[Nell]

Originally Posted by Jo S

I understand, Trapped, really I do. There is an extreme when it comes to shunning and, yes, it can and does cause great psychological trauma. I suppose this is where I was going with my original post;

While the extreme fear based method of shunning undoubtedly exists, as you know well enough, there is a risk when you associate shunning solely with fear. When you make shunning itself the enemy rather than the lack of love then you'll find an actual relationship with God and a legitimate Christian fellowship a real struggle down the road. The reality is, shunning (meaning emotional distancing) exists in all aspects of society. When you reject that aspect along with the unhealthy extreme, then that's where entitlement and victimhood can take a hold of you and prevent you from moving forward. It's important to know the difference between the two otherwise you’re in danger of equating them.

I believe the real root of the issue you and many others face is that you weren't taught the true Gospel of Jesus Christ within the LC's. Because of this, members (especially those born into it) are prevented and hindered from approaching a genuine relationship with God. Instead the group and community became one's absolute source of fulfillment and acceptance.

The truth is that when God is the foundation of your hope, love, and joy rather than a group the impact of other’s actions will be lessened. It may still hurt but in Christ you’ll then have the means to truly heal.

We've all placed our trust in ourselves and others and in the end became hurt and disillusioned by our choices. Jesus encourages to us to repent and place our trust in him. This is the gospel.

Trapped,

This also is the gospel:

Luke 17:1 Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!
2 It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.
3 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.

Obviously the burden of being shunned by someone you loved and trusted does not lie on you. Those who shun you should be rebuked. If they repent, forgiven. If they don’t repent, they bear the consequences of their offenses toward the little ones. As I said, this is also the gospel.

Nell