Jaded, it does make sense to miss it at times. I spent the first 22 years of my life in that cult. I can't say that I no longer get angry at times, because I do. But like you said, I realize that my parents thought they were doing what was best for me in their eyes. It took awhile to come to that conclusion, but once I did I felt a weight come off of my shoulders. I am no longer resentful towards my parents. And that was a very big unhealthy part of me for a long time. I'm still upset that I was homeschooled, not allowed the experiences of a normal teenager. And not allowed to get an actual highschool diploma so that I could attend college. But I am now working towards getting a GED, which will be a big thing for me.

I think for the most part, realizing that I will never again allow someone to control my thoughts and actions, because I know better, is a big thing that I can be proud and thankful for. I see others in my life who attend some sort of church and let that church rule their lives, and I can't help but giggle. So that is something we can all be proud to know. I still haven't gotten past the dislike of organized religion, like you. But I have studied other religions in depth and am proud to say that I have my own little spiritual world right here in my own home. I don't need anyone else to tell me what to believe, or how to act. And that is quite liberating.