Governing Body Fantasy: Do Governments Fear Jehovah's Witnesses and Book Carts? 

I'm glad you put this out so early this morning. I couldn't sleep and was glad to see it. I'm listening right now and it is your usual well-thought-out work. My husband died unexpectedly last December after being ill for several years and he had previously been an elder, pioneer, m.s., all the usual life-wasters. We were both "dubs" our whole lives and of course got shunned by everyone including family when we let it be known we were JWs no more. But he would always say on Monday morning, "Okay, Stace, what do you have for us today?" And we would listen to you together. Your humor is uplifting and helps in healing. Just wanted to let you know

Kenny rogers and his clone army😂😂😂😂

That image of screens in a control room of world leaders seeking JW leaders and followers, for punishment always makes me laugh. Glad you made a podcast on this one.

As a black man, I wonder if Sam Herd has ever thought about the fact that when he goes to heaven and becomes part of Jesus’ army that he’s gonna turn into a white man? At least according to every JW illustration I’ve ever seen. He probably can’t wait knowing him! He’s probably wanted to be white his whole whole life.

I remember being told that we didnt follow men only Jehovah. But now they have 9 'kings' 😂😂

The last thing the elders said to me over 2 decades ago before I left that cult for good was to warn (threaten?) me that Armageddon was just around the corner. I sometimes think of them, and imagine they are still stood there on the corner of the kingdom hall, saying the same thing to other fading 19- year olds about to make their great escape 😂 Rinse and repeat.

This whole thing reminds me of something called “Main Character Syndrome”. It is the belief that you are the ‘Main Character’ of ‘your story’ and that everybody around you is a ‘side character’. This phenomenon is usually seen in certain communities for example I have seen many fans of anime act like they are the ‘Main Character’ and the way the Governing Body act is very similar to them. They genuinely think they are the ‘Main Characters’ as everything is about them from the Bible being made for them to Governments going after them specifically. Considering most of these men have done nothing with their lives outside of the Organisation I think that they cling onto this ‘Main Character’ belief as an attempt to make them feel better about themselves as frankly if they were outside the Organisation they would be uneducated nobodies with little to show beyond dogmatism.

My best part of Mondays! Thank you Stacey!

Their fear videos are so cringeworthy! As if the governments have nothing better to do all day, but to think how to irritate and prosecute JW’s, when in reality they couldn’t care less! Thank so much for another great episode!!!,

Mate, I live in Bunbury Australia. Love your Podcast. I served as Elder too for many years. WT conductor for years, Circuit talks etc. Woke up many years ago, but disassociated 18 months. Once again thanks for sharing your time

Hello Stacey, Those are my thoughts Exactly!!! Is there No one in the GB listening and Saying, "Hey Maybe we Shouldn't say these things" 🤔 Or This Shit doesn't make any Since🤷‍♀️🤦‍♀️

You are so funny- I love listening to you! Just know that I have learned so much from you - was in it for 25 years. You are healing me .

"Back-slapping Lazeres." I LMAO when you said that! =)

WT definitions to memorize "shortly" = don't hold your breath. "soon" = don't hold your breath. "imminent" = don't hold your breath. "last of the last days" = don't hold your breath.

It’s certified interesting learning about the Watchtower.

Almost 5k subscribers...!❤👍🏼

The only podcasts.

This is goin be good

Oh Your podcasts are paradise to me I can survive that

I was a 90 hour pioneer and moved to “where the need is great”. I regrettably brought several people into the borg. I prided myself on my knowledge of the scriptures and my ability to reason with people using the Bible. It blows my mind that today’s JW’s no longer have the ability to do that. The way they stand by the carts like mannequins waiting for passersby to ask a question only to direct them to their website is beyond my comprehension.

That Cedar Point Ohio book was my first clue that it was all rubbish. Had so many arguments with those in charge who seemed to agree with me but had to defend the JW take

Thank you Stacey. I hope this podcast wakes some people up. It is embarrassing to think that I was, at one time, fully in. Hook, line, and sinker.

Awwww Yeeaaahhh My Dude Stacey let's do this 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

You're wellcome

Listening to your episodes is so cathartic Staci. Have been removed from all things witness related since I left in 2017, but the intention & effort you put into each and every episode means a lot as I try to make sense of the cult I left behind. Thank you so much for your impactful work 🙏🏽

The 9 kings in up state new york 😂😂 love the sarcasm

Wow, the governing body is like obi wan kenobi , destroying them is futile. They will become more powerful than you can imagine.

👋Thanks so much, Stacey!❤

I can see the gb telling Jesus. Sorry, us 8 are heading to Norway first. There's a man there, with a big cheque, with are name on it:)

17:20 - Hey, my namesake! Jehovah's Witnesses really did havw us believing in conspiracies. Especially since we knew from experience that most people had no idea who we were going door to door. But we went back to the Kingdom Hall convinced that they were all in on a plot against Jehovah’s people and hated us for existing. Instead of, you know, interrupting their Saturday morning sleep-in and Sunday Brunch 😅

I am sure Jorge Michael has faith now?. He and his beautiful voice lives on. Wham!!! Thank you Surviving Paradise. By the way I listened to all the rest that you had to say, and I agree with you, thank you so much, always. The word, Faith is a weird word, it is supposed to stop you from asking questions. Always ask questions. Soooo Religious. Fools Gold. Ask questions.

Thank you for your podcasts!. 1) I was thinking back to the days we did street witnessing, some humorous moments but also the "f * yous" and the 'why did you approach me?" Moments, at least the carts and check the box take some pressure off the rank and files nor having to get the 10 hours. 2) late 80s were halcyon days for me too 😎

Need that screen shot on a hoodie 👕

I grew up with a go-getter in the org. He is now 40ish and hit a wall in his position in the org. So what happened next? He became anointed and is now an assistant co. It truly is a narcissistic organization. I watched this man become anointed and get more position. It is a fanatical, self important, narcissistic organization which atttracts narcissistic people. Thank you for speaking out each week about the harmful nature of this religion.

👋🏼Such delusional existence!🙄🙄🙄

GREAT JOB! Hope you are doing well!

Wait! Peace and Security first😅I just saw a news in a most beautiful island near Australia where I’ve never heard of having problems, the island is in chaos now😢Peace and Security seems to fly away every year with new problems! Never be fulfilled as JW says. So this GB persecution is way way in future?😅

HILARIOUS!

"Dramatic Bible reading" ... but, it'll still be some of the best sleep you've ever had.

Governments didnt have a problem with Hari Chrishna invadeing the airports

GRRRRRRR! Just that made my day, thanks Stacey

Just when I think I've heard the best from you, you come out with this, fantastic!, highlighted so well the absolute absurdity of it all, thanks again for these great podcasts, it makes my Mondays!

Snagged some really great references from this episode! Thanks man!!!

❤🎉

Big Show again !

Stacy! Sorry voice to text spelled that wrong. What a great episode. Honestly just wanted to say thank you, you are an absolute Rockstar.

Stacey, I am so glad that I left in 1985...don't know crap about the revelation book 😂😅😮😆 makes me old , but 😃 Happy 😊

In my opinion, you never go over the line when you touch on Christianity. I was a witness for 45 years and have no attachment to "Christianity" as an organized religious system, nor do I think the Bible is divinely inspired, but I do subscribe to the teachings of Jesus, whoever he was. We are here to love, and that can be done by people of all faiths, atheists, or agnostics. Keep up the good work. Christians are hyper-sensitive, possibly because they know deep down the record of "Christianity" over the past 2000 years is abysmal.

Your laugh is priceless 😂❤

I thought they changed the rule on new members of 144,000 coming in...the number of those who partake has risen. Anyway, lovely to hear your ambrosial voice from my screen today ♡.

All they need to top it off is to request for the brothers and sisiters to address them a Lord......Lord Lett Lord Feagle Lord Anderson...etc.

This is your channel and have the right to bring your point of view and I respect that from you because you are being honest and open minded. So it is clear that you may use sarcasm but behind that are facts or makes sense. For this that may be offended user open mind and give Stacy his space to give his opinion. Thanks for these videos (podcast) I enjoy them while I do things (drive, shopping, at home) and sometimes I find myself giggling in public 😊. Greetings Like always: DOWN WITH THE TOWERRR!!!

Anyone know the link to the video version of the jw at train station etc? PS: finally figured 1988 ref at end….I think 🤔

My only thing that I wonder about is where truth and lies and love and hate comes from and our consciousness that gives us the ability to decern between them. Also the absolute magnificence which is our bodies and mind. I don't think nature or the universe is capable of creating a being like this. The absolute stark contrast between human beings and other animals.

Mushrooms? That explains it! 😮

❤❤

Mark Sanderson has a beard now So the governments has to update his profile

First? ❤😂

My Small Brain Couldn't Think of a Good Comeback since Ur a Learn it Former Elder but This i Know Its The Truth ^⁠_⁠^🎉😂❤

“Quite likely, our message will provoke the nations into trying to silence us once and for all.” “During the great tribulation, a change will take place regarding the brothers who take the lead on earth. At some point, all anointed ones who are still on earth will be gathered to heaven to share in the war of Armageddon. This means that the Governing Body will no longer be with us on earth. However, the great crowd will remain organized. Capable brothers from among the other sheep will take the lead. We will need to show our loyalty by supporting these brothers and by following their God-given direction. Our survival will depend on it!” Watchtower, October 2019 Hahaha!

Can't find video of Fleegle. Anyone have link?

Unfortunately Russia gave them delusions of grandeur

### Summary of "Governing Body Fantasy: Do Governments Fear Jehovah's Witnesses and Book Carts?" **Overview:** The video critiques the Jehovah's Witnesses' governing body, focusing on their self-perceived importance and how they believe they are viewed by world governments. The host, Stacy Balman, provides a blend of sarcasm, humor, and serious commentary, addressing the organization's leadership and its teachings. **Key Points:** 1. **Introduction:** - The podcast blends humor and serious topics to discuss Jehovah's Witnesses' claims of living in a spiritual paradise. - Stacy Balman, a former elder, shares personal insights and experiences from being raised as a Jehovah's Witness. 2. **Perspective on Christianity and the Bible:** - Balman respects various beliefs but does not view the Bible as divinely inspired, influencing his critique of Jehovah's Witnesses. 3. **Historical Context:** - References to the 1988 "Revelation Climax" book, which Jehovah's Witnesses studied extensively, emphasizing apocalyptic themes and the organization's central role in the end times. 4. **Governing Body's Self-Importance:** - Criticism of the governing body for believing that world governments are concerned about them and their actions. - Satirical remarks on the governing body's portrayal as pivotal figures in global events, often compared to superheroes or mythical beings. 5. **Video Content Analysis:** - Commentary on recent videos and illustrations produced by Jehovah's Witnesses, depicting exaggerated fears and the organization's perceived significance. - Highlighting the absurdity of scenarios where governments are depicted as fearing Jehovah's Witnesses' activities, such as book cart preaching. 6. **Legal and Social Issues:** - Mention of legal cases, including the denial of state grants in Norway due to exclusionary practices, showcasing the organization's complex relationship with governments. 7. **Narcissistic Tendencies:** - Analysis of the governing body's actions through the lens of narcissistic personality traits, emphasizing their delusions of grandeur and manipulation tactics. 8. **Final Thoughts:** - Encouragement for Jehovah's Witnesses to reconsider the organization's claims and the reality of how they are perceived by the world. - Emphasis on the disconnect between the governing body's self-importance and actual global concerns. ### Video Grade: A- **Content Quality:** The video provides a thorough and engaging critique of the Jehovah's Witnesses' governing body, blending humor with serious analysis, making complex issues accessible to a broad audience. **Presentation:** The host maintains a clear and engaging tone, effectively using sarcasm and personal anecdotes to illustrate points, keeping the audience interested throughout the lengthy video. **Relevance:** The video is highly relevant to current and former Jehovah's Witnesses, as well as those interested in religious organizations' dynamics and their impact on members. **Depth:** The video covers the subject comprehensively, offering both historical context and contemporary analysis, though it could benefit from more concrete examples or testimonies to enhance understanding. This video offers an insightful and entertaining critique of the Jehovah's Witnesses' governing body, providing valuable perspectives for viewers questioning or exploring the organization's teachings and practices.

54:28 mark is lol. [Jan. 2020 WT p. 28] U mean like, I dunno, have Bible autograph signings or expecting a welcoming committee at the airport as u arrive? Lol

_"Truly, Jehovah’s faithful servants will _*_stand out as different_*_ during that desperate time of tribulation. They will still be the only group of people on earth serving Jehovah God and refusing to give their support to “the wild beast.”_ w22 May This is hilarious, considering talk among JWs right now is that the beard and slacks policies have been changed so that *JWs will blend in* with worldly people and not be targeted once god's genocide appetizer known as the great tribulation starts. As if beards and slacks are effective camouflage to hide the fact that you're the only religion left on earth. LOL. Is it just me, or do JWs not really know their own doctrines? _"They will still be the only group of people on earth serving Jehovah God and refusing to give their support to “the wild beast.”_ Question: didn't WT *already* join the U.N. and the OSCE, "the wild beast"? Hm. I guess that was a different Watchtower, the one that can't un-ring that bell.

The Governing Body thinks too much about themselves. Nobody gives a rat ass about the Watchtower. Unless the Governing is breaking laws, then the authorities will go after their asses. Persecution, give me a fucking break.

I appreciate your videos and your candor about your view of Christianity. I have made a comment in the past about some of the things you say about it. You were mocking it and I understand why. That is your right. But, my only point is that if you choose to attack the veracity of Christianity you should not do it from a JW frame of reference. They do not in any way teach the Bible. So you attack a strawman when you do that.

IS JEHOVAH DEAD ?

It’s certified interesting learning about the Watchtower.