John Paul Frank (Age 17)
Missionary in Eastern Europe

Recent reports from biased, choleric sources about our lifestyle and child-raising methods have been both twisted and bigoted in their presentation; a typical story of Aesop’s “Sour Grapes,” for that which, at first, may have seemed pleasing and worth attaining is suddenly the object of criticism when it is found to be difficult to achieve. Such is the case with those who have, of late, swamped the press with fantastic tales that provide the media with a new, juicy tale of slander to sell to those who crave a bash on “alternative” lifestyles and conjured accusations that make a good horror story of any way of life contrary to their own.

Reporters are notorious for adulterating the facts to support their personal biases. It is not a rare occurrence for them to construe ludicrous conclusions from simple facts when they bear a prejudice against any denomination or group that does not follow the mainstream.

The life I have lived until this, my seventeenth year, has indeed had disagreeable moments that I would, perhaps, live over for a better result, but I cannot say that I regret the environment in which I have been raised. On the contrary, the ambiance emitted by those with whom I stay has never been one of hatred or anger or constant surveillance on my every move, but rather one of camaraderie and friendship, a desire to see me excel in my abilities and a comforting support to help me when I manifest a lack in positive personality qualities.

Many times I have spoken with those who live or have lived outside of the Family’s circle. Our detractors speak endlessly of child abuse (seemingly their favorite accusation) yet, upon speaking to those who live “normal” lives, I have been barraged by heart-wrenching tales including husbands who commonly indulge in substance abuse, children who engage in prostitution, and violent crimes committed within one’s own family— scenarios completely foreign to The Family, as far as I have seen. I do not intend to imply that we are devoid of problems, for indeed we, as is the case with all denominations, groups, or families globally, have had instances of shortcomings. Yet these are not the norm, nor are they supported or encouraged by the majority but are speedily weeded out and corrected, and offenders may face severe retribution if they are persistent.

I believe that being schooled at home and moved from country to country has been both an educational and beneficial experience for myself as well as many of my peers and has given us a broader scope of the world and has introduced us to many cultures and backgrounds, an experience that I find to be extremely rare among the average child who oftentimes cannot locate any country other then America on a map.

My life, while not a walk in the park daily, has been destitute of abuse of any form—physical, sexual, or mental—and I have often spoken to peers, who, like myself, during a portion of their lives, were raised in large [Family] Homes where discipline was strict and sometimes severe (although there remained much to say about the situation that was positive). One may expect a flood of complaints that could well have seemed justifiable had the individuals been of weaker mettle. Instead I’ve heard this basic tale, “My times in those rough situations only strengthened my character.” I concur with this statement, and describe it as factual, for these individuals are indeed hardy, yet amiable folk whose company I enjoy immensely.

Thorough investigation of this lifestyle has shown it to be an excellent and ideal environment in which to raise children. I vehemently repudiate all accusations made against Family parents and, to those who have the effrontery to suggest that I have been abused and mistreated in my lifetime, I say, I prefer my life of peace, love, challenge and motivation to your world of war, hatred, violence, and fear, where murder and blood are your chant and guns and tanks are your music. Live, let live, and leave us be. I prefer the tune of a home being built on unity and teamwork.

John Paul Frank is a second generation member of The Family International, currently residing in Eastern Europe.