The marriage issue is just one of the many detrimental side effects of the culture as a whole. With so many missteps to point out, it probably stands as the most damaging and far-reaching.
As a word of encouragement, I believe the hardcore DR dynamic has atrophied significantly among the rank and file over the years, and applies more to the ‘policy-makers’ and the ones who carry it out. Those who are not seeking to climb the hierarchical ladder seem less inclined to raise their hand before going to the bathroom. Since most of the top spots have already been filled, and with no expansion on the horizon, there is little to aspire to. With the lack of any cohesive vision, the organization is little more than a ‘normal’ neighborhood church, with only lingering effects of the cult it once was.
All that said, it does not mean there are not lasting effects from bygone years, especially for those who have invested decades or grown up under the influence. The culture of fear still has a strong subliminal hold on many who see no life beyond the fellowship. In the light of recent developments, there is more reason than ever to be encouraged. The mediating force of the ‘holy trinity’ has left the scene, leaving only a party of two with conflicting agendas. Sooner or later someone is going to get a peek behind the curtain and begin to spill the beans. There will then be the opportunity for the little people to sow their oats and begin to taste the freedom that lies beyond what was formerly keeping them from it.
As a word of encouragement, I believe the hardcore DR dynamic has atrophied significantly among the rank and file over the years, and applies more to the ‘policy-makers’ and the ones who carry it out. Those who are not seeking to climb the hierarchical ladder seem less inclined to raise their hand before going to the bathroom. Since most of the top spots have already been filled, and with no expansion on the horizon, there is little to aspire to. With the lack of any cohesive vision, the organization is little more than a ‘normal’ neighborhood church, with only lingering effects of the cult it once was.
All that said, it does not mean there are not lasting effects from bygone years, especially for those who have invested decades or grown up under the influence. The culture of fear still has a strong subliminal hold on many who see no life beyond the fellowship. In the light of recent developments, there is more reason than ever to be encouraged. The mediating force of the ‘holy trinity’ has left the scene, leaving only a party of two with conflicting agendas. Sooner or later someone is going to get a peek behind the curtain and begin to spill the beans. There will then be the opportunity for the little people to sow their oats and begin to taste the freedom that lies beyond what was formerly keeping them from it.