Hi Papillon1960,

In terms of impact it probably doesn't matter that much whether one writes a DA letter or not. If you're out in the open and make it known through words or actions you disagree with some JW views it is very likely you'll have an announcement made that you're not one of Jehovah's Witnesses. This of course carries the implied label of "wicked" (1 Cor 5:13) along with the implied command to shun.

I have mixed feelings about whether this should be allowed lawfully or not. The problem is for a non-involved former member such action violate two laws here in the USA (1) invasion of privacy and (2) defamation of character. The problem is these laws must be balanced against freedom of speech and freedom of religion. If a good case precedent could be set that would protect one from privacy invasion and defamation yet not seriously impact freedom of speech and religion such would be wonderful.

That Jehovah's Witnesses choose to disregard (1) and (2) because they can, is not the same as saying their practice is reasonable.  Thus, for me, I would view writing a DA letter as tacit acknowledgement the practice is agreeable.  It is not, therefore I don't write.

On Tuesday I had the privileged of conducting a funeral service. Both myself and my friend who asked me are atheists. Yet he knew I still have a fondness for scripture, read it regularly and quote it. When asked, I told him I could find a few verses to read that would be comforting to everyone without offending religious ones in attendance. After the service a woman came up to me and said, "I understand you were once one of Jehovah's Witnesses", I replied, "yes". She then added that my service sounded familiar.  She also recognized my use of the NWT. I told I had left the faith in 2007 and now don't believe in God.  The conversaion was both nice and comfortable.  Had I written a DA letter I think I would have felt different.  In actual fact an announcement was made about me.  However I'm on record as having objected and now I don't acknowledge it. It wasn't my choice.  An acknowledgement feels to me like approval.

I am not suggesting I would hide anything (such is not even part of my character).  If someone asked specifically, I would report what I know, but that includes the fact I never sent a DA letter.

Cheers,
-Randy