I've been out for about 13 years myself. I think you have to actively work at getting rid of the anger. It doesn't just leave. For me that's meant a lot of therapy and a lot of forgiveness (of my parents for making this religion a part of my life, of myself for going along with it so much longer than I wish I had, my brother and my old friends for shunning me). I'm the mother of two wonderful teenagers, and I feel I need to be happy for them.

I have tried to find reasons to be thankful for having been part of that religion. I am known for giving great presentations at work and not being afraid to speak in front of others. I owe that to the theocratic ministry school. It's gotten me far in my career.

Also, maybe most important, I feel that the best way to show other JW's who may be thinking of leaving that it's worth it is to be happy! To have a healthy, fulfilling existence outside of that organization. I work hard at it so that my parents can see that my life wasn't destroyed when I left. I have a wonderful faithful husband, well-behaved kids, a great group of friends. If I'm bitter or sad in front of them I'm certain they'll blame it on my apostate ways!