Age: 20

In childhood, I would describe myself as being ordinary with an extraordinary upbringing. Being that I was rather shy and introverted with a learning disability, I credit my successes since then to the Family and the love, security and direction in life we are given. I’m extremely thankful to the Family for all the love and attention that was poured into me. It makes me sick when I hear that the lifestyle, which is not only a Godly one but is also a moral and ethically correct one, and one that many of my secular peers envy, is being attacked.

I’m now 20 and through all the input that has been given me I feel I’m more prepared for life than most people my age. Not only have I been very successful in my own life and ambitions, but I’ve also helped many people in their lives, which is my ambition and the ambitions of the Family. Many people whom I interact with as well as counsel are surprised at my age and how I’m in most cases younger than themselves yet able to help them and counsel them in their difficulties.

It is the Family’s goal as well as mine to help people find answers to life’s challenges through God’s Word. To show by example, that the only way to bring an end to all the suffering in the world (in which there is plenty, I don’t believe I have to convince you in this point) is through learning to love each other. Are message is the same as Jesus’, to “Love your enemies, be good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44) If you feel you fit in this category, you can be grateful that we will be doing this for you.

This was a terrible tragedy and one which I hope will help others understand the dangers of bitterness, and what it can lead to if you dwell in it. I don’t know what you’re holding against the Family (if you are holding something against us) but my best advice to you is get over it. We in the Family love you and wish the best for you and your ambitions so long as it is not harming anyone physically, emotionally, spiritually or otherwise. I doubt most people ever thought a little resentment in Ricky’s life would turn out this bad and I do hope it makes you think twice before you continue to spread your poison. If it does not convict you and you feel no remorse for what happened to the innocent victim and the hurt that was caused to her many loved ones both in and out of the Family then may God have mercy on you.

I for one love the Family and all it stands for and am determined by the grace of God to stick it out through thick and thin, come what may. I’ll end this with some famous words said by Gamaliel: And now I say unto you refrain from these men and let them alone for if this counsel or this work be of men it will come to nought. But if it be of God ye cannot overthrow it lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. ARE YOU FIGHTING AGAINST GOD?

Rajan David Daniels is a second-generation member of the Family International.