Hello Wingnut, apologies on the crappy day. Yeah associations with new people in general are hard to come by especially feeling like no one understands what your going through. Do you have hobbies that others in your community participate in? Sometimes having a common interest opens up the path for communication. Some people are quite content not being social. Others not so much. Best way to meet people is go where they are... Go to car shows, gun shows, golfing, the gym, or anywhere that you can enjoy yourself with or without company and don't wait for others to approach you. Strike up a conversation with someone but avoid the topics that you seem to find "rub" people the wrong way. Keep it light instead of abrasive or intrusive.

As far as befriending ex jws, it seems as though they are the ones who can relate to how the organization can manipulate our thinking into always having some nagging thought brought up. Anyway, that seems to be the biggest common ground and basis to strike up conversations and friendships...

anyway, just my thoughts. Have a great day!