[Costa]

The first is the worst. It gets better, much better, its all down hill from here bud.

I was brought up from birth until I walked away at 18 as a JW. My first Xmas, birthday, you name it, was in my 20's. I watched the religion destroy my family from within, slowly. I won't go into my personal opinion's of the religion, but I have spent the last 18 years methodically piecing my family back together. If you are raised as a child in it, it completely socially paralyzes you, and I spent most of my 20s "learning" the holidays, and even how to celebrate my own birthday. I am om my late 30's now, and all is good, but I would not wish that religion on any child, ever. Take the feeling you have now, and multiply it by a factor of 10,000 when you are 8 years old, and its Xmas morning, or your birthday, its not acknowledged. I had to leave the classroom when the pledge of allegiance was said, and I had no idea why, as a kid. It brands you as an outcast in an already tough development period. I just hope that your children will follow the lead of their father, and the strength you have shown. I know all about the "disfellowship"..........I still cringe when I see a "Watchtower" magazine........

On the flip side, I have no doubt that the success of my life was based on the hardships that being brought up in that religion caused me, and the drive for success that I have. I have seen others not so lucky, who have not come out on the other side as "whole" (drugs, etc.). I'd say most children will rebel against that religion when they grow up, to a great degree than "normal", and how that manifests itself can be one extreme or the other.

But again, you will, as time goes on, and begin celebrating these fantastic holidays, whether it be Xmas, Hanukkah, your birthday, etc. and will really appreciate it. And I hope (and pray, even though I am not religious) that your children follow your lead. Great thing what your doing as well. Good luck man, and Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday and God Bless America!!!!