Please, define the words “abusive” and “harmful”. Perhaps some of you are just suffering from a lack of a knowledge of the definition of these words. If such is the case, I will give you the benefit of the doubt; however, please consult a dictionary. It would really help clear things up. Unless of course being loved unconditionally, being given a purpose and meaning in life, being given every opportunity to succeed, and being taught the Holy Scriptures suggests abuse. Or perhaps you think it is harmful that I have decided not to subject my children to situations that could endanger their safety or lead them to such “thrills” as substance abuse, alcoholism, violence, evolution, the occult and paganism.

We may have our differences of thought, modus operandi and don’t see eye to eye on everything. But hey, that’s what being you and being me is all about! It shouldn’t make a difference when it comes to respecting each other for who we are. I have never committed a crime, nor have I ever witnessed one. I am a law-abiding citizen and contribute positively to society.

Having grown up in The Family, my goal in life is to love God with all my heart and to love my neighbor as myself. I want to teach my children to do likewise. If this constitutes abuse and is considered harmful, then the whole world is doomed. Just take one good look around you and there you will see true abuse and real harm being done. If you want to make the world a better place, why don’t you try catching the real criminals for a change and leave me and my family alone. Just because you can’t “get a life”, doesn’t give you any right to try to steal mine.

Nonetheless, if somehow I have misjudged you and you me, I am willing to put aside our differences and extend my hand in a friendly truce. Are you willing to do the same?

Angelina Johnson is a second generation member of the Family International.