpetuated by JW’s. Websites such as silentlambs.org are 100% dedicated to exposing JW’s who are pedophiles, and putting an end to the society railroading law enforcement at every turn when it comes to catching these criminals, so as to not make the organization not look bad.
And yes, you won’t find the JW’s front and center in affairs of the world. But you will find them to be one of the fiercest killers of their own members ever known to man.
How many die each year from blood?
How many died because organ transplants were taboo at one time?
How many died because vaccines were banned for a time?
I respectfully think that these acts go beyond freedom of religion and should be prosecuted as such. The group that controls the watchtower has a lot to answer for, and should be given plenty of time to think about them in the confines of a prison cell.
And on a happy note. I just have to add this because it always cracks me up. Did you know that at one time, JW’s believed that aluminum was demonized? Yup, and it’s in the watchtower too. Thanks for the reply and take care!
Alex
July 16, 2009 at 10:27 pm
hey good for you tracey, there’s to many people like alex on this planet, windy words i call them. There reply will come soon enough…Ezekiel 38:19, And in my ardor, in the fire of my fury, I shall have to speak. Surely in that day a great quaking will occur in the soil of Israel. 20 And because of me the fish of the sea and the flying creatures of the heavens and the wild beasts of the field and all the creeping things that are creeping on the ground and all mankind that are upon the surface of the ground will be bound to shiver, and the mountains will actually be thrown down and the steep ways will have to fall, and to the earth even every wall will fall…….vs,23 And I shall certainly magnify myself and sanctify myself and make myself known before the eyes of many nations; and they will have to know that I am Jehovah.’ regards tony
Tony
July 17, 2009 at 12:01 am
What of Serena and Venus Williams. They call themselves Jehovah’s Witnesses yet have no problem participating in the worldliest of events. The Olympics. Not only that but after winning they saluted the American flag and sung the star spangled banner. What do you call that? If other non-JW faiths are a cult than what does your judgmental and ignorant statement make of the Jehovah’s Witnesses? Your reply alone speaks volume’s to that answer? Are you really that naive to believe that any participating Jehova’s Witness is not capable of corruption? Once again your mentality and sheltered naive perspective describes exactly what makes the Jehovah’s Witness so much different then the “cult” religions of the world.
Truthseeker
July 17, 2009 at 2:14 am
Actually Truthseeker, if you had to do some research you would find that Serena and Venus are not baptized Witnesses although they associate themselves with Witnesses.
And as for you Alex I wouldn’t touch silentlamb.org with a bargepole. Yes I don’t deny that there have been individual cases of paedophiles within the witnesses but considering that there are over 7 million witnesses who adhere to God’s Word should all be tainted because of the odd few.
And as for being mass murderers because of blood transfusions, I would say that’s a bit extreme because that is a scriptural direction in the bible whether you want to accept it or not. And yes by human standards there has been re-direction on certain thoughts due to better understanding of the scriptures. The Witnesses have never claimed to be perfect but as a whole they do adhere to God’s principals and direction.
And as for the Society railroading law enforcement I wonder where you get your information. It amazes me that the only ones who feel that way are those who have been disfellowshipped or left of their own accord. If they were disfellowshipped it was because they had done something really wrong (against scriptual counsel which they accepted the day they got baptized) and wern’t repentant for what they had done. They made that choice. No one made it for them.
Violet
July 17, 2009 at 2:48 pm
“Well, at least they won’t be lied to and taught that a fat white man is going to come down their chimney bringing gifts, or that bunny rabbits lay eggs once a year.”
How many adultsare now in therapy because of believing in santa claus? how many are in therapy as adults because of living their life in fear of the big Jehovah in the sky is going to kill them at armageddon if they don’t study their watchtower?
Lily
July 19, 2009 at 5:29 am
What is the Kaleidoscope Factor, and where is it found?
Uhm.. if you go by the actual meaning of the words, cults are most any religion (and a lot that is allegedly not religious) and anyone who truly believes in them is a fanatic and anyone who truly practices is a zealot. Of course, people use those words in a different way than they really mean, now, and take them down to what I call “the lowest common denominator” where it’s all about being misguided, driven to bad actions by those misguided beliefs.
Things like thinking that because someone puts a piece of cloth on a stick, prays to it, and demands that other people believe that their piece of cloth is real and means more than theirs, that all of a sudden mankind is not one race, but many; and it’s alright to kill anyone who won’t worship the same piece of cloth you do, or who doesn’t live in the land you claimed for the piece of cloth, or who look different than the people you are used to looking at.
Yep! You see people acting like that, and you know it’s a cult, and in the bad sense of the word.
But, I don’t see Jehovah’s Witnesses behaving that way. Do you?
Arletta
October 27, 2009 at 1:15 am
in what watchtower does it say that aluminum was demonized?
Tito
July 16, 2009 at 11:04 pm
Jehovah, the only true God, is not part of a cult. Persons involved in a cult are usually obsessive. Obsession leads to compulsion and that leads to irrational behavior. Jehovah’s Witnesses are not irrational people because we do reason with the scriptures, however, WE DO NOT COMPROMISE (BARGAIN) WITH OUR FAITH. EVERYTHING IS CONFIRMED AND BASED ON BIBLICAL TRUTHS.
Rechele
July 16, 2009 at 11:34 pm
That is unfortunately the problem right there. The fact that you would sacrifice the life of your child,wife, or loved one simply because someone you never have met wrote somewhere that Jehovah said blood is so precious, that getting a blood transfusion is wrong you let them die. The fact that you hide and don’t expose child abusers to the authorities as you are legally obligated to do, because you won’t bargain your faith is far worse than obsessive. It doesn’t matter what scripture or biblical truth you try and justify that with, that is quite irrational behavior. Jehovah’s Witnesses are not doctors nor are they psychologists or authorities. They have no right to decide a person fate, nor act as authorities, or intervene into personal family matters that should be left to a professional. As a young man raised as a Jehovah’s Witnesses I can concur that there are many good things and peaceful honest qualities to being a Jehovah’s Witness. But there are also some really callused, unorthodox, hypocritical and emotionally damaging customs that are tantamount to imperfection, fanaticism, and irrational behavior.
Truthseeker
July 17, 2009 at 2:33 am
You know what else they don’t think about when they say JW’s are a cult? If we were a cult… then WHY do so many get disfellowshipped (something the world complains about) if we were? The CULTS don’t want you out once you’re in so you’re Definately wouldn’t get disfellowshipped. They’re just repeating things they’ve heard, they have No Idea what a cult is all about.
Lissa
July 17, 2009 at 6:00 pm
It is obvious you do not know what a cult is.
There are 8 points but here is the short 4.
B- Behavior Control
I- Information Control
T- Thought Control
E- Emotional Control
A more accurate term for JWs is “Dangerous High Control Group”
wp
July 17, 2009 at 10:45 pm
I am not a JW but from what I have been investigating so far it seems more and more that this faith is infact not a cult but the true faith of the world.Hey let us all not forget the jews called jesus a cult
JOHN
July 17, 2009 at 12:57 am
They are not really a cult, but if you look deeper into their doctrine you will find out why people label them that way. They are people just like all the rest of us. They lie, cheat and deceive just like you and me. They laugh, cry and joke just like anybody. They work with us, go to school with us and it’s hard to tell them apart from anyone else, except they want absolutely nothing to do with the world as we know it. No matter how good your intentions are, no matter how honest you may be, if you are not one of them, you are not one of them. You are part of the world. If you can live with the belief that you may be given eternal life for believing in what they believe but your sweet mother or father or anyone else who might be just as kind isn’t worthy of that same salvation then it might just be your cup of tea. Be prepared to make some brutal changes to your life. Be ready to turn your back on your family during holidays, and on your friend if he is disfellowshipped. They will demand it of you. Unlike other religions the Jehovah’s Witnesses have an agenda and you can’t really sit on the sidelines and just live and let live. They will eventually talk you into baptism, becoming a pioneer and spreading the truth to the world. You will either leave due to the pressure, or you will succumb and completely. As for original thought and opinions and goals you may have in your personal life, you have to leave all that out of the door. They have already made your opinions for you as you are not allowed to even ask fundamental questions, as they frown upon philosophy, science, and politics. Unless you are prepared to remove yourself from yourself then you will realize for the rest of us of the world that they may make an enormous and honest effort to be the truth, but they’re not. No one religion or faith is.
Truthseeker
July 17, 2009 at 2:59 am
Truthseeker I really wonder at your bashing the Witnesses. If as you say you were raised a witness then you know the truth even if you don’t want to admit or accept it. Your comment … ‘But there are also some really callused, unorthodox, hypocritical and emotionally damaging customs that are tantamount to imperfection, fanaticism, and irrational behavior.’ … I wonder where your bitterness has come from. Because neither I nor the over 7 million other witnesses worldwide feel that way. And no we are not brainwashed as some like to think but rather each has made their own choice after what they learn’t from studying the bible.
Violet
July 17, 2009 at 3:08 pm
smart guy. keep learning you’ll surprised at All the things that people say about JW’s that Aren’t true.
Lissa
July 17, 2009 at 6:01 pm
Alex i am sorry u r uninformed or informed incorrectly about JW’s. Does it ever occur to you that the people you are getting your info from tell lies! If presidents opf countries, exec’s of business, public officials, ect.. can lie why can’t these sites u refer to. Unless u learn for yourself who and what JW’s are and teach, then u don’t have the right to make a blanket statment like that based on hear say and not facts. Get it Right and Tell the Truth
tomieka j
July 17, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Ya know the Jehovah’s Witnesses are not a cult, never have been and I have no idea where you people keep coming up with this stuff, is your religion considered a cult? No, so why would you say something about someone else’s religion if you have no idea, an that you have never attended the place to see how they do anything, it can be very hurtful, but you know at the same time it’s okay b/c you just don’t understand. I am one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and maybe you should instead of saying things about something you have no idea about, go find out for yourself, instead of hearing what people are telling you or coming to your own conclusion, go find out for yourself. We don’t bite abd we definently don not push our religion on other people, it is their choice whether they want to study the bible an attend the meetings. We don’t force anyone to do anything they don’t want to do.
j.c
October 19, 2009 at 11:33 am
Oh, so glad that religious intolerance is strongly discouraged.
Here’s a fact for you:
I studied with Jehovah’s Witnesses off and on for DECADES and not only was I never FORCED to do a thing, I was never ALLOWED to be baptized.
Unlike some religions that claim to be Christian, they do not encourage people to raise their children under the belief that since they got their head wet they are safe from all the evils of the world.
Unlike other religions, they do not teach that money is the saving grace of humanity.
You are not FORCED to be among them – you have to work VERY VERY HARD to get baptized and to stay one of Jehovah’s Witnesses once you get to that point.
Yes, of course, there are a few bad apples, as with any religion; but, the basic teachings and principles are sound and direct from the teachings of the Holy Scriptures as taught by God.
I know that, not because I was a victim of enforced endoctrination – that was what happened to me when I studied a few other religions, but never this one! – but, because I studied and prayed and though for myself and came to my own conclusions, with the help of God, on a few issues. They were conclusions that made sense, based on the SECULAR evidence of where and when things were changed in various translations of the Holy Scriptures, and why they were changed, and what the earliest records showed of what was really there, in the original language, and what a true translation would mean. And, then, I learned enough about Jehovah’s Witnesses to know that they taught the same things as the conclusions I had come to.
They are not wrong, and if you think they are, then you are the one who has been a victim of enforced endoctrination.
Open your eyes, study for yourself, lean on the understanding of the one true God, and don’t turn away from the truth in shame of what the world might think.
When they say it is the truth that they teach, it is not to gain power over governments, like some religions. It is not to put fear into people, or teach intolerance, as some religions do. It is not about pride, ethnic heritage, money grubbing, or any of the usual reasons. They are not saying “We are true.” They are saying “The news of the Kingdom is true.”
Nor have they ever claimed that they are the only ones who have ever taught this truth. The message that they teach is as old as mankind, because it started with the first Man, when he received instruction from the Creator: Jehovah.
Go and read the history of Christianity – see for yourself when his name was struck from the translations and why, and how it has been misshapen by some men’s lust for power and monetary gain – and how, even so there has always been a remnant of people teaching the same message – Jehovah’s Witnesses are the last in line, but, you will discover in history that they are one thread in a great tapestry that, taken together, is a very pretty picture for the future.
I hope you find this out for yourself.
Arletta
October 27, 2009 at 12:59 am
As for the poor children, by the way: How would you prefer children to be living, rather than being taught that they are loved, that they will always be loved, that no one should mistreat another human for any reason, that it is better to be honest than greedy, better to be studious than vain?
It is a fact of society, that children who are raised in a loving environment where they are taught good social and moral values, and to pray and meditate, by people who actually live the life they teach their children to live, are less likely to be suicidal, criminals, drug addicts, porn stars and strippers, and etc.
Whatever else you may have to say about Jehovah’s Witnesses, you certainly cannot (truthfully) say that they do not teach good social and moral values. They are, as a people, non-prejudiced, honest to a fault, and helpful to their neighbors.
How awful it would be, to have a society made up of that, eh? why, it would be a lot like the 1800’s, but, with more technology, around here.
Sounds great to me!
Arletta
October 27, 2009 at 1:06 am
Oh, and now that I read your other comment, which no one can reply to:
1) that silentlambs site, I have seen it, repeatedly. It is full of vitrol and hate, and not just towards Jehovah’s Witnesses, I might add. You are right though, it is dedicated to tearing them down.
Hmm .. that’s a Christian act, tearing down other religions, instead of teaching the good news of your own? I mean, as in taught by the Christ? Is it? Because I know other “Christian” religions have done it, but, where does it teach, in the Holy Scriptures, that the Christ did it or ever would? Where does it teach that he preached to hate your fellow man for being misguided – or, more to the point, because you can lie and say they are misguided?
If you believe they are misguided, then study up and learn, and then teach what is better. If you can only teach by tearing down, then all you are teaching is hate, and hate is not taught as any part of how to draw closer to God.
2) People have a choice as to whether they wish to have transfusions, vaccinations, etc.
a) Transfusions kill people, both immediately and through long-term illnesses and diseases caused by them.
b) Vaccinations sometimes kill people, sometimes cause autism and other disorders.
My point being that Jehovah’s Witnesses do not force people to have, or not to have, either. It is their choice. They make it for themselves, based on their own conscience, and they live with that decision.
It is a matter of freedom of religion, as well as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, to make those choices. Yet, the government does not allow people to make those choices for themselves. Which brings me to
3) If you believe that Jehovah’s Witnesses are evil, and should be torn down – paranoid much?- then why ever do you care if they let themselves die, allegedly, by refusing vaccinations and blood transfusions.
4) The only times in my life I was told I needed a blood transfusion was when it was by people who were told I was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and when the nurses and doctors were people who were against Jehovah’s Witnesses. I went in the hospital having lost a significant portion of my blood through an impending miscarriage, I was severely anemic, very young, and almost dead – and not once did the doctor even suggest that I might need a blood transfusion.
However, several times after that, for things where I had not lost any blood to speak of, people tried to give me a blood transfusion. I found what made them stop was to say four little words “I am not baptized.”
I mean, really, don’t you think it’s odd the sheer number of Jehovah’s Witnesses who are singled out for blood transfusions? Blood transfusions are not that common, and either are Jehovah’s Witnesses – it is an amazing percentage of the two that come together on medical charts!
5) WHAT? Demonized aluminum? Really. Do tell! I want to know the magazine – year, month, week, whatever – tell me what the cover looks like? I want to know about demonized aluminum! Never heard that one before.
a) Though, aluminum is bad for you, and can cause major problems when in cookware, etc.
b) the sort of aluminum cans and cookware that were used are illegal now
c) they are finding proof, now, that so are the newer versions of aluminum cans and cookware.
So, maybe you misread something like “cause health problems” or “an unnecessary evil” as “demonically possessed”?????
Arletta
October 27, 2009 at 2:14 am
Alex please react only when you have sufficient knowledge of the believes of Jehovah’s Withnesess.
I believe that the capacity of your knowledge it little to none.
Robert
November 22, 2009 at 2:15 pm
Last nite as I was browsing on the TV..nothing really caught my eye or ear until..I just heard Nancy Grace, never watched her before, as she was speaking to someone who said the kids went to the KH of Jehovah’s Witnesses with their grandmother, and she commented on how positive this was that they were getting some “god” into their pitiful lives and it could only help. I thought, as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses myself, yes, it can only help them and many more. I was struck with the idea that perhaps millions of people might be watching now or have heard about the Sisters Jackson, these past few weeks, attending a KH
or hearing the name Jehovah said many times now… being exactly what He wants at this time.
And, I have many friends who have kids of all ages and ALL of them go out and play, swim, have fun, laugh, act like kids, shop, eat ice cream…and also spend time in the ministry according to their individual situations.
So, to the person who said their and MJ’s childhood was awful and brutal, maybe you should stop blaming Jehovah God and live in the present and look to the future for the hope and happiness that is coming soon!
carolg
July 16, 2009 at 9:50 pm
carolj Thank you for your comment. Through the Jackson family JEHOVAHS name is being known. What a wonderful thing! Stay at jehovahs table my sister, and i will see you in paradise!! Very soon, your sister in the truth Suzanne Miller carneys point congregation n.j.
Suzanne Miller
September 16, 2009 at 10:32 pm
Gosh! I am sorry for whomever’s life was brutal I am sorry because I do believe Michael Jackson’s life was brutal.
I think he must not have blamed it on Jehovah’s Witnesses, though, or why would he take his children to the Kingdom Hall?
I think he was a very sad man, a very broken man. I understand, from things he said, that it was mostly due to his father, though – not a religious group, not God. It was the actions of a man.
So, what better thing is there than to teach children that, even though their life may be hard, it is not forever, and even if a parent claims to be good and righteous they will be judged by their actions not by what they claim to be; and that many have suffered, as Jesus suffered, and that God has promised to ease that suffering for all time and give them a brighter,happier future.
Life, children should be told, is not fair: but Jehovah God is! Hold on, be patient, lean on Him, and wait for His works to come to fruition. This to shall pass, and the pain will be gone.
I had a very bad, unhappy life – nasty childhood. My parents are either agnostic or atheist, they were raised as Mormons and Baptists, and the Baptists – back then- were still Catholic. I do not blame these religions, or lack thereof, for my troubles.
It is Satan who made it so. It is I who can choose how it will affect me – if I will become bitter and tear down others, or forgive and be happy and take pity on those who are sinking into their bitterness, and try to help them.
If your parents were Jehovah’s Witnesses, and they were cruel, then they were not good Jehovah’s Witnesses. So? Then, be better than they were, instead of letting what they failed at hold you back.
That is what I say to people who have had such a bad childhood. Jehovah loves you, Satan stands in your way. Do not blame the weak ones who fell pray to him, but, be strong as an answer and, in your strength, forgive their weakness.
Arletta
October 27, 2009 at 1:25 am
While it may be true the the JW’s have their own share of wrongdoing, and yes for a time they sought to conceal the crimes of the brothers or sisters in order to preserve the idea that the congregation is clean, you will after taking a closer look see that they have made adjustments to their practices and procedures so as to add a certain amount of transparency to their arrangements. Also, they seem to be one of a handful of organised religions trying to imitate the commandments of their King, Jesus Christ. I can say this because I too, was a victim of some of what I call their child-like perceptions, but I see they have matured past that and made certain adjustments in their thinking.
Jonesy
July 16, 2009 at 11:09 pm
so you admit that they are flawed? Like other religions are flawed?
Truthseeker
July 17, 2009 at 2:17 am
Don’t point at the people of jehovah’s witnesses, blame gods word the Bible. They only obey the bible
God’s word. So actually Truth seeker you are blaming God Jehovah.
Cindy
July 17, 2009 at 3:49 am
Nobody’s perfect and of course they are flawed as individuals, but the organization is not flawed because it is shepherded under Jesus direction and God’s holy spirit. So it’s a perfect organization with imperfect people(until paradise).
tomieka j
July 17, 2009 at 4:35 pm
well duh, No one is perfect and JW’s Don’t pretend to be either. We don’t preach or teach perfection either. Being a Jehovah’s Witness is our Religion, we are still sinful individuals capable of making mistakes but we don’t practice sin. Why don’t you use the process of elimination (using the bible of course) and see which Religion is following bible standards (as close as possible) preached by Jesus and other’s in the bible Inspired by Jehovah God. And I don’t mean saying one thing and doing something else, like teaching your kids lying is bad but once a year they can celebrate christmas (use the enyclopedia) which is Not Jesus’ birthday, easter in which rabbits are mammals they don’t lay eggs,etc.,etc.
Pr 6:16-19
There are six things that Jehovah does hate; yes, seven are things detestable to his soul: 17 lofty eyes, a false tongue, and hands that are shedding innocent blood, 18 a heart fabricating hurtful schemes, feet that are in a hurry to run to badness, 19 a false witness that launches forth lies, and anyone sending forth contentions among brothers.
We keep that in mind along with this and other scriptures which helps us not to steal,lie,murder,etc.
Col 3:9, 10
Do not be lying to one another. Strip off the old personality with its practices, 10 and clothe yourselves with the new [personality], which through accurate knowledge is being made new according to the image of the One who created it
Lissa
July 17, 2009 at 6:25 pm
your name is Puzzeling, because if the true is what you’re seeking Stop looking at individual trees in the forest and look at how Beautiful the Whole forest is.
As individuals JW’s are not perfect (all have sinned and fall short) but What do we practice as far as the Holy bible God’s word says???
We Unlike a lot of religions practice what we preach.
Lissa
July 17, 2009 at 6:28 pm
I am going to tell you something else, we have never said we are perfect we are just like everyone else out here who makes mistakes. Like I said, some of the things you people say are outrageous and slanderous. We don’t go around doing things like alot of these preachers out here say we do, instead why don’t you pick up the bible and actually read it and see that the things we are doing or trying to do are in the bible like Jehovah God commands of us. From Gensis to Revalation. Try it an maybe you will see what I’m saying is true.
j.c
October 19, 2009 at 11:40 am
*ahem* Jehovah’s Witnesses are HUMAN All humans are born into sin, and only by the grace of God will that sin by removed.
So, they are not flawed, like other religions are flawed. The teachings are sound.
The flesh, as always, is weak; and, humans, unfortunately, have to rely on human understanding, human weakness, human rememberance to forgive and forget.
People can, do, and always will – until things are set right – make mistakes.
Humans are flawed.
Since it says this really near the beginning of the Holy Scriptures, I sincerely doubt anyone would be surprised to have it revealed now.
Arletta
October 27, 2009 at 1:29 am
Mr or Mrs Truthseeker. Why is it that everybody else who has made a comment to this article is not ashamed of naming themselves. Why do you continue to use a sudonyme? Are you ashamed of who you are?????
Lisa W.
November 13, 2009 at 1:42 pm
Hello to all,
Thanks for the invention of the internet where we can share our thoughts on matters of importance. It is one thing to stay on the edge and critise Jehovah’s witnesses but what is the rest of the world doing to help their fellowman? Critize, eh?. I am not one of Jw but study them with great interest. TheY dig hard for the truth, and what does the rest of the so-called chirstians do? If you really wants to know the truth you will THOROUGHLY investigate and find out the facts for youself. See for yourself JWs are the only religion being persecuted for their belief and interpretation of the bible. When other religions are presecuted is because of meddling in politics, state affairs or suchlike. But not Jws. You have to adhere to a high moral standard to be a JW and how many of us can do so?. I know I can’t. How many of us can be a follower of Christ and be no part of the world and its affairs as Jesus aske his followers to be? How mANY OF US CAN DENY OURSELVES AND LIVE SOLELY FOR gOD AND HIS kINGDOm? I find troughout my reach that people I personally know who left the JW and are spreading falsehood about them are trying to cover up their faults because they are unwilling to follow bible standard as JW undersatnd from their interpretation of the scriptures. They are ashamed of themselves and are forming groups to simpathise with them. We have to be grateful to JWs for most of the civil liberties we enjoy today baseon the many court cases they have challenged and won. Please go reach for yourselves. I don’t even know how many of the JWs themselves are aware of the amount of freedom of expression the watchtower society has help the world on a whole to enjoy. If we were to reverse some of these victories fought and won by the watchtower society you and I could not be communicate so freely at this point in time. Be of goog courage Jws keep up the good work.
Paul
November 14, 2009 at 1:31 am
Dear friend;
Thank you for your kind statement regarding the growth that comes when you are truly trying to follow God’s word. It is often seen that people share their negative comments about Jehovah’s Witnesses. But there are millions of people all around the world who are active in their churches and never see correction for their behavior so that God’s spirit will continually work to keep their congregation strong and truly sharing their faith as one sees with Jehovah’s Witnesses. I was not raised as a Jehovah’s Witness, but since my teens have examined several religious organizations. And it is true Jehovah’s Witnesses are not robots, nor are they perfect in their private lives, but they continue to try to meet Jesus’s standards, and are corrected when they are veering toward behaviors that reflect this world’s ideas, which are not God’s thoughts. The scriptures say those who are trying to have a relationship with their creator will see the Bible teachings clearer and clearer as time goes on. That is why Jehovah’s Witnesses are over time changing their understanding of how to apply the scriptures. Since no man is perfect we may never have a 100% accurate understanding of the Bible, but there is no denying that Jehovah has asked us all to use his name to recognize his sovereignty over this creation. And Jehovah’s Witnesses are the only religion willing to expound God’s qualities and his purpose for the Earth and humans. READ God’s word daily, and it will give you further insight into who God is and what he purposed for man on the Earth.
God bless you.
PreciouswordofGod
July 17, 2009 at 3:47 pm
Alex, Please give the exact Watchtower article that said aluminum was demonized. I’m sure you must know the article as you’ve read it often enough to remember this. I’d also like the articles on organ transplants and vaccines.
Interestingly enough, we are now NOT the only ones in the world who disagree with taking blood transfusions. More and more now, people of the world are seeing how dangerous it is for their health to put someone elses blood into their body. At the times that this prohibition was given by God, I’m sure none of the Israelites or Jews or Christians knew why this rule was given. Except for one thing only. THat blood was sacred in God’s eyes. BUT, interestingly enough Acts 15:29 says in the end of it, “if you carefully keep from these things, you will prosper. GOOD HEALTH TO YOU.” All the way back then in Bible times, Jehovah saw the danger in ingesting blood for your health. It can be full of disease. Some of these diseases within blood are still undetectable. And more and more dr’s are seeing this too.
I will patiently await your WT articles on those other subjects.
IN the mean time…..I will be so happy to see Michael awake from his sleep and be in the new paradise world that Jehovah promised us, with his children by his side…..all worshipping the true god Jehovah.
cheryl
July 16, 2009 at 11:10 pm
Amen!!!
tomieka j
July 17, 2009 at 4:37 pm
Amen
DRT
July 17, 2009 at 7:24 pm
PS:
It is the required norm for those who take the lead in our Kingdom Halls to inform the police dept. of any wrongdoing on the part of any who attend our hall, in regards to child abuse or molestation of any kind. We follow those requirements and we DO NOT condone that behavior. It is against Jehovah’s laws.
cheryl
July 16, 2009 at 11:20 pm
In response to comments made regarding sexual molestation and abuse within the Jehovah’s Witness organization.It has not always been the norm for Jehovah’s Witness leaders to inform the police dept. of child abuse and sexual molestation, nor do I believe it is now. Once long ago I believed that this religion was the true religion, this ended in 1985 when I had personal information of a sexual abuse situation that was NOT reported to the police dept. but handled by a group of elders in the kingdom hall. I went to the elders to seek justice for the one wronged and was told that it had been handled and that was that. This was only one situation where sexual abuse had not been reported or dealt with by the police dept. In the kingdom hall I belonged to as a child and young person there were many sexual abuse cases. This was just one kingdom hall, how many in other kingdom halls were abused I wonder? After finding out that the congregation would do nothing other than handle the specific situation I spoke of in the beginning of my words here, I left the organization, confused, hurt and betrayed by what I believed was a loving organization with a loving God. When an organization is more concerned about their image than protecting innocent children, I want no part of it. I am sure whomever is the true God out their in our Universe aggrees with me.
Deborah
July 17, 2009 at 6:42 pm
When I was a child, I know there was a case of child abuse among Jehovah’s Witnesses. It was the father of a child, and it was – as were all cases of child abuse, sexual molestation, etc. – handled without bringing in the authorities.
What do I mean by all? I mean, the neighbors down the road, where the father raped the daughter repeatedly, and everyone knew it. They were Catholic.
I mean the Muslim across the street who allowed his Mormon wife to beat their daughter, just the one.
I mean the Baptists down the road who molested their son and let him come to school smelling like cat pee.
I mean the Baptists down the road where the father regularly raped his son when he got home from school.
No one stepped up and stopped it, authority-wise. See, back then, you did not report things like that to the authorities. Child abuse was pretty much a non-issue unless the kid ended up dead. So was wife abuse, unless the wife ended up dead.
It was a different time.
But, I will tell you something – I was very surprised to learn that the one family, someone did do something about it. It was their congregation that stepped in and put their foot down and made that man stay away from his children in that way; and, later, over a decade later, when he tried to abuse his youngest child in the same way, he was thrown out of the congregation and reported to the police, etc.
Strangely, even though the Catholic down the road not only raped but also killed his daughter, even though the boy who was raped by his Baptist father started trying to commit suicide and ended up in juvie for the majority of his formative years for robbing and raping other people, no one of those other religions even tried to step in to protect the children.
So, maybe while you are laying blame, you should look at the bigger picture. Because it does no good to blame someone for not telling the authorities about things the authorities just don’t care to hear.
Nor, as a child, I am guessing, did you know the whole story of all the child abuse cases. Like, for instance, how many of them were actually by parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, grandmothers, grandfathers, who were not even Jehovah’s Witnesses or who were but who were disfellowshipped.
Strangely, even though I was not one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and I am still not baptized at this late date, I have heard of a few cases where children were abused, I heard about them in the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, and 2000’s. And, I heard about them from people talking openly and honestly about them, and those people were also Jehovah’s Witnesses.
The other cases – I heard about them from the abused children and/or the newspaper.
Arletta
October 27, 2009 at 1:42 am
Aluminum was demonised? Thats a joke.
Jehovah’s witnesses ( I’ve been around them for half a century ) have as a group not involved themselves in any international or national wars.
Our decision on blood is a personal one. Nobody is ostrasized for making that decision.
We send our pedophiles to the authorities. Other “Christian” groups “rehabilitate” and move theirs around.
Now and then dishonest people see us as trusting and take advantage of us and others. They are expelled. The hurches in Mexico and South america throw big funerals for the drug lords .
Lets see, the inquisitors who burnt you at the stake fo rowning a bible. And if yoou were already dead would dig up your bones and then burn them.
The “Holy” crusades. And here’s one few are aware of
In the early 1800’s European merchants were smuggling large quantities of opium into China. In March 1839 Chinese officials tried to stop the illegal trade by seizing 20,000 chests of the drug from British merchants. This led to tension between Britain and China. As relations between the two countries deteriorated, some Protestant missionaries urged Britain to go to war, with statements such as the following:
“How these difficulties do rejoice my heart because I think the English government may be enraged, and God, in His power may break down the barriers which prevent the gospel of Christ from entering China.”—Henrietta Shuck, Southern Baptist missionary.
Finally, war broke out—the war that is today known as the Opium War. Missionaries wholeheartedly encouraged Britain with comments such as these:
“I am constrained to look back upon the present state of things not so much as an opium or an English affair, as the great design of Providence to make the wickedness of man subserve His purposes of mercy toward China in breaking through her wall of exclusion.”—Peter Parker, Congregationalist missionary.
Another Congregationalist missionary, Samuel W. Williams, added: “The hand of God is apparent in all that has transpired in a remarkable manner, and we doubt not that He who said He came to bring a sword upon the earth has come here and that for the speedy destruction of His enemies and the establishment of His own kingdom. He will overturn and overturn until He has established the Prince of Peace.”
Regarding the horrendous slaughter of Chinese nationals, missionary J. Lewis Shuck wrote: “I regard such scenes . . . as the direct instruments of the Lord in clearing away the rubbish which impedes the advancement of Divine Truth.”
Congregationalist missionary Elijah C. Bridgman added: “God has often made use of the strong arm of civil power to prepare the way for His kingdom . . . The agency in these great moments is human; the directing power divine. The high governor of all the nations has employed England to chastize and humble China.”—Quotations taken from “Ends and Means,” 1974, an essay by Stuart Creighton Miller published in The Missionary Enterprise in China and America (a Harvard Study edited by John K. Fairbank).
Jehovah’s witnesses are internationally known as peace makers and have willingly exposed themselves to imprisonment and oppresion to maintain their Christian Nuetrality.
Want to stop all war and bloodshed and have lawful neighbors? Convert the world to become Jehovah’s witnesses.
But wathc out for aluminum
Bart
July 17, 2009 at 12:36 am
Thank you for your comment, Bart! And Thank You for reading The Kaleidoscope Factor! And I will watch out for that aluminum!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 17, 2009 at 1:04 am
You make a valid observation, but I would like to clarify my position for you. I do enjoy these little debates as I think they are healthy and productive for all parties.
When I called them killers, I should have said on a per capita basis. There’s 6 million JW’s in the world, add maybe another million who have died (waiting for the end of the world, I
Alex
July 17, 2009 at 12:44 am
Alex: I don;t know where you get the stuff about the JW’s but you are so far off base you must be smoking something or snorting it. If it where not for the JW’s most of the advanced surgery technical procedures would not be here today. 144 bloodless hospitals are now in the US where no blood is given for any operations. When was the last time you did research on how many diseases you can catch from a blood transfusion? The list grows longer each day.
Sorry to be so mean but get your head out of where it is and get with the year 2009 open your eyes you might find the real truth before you go off looking stupid again.
Tony
July 17, 2009 at 12:56 am
I just wanted to add one more thing about Jehovah’s Witnesses being a cult. From my basic knowledge a cult is usually a group of people following ONE fanatical human leader. As a united group of over 7 million around the earth, we don’t follow any ONE human, unlike the Catholic church, who appoints a man to lead them, and calls him the pope.
The head of every single congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses throughout the earth is our anointed King, Jesus Christ…who was anointed by our God, Jehovah. We do have a Governing Body, but it is a body of mature Christian men, and our elders, serve each cong. No man is our “leader” and no one person makes rules or is higher than the other. We look to the Bible and the first century followers of Christ as examples of how capable men should watch over the cong. and encourage each one of us to love and fine works.
I like the point made about the white man coming down a chimney, and all other false beliefs like them…regardless of your color, all should see these lies for what they are, a combination of pagan rituals mixed up with false christian beliefs to please and appease the masses, and to make money and keep people in spiritual darkness and drowsiness.
It’s time to wake up before it’s to late!
carolg
July 17, 2009 at 2:55 am
I agree, we must stay alert!
Ingry
December 14, 2009 at 11:43 pm
Yes Truthseeker..the JW’s as INDIVIDUALS have their flaws, but they at least try to iron these out or eventually they are removed from the congregation. The whole point of TRUTHSEEKING is to advance the body of knowledge within ourselves, for the benefit of both ourselves and others who may find it useful. So to try and claim that because JW’s have flaws means they are hypocrites or miscreants is rather childish and ill-thought-out. I respect the fact that you have some strong views but you need to tone it down a bit. Also, check your definitions before loosely wielding words like ‘cult’ because words, as you know, have real power. Take Care.
Jonesy
July 17, 2009 at 3:19 am
I think I may have struck a nerve. I didn’t call them a cult. Jim Jones was a cult. Dave Koresh was a cult. But I can understand why many people may have that perception. I am very much aware that Jehovah’s Witnesses as individuals have flaws, just like anyone else. You are over simplifying what I have said but that is generally the reply I get from the collective. Ill thought out is a perception you may believe, but it is a reality to others. There have been many injustices and wrongdoings as a result of the decisions made by certain authorities that were not in the best interest of the individual or the family. These flaws, are testimony to certain ‘individual’ hypocrites. Not everyone in a congregation is a hypocrite because they are a Jehovah’s Witness, but there are hypocrites who are Jehovah’s Witnesses in a congregation. I do apologize for the unpopular and distasteful tone in which I speak, and if it is offensive to you. I can certainly respect you as a human being and a person. However if this is a forum that is welcome to people who speak outside of the realm of the Jehovah’s Witnesses you should let them speak.
It is just as offensive to hear people knock down Catholics, Protestants, Muslims and other religions, and ideals because regardless of what you believe in what they do or not, it means something to someone else so perhaps you should also ask them to tone it down also. Ultimately, I respect much of what Jehovah’s Witnesses do. I mean that sincerely. What I cannot respect is the lack of respect that ‘Individuals’ can sometimes display because they have a certain heir of righteousness and are not as well versed in anything other than what they read in the Watchtower or are told in the speeches. This was not the only experience that I have had with the Jehovah’s Witnesses, but it is one that is all too frequent and common. This collective sense of shunning anyone who has doubts or questions the validity of what is being taught, can be quite frustrating to anyone with a decent amount of intellegence. However, I now understand that perhaps that may be difference between having blind faith, or praying with your eyes open. Needless to say, the Jehovah’s Witnesses do in fact take the award for being people of peace, and like in Germany for dying bravely in the face of the Nazi regime. Those are “truths” that cannot be denied and should be admired from people from all walks of earth.
Truthseeker
July 17, 2009 at 4:25 am
Truthseeker, I am sorry that you have had some unfortunate incidents with Jehovah’s Witnesses. You are right: there will be hypocrites among us as in any other religion, and I would like to apologise on behalf of those who have treated you unkindly, whether out of self-righteousness, ignorance or spiritual immaturity. We, like everyone else, are imperfect and fall short many times. We are also taught to try to see the beam in our own eye before looking at the straw in the eyes of others, but, unfortunately, there will always be some who will not.
Regarding your comment “It’s just really sad that those who contributed to Michael Jacksons positive legacy didn’t come forward for whatever reason to acknowledge it,” I am assuming you are referring to no Jehovah’s Witness appearing at the public memorial? If so, I just wanted to let you know that I heard from a member of Sis. Jackson’s congregation, and that someone did deliver a talk for family and friends at the private memorial service held prior to what was shown on television. If that’s not what you meant, well, just ignore me..
Ann
July 17, 2009 at 4:22 pm
Not to sound too sour towards you “truth” people, I respec that you believe in what you believe but I find it quite disenheartening that these kids are being pushed into a life that turned out to be ultimately harmful for Michael Jackson. I was raised a Jehovah’s Witness and it certainly did have quite an impact on me. Isolation, guilt, and fear do not necessarily produce good fruitage. This arrogance to speak as if the truth is the only solution is why I left the Jehovah’s Witnesses, and I believe ultimately why Michael Jackson did as well.
One thing I have noticed about Jehovah’s Witnesses and that I find ironic is that Michael Jackson ironically was the epitome of what a Jehovah’s Witness should be. He left the truth you say? What about all the money he donated to the Watchtower Society? What about his efforts to live by the ideology and preach magazines in spite of his world renown in the “Satan’s world”? He did try did he not? Why on earth would one of the most enlightened performers, the most rich and powerful succumb himself to a humble bible study and believing in a better world when he already had everything? Even after he left, he tried so hard to emulate that which he was brought up to believe the he literally created his own paradise. He was also a tremendous humanitarian who gave so much of his money and himself to helping the less fortunate and tried doing what he could to bring peace to all people when he really simply didn’t have too. Even after he left he still had one foot in, and one foot out in his heart. But that doesn’t really matter , does it?
What of you “truth” people? Tell me of how you put those “truth” words to action like he did, he helped feed children of all colors, races, and religions. I guess he was wrong for acting on those principles instead of just leaving it in Jehovah’s hands? So what makes you so much more righteous than he or anyone else who doesn’t discriminate based on religious prejudice? While Michael Jackson believed more in compassion for humanity as a whole and actually helping people by feeding them with actual food, healing the sick with actual medicine, you people only speak of him with dismay and didn’t even honor his memory in the slightest in his death. You don’t have to see him as an idol or a martyr but there was a time when he was a practicing christian and he did good, but that doesn’t seem to be relevant. It’s ironic that the so called truth is so much more concerned in absolutes and order that it forgets empathy and compassion for imperfect people and humanitarian efforts, because they are “of the world”. It is so very feeble to see life in absolutes as life is a lot more colorful then “he was one of us, and now he is not”. It’s easy for you to believe in these absolutes of “if he is one of us, then he’s ok. But if he is not then he will not have eternal life”, no matter how much of a better person than you he actually was and the worst part is now is for his children. These children are at that young naive age where they are vulnerable enough that they can get to them, brainwash them, and instill guilt and fear repeating that vicious cycle he went through. How good can it be for them to learn this “truth” and that in spite of all the good he did their father isn’t good enough for eternal life simply because he didn’t call himself a Jehovah’s Witness even though he is a lot more of one than people who walk on that very ground floor? How can that be a positive influence in their life? Obviously Michael Jackson had to be aware of this, because he did give custody to his mother, and I suppose that must be because he valued what the Jehovah’s Witnesses taught him. I find so ironic that unlike Serena and Venus Williams who speak outright and call themselves Jehovah’s Witnesses, Michael Jackson did not participate in the worldliest of event’s “The Olympics”, stand up and salute the star spangled banner, pose nude with only a rose covering her behind (you can see it on Youtube) and keep calling himself a “truth” Christian. He had the dignity to formally remove himself from living a certain life he could not possibly live wi, and yet in spite of that their ok they do merit Jehovah’s Witnesses approval , but he doesn’t.
Truthseeker
July 17, 2009 at 3:20 am
Although you say that Michael Jackson gave millions to the Watchtower society, this alone will not make you a Christian…He seemed to respect the Witnesses because he loved his mom. And she is attending the Kingdom Halls of JWs.
Michael DID try to promote peace in the world. However he WAS NOT commited to one religion. He celebrated birthdays, Christmas, etc. And this alone shows that he was not sure where he wanted to worship, or how. Many of his albums had music choreographed to militaristic style dance moves. And he often wore clothing that looked like the militaristic style of uniform. All this affirms he was not committed to his mother’s faith.
However, he seemed to promote peace, and kindness. A strange conundrum of feelings and behaviors.
There were two parents in that household when Michael grew up. His father controlled the business, and the kids who were in their singing group. He was money hungry, and egotistical, which still shows in his comments today. His older boys had no qualms to exposing their little brother to immoral sexual behavior during their tours. Do you not see that this influence made the youngest brother confused and insecure? Emotional damage is often never repaired. And with Michael isolating himself from the rest of the world, it would not be repaired.
The Bible states that a man isolating himself will seek his own selfish longing. Proverbs 18:1 This is demonstrated by Neverland. The shopping sprees spending tens of thousands of dollars in one store.
Scripture was preserved over all these hundreds and thousands of years because mankind needs direction. And it never goes out of style to look to God for information on how to lead our lives in the way he originally purposed it. Genesis 1:26-31.
The destruction of the Earth, nature, and one another tells us that mankind in general is not heading in the direction God intended. Michael knew this, but he chose to try to fix things in his own way with good intentions. However, his isolation lead to his demise. I am sure that God understands his life situation and loves him regardless. His heart was in the right place.
As for the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses, they are the only faith that is willing to take a stand for the teachings in the WHOLE Bible not just pieces and parts, nor do they add to the Bible’s teachings.
May Jehovah bless those seeking understanding of his Word.
PreciouswordofGod
July 17, 2009 at 4:12 pm
Like Alex you going on hear say. Did u know Michael personally? Then don’t comment about what he felt, did or knew, because YOU Don’t know that.
tomieka j
July 17, 2009 at 4:42 pm
recently we had a talk that the brother said we have an obligation (at Jehovah’s direction) to teach the truth to our children (Deut.6:4-9&12-18) But once they’ve grown up and left our house they will make their own choices. Jehovah wants his people to follow his commandments not under duress but out of a clean heart. That’s why He gave us “free will” so we can choose for ourselves. No one is forced to “believe” or be baptized, that’s a private and personal choice between Jehovah and the individual. If you’ve made the choice to leave the organization then you also accept the responsibility of whatever happens to you in the end. Those who are disfellowshipped have also made their choice to continue violating Jehovah’s laws and not repent. They are disfellowshipped because Jehovah requires it to keep the congregation clean.(Matt.18:15; 1Cor.5:1-5,9-13; 2Cor.6:14-18) And really Jehovah’s people for the most part do have a “live and let live” approach. We knock on doors because Jesus commanded us to do so (Matt.28:18-20) looking for those who want to know what God’s word, the Bible, teaches. Those who don’t want to know or don’t care what God has to say don’t have to listen, no problem. But, as mentioned in Ezekiel 36:23, there will come a day when people will know who Jehovah is and that He is in the midst of his people. If you don’t think Jehovah has approved any particular group of people in the world let His word set you straight. Isaiah 43:10-12 reads,”You are my witnesses is the utterance of Jehovah, even my servant whom I have chosen, in order that you may know and have faith in me, and that you may understand that I am the same One. Beform me there was no God formed and after me there continued to be none. I-I am Jehovah, and besides me there is no savior…(12B)So you are my witnesses is the utterance of Jehovah and I am God.
CiCi
July 17, 2009 at 11:33 pm
Did Michael ever actually say that he blamed his upbringing as a Witness on all the problems he faced subsequently, on his childhood? Wasn’t it his mother, Katherine Jackson who has faithfully continued in her faith, that continued to be the rock in his life right up until his death? Don’t you think that he knew what he was doing when he made his Will out, leaving his beloved children to his mother’s care, knowing full well that they would be brought up as a Witness in a stable loving environment, that Michael had always dreamed of for himself? So many of Michael’s songs spoke of a world he longed for when everyone would be at peace with one another. This is the world in which Michael will wake up in one day, when Jehovah may give him the chance of the life he always wanted but somehow couldn’t obtain for himself. The previous comments are correct. There is good and bad in every faith and perhaps Michaels Dad was an example of bad at that time. But we all stand on our own before Jehovah God and answer for ourselves on our actions towards others and towards his precious earth. He knew Michael and his background and all the problems he had. He can read hearts. The bible says Jehovah God “is love” so we can be assured that his judgements are always given in love. To the Jackson family I can only say that I hope the children embrace the truth and continue to walk in Jehovah’s ways. The only way in this troubled world.
Lisa W.
November 13, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Jehovah’s Witnesses are NOT A CULT
Some define sect to mean a group that has broken away from an established religion. Others apply the term to a group that follows a particular human leader or teacher. The term is usually used in a derogatory way. Jehovah’s Witnesses are not an offshoot of some church but include persons from all walks of life and from many religious backgrounds. They do not look to any human, but rather to Jesus Christ, as their leader
A cult is a religion that is said to be unorthodox or that emphasizes devotion according to prescribed ritual. Many cults follow a living human leader, and often their adherents live in groups apart from the rest of society. The standard for what is orthodox, however, should be God’s Word, and Jehovah’s Witnesses strictly adhere to the Bible. Their worship is a way of life, not a ritual devotion. They neither follow a human nor isolate themselves from the rest of society. They live and work in the midst of other people.
Ameila Crews
July 17, 2009 at 3:46 am
truthseeker.. you make some very good points. I agree that those JW’s who label Jackson as ‘worldly’ or ‘not one of us’ and therefore will not get a ressurrection are twits. Yes, as you well know there are a large number of twits in any religion..those with the mentality of wilderbeest..and some Jehovah Witness congregations have them. But didn’t Paul wisely council that we’ continue putting up with one another’ perhaps as a test to ourselves and to make an eventual sacrifice in empathy and patience? I do agree with some of the points you make and I have some intellectual empathy for some of your criticisms. Michael Jackson, whether he was a witness or not, was a beautiful person ..and it is not up to anyone earth-bound person to decide who gets a resurrection or not. Rest In Peace Michael..
Jonesy
July 17, 2009 at 4:33 am
Thank you. I truly appreciate that you could understand what I’m getting at. I cannot begin to describe how profoundly Micheal Jackson impacted me personally. As a child it was his music and his larger than life appeal, just like for all the rest of the non-Micheal Jackson hating public, which is undeniably massive globally. I couldn’t fathom at that time that he was in the same faith as me as a child. It’s only now after his death that all the media and internet videos bring an almost surreal reality are being noticed by people. Everything that I have ever wondered about Micheal Jackson is literally being answered right in front of me. If someone really wanted to and took the time, they could actually see him as he really was. Good and bad. But more importantly, if you experienced certain areas of his life you can understand why he appreciated the Kingdom Hall so much. It was really the only place he could be be human. Equal. At peace with himself. He valued that equality so preciously. It was not his doing that he became such a sensation. It was his parents and very good fortune.
His rising superstar was ironically the worst thing that could have happened to him as a Christian. But eventually the two opposites crashed and what was he to do? Can you imagine the pressure he was under? Do you imagine how devastated he must have been when he chose to part? Do you think he only did it for selfish reasons, or for the preservation of his family? Yes, he was wealthy and enjoyed the spotlight like any of us would, but he was inherently docile and incredibly humble. His upbringing and convictions can be credited to those wonderful qualities that are Micheal Jackson that the world knows him today. It’s just really sad that those who contributed to Michael Jacksons positive legacy didn’t come forward for whatever reason to acknowledge it. I guess humility isn’t always such an easy practice but regardless, that element tragically was truly lacking in his memorial.
Truthseeker
July 17, 2009 at 7:08 am
What I find interesting is that I was hard pressed to find any scriptural references in this thread that our beliefs as JWs are based on the bible. (Maybe I missed it)
Our stand on blood is scriptural. Acts chapter 15 & many, many places in the Hebrew Scriptures where God’s gave them the prohibition on the use of blood. We do not use blood because GOD said not to use it, because it is sacred, not because a man came up with that idea. I think God has the right to make that law for us. It is not based on the fact that blood can be dangerous, full of diseases. However, it is based on the fact that God has called blood sacred (Acts 15) and told us not to use it in any way… Period. If you are honest-harted, a lover of truth and a truly spiritual person, then you appreciate God’s requirement on this and obey, out of love for him.
Our stand on disfellowshipping UNREPENTANT wrongdoers is scriptural. Paul said to remove such persons from the congregation, not move them to another church and sweep it under a rug.
Yes, this is an organization filled with imperfect humans… That’s because EVERYONE is imperfect… That’s scriptural too. So how could any religion not have many individuals who mess up? But what do they preach? And is it based on the God’s word or not? Are they trying their best to live by God’s word & Christ’s teachings in spite of their imperfection? Are they doing what Christ told them to do with their lives while they await the end of the system of things?
Every time I read something from someone putting the Witnesses down, their comments are based on some nonsense of ” I know someone who died from not taking blood”, (people don’t die from non-blood use… They die from diseases that made them sick or the injuries they had from an accident… or they say, “I know a Witness family that does not let their children celebrate their birthdays”, or some other nonsense like “I’m too intelligent to follow blindly.” God’s requirements for accepting our worship are bigger than what we as individuals want to be able to do. He sets the standards, not us, and those standards are found in God’s word, the bible. The bible warns that our hearts are treacherous and can lead us down the wrong road with its reasonings and its justifications of how we think on matters. So we as imperfect humans cannot trust in our own thinking and so called “intelligence.” In fact, God’s word puts the most intelligent of humans on the level of an inexperienced child when compared to God’s intelligence. If he in his infinite wisdom had the power to create this great and awe inspiring universe and then create us tiny insignificant humans, then doesn’t his word, his requirements, the very things that some here have called into question, deserve our implicit trust and obedience?
Not allowed to question?
Yes, we can ask questions. The bible is full of examples of intelligent individuals who did not understand God’s thinking and so they asked and Jehovah lovingly explained it to them. None of the teachings that JWs follow are what any man or men have told us to believe. It is all solidly based on God’s word. We are all expected to make the truth our own, and yes if we decide we don’t want it, then we have the freedom to make that choice too. Every person has the right to question. Years ago, when I was involved in several different religions trying to find the truth about God I asked many questions. In most cases those religious leaders could not properly answer my questions and if I doubted a teaching because it was not solidly based on the scriptures, I was looked down on and told, “you lack faith.” When I finally began learning from the JWs, they were able to answer not one or two of my questions, but ALL of my questions, from the bible. Then they took me deeper in my knowledge of God and his word the bible. No other religion has ever come close to this. I learned more truth from this religion in a few months than I had in many years of seeking truth from several different Christian faiths. The Witnesses always used the bible to answer me and the answers were crystal clear. So if you are truly interested in truth, put aside your preconceived ideas and be open minded and give it a chance. And if you do not like what you are taught from the bible, you are not locked in behind some fence so that you cannot get out. Will we try to discourage you from stopping your learning with us? YES, most certainly. Wouldn’t you do the same for someone if you cared about them and you felt that the choice they were making was a bad choice and would cause them to lose out on everlasting life?
If you are going to call our beliefs into question, you’d better use the bible because all of your intelligence is no match for God’s word. In fact any reasoning made by anyone, even one of JWs, if it is not made with the use of God’s word, is all nonsense. Not that it cannot be correct at times, but without backing up your points or statements with God’s word, your points and statements are useless. In other words anyone who is really interested in truth will not put any stock in words and reasonings unless these are based on God’s word. So to those who have attacked us here, where are your supporting scriptures for your statements? Where is your scriptural evidence that JWs are a cult? You will not find any JWs stating that Aluminum is demonized! That sounds more like a statement that would come from a “born again” faith. I can say this because I was part of those faiths for many years. Although, I can’t say I’ve ever head any religion state that aluminum is demonized. That is hilarious!
Gene
July 17, 2009 at 12:56 pm
Nicely put. Thank you Gene.
DRT
July 17, 2009 at 7:43 pm
I feel for those jackson children being raised in the JW religion. So sad!
mary moore
July 17, 2009 at 1:16 pm
You know what? I am getting so tired of hearing this. It is lame, boring and ridiculous! What is ’so sad’ about it? Oh, no Christmas? Oh, no celebrating four or maybe five lies wrapped up into one holiday and you get bribed for believing it? What are those lies? 1.) Santa Claus 2.) Did Jesus have a christmas tree in the manger? Complete with lights? 3.) Mistletoe. Is that in the Bible? 4.) December 25. Jesus was not born in the DEAD of winter. ANY historian will confirm that fact.
But churches perpetuate that lie every single year. And those who are in the church who know that Christmas is not Jesus’ birthday celebrate it anyway! Yes, I guess it is ’so sad’ that the Jackson children won’t be able to wallow in lies this year.
Please, people, get a grip! Be happy that they will be able to find warmth, love and comfort from the same person that their father found it. Unconditional love. Family and a measure of trust, loyalty and understanding. Katherine Jackson is giving those kids all that and more. You can count on that!
What is ’so sad,’ Mary, is that instead of being happy that those children are going to be nurtured and love by their grandmother, which we all know is happening, folks like yourself are saying what a shame it is that they will be falling up into a local Kingdom Hall twice a week! Just because your parents and guardians drag you to the religious institution of their choice does not automatically make you a practicer of that faith. When those children come of age, they will be in a position to decide whether or not to become a Jehovah’s Witness or a Baptist. Ok? It’s really not that deep.
Thanks for reading The Kaleidoscope Factor, Mary! Your comment is appreciated!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 17, 2009 at 4:22 pm
I feel for them Not knowing prehaps nothing at all about Jehovah until now. So Sad indeed.
Lissa
July 17, 2009 at 6:31 pm
Tracey, that is the best explanation about a cult ever! thank you
Nicole
July 17, 2009 at 2:43 pm
Thank you, Nicole! And continue reading The Kaleidoscope Factor!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 17, 2009 at 4:02 pm
I have heard a lot about Catholics that are pedophiles
there is like one in every news. how many do you hear that are Jehovah’s Witness??? WOW NONE!!!!!!!!!!
ME
July 17, 2009 at 3:17 pm
Not true, there are many pedophiles from within the Organization and the WT will disfellowship anyone that reports a pedophile JW to the police.
Not True
July 17, 2009 at 8:16 pm
Um, OK, someone is just pulling comments out of their “drawers” shall we say… For years it has been the “official possition” of the Society to report any criminal wrongdoing to the local elders and they will notify and work with the proper authorities to resolve the situation. Especially when it involves a child it is very serious and important to go through whatever proceedures required by state and federal laws.
CiCi
July 17, 2009 at 11:54 pm
The bible is God’s directives to his people on how to handle matters as they arise in the church. The oldermen or elders are appointed to such duties not the police. When the believer is unrepentant then he is to be thrown out of the Church as the JW do. The if that one continues in his sin or now criminal act as child-abuser then secular authorities now handle matters. The bible also says that the brethren in the church should not go to court with each other. Did you know that? I guess a JW can fill in the scripture to these fact somewhere in James or Hebrews.
Paul
November 14, 2009 at 1:49 am
Cici, the local elders are to call the legal branch of the society first. Then if the state that they live in requires molestation to be reported then they report it, but only if it is required. Wow don’t you feel protected now??!?!
ME, check out this link on Rtck Mc Lean
http://www.amw.com/fugitives/case.cfm?id=35566
Shloud I find more pedo JW’s or is one enough?
Lily
July 19, 2009 at 5:38 am
People reading this post:
The above statement by Lily is incorrect. The local Kingdom Hall representatives are to contact the authorities immediately if they know or suspect a pedophile is active. This is regardless of locale in the U.S. and Canada. Prior notification to the legal department of any branch is not necessary or mandatory.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 2:58 am
Tracey: GREAT NEWS!!!
when did they change their policy?
Or is this a new procedure? (2 different things I think)
Please be date accurate since this could affect cases in the courts right now. A new WT reference would be great. The outdated references should be replaced.
Or is there a new secret elder manual Pay Attention to the Flock?
I hope the change is due to all the EXPOSURE the watchtower has been getting on this topic.
wp
July 20, 2009 at 3:14 am
The Combat Soldier under fire down in the fox hole who has not prayed for a long time, Suddenly becomes religious.
Many people walk away from god for awhile and then come back at times of stress because thay can’t handle it alone.
I.E. Kingdom halls were filled to capacity after 911.
Jehovah wants all to attain to repentance and all newly interested one to discover him. The doors are always open.
I hope these family members will continue to seek the council of Jesus Christ and his father Jehovah.
Now watch the “Real Biological Parents” crawl out of the woodwork Because they dont want their kids to be with them Jeehoveerrs.
Dale
July 17, 2009 at 4:58 pm
My whole thought about it is that this is what Micheal wanted. If he did not want his children to be associated with Jehovah Witnesses or to study or become one then he would not have chosen his mother to have his children. He could of easily said any other family memeber. From what I hear Michael was even going to put Rebe in the will. Micheal could have easily chosen a different religion but he didn’t and I think its because he remebered what he was taught. Its just fame and everything that he was going through in his life prevented him from being reinstated as a Jehovah Witness. He was to addicted to meds to even think straight.
Nikisha
July 17, 2009 at 6:02 pm
Sorry guys, but I’m swamped today so I’ve been asked for some proof. So here is a little bit.
Organ transplants
“Sustaining one’s life by means of the body or part of the body of another human…would be cannibalism, a practice abhorrent to all civilized people… It is not our place to decide whether such operations are advisable from a scientific or medical standpoint… Christians who have been enlightened by God’s Word do not need to make these decisions based simply on the basis of personal whim or emotion. They can consider the divine principles and use these in making personal decisions as they look to God for direction, trusting him and putting their confidence in the future that he has in store for those who love him” Watchtower 1967 November 15 pp.702-704
“A peculiar factor sometimes noted is a so-called ‘personality transplant.’ That is, the recipient in some cases has seemed to adopt certain personality factors of the person from whom the organ came.” Watchtower 1975 September 1 p.519
Vaccinations
“Vaccination never prevented anything and never will, and is the most barbarous practice…We are in the last days; and the devil is slowly losing his hold, making a strenuous effort meanwhile to do all the damage he can, and to his credit can such evils be placed…Use your rights as American citizens to forever abolish the devilish practice of vaccinations.” Golden Age 1921 October 12 p.17
“Vaccination is a direct violation of the everlasting covenant that God made with Noah after the flood.” Golden Age 1931 February 4 p.293
And finally, good old aluminum
“As a result of the publication of wholesome truth on the subject, there are fewer people now purchasing aluminium cooking utensils than heretofore. There is also a pronounced drop in the cancer death rate. Much aluminium used: many cancers. Less aluminium used: fewer cancers.” Golden Age 1930 May 28 p.650
“[Aluminium cooking utensils are] a curse to humanity and their manufacture and use should be forbidden by law.” Golden Age 1932 October 26 p.35
Last but not least. This is great comedy folks…
The bobbed hair craze is sure to lead to baldness, sooner or later. The reason for this is that human hair is like a tube sealed at the free end. When the hair is cut, the oils which are the life of the hair become dissipated. The reason why men grow bald so quickly is that they have their hair cut so frequently and, in addition, wear tightly fitting hats, which cut off the circulation of the scalp. The reason why women, hitherto, have had such beautiful hair is that they have not cut it; and the twisting and folding of the hair has helped to retain the natural oil.” Many women have turned against the fashion of bobbing the hair, and are letting their hair grow again. Golden Age 1924 November 19 p.100
“There is no food that is right food for the morning meal. At breakfast is no time to break a fast. Keep up the daily fast until the noon hour… Drink plenty of water two hours after each meal; drink none just before eating; and a small quantity if any at meal time. Good buttermilk is a health drink at meal times and in between. Do not take a bath until two hours after eating a meal, nor closer than one hour before eating. Drink a full glass of water both before and after the bath.” Golden Age 1925 September 9 pp.784-785
“If any overzealous doctor condemns your tonsils go and commit suicide with a case-knife. It’s cheaper and less painful.” Golden Age 1926 April 7 p.438
“Sleep on the right side or flat on your back, with the head toward the north so as to get benefit of the earth’s magnetic currents. Avoid serum inoculations as they pollute the blood stream with their filthy pus…. Stop chewing gum, as you need the saliva for your food.” Golden Age 1929 November 12 p.107
“Medicine originated in demonology and spent its time until the last century and a half trying to exorcise demons. During the past half century it has tried to exorcise germs.” Golden Age 1931 August 5 p.728
“The earlier in the forenoon you take the sun bath, the greater will be the beneficial effect, because you get more of the ultra-violet rays, which are healing” Golden Age 1933 September 13 p.777
Take care all
Alex
July 17, 2009 at 6:18 pm
okay first of all you are reaching way back into the beggining of last century when modern science, technology nor info was available, thought off or given birth to. Have you not read in all the later post that with time the light got brighter and brighter, meaning throughout the last century or so JW’s have never shyed away from making adjustments in their publications and when new info was available they had no problem making coreections. I’ll tell u this name any other reliogion that is open to public scrutiny with no shame in there game and is openly admitting when wrong on a matter and willing/do make corrections as long as it is still in harmony with what the bible really teaches? Most people including yourself, wouldn’t be so candid.
tomieka j
July 17, 2009 at 6:38 pm
Give us MODERN examples please and then you’ll be on to something, because if u exmained modern WT and Awakes you will see the corrections/ modifications that have been done smarty pants!
tomieka j
July 17, 2009 at 6:46 pm
Thats the thing – if your magazines print truth, why all the errors & folly?
Why all the misquotes and double talk?
Most witnesses DO NOT KNOW their own history, but thank Jehovah we all have printed proof of their ACTUAL HISTORY, not the self-serving orwellian one.
wp
wp
July 17, 2009 at 10:28 pm
This is so GREAT! Now readers are pulling out research!
All of that information you are quoting is outdated. None of it is valid, Alex. This is what Jehovah’s Witnesses once believed. Check the dates! Jehovah’s Witnesses weren’t the only ones believing in that propaganda. Bobbed hair craze? The whole country was up in arms about the roaring twenties with the bobbed hair and shortened skirts/dresses. Preachers were telling their parishes not to be like those immoral, loose women with the bobbed hair and legs showing! You check Jehovah’s Witnesses on that because they documented their rhetoric!
All of that stuff you have from the 20’s and 30’s was the general sentiment of an entire generation’s way of life and thinking. The stuff about organ transplants, Jehovah’s Witnesses have conceded that each person have to choose for themselves what to do about that medical decision. It takes a lot of courgage to admit when you are wrong on a subject. When will the Catholic church admit that Christmas isn’t scriptural? When will the church admit that communion is unscriptural? When will the church admit that they killed thousands of people during the inquisition for no reason at all?
I can level the same ridiculous arguments against those who practice ‘Christianity’ that you slam at Jehovah’s Witnesses.
And vaccinations…well, those arguments have been found to be true. Studies have proven that vaccinations are responsible for autism. At one time, the medical consensus was that if you acquire someone elses organ or blood that you would inherit their personality. That was medical dogma. Now we know different.
Come on! Are you really going to pull out dated research that proves what Jehovah’s Witnesses and the rest of the world for that matter, believed was in ignorance? Remember when blood-letting was thought to be the cure of any ill? How about drinking the blood of virgins for youthful skin? Who was it that said that the world was held on the backs of four elephants? Or that the world was a square? Galileo or Socrates? Whomever it was, we still acknowledge them and revere them.
So, Alex, put the olden books away and join us in the 21st century!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 17, 2009 at 7:09 pm
What the heck does it matter when they printed wacky untruths?
It was ok to deceive people back then and it doesn’t matter now because it was a long time ago? How would that make people trust them today?
What trends or other propaganda are they following today?
many have died or followed really bad advice BECAUSE OF THESE PUBLICATIONS! Some still are! Like refusing EMERGENCY blood when its now OK TO USE fractions! Have a transplant! Go to college! (May 1969 WT said not to bother going to college since with world would not last the 4 years it would take) They still frown upon it.
Witness pride themselves on the fact that their info comes from the faithful and discreet slave, why doesn’t the general public know where they get their info from?
I think it sounds cultic and doesn’t get mentioned until the indocrination is complete.
Also, you shouldn’t make medical and scientific claims
PLEASE READ ABOUT YOUR OWN HISTORY – its embarrassing that you pretend these things do not exist.
wp
July 17, 2009 at 11:07 pm
Yeah, that’s going back aways…anywho, on the whole “aluminum” thing, modern science had linked cooking with aluminum pots and utensils to alzheimers! That’s the truth. So maybe in some cases those old guys weren’t totally wrong, Idanno, just sayin’… in many of those old publications as well as in the more current ones there are articles based on what modern science and medicine are saying is beneficial. Thinking and science is constantly changing with new info and breakthroughs… But as to religious truths JW’s “build on” their knowledge of the scriptures carefully researching and doing their best to make sure they’re not teaching “doctrines of men” but Bible based truths. And don’t even start with that whole “look at the JW’s history” thing…ever hear of the Inquision? The Salem witch hunts? The terrible atrocities committed when the Church of England was formed? The Jesuits and the native people of the southwest and Mexico? Shall I go on? JW’s aren’t even in the same ballpark as the others when it comes to committing “crimes against humanity”. Say what you want, I truely hope the Jackson children are comforted by their Grandma and other JW relatives as well as all the other brothers and sisters who will treat them with love and respect and wouldn’t ever pass judgement on Michael or tell them he won’t be in paradise. That decision rests only with Jehovah.
CiCi
July 18, 2009 at 1:18 am
How old ARE you? My grandma wasn’t even born! People make those types of mistakes all the time. Even you have problably believed in something only to later find out it wasn’t true. Seriously!
Ingry
December 15, 2009 at 12:12 am
It really warms my heart that Aunt Rebbe is taking these poor sad children to the best possible place for them. They will be taught the truth. Treated with great love and genuine concern. They won’t be treated like a ’superstar’s’ children but as themselves. Good for the Jackson family!
Rachel
July 17, 2009 at 6:38 pm
Yesterday I was asked for proof of my claims. Of course when it’s provided there’s an excuse, but that’s ok. Something a little more modern you ask? How about we take on the United Nations?
“The United Nations is actually a worldly confederacy against Jehovah God and his dedicated Witnesses on earth.” Watchtower 1987 September 1 p.20
“Human governments have schemed to form the most brazen and defiant conspiracy against divine rule that has ever existed. (Compare Isaiah 8:11-13.) They have done so, not once, but twice, creating first the League of Nations and then the United Nations.” Awake! 1990 December 8 p.24
From that they went to this…
““THE preamble to the United Nations Charter expresses these noble aims: “We the peoples of the United Nations determined to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold sorrow to mankind, . . . and [desiring] to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security, . . . have resolved to combine our efforts to accomplish these aims.”
Did the UN “accomplish these aims”? Did it get the nations to unite their strength and maintain peace and security? No, not so far, although the UN has sincerely tried to be a significantly better way than the League of Nations.
…Jehovah’s Witnesses firmly believe that the United Nations is going to play a major role in world events in the very near future. No doubt these developments will be very exciting. And the results will have a far-reaching impact on your life. We urge you to ask Jehovah’s Witnesses in your neighborhood for more details on this matter. The Bible clearly paints a picture showing that the United Nations will very shortly be given power and authority. The UN will then do some very astonishing things that may well amaze you. And you will be thrilled to learn that there is yet a better way near at hand that will surely bring eternal peace and security!”
Awake! 1991 September 8 p.10
Why such a rapid change of policy? I think you all know where I’m going with this. The society and their membership in the U.N. I can provide membership details if requested. Unless of course, this is also too old to talk about.
Alex
July 17, 2009 at 7:23 pm
In response to comments made regarding sexual molestation and abuse within the Jehovah’s Witness organization.It has not always been the norm for Jehovah’s Witness leaders to inform the police dept. of child abuse and sexual molestation, nor do I believe it is now. Once long ago I believed that this religion was the true religion, this ended in 1985 when I had personal information of a sexual abuse situation that was NOT reported to the police dept. but handled by a group of elders in the kingdom hall. I went to the elders to seek justice for the one wronged and was told that it had been handled and that was that. This was only one situation where sexual abuse had not been reported or dealt with by the police dept. In the kingdom hall I belonged to as a child and young person there were many sexual abuse cases. This was just one kingdom hall, how many in other kingdom halls were abused I wonder? After finding out that the congregation would do nothing other than handle the specific situation I spoke of in the beginning of my words here, I left the organization, confused, hurt and betrayed by what I believed was a loving organization with a loving God. When an organization is more concerned about their image than protecting innocent children, I want no part of it. I am sure whomever is the true God out their in our Universe aggrees with me.
Deborah
July 17, 2009 at 7:48 pm
I agree with you Deborah.
and you are not alone.
A true religion would not hide while they point their fingers at others.
wp
July 17, 2009 at 10:31 pm
The Bible states that Jesus said – He is the way, the truth, and the life, and that NO MAN comes to God accept through Him! One needs to confess Jesus into one’s life(verbally receive Him) and believe that God raised from the dead to be saved. It is appointed to man once to die, and after that there is judgment. (See John 14:6, Romans 10:9-10 & Hebrews 9:27)The main judgment will be: Did you receive the sacrifice of God’s son? The JWs do not use many scriptures. From my studies, they do not believe in receiving Jesus Christ as one’s Savior. Once you are dead they believe that it is all over, unless you come up in God’s rememberance for your good works.
Minister Boyd
July 17, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Are you actually here saying that “JW’s don’t use many scriptures”? That’s all they do!! And thereby why don’t you look up Matthew 7:21-23. Jesus there says,”Not everyone saying to me, ‘Lord, Lord’, will enter into the kingdom of the heavens, but the one DOING the will of my Father who is in the heavens will. For many will say to me in that day,’Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and expell demons in your name and do many powerful works in your name?’ And yet, then I will confess to them: I never knew you, get away from me you workers of lawlessness.” You see you can’t just “say” a few words of scripture and “receive Jesus” Jesus said you must “DO” the will of his Father… and as for the condition of the dead, read: Ecc 9:5&10; Ps 146:3-4. Their only hope is in the resurrection. read: John 5:28-29, 11:11-14 & 23-26, 1Cor.15:20-22; Acts 17:31. We truely believe that only through Jesus ransom sacrifice can we hope to have everlasting life wether it’s in heaven or on a paradise earth (Rev.21:1-4) None of JW’s will ever say that our “good works” will save us, only Christ’s blood can redeem us. But the scriptures do say you must have works to back up your faith.(Jas.2:14,17-26; Titus 2:13-14) Is that a sufficient amount of scriptures?
CiCi
July 18, 2009 at 1:58 am
People are so quick to judge JW’s but never can say anything about themselves..Go Tracy!
Candace
July 17, 2009 at 8:44 pm
To the doubters about what the Society taught about aluminum:
The Golden Age 28 November p136/7
“What the people need more than food is faith in God, and a set of active bowels which means a healthy brain….Up until now he has been poisoned, stupefied, clogged and hampered by the Devil. He has been a slave to politicians, wholesale food magnates, preachers, railroads, bad cooks, worse doctors, an abnormal appetite, greedy undertakers and aluminum cooking utensils.”
Golden Age 1932 October 26 p.35
“[Aluminum cooking utensils are] a curse to humanity and their manufacture and use should be forbidden by law.”
Golden Age 1936 September 23 p.803-812
“It was salts of aluminum that killed the children, and is killing the whole country… Meantime “health experts” are filling the papers and magazines with pictures and stories and lies of how supremely healthful aluminum utensils are. It is astonishing what a capacity the American people have for absorbing lies. And don’t the Big Business boys know it well?”
Awake! 1949 Aug 8 p.16 Inside Story About Aluminum
“The facts of the subject are an inside story, but since your insides and those of millions of other people are involved, Dr. C.T. Betts, of Toledo, Ohio, has brought out facts which were being covered up. He found from personal experience, experiment and observation how injurious aluminum can be. He has issued an interesting pamphlet on “How Does the Government Suppress the Truth About Aluminum?” ”
Then, finally in the 1960’s, decades after the scientific community had stated that aluminum cooking was safe:
Awake! 1962 Je 22 pp.8-10 What About Aluminum Cooking Utensils?
What about the aluminum cooking utensils?…At present the great majority of authorities in medical and scientific fields gave aluminum a rather clean bill of health.
Jeff R
July 17, 2009 at 8:47 pm
#1: The OLD OLD OLD article about aluminum in no way said that JW’s felt it was demonized. Actually, it said exactly what we say and feel today. Aluminum in our cooking utensils CAN be bad for you, when you continue to scratch it with spoons etc. while cooking in it.
#2: I suspect some of those other OLD OLD OLD articles were taken out of context. I am going to make a point of reading up on them.
#3: All the articles you quoted from concerning the UN are exactly right and there is no contradiction in them whatsoever.
#4: This sure is a perfect example of 2Cor. 4:4: “…..among whom the god of this system of things, has blinded the minds of the unbelievers that the illumination of the glorious good news about the Christ, who is the image of God, might not shine through.”
It makes me feel bad, as we all have such a wonderful hope of living forever in a wonderful new system ofthings right here on earth, all of us getting along and enjoying to the fullest…. LIFE. It’s right there for us to take. We just have to worship Jehovah in the way that he wants us to and we can have it ALL. And some, who once knew this….are now throwing it away over being “offended”.
We go door to door FREE OF CHARGE, hoping so badly that all will listen, and have this wonderful hope. We gain nothing in a monetary way by trying to get people to listen. Just the satisfaction of knowing someone else is going to get to live forever. Someone else just agreed to learn about our wonderful god Jehovah. Someone else just decided to worship the true God.
Satan certainly watches us well, and jumps right in when the time is “right” and yanks with all his might on the person who shows the slightest bit of weakness.
I can only say, that I have a whole Bible full of faithful witnesses that stayed faithful right to their end. And I am hoping with all my heart that I will be among those faithful witnesses, who doesn’t give up.
cheryl
July 17, 2009 at 11:32 pm
#1: The OLD OLD OLD article about aluminum in no way said that JW’s felt it was demonized. Actually, it said exactly what we say and feel today. Aluminum in our cooking utensils CAN be bad for you, when you continue to scratch it with spoons etc. while cooking in it.
#2: I suspect some of those other OLD OLD OLD articles were taken out of context. I am going to make a point of reading up on them.
#3: All the articles you quoted from concerning the UN are exactly right and there is no contradiction in them whatsoever.
#4: This sure is a perfect example of 2Cor. 4:4: “…..among whom the god of this system of things, has blinded the minds of the unbelievers that the illumination of the glorious good news about the Christ, who is the image of God, might not shine through.”
It makes me feel bad, as we all have such a wonderful hope of living forever in a wonderful new system ofthings right here on earth, all of us getting along and enjoying to the fullest…. LIFE. It’s right there for us to take. We just have to worship Jehovah in the way that he wants us to and we can have it ALL. And some, who once knew this….are now throwing it away over being “offended”.
We go door to door FREE OF CHARGE, hoping so badly that all will listen, and have this wonderful hope. We gain nothing in a monetary way by trying to get people to listen. Just the satisfaction of knowing someone else is going to get to live forever. Someone else just agreed to learn about our wonderful god Jehovah. Someone else just decided to worship the true God.
Satan certainly watches us well, and jumps right in when the time is “right” and yanks with all his might on the person who shows the slightest bit of weakness.
I can only say, that I have a whole Bible full of faithful witnesses that stayed faithful right to their end. And I am hoping with all my heart that I will be among those faithful witnesses, who doesn’t give up.
cheryl
July 17, 2009 at 11:34 pm
I feel Katherine and Rebbie are doing the right thing for these children. I can see the sadness in Paris’ face and being at the Kingdom hall she will learn what Jehovah’s promises and that will make her and her brothers strong. Knowing they’ll will see their father again in the resurrection. I am deeply happy that Michael even though he didn’t continue as a JW knew that there was no one better to leave his kids to than his mother Katherine. He knew it was the truth but he got caught in all the things in this system. The changes are hard for Michael’s children they feel like out of it, you from celebrating everything to not celebrating it’s perfectly natural for them to feel out of place. With the help of Jehovah they will come through this hard period. I hope they do become my brothers in the faith it makes me really happy to see the pics of them at the KH.
cin
July 18, 2009 at 2:23 am
Tracey Ricks Foster, Violet, looks like what you have read is what the JW’s want you to read. You are talking about adults having free choice, these are children. When you parents tell you that you will join this religion or you are on your own…. that isn’t free choice.
Now as for the adults they aren’t told everything before they join. When you family says we won’t speak to you ever again if you choose to leave this CULT… that isn’t free choice.
These kids have been through so much already they certainly don’t need this CULT messing with their heads. They will spend their inheritance on therapy when they are adults.
Lily
July 18, 2009 at 6:20 pm
Hi Lily and Thank You for your comment! Even though I officially closed this discussion down yesterday, I see the response to it continues.
Lily, unlike a lot of bloggers you may be familiar with, I am a university educated journalist. Blogging about the news that affect the African American community and the Diaspora is not my day job.
Whenever I speak or write, I do the research. I am 99.9% unbiased and 100% objective. I do the work that it takes to report the news, blog it, and comment on it. I minored in philosophy/ethics in college so I have a huge background in ancient and modern day world religions. I have studied Western and Eastern philosophies and religions. If you name it, I can drop knowledge on it.
If you ask any historian worth his weight in salt about what Jehovah’s Witnesses believe, you will find that their opinion rarely differs from my own. As with any religious order or faith, there is a certain amount of structure and organization. Lily, there is no way that you can become one of Jehovah’s Witnesses by accident. That is like saying you got married by accident. It is no accident if you have researched and studied with Jehovah’s Witnesses for a year or more, attended all of their public forums and interacted with the people in it. Before folks are baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, they are asked extensive and reflective questions. Time lapses between the series of questions and conversations and actual baptism.
Time gives the person a chance to really decide for themselves if being a Jehovah’s Witness is what they really want to do. At any time, you can back out.
As for children, how many times have I heard that saying “I was born a Bpatist and I’m going to die a Baptist.” What does that mean? It means that from childhood, a person is indoctrinated with whatever belief system the parent or guardian has. This goes for Catholics, Muslims, Christians, Buddhists and Athiests. Parents have that right in this country to teach their children whatever they feel comfortable with teaching them. But it is up to the child when they are of legal age to decide which religion, if any, is the right fit for them.
Jehovah’s Witnesses aren’t the only ones that may have a problem with children trading in one belief system for another. What about Jewish parents whose grown child decides to convert to Christianity? How about that senario in the reverse? Or how about a Christian child of legal age who decides to convert to Islam? And change his name to Muhammed Ali? Or Malcolm X?
I can give you a number of parents telephone numbers that have gone through that situation and some have totally rejected their children and their conversion. Is this right? No. Parents should be accepting and undestanding of their childrens’ decision in these matters. Some are. Some are not. Some come around. To just place this type of behavior on Jehovah’s Witnesses is not fair nor justified.
And how many churches have Sunday Schools? There are parochial schools that teach the four r’s: reading, ‘riting, ‘rithmetic, and religion. Universities like Brigham Young, Oral Roberts, Notre Dame ALL insist that students take some type of religious course (s) in order to complete their degree. What is that called? Indoctrination for conversion. Or profit. Whatever.
As far as therapy goes, WHO DOESN’T NEED IT? LOL!
Thanks for reading The Kaleidoscope Factor!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 18, 2009 at 9:15 pm
I think that many people are harshly critisizing Jehovah’s witnesses. They are really good people. Michaels kids will learn about many things that will help them in life but if they dont want to continue that is their choice. Jehovahs Witnesses dont force any one to join. Also, what we teach people about Jehovah is true. So I am happy that Michaels kids are going to the kingdom hall.
Dana
July 19, 2009 at 1:27 am
Well Tracey, the problem with JW’s is that when you are born in you are coerced into getting baptized usually around age 12 or so. When you grow up and decide that this isn’t for you then all your family who are Jw’s have to stop talking to you. That is the rules per the Watchtower bible and tract society.
Now if you are jewish as a child your parents still talk to you if decide not to be Jewish anymore.
Now I understand you are a journalist but what you read about the JWs is only what is out there. The reality of the religion they keep hush hush because it will drive new converts away if you knew about everything up front.
Now for the person that said you never hear of any Jw’s child molesters in the news…must not watch any news at all. There were 14 case that had a class action lawsuit in CA. The WTBS paid them millions of dollars and asked them to keep quiet about it. There is one JW molester that is on america’s most wanted.
They are so many more religions that are safer to ones well being than the JW’s.
Lily
July 19, 2009 at 4:01 am
Lily, if you read the previous comments then you will have already seen that it is an acknowledged fact that JW’s like any other organisation have their problem members like any other religion. And yes I agree with you that a certain amount of coercion is experienced when growing up as a child in the ‘Truth’
This should not be the case but it is the reality. The JW’s used to criticise the Catholics and others for baptising children but in fact they have done the same in the past baptising young people who really don’t know any better and who have succumbed to both parental and peer pressure before being of the age and maturity to really think it through.However they also have a natural ‘zeal’ to include both family and society members in their hope of a new global arrangement free from the pressures we now experience. So yes you make some good points. My daughter wanted to get baptised when she was only 14 and I told her ‘No!’…she sulked and cried and begged but I remained resolute and finally negotiated 20 as the age that I would agree. I told her that if she tried to circumvent my authority and get baptised then I would come to the assembly and jump in the pool with her..suit and all…and she knows how crazy her dad is..so she waited and kept her faith strong..and 1 day before her 20th birthday she approached me and reminded me of our deal. I agreed and so she got baptised after we talked and I asked her many questions to try and determine her maturity..i was satisfied that she knew what she was undetaking and so I let her. Since then she has regular pioneered for the 3 years and she is flat broke…but she has immense faith in Jehovah to sustain her..and my opinion in all of this is irrelevent now. This is how it should be,,she was of an age that she knew what she was doing… so I do understand your comments and observations and yes its possible Tracey has only researched ‘what is out there’ which is not the same as experiencing life in the organisation. Peace to you and yours…and to Tracey the Journo…:-)
Jonesy
July 19, 2009 at 4:55 am
Jonesy, if your daughter realizes that at age 30 when she has a child, ( god forbid the child have an accident) and decides that the childs life is worth more than the rules and allows a blood transfusion, would you still talk to your dear daughter if the organization kicks her out for supposedly going against god will?
When I was 5 years old I was told that I would die at armageddon if I didn’t stop talking to my teenage brother, because he was disfellowshipped for smoking pot inthe 70’s. Now you can’t tell me that doesn’t F*&% with your young mind.
Lily
July 19, 2009 at 5:24 am
Lily,
I know what you mean. I feel for your brother and yourself. I have my own mind and I keep it that way. Its not for sale or barter no matter what..I will take my chances..afterall when the great judhement comes you are on your own..no one to hold your hand and answer for your decisions..so I will stand and fall on my own. In answer to your question about talking to my daughter: I have already been asked by my daughter about whether I would talk with her if she was disfellowed. I told her a resounding Yes! She is my blood and I will always help her while there is life in my body. I asked her the same and she said a resounding No! hahahahaha…so thats life and I accept her position and she naturally accepts mine. Stand Tall Lily!
Jonesy
July 19, 2009 at 5:32 am
But Jonesy, don’t you see that is wrong for her to let an organization severe the relationship between and father and daughter?
I am very glad that you would still talk to her if she was df’d thats what parents should do. Blood is thicker than a group of men in NY handing down rules. I wish more Jw parents thought they way you do, unfortunately most do not.
Remember you don’t have to go a church or kingdom hall to be a spritual person.
Lily
July 19, 2009 at 5:59 am
Of course its wrong lily. But she must come to that realisation herself..I can’t decide that for her..either way she is my little girl. You have much anger inside of you..I understand why too…I empathise with you..but I also realised that if I held onto those toxic feelings my spirit would be fully corrupted and I would suffer miserably until I expire. So..I just get on with it and let the chips fall where they may…be at piece little sister!
Jonesy
July 19, 2009 at 9:13 am
Well MJ’s kids don’t need to belong to a group who instills these kind of rules upon people. They have been damaged enough already, they don’t need a religion that adds to that damage.
They are other religions out there that don’t inflict pain such as the JW’s do.
Lily
July 19, 2009 at 4:59 pm
Are you kidding me, Lily? There are Caucasian families who will stop speaking to their children if they married an African American. Asian families stop speaking to children who marry Caucasians or African Americans.
Or how about a Jew marrying a German? What would that family discussion be like? People excommunicate family members for being drug addicts, alcoholics, criminals, etc.
How about LGBT’s?
Their entire community turn their backs on them when they come out! Stop making Jw’s look as if they are the bad guys in a sinless world!
As a journalist, it’s not what I READ is what I RSEARCH. I only present the facts. Since you are stating numbers, tell me, what are the figures for child molesters in the Catholic Church? How much money has the Catholic Church paid out in settlements?
Nothing is hush hush about Jehovah’s Witnesses. If it was, the government would have shut it down. Stop with the James Bond theatrics! And what about other religions? What are the stats on the Baptists, the Methodists and those who practice Islam? Can you give the stats on this? Bet cha can’t.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 2:21 am
Some people always have to point out all the faults of others to make themselves look better, or even just normal. Saying JWs aren’t so bad for shunning or hiding molesters because others do it too does not help the “god’s only people” image.
If someone does post numbers, the percentages might be more interesting. 23,000 pedos on files out of 6 million – what does that work out to?
If nothing is hush hush, can you please explain the $12million victim payout in Calif. in june 2009. or the HUGE fine owed to the French government – 50 million?- They’ve been trying to fight it all the way to the supreme court.
Court records are public and can be researched.
wp
July 20, 2009 at 2:35 am
I have never been Methodist, Baptist or Islamic. I am sure they have their problems as well. But we aren’t talking about them here.
You can research all you want but that isn’t the same as having lived it. You can research what its like to be a woman but you don’t really know what it is like unless you have been one.
Now I am certainly not saying that the world is sinless….far from it. But JW’s have entire articles about how bad the catholics are for having child molesters in their midst. Well since JW’s have so many in their midst isn’t that like the pot calling the kettle black?
People who stop talking to family members because they marry someone of a different race or religion are wrong as well. But we aren’t talking about them.
The JW religion is not the place that these kids will find unconditional love. Love is based on meeting attendance and time put in preaching and if your watchtower is studied or not.
Oh BTW when you do your research make sure you are getting the insiders copy of the watchtower magazine. The one that JW’s give out to the public is different than the one that is given to the baptized JW’s. you wouldn’t want your research to be based on only the info Jw’s want you to know.
Lily
July 20, 2009 at 3:15 am
Its true Tracey..certainly not the same as having ‘lived’ in the organisation. You need to also consider the experiences of those who have been actively involved from both sides of the spectrum. Some of the people commenting here have had horrific experiences in their dealings with JW’s..does the fact that they relate their personal views and experiences mean that such information doesn’t count toward revealing the truth of the organisation…does it mean that when they recall harsh experiences that have affected them then they must be bashing the organisation? Not so…Their stories can’t be discounted if you are in fact conducting any researching with any semblance of rigour. As JW’s we must confront our mistakes and weaknesses head-on and try our best to repair ourselves…otherwise we have no business in talking to others…Thank you for your objectivity Tracey.
Jonesy
July 20, 2009 at 8:49 am
I’m a JW, proud to be a JW and if we’re a cult and brain washed and all that mess well then I am glad that I am considering the rest of the world has no real sense of hope yet as a JW I have a great future to look forward to. Whoever diagrees with me that is their choice. Our preaching work is to find people that will and want to believe what the Bible truly teaches and after having spent many years myself researching different religions, none have quenched my thirst for truth other than Jehovah’s Witness. To each his own. Be that as it may….. did we forget the real reason of these pictures??? This isn’t about US, it’s about those three babies. Ya’ll.. JW or not a JW… at least they are in a positive environment!! Not holed up somewhere grieving uncontrollably.. those 3 sweeties have been through enough. Can’t we keep it simple? I.E. : YAY!! They are going to learn about God and be happy as much as they can so maybe one day they can see daddy again!!” Period. Agape.
Samai Pozo
July 20, 2009 at 2:39 am
Name them! LOL! I would think that with the number of responses this blog has received bashing JW’s, the obsession label would be in your court! Those readers who have responded with data dated back to the early 1900’s are the ones obsessed! LOL!
If God is not a religion, why do you and others bash a religion, that in the grand scheme of things, is not even relative? If a religion does not make you spiritual, than why waste time bashing a group of people, whom according to your assessment, are not spiritual? What is the purpose? Where is the wisdom in that? The actuality is you and those who agree with you, are time wasters.
Western civilization accords its’ citizens the right to love whom they want, live like they’d prefer, and worship what pleases them. Even if it is a rock or a stick.
So, my two questions have not been answered which, as I have said, leads me to believe that all those JW haters want people to steer clear of JW’s without reason. This is just a preference. If becoming a JW is not for you, then GREAT! Don’t become one! That is the wonderful thing about having the use of cognitive skills. But STOP hindering those who CHOOSE otherwise.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 4:36 am
Jonesy, your open mindedness is unique among JW’s. I predict you won’t be one 10 years from now…but who knows I could be wrong.
You said: “Of course we know there are casualties in all of this”
So how can a religion make it up to these casualties? How can a group say to a person sorry you lost your family member because of refusing a blood transfusion whoops… if it happens again you can now take all fractions of blood, just not the whole blood all at once.
And Tracey I love how you say this is a choice. These are kids we are talking about here. What kid gets an informed choice as to where they are dragged off to on sunday? So say these kids attend meetings even into adulthood get baptized at say age 18. Then they go to college. (BTW the watchtower society BASHES going to college. What does your research show as to why that is Tracey?) So they take a sociology class or critical thinking class in college. then they say hmmmm this group has told me what to wear how to act and who to talk to and what to believe most of my life. I don’t like this anymore. They decide not to attend meeting anymore. they are now considered apostate for not going or believing. The memebers are told not to talk to them anymore, not to even say hello to them when they meet them on the street, this includes the family. They are in fact shunned. What kind of choice is that?!?!?! Believe the same way we do or all the people you have known your whole life will stop talking to you until you see it our way again!!!!
That is not a reasonable choice. therefore doesn’t equal a free choice. Just like if someone said believe the way we tell you too or we will kill you. Hmmm sounds like the spanish inqusition, witch hunts and the white man making the indians believe in christ instead of their gods.
Now as far as your questions that didn’t get answered … were you refferring to the child molestation? I can get you proof of that. np
Now just to be fair if these kids were signing up to be catholic altar boys I would say they would be in physical danger as well. I don’t know if the catholics practice mind F***ing as well…because I have never been catholic.
Lily
July 20, 2009 at 5:28 pm
As far as Katherine Jackson goes, only ONE of her nine children is an actual Jehovah’s Witness. She has not stop being a loving mother to them, nor has she turned her back on any of her children because they are not JW’s. Not all JW’s do this. It is obvious that she cares for her grown children regardless of their religious affiliation.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 8:00 pm
Well, I think God would be proficient.
and if the WT is just as bad as the catholics then they have no claim to the truth either.
Did god choose the WT corp as his mouthpiece and represenative?
Did Jesus overlook the fact that in 1919 the witnesses were celebrating christmas & holidays and had many beliefs that with each president have changed?
Did Jesus know ahead of time that the molestation policies of the WT would be less moral than the general public for years and years and only publically say that they have changed when they were exposed in the media?
I don’t see that the catholics have anything to do with how the WT has run their religion business.
wp
July 20, 2009 at 5:02 am
The bible clearly states that Satan blinds the mind of unbelievers, and lord knows the majority of this world is blind as bats! They only see what they want to see, whatever basically is suitable to them. With that said, it’s a waste of time my brothers and sisters to debate with unbelievers espeically if the person walked away from the truth or was disfellowshipped.
Micahel obviously had his problems, and he may have swayed but he knew exactly who to leave his children with if he passed away. Fully knowing that his Mother is a dedicated Jehovah Witness, clearly shows that Micahel wanted his children to get the truth. If something happens to his mother, I pray that his eldest sister Rebbie gains custody so that Micahel’s children can learn Jehovah’s plan for the future right here on this earth! Again Micahel had no doubt in his mind that leaving his kids with his mother would mean that his children would be attending the Kingdom Hall where they would learn the truth! Amen he did a wonderful thing
MsSugarBabies2U
July 20, 2009 at 5:07 am
Micahel may have been crazy but Micahel was not that crazy LOL. He knows Jehovah, trust and believe!
MsSugarBabies2U
July 20, 2009 at 5:09 am
Was Michael ever baptized? I heard so but not sure if its true. The media claim many people who were exposed to the faith as being JW’s but they are not, they grew up around the truth but never made the truth their own so I’m wondering if Michael fell into that category because I find it difficult to believe a brother would give the talk at the private memorial if Micahel was disfellowshipped, but I guess, it’s possible, umm..not sure about that.
MsSugarBabies2U
July 20, 2009 at 5:16 am
Why would you close this thread to further comment? Oh, yeah, because you want the last word!
crazynot
July 20, 2009 at 7:32 am
Of course I do, crazynot! The last time I checked, it was MY blog! Continue reading The Kaleidoscope Factor! Thanks for your comments!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 8:03 pm
WE as JW must remember to follow the bible principle. Perhaps not to lean upon our own understanding!!!!!!!is very important to knw that!
sarah
September 1, 2009 at 3:16 pm
Dear friend;
Thank you for your kind statement regarding the growth that comes when you are truly trying to follow God’s word. It is often seen that people share their negative comments about Jehovah’s Witnesses. But there are millions of people all around the world who are active in their churches and never see correction for their behavior so that God’s spirit will continually work to keep their congregation strong and truly sharing their faith as one sees with Jehovah’s Witnesses. I was not raised as a Jehovah’s Witness, but since my teens have examined several religious organizations. And it is true Jehovah’s Witnesses are not robots, nor are they perfect in their private lives, but they continue to try to meet Jesus’s standards, and are corrected when they are veering toward behaviors that reflect this world’s ideas, which are not God’s thoughts. The scriptures say those who are trying to have a relationship with their creator will see the Bible teachings clearer and clearer as time goes on. That is why Jehovah’s Witnesses are over time changing their understanding of how to apply the scriptures. Since no man is perfect we may never have a 100% accurate understanding of the Bible, but there is no denying that Jehovah has asked us all to use his name to recognize his sovereignty over this creation. And Jehovah’s Witnesses are the only religion willing to expound God’s qualities and his purpose for the Earth and humans. READ God’s word daily, and it will give you further insight into who God is and what he purposed for man on the Earth.
davix
September 5, 2009 at 1:49 am
Well I guess we’re about to find out just how loving the JW’s really are. I’ve taken the liberty of printing this entire thread and I’m gonna send it to Suzanne’s congregation in NJ. Surely a loving group such as the JW’s won’t care that she’s here, or will they? For anyone else in society this wouldn’t be a problem. I wonder if it will be for poor Suzanne?
Alex
September 17, 2009 at 3:58 pm
See the devil’s plan is working threw this site DIVISION, war arguing and fighting. Everyone is trying to be GOD, judging others, dictating trying to take control over the next person assuming what they chose or what they are doing is the only way.
Do as you do, believe as you believe and pray that in the end you made a good choice, everyone will have to face JESUS on Judgement day so that is covered, in the mean time just take the steps to live on a positive tip, not trying to force and control other faiths out here. you see some of these posts, people are buggin causing problems among each other simply because someone believes different, and honestly we don’t know who is right but you have that freedom to chose this is AMERICA in the end of life the truth will be revealed those people who doubt each other maybe in for a shock and end up in the same place with that person apoligizing to each other. GOD is about peace, love and unity love thy neighbor, be a good saramtin no matter how you are being treated by others pray for each other and ourselves.
lonniekeith
September 19, 2009 at 3:24 pm
PEACE & LOVE
lonniekeith
September 19, 2009 at 3:26 pm
peace
lonniekeith
September 19, 2009 at 3:27 pm
I feel that it is michael right to have his children raised the way he wants, as do all of us and to critize him in any way is not our right. the golden rule as stated in matthew 7:12 we should all pactice. as for th JW’s its is also our right to worship God with our God given free will.and to do as stated in God’s word at John 17:3 AND THAT IS WHAT WE TRY TO DO. Also we do what is stated at matt.10:14, bible readers know what they state. all other please look them up. and as Jehovah witnesses we have the greater commission which is stated by Jesus at Matt.28:19,20. And in order to do that we have to do what god states at Acts 17:11 “examining the scriptures daily as to whether these things are so”. Therefore folowing the bible teachings is what make us Jehovah’s witnesses as it states in Isa.43;10 “you are my witnesses is the utterance of Jehovah ” and we are in good company because at rev. 1:5 Jesus Christ was clled “THE FAITHFUL WITNESS.” SO we wear the title proudly and do our uptmost to live up to it. I also advise people that have not attended the kingdom hall no to speculate on wht happens there and know that god’s doors are open to all. And those who have left to try to cultivate a repentant spirit and God himself will guide you to him. Because remember it is God that choose, Jesus stated that at John 6:44″no man can come to me unless the father who sent me draws him.” So it is neither you nor i that choose his witnesses it he himself Jehovah that choose.
lucymae
October 6, 2009 at 5:58 pm
Thank you for your comment, Lucy Mae! Keep on reading The Kaleidoscope Factor!
Tracey Ricks Foster
October 6, 2009 at 7:04 pm
hola dejen a los niños de michael . es muy feo
florencia
October 27, 2009 at 11:39 pm
The sparks of truth, once taken hold of, are fortunately the hardest thing in the world to extinguish. I have always suspected that michael never entirely gave this up, and am very happy to see this being passed down to his following generations. Investigate Jehovah’s Witnesses NOW, and consider what they are saying while there is still time. Just as Noah was called crazy, and ridiculed, probably right up to the point where the rain started, so it will be in the time of the end. Jehovah’s people are currently exhausting thier recources, to share some VERY important information, about the time we live in, so that you dont have to be standing “outside” when it begin’s to “rain”. I beg you for the sake of your family, and yourself to investigate what this organization is really saying. SERVE THE TRUE GOD JEHOVAH, WHILE THERE IS STILL TIME!
Bad Man Alive
November 1, 2009 at 4:40 pm
Tracey,
You have done well on your research on JWs I hope others well do same before blubbing out loud.
Paul
November 14, 2009 at 2:37 am
Thanks for your comments, Paul! Keep reading The Washington Review!
Tracey Ricks Foster
November 14, 2009 at 6:32 pm
Brothers,
1) The true God of heaven does not need people to defend him, his organization (the 144,000) or their associates who have an earthly hope. Jehovah God is more than capable of speaking for himself. He will do such in a perfect and conclusive way when the time is right. (Judges 6:31-32, Ezekiel 38:19).
2) Christ Brothers are no part of the world and so should their associates be (John 15:9). It is an act of disobedience on a true Christian’s part to our Lord, if we argue about matters of faith in the world or with the world, even when they attack, criticize, or reproach us. To make a defense for the hope we have, should only come if someone sincerely demands such out of interest. That is our biblical directive for which we stand ready. Our Master said we should turn the other check and pray for our attackers’, right? However, we do not throw pearls to those who cannot & will not appreciate them (Matthew 5:38-48 & Matthew 7:6).
3) Brother Paul, the Apostle, said: nor to pay attention to false stories and to genealogies, which end up in nothing, but which furnish questions for research rather than a dispensing of anything by God in connection with faith (1 Timothy 1:4). Hence, this arguing back and forth and defending doctrine, faith, deeds and so forth, is useless and against the Law of the Christ. To obey is better than to sacrifice because we were already disobedient. So, obey and keep silent when under attack, like our Lord’s example when under trial teaches us.
Brothers, obey the true God of Heaven and the King Jesus Christ. Let folks speak what they might about The Jacksons, JW’s, Bloodless, and whatever else they’d like to discuss. It really is okay. It will likely get much worse soon. (See Matthew 5:11-12 & Psalms 2 in it’s entirety).
I wish you all peace, if God’s willing.
both faithful & discrete
November 22, 2009 at 4:35 am
hey iam sorry about your dad dead we will all miss him in love him too we will aw saw love you be seft in have fun in you lift tooo may he r.i.p michael jackson
darice fleming
December 1, 2009 at 6:36 pm
Well, saying that Jehovah’s Witnesses are “one of the fiercest killers of their own members ever known to man” is a bit of a stretch, isn’t it? I try to look at the world objectively as a journalist and I do believe that you, Alex, are being just a tad bit biased there.
If you look back through history, it is Catholicism and it’s off-shoots, Protestant amd Methodist, that carry the title of being one of the fiercest killers ever known to man. Millions upon millions of lives have been lost due to the religious leadership of a long line of Popes. I don’t see charges being brought up on the current Pope. It is the Catholic Church that sanctioned the kidnapping and trade of millions of Africans into slavery here in America and Europe. Hundreds of thousands of Africans died during the travel between Africa and America known as the Middle Passage. The Catholic Church brutally tortured and killed members who questioned the Church’s teachings. Priests and Bishops have been molesting children for hundreds of years! Not only that, the Catholic Church is behind some of history’s most heinous wars! During World War I & II, the Pope blessed warfare.
Millions of Jews were killed during the Catholic Church sanctioned Holocaust.
Ummmm, I have to say that you have spoken too soon in your assessment. Jehovah’s Witnesses may believe or used to believe in a lot quirky things, but I stand behind my argument. Nothing is as crazy as teaching little African American children that there is a white man who is going to somehow come down a chimney and grant their every desire. Nothing is as crazy as teaching children that somehow a bunny and dyed eggs have some type of Biblical tie to Jesus Christ. Christianity and the Catholic Church believe a host of doctrines that are crazy and make absolutely no sense. I don’t see anyone, Christian or Catholic speak out against Halloween. Now that’s some crazy stuff there!
Instead of slandering a little group of Jehovah’s Witnesses, maybe you should focus on catching the BIG fish and roasting it.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 17, 2009 at 12:10 am
Hi Truthseeker!
I don’t know if your comments are directed at me or another reader.
But I’ll bite!
In the grand scheme of things, Truthseeker, none of us humans are perfect. That is a fact. But this discussion began with a reader throwing pot shots at a religious group based on the grounds of hatred or dislike, with the intent of slandering and disrespecting unjustifiably.
Regardless of what my religious beliefs may or may not be, I only rely on the facts. I am not judgmental nor am I ignorant, if you were referring to me. I am very intelligent in fact. No one is saying that Jehovah’s Witnesses are perfect and not capable of screwing up. But the reader made note that Jehovah’s Witnesses as a WHOLE ENTITY are a cult. When you think of a cult, what comes to mind? Manson. Jim Jones’ Peoples Temple. David Koresh. Hey! I’ll even throw in the the Third Reich! To call a religious group a cult without justification or grounds is the hallmark of ignorance. Can you find any Jw’s who voted in this last election? Do you know any JW’s who enlisted in the Armed Forces after 9/11? Are there any Kingdom Halls in your community that hosts Bingo Night, election debates, or polls? Are Jehovah’s Witnesses leading their members to kill their fellow humans or other Jehovah’s Witnesses based on ethnicity, religion, political or socio economic background?
I think not. Even I know this. But there is a religion somewhere on the earth today that does. All in the name of God.
Serena and Venus Williams were RAISED as Jehovah’s Witnesses. They are not card carrying Jehovah’s Witnesses officially. Like the Jacksons. The only true card-carrying Witnesses in that family is Katherine and eldest sibling, Rebe. Just like Sherrie Shepherd of “The View.” RAISED as a Witness. But not a member.
Just a thought. We seem to sling that word “cult” and “ignorance” around a lot. Perhaps before we use that type of language, we define the words and then make a quick comparison. You’d be surprised at how quickly adjustments in thinking or logic are modified.
Thank You Truthseeker for reading The Kaleidoscope Factor!
Oh, and I stand by my original response: all those who “claim” to practice Christianity but don’t live by the principles of Christ, well, I group them as a cult. Anything outside of what Christ taught, according to what Christians hold dear, the Bible, the Word of God that Christians treasure, is a cult. A crude splinter of the real thing.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 17, 2009 at 3:02 am
Truthseeker,
Perhaps you need to speak to one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and get the real scoop from them. Based on what I have researched as a journalist, JW’s believe in free choice. If you study with them and find out that you disagree, you and only YOU have the power to end those discussions and move forward with your life. No one pushes a person head first into the waters of baptism. Just like a fraternity or sorority, if you’re inducted into the group, you abide by the rules. The regulations to be a Jehovah’s Witness is not secretive, but very public. You can’t blame Jehovah’s Witnesses of ‘Bait and Switch.’ Why would you join something if you were not comfortable with it? Stop putting down other peoples right to free speech and religion just because you don’t agree with it. If you don’t like it, then it’s not for you, so don’t join!
JW’s have also instituted a new set of procautions and procedures to keep out pedophiles and other predators. I received info on that recently. I have yet to get a drop of info from the Catholic Church.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 17, 2009 at 3:30 am
Thank you Tracey for all your comments and thoughts, clearly well researched. I wish all would take a bit of time to do some research before making such accusations although admitedly I have found that those who bash the witnesses or try to get others stirred up were usually witnesses themselves. As I stated previously and you stated above no one forced these ones to make the decisions they made especially if it included baptism. And if they were brought up as witnesses, when they became young adults the choice was their own to make. But I guess like any child, if you don’t get your way, just throw a tantrum, blame everyone else around you. Someone eventually is sure to take notice and feel sorry for you.
Violet
July 17, 2009 at 4:08 pm
Thank you sooo much for sticking to the facts and “being real”. Thanks again for commenting and giving us all a chance to chime in…may God bless you.
CiCi
July 18, 2009 at 2:10 am
Yes, I heard that the private memorial service was presided by a Jehovah’s Witness. Thank you for your comment, Ann! Continue reading The Kaleidoscope Factor!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 17, 2009 at 4:33 pm
ok!! well said
tomieka j
July 17, 2009 at 6:41 pm
Thank you Tracey Ricks Foster!
DRT
July 17, 2009 at 8:03 pm
So because there are others just as bad its ok for you do the same?
Please read your own history before you go judging others.
wp
July 17, 2009 at 10:34 pm
“as a journalist”: how many times are you going to tell us you’re a “journalist”?
He that protesteth too much….
crazynot
July 20, 2009 at 7:24 am
I am not nor have ever been a witness, but I have read their publications and their “news”.
Please read your own history before you condemn those who have.
thank you
wp
July 17, 2009 at 10:37 pm
Okay. This was a great discussion! I want to Thank everyone that commented on The Kaleidoscope Factor! Especially the Jehovah’s Witnesses that wrote in to defend their faith. I applaud you and appreciate your heartfelt comments.
To those that chose to throw rocks instead of listening to reason, well, my two questions still remain if anyone out there care to answer it:
Why do those who profess to be “Christians” and practice “Christianity” celebrate Christ’s birthday on a pagan religious holiday date?
Where did the practice of the Easter bunny laying multi-colored eggs once a year come from, and how does it connect to Christianity and Jesus Christ?
I believe that the form of “Christianity” that is being practiced right now is responsible for the millions upon millions of people who have died for it, lived for it and been suckered into it.
If you can give me an answer to those questions, maybe you have a valid point about Jehovah’s Witnesses. But I suspect that many of you don’t. Christianity as a whole is far more responsible for the state the world is in than Jehovah’s Witnesses. Perhaps instead of wasting time throwing stones at a group of loving, sincere people worshipping the way they want by choice; mmaybe you should concentrate on EXPOSING the religions of the world for their hypocrisy and lies!
No more comments will be accepted on this particular subject!
Thanks Again and continue to read The Kaleidoscope Factor!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 17, 2009 at 11:47 pm
I actually have read the JW’s “history”…what exactly are you condeming? Did they kill people or something? State your source material
CiCi
July 18, 2009 at 2:15 am
This is the problem right here. You have no objectivity. You believe that all seven million Jw’s around the world are fanatical like your folks were.
All JW’s are not fanatical and do not think illogically. Everyone is different. Everyone worships different. Blood transfusions are not 100% and I know plenty of people who have had them in life and death situations and have still died. If the body does not begin to produce the cells needed to make blood, it doesn’t matter how much a patient is transfused, death is the eventuality. A blood transfusion is a band-aid. There are other life-saving methods that work as opposed to transfusing blood all the time. Do you know how much blood costs per patient? I’ve worked in hospitals and blood ain’t cheap! But it’s the first thing that a doctor will prescribe for any situation. But that does not mean that it is going to work.
There are many medical situations that arise when a prescribed treatment is not the only option. Parents and family members have the right to research these and come up with other solutions. Doctors are not Gods. They make mistakes too! Malpractice lawyers will tell you that! I had a really good friend who died of sickle cell anemia. Her parents were told that a blood transfusion would save her life. It didn’t. She died at twelve. Her parents were taken to court because of their decision not give their daughter a transfusion. The hospital argued that with the transfusion, she would die.
But she died anyway. The blood did not save her. Now what? That was almost thirty years ago. So, a blood transfusion is not a miracle saver. I have seen liters and liters of blood used and wasted on hospital operating and emergency room floors from transfusions and patients have still died. Hospitals and doctors know this. They also know how much the bill will be for all of that blood. Blood transfusions are nothing more than an expensive medical cost that the consumer pays believing that it is necessary.
How do I know this bit of insider info? Because of my day job. As a…….
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 2:41 am
How many adults end up bankrupt from celebrating a lie? Needing to buy presents on one particular day of the year that is supposed to have some sort religious relevance but don’t? How many people this year spent what they didn’t have to perpetuate a lie? How many out of these are in therapy suffering from anxiety attacks? How many people are in prisons because they decided to something criminal so that their family could have a Christmas? How many children are in therapy because their parents are in jail?
How is it that America is in a war that has killed thousands of young people based on a lie? How many parents of these children are in therapy because of this lie? Well, what’s wrong with lying? It’s ok to lie, right? We tell children that Santa exists like we told them as they gave their lives that WMD’s exists.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 2:51 am
Tracey: I totally agree with you that there are alot of Jws that are loving and sincere worshipping the way they want by choice
and especially the next part of the sentence
EXPOSING the religions of the world for their hypocrisy and lies.
I believe we have a moral duty to talk facts. Facts are either true or false. Beliefs are something different.
The watchtower society is not god nor should it be put in the place of god.
To separate the two is to know that exposing the watchtower is not to take god away from the JWs
but like Jesus exposed the pharasies.
wp
July 20, 2009 at 2:54 am
Because Christianity WON over paganism, by taking over their holidays which were the center of pagan culture, Christians showed respect for the culture, yet at the same time triumphed over the pagan gods! By REPLACING the pagan holidays with Christian holidays, Christianity showed that the pagan holidays could easily be replaced, thus proving the TRIUMPH! By the mere fact that those pagan holidays are dead and gone, yet Christian holidays have replaced them, it shows the triumph is everlasting!
BTW, don’t JWs celebrate anniversaries? An birthday is an anniversary of one’s birth.
crazynot
July 20, 2009 at 7:30 am
But a spiritual person would not approve of unscriptural behavior on the part of anyone that is supposedly devoted to their religion.
I have cut off family members who were drug dealers, dope fiends, prostitutes, habitual baby factories for pay and ones with loose morals. Those are MY rules. And if my children happen to fall into the same category, they will receive the same treatment. I do not tolerate hypocrisy.
Those who are excommunicated from the Jehovah’s Witness group have become hypocrites of what they profess to believe. They practice it. They live it. I know I wouldn’t want someone toteing a Bible trying to tell me something about Christ and they don’t believe it or live it.
Unlike some notable televangelists I know of who would rather preach a sin to the congregation and live in sin in secret. That is called hypocrisy. Those who are kicked out of the JW’s? Maybe they shouldn’t have decided to walk a path not cut out for them. If a JW wants to get high, have sex with whomever they want, when they want; sell dope, be a con artist, or just be who they are, not a JW, they shouldn’t be one.
What’s wrong with that? Just like a fraternity or sorority. Abide by the rules or become an inactive member or terminate your membership.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 3:11 am
Name them and tell me what redemming qualities these religions have. Along with that, explain how these religions are the gems of spiritual healing that you claim.
No ones answered my two questions from the beginning of this discussion. I suppose that all of this JW Hate Club rhetoric is just that:
Empty rhetoric.
And….Haterade personified.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 3:18 am
I’m sure that my LGBT readers would like to know what religions you are talking about as well. So, please enlighten us with your response and list thereof.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 3:20 am
for some reason my reply got stuck up under an earlier post…
for the LOVE OF GOD
why do you have to have names of religions?
what difference does it make. Bit of an obsession?
God is not religion and religion is not God
A religion does not make you spiritual
Sometimes it can be a good tool, and other times it can blind.
wp
July 20, 2009 at 4:37 am
If you were the legal counsel for either parties, then you would know this information. And can you tell me about any SECRET priest manuals that Catholics have come up with to deal with the pedophile situation in the church? Can you come up with ANY data from any religious organization that addresses this matter of pedophilia and procedures on how to deal with members who are sexual predators?
I am sure that if you are this vigiliant in the area of catching and bringing to justice sexual predators in the JW group, you must be proficient at helping children period.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 4:50 am
Oh, I beg to differ. All of my points are very much valid and interrelated. Making blanket statements and slandering a group of people because you’re predjudiced against it shows a lack of character. I know plenty about JW’s and have done extensive research and interviews.
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 5:26 am
I have interviewed over five hundred active Witnesses.
But doesn’t it go back to this:
If I had said “Yes, I am one of Jehovah’s Witnesses” then what would the comments be? “Oh, she is blind and doesn’t want to see the truth!” or “She can’t read what is in front of her” right?
It really doesn’t matter whether or not you have walked in a person’s shoes to be able to understand and be compassionate. I don’t have to live the Holocaust to know that ethnic cleansing is morally wrong. There is no clear cut road in this discussion because everyone wants to be right without looking at both sides of the coin. Out of seven million JW’s in the world, can one honestly say that every last JW is a hypocritical fanatic-like pedophile?
If you read the responses to this post, you would be led to think so. I am sure, Jonesy, that you agree with me on that point. It would seem that we as human beings have this sense built into us that makes us want to be a part of a collective; something larger than ourselves. I believe that everyone has to chose which collective makes them comfortable and secure. I do believe in choice. God made us with a brain and the capacity to think at will.
I appreciate your comments, Jonesy, and wish you the best!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Christianity did not WIN over paganism, crazynot! Check your info! Christianity ABSORBED pagan culture. Pagan holidays were not replaced. Just the names of them changed. In fact, there are a number of pagan influences in this country and around the world that Christianity proudly embraces as one of its’ own.
Since you say that I am not a “journalist,” and obviously you are the authority, I am sure that you are very shocked by the number of scholars and historians that have found that Christmas is FULL of pagan symbols and rituals! Any old person can just Google the topic of Christmas and research this. The History and Discovery Channels have documented a ton of info regarding the absorbtion of pagan; ie. Egyptian, Greek and Roman beliefs into Christianity.
And guess what? You don’t even have to be a “journalist” to watch!
Tracey Ricks Foster
July 20, 2009 at 8:13 pm
No, God is not religion, but, worship is religious and when you worship God it is a religion.
How you worship him should be up to him – not you. So, if he says that THIS is how he wishes to be worshiped, who are we to tell him no?
And, as to the names, well – how else will you tell yourselves apart from other people who worship differently, or different deities altogether?
Jehovah’s Witnesses – the name makes a very bold statement, of fact. They are not “Russelites”, who worship the thoughts of a man whose last name was Russel, as some other religions have named themselves after people who demanded a change in teaching. They are not claiming to be anything but witnesses, those who teach the good news of the Kingdom, and that they do this work for Jehovah.
If someone tells you, in truth, that they are one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, you know much about them – you know walks of life which they do not partake in, and walks of life of which they do.
That is what names are for.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints means something to. Though, it does not mean the same thing to people who believe in the religion as it does to me. Yet, in both cases, it means some of the same things. I know, more or less what they stand for, as soon as they say their name or their nickname “Mormon”.
It is the same reason why anything is named – people want you to know who they are. Also it is a great time saver, rather than constantly having to play “20 Questions” x 100, just to establish if you are talking to someone who believes as you do, or etc.
And, it is important -because people who believe as you do are restful to talk to, they are an oasis in the world, they are your brothers and sisters.
Also, it makes it hard to know which building to congregate at, to share joys and sorrows, teachings and travails, if you do not know who you are.
So,yes, for the love of God, one must proudly take one’s stand and declare one’s intent. A name spoken with boldness is a good way to start.
Arletta
October 27, 2009 at 1:53 am
Hi Arletta,
I notice that you had a lot to get off your chest! LOL! That’s fine. I enjoyed reading your comments. They were very thought provoking and interesting.
The Kaleidoscope Factor is an online blog that features news and commentary pertaining to the African American community. The commentary is bits of opinion that can be assessed in many different and unique platforms. News should be viewed in a kaleidoscope: various shades of color that fit your reality.
However, since the focus of The Kaleidoscope Factor is changing/evolving, the name of this blog has changed, too.
The new name of this blog will be THE WASHINGTON REVIEW & COMMENTARY. We will still feature important news items, but celebrity gossip on the blog will not have a home.
I hope that you continue to read my blog!
Thanks for your comment, Arletta! I am sure that other readers will greatly benefit from you what you have written!
Peace ~ Tracey
Tracey Ricks Foster
October 27, 2009 at 2:14 am