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.

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

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

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

My goodness, I'm shocked at the outpouring of welcome and empathy here! Thank you all for the kind words and for taking the time to read my post. I'm excited to learn

When stepping away from heavy indoctrination & control, it can be helpful to keep in mind Plato's allegory of the cave, reminding oneself of it frequently. Dealing with reality on reality's terms can be a struggle but it's truly what life is about, IMO.

Many of us can empathize with your helping your parents with their challenges. Through it all, keep looking to your newfound reality-based community for support. We truly wish you every success along this new path of your journey.

Welcome and stay true to yourself.

Welcome. The only way is up now.

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.

Welcome to the asylum. Enjoy your stay.

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

Wow, welcome and best wishes to you.

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

Welcome aboard. I do hope you enjoy your stay.

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

Welcome! And congratulations on your newfound freedom!

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

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.

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.

Welcome. There are many here with similar experiences.

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

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.

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.

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.

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