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Hello everyone! I'm a recovering ex-cult member and joined this site in an effort to learn more about life after religion.
I didn't realise I was raised in a cult until I (finally) went to a non-religious therapist, and she opened my eyes to a lot of things. Grateful to have the second half of my life to explore and learn about this gorgeous world we live in.
Since packing my suitcase and leaving home, I've sold a house, gotten divorced, lost my beloved teaching job, and learned both my parents have terminal illnesses. It's been a rollercoaster, but I'm keeping my head up and swimming along.
Looking forward to interacting with others here who have had similar experiences.

OutreDragon 4 Apr 23
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Enjoy being online again!

Welcome to the community of good people who base their values on evidence and appreciate civil discourse - the social network you will enjoy.

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34 comments

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2

Welcome and stay true to yourself.

3

Welcome. The only way is up now.

4

Welcome, and remember that life itself is a rollercoaster ride. I've never had a therapist but a non-religious one would be the only way to go.

3

Welcome to the asylum. Enjoy your stay.

3

Wow . Welcome to the community . That's quite a ride you have had.

1

What you described is a lot...first, my heart goes out to you! I would suggest that you keep your life as simple as possible. If you keep the small things managed, that will help maintain confidence when you must tackle the bigger ones. At least as you adjust to your new life without the ‘cult,’ you will gather momentum and adjust your life in a way that nurtures and supports your nature. Be patient...you are building something different, learn to feel the ground beneath your feet and carry your head with a sense of purpose. If you error, no big deal, just do things differently, you will feel more leveled out as time passes. And, don’t forget to recognize the joy and beauty in the small things. They will be the tonic, when so many things seem to be deteriorating all at once. Make a life that fits you...that always works. My best to you.

Thank you so much! 🙂 patience is a tough one for me...

@OutreDragon when your patience has warn thin...and after you may need to scream...have a talk with yourself, as you would any good friend (maybe even a stranger) be kind and supportive and remind yourself that you still have a life to live! And LIVE it! An aching heart does not indicate your life is a failure...

3

Wow, welcome and best wishes to you.

3

Welcome to the freedom that science thinking can give you. It is not as difficult as you suppose.

3

Welcome aboard. I do hope you enjoy your stay.

2

Welcome. there are some nice people here. What was the cult if you are interested in discussing it ?.

3

Welcome! And congratulations on your newfound freedom!

1

G'day! Any particular flavour of cult? Just asking our of idle curiosity, so please feel free to ignore.

Independent fundamental KJV-only slap-your-grandma Baptist.

@OutreDragon Oooh, nasty.

2

i can't even imagine -- i was raised so differently. i admire your ability to break free and to sound so cheerful even during such a ride. welcome!

g

2

In one way or another, were we all raised in a cult. But some are a lot worse than others. I joined the Air Force to get out of mine. Then when I went back, I was an atheist. Haha.

1

Welcome! Please don't get offended,scared or annoyed by anyone ?

It takes a heck of a lot to offend me, especially online, where IMHO the best approach is to 1) take everything with a grain of salt and 2) assume everyone has the best possible intentions 🙂

4

Sometimes in life it's enough to keep your head above the water in survival mode. I excaped the catholic church but sadly after I allowed my children to be indoctrinated.

2

Welcome. There are many here with similar experiences.

2

First congratulations on getting out the cult. Houses are sold everyday. Divorcing your spouse is a big step, and sometimes necessary. Regarding teaching, once you are a teacher, you will always be a teacher (is in your blood) I am sorry for your parents, it is always sad, but that's our nature. be always aware and enjoy every moment of your life

Mike2 Level 2 Apr 23, 2019
0

I forgot to mention, my spouse and I don't see each other eye-to-eye. A divorce seems inevitable. My mom passed away recently, and my dad has continuous health issues. But that's what life is about. I was a teacher, and I miss teaching a lot.

Mike2 Level 2 Apr 23, 2019
3

As you transition out of theism, remember… Just as you never feared the alleged afterlives of other religions, you have no reason to fear the afterlife of your former religion. -HTG

Wow this quote hit me hard. Thank you.

2

It's tough to wriggle out of the grasp of cultists, especially if your parents are members. I congratulate you, sympathize that you had to go through that, and welcome you to the world of reason, as well as to this site. Your mind will take you as far as you let it. 🤓

2

Now that you have shaken off the shackles of religion you will begin to feel the elations that come with true Freedom of the Mind and the Body.
Welcome to Reality, the ONLY place truly worth living in.

1

That's a lot to lose, but also a lot to gain.

SCal Level 7 Apr 23, 2019
2

Unfortunately we don't deceive and offer mystical comfort, but life is indeed precious and short, so I hope you and your parents can find some happiness through all this. Welcome to the group!

1

Very sorry to hear of your parents’ illness...that’s the biggie in your statement.

I offer condolences or congratulations on your divorce...please accept whichever applies.

...everything else can be replaced...enjoy the adventure.

There’s nice people here.

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