My first reaction upon hearing the tragic news of Angela Smith and Ricky was shock, then anger, then deep sadness. Angela was a good friend of mine, she was one of the sweetest people I’ve ever known. As for Ricky, I never met him, but growing up in the Family I read about him my whole life, as all kids did, I think.

Hearing the comments made by ex-members and others who know basically nothing about the Family or Angela (which amounts to nothing but hearsay), and the ever growing grapevine is so abhorrent to me.—And from some of the things some of you say I almost think some of you may be capable of committing the same crime Ricky did! Angela did not deserve to die, and Ricky has enough on his plate to answer for, so what he said about “wishing he would have taken more with him,” is a sick thought … one that will probably fester and grow in your mind, if you’ll let it, till you too may get to the same spot Ricky was in. Your tongue is like a rudder it sets the course of your boat, and what actions you will take. So you’d be wise to watch what you allow to come out of your mouth.

In my opinion, Ricky had teachers that loved him to death, and parents that did their very best to see him happy. He traveled the world, and had a great education. What more could you ask for? I honestly don’t know if he ever got “abused”—I wasn’t there, but in my opinion, I highly doubt it.

I have grown up in a loving, caring, sharing environment; I spent my childhood doing things that many kids would have loved to do. I was in numerous show troupes from the time I was three years old till now, performed at the White House three times, went on faith trips almost every year, went on tour to Mexico in ‘98, and then moved to Mexico City. I have also gone on teen faith trips all over Mexico. I got to record with some of the Family’s best producers, I have experience in Irish dancing, gymnastics, and have traveled all over the States. These are just some of the blessings the Lord has given me. I can’t complain! Hardly anyone gets to do so many things while still in school. I am greatly blessed! And far from being abused! Of course there were things I wasn’t so keen on but the pros out way the cons one hundred to one. And now that I look back, I can see how much my teachers loved me to pour so much time into a sometimes rebellious little girl like me.

Angela taught me many things, and one of those was to love and pray for your enemies, she was a real sample of this. God bless her!

I can honestly say through this time, even though it’s been very difficult for me, my conviction has doubled, my independence has lessened and my dependence on the Lord has grown. I’m here for life and no one has brainwashed me!

“If God before us who can be against us". I hope for your sake you’re not!

This quote sums up my feelings pretty good, “Here I stand by the grace of God, I can do no other.” I don’t speak from much experience but I will speak out! I cannot turn my back on what God has called me to do. And I will NEVER recant!

Juliet Thomson is a second-generation member of The Family International