By Sam Doehler
Age 28, father of two

Well, you say that I was abused, and that all, or most of the children within the Family have been at some point or another. But I can’t help but wonder how could you possibly know whether or not I had ever been abused, unless you had been there, or been the one to do so yourself.

But do I suppose though that, if I sit here and think long enough, I could come up with some instances. Such as having to eat liver and brussel sprouts all in one meal. I mean, just eating one of those dishes for dinner would be cruelty, but having to eating both for the same meal would fall under abuse. But you couldn’t be talking about that, because many “normal” people do the same thing to their children!

Perhaps you’re talking about having to sit down for up to four hours a day for the sole purpose of learning how to read, and write, instead of being able to play with my hand-me-down, handmade bow and arrow. Just having to leave the bow and arrow outside was something no aspiring Robin Hood should be asked to do. I mean what if I was jumped by Sir Guy, on my way to the bathroom. That alone is harsh unloving behavior on the part of my overseers. But to be made to sit there and study for something that would never help me out in Sherwood Forest and thus decrease my chances of survival, could be viewed as abuse. But you couldn’t be talking about that either, because many “normal” people do the same thing to their children! (more…)

My name is Maria Doehler, I am 27 years old, and very happily married to a unique and totally incoercible man. We have 2 kids and are expecting our third in July.

We are here in the Family because we are fully convinced that it is the place where both we and our children will be the happiest and have the best chance at a full and happy life.

My kids are my biggest concern and probably the greatest motivation I have. I love the Family and know so many amazing people within its fellowship, but if I felt that remaining in the Family would endanger our children I would be out of here so fast!

I have a question for Daniel and the rest of our second generation apostates, are you parents? Do you really understand the love of a parent? When our kids were born it’s hard to describe the fierce love I felt for them, and I know Sam (my husband) felt it too. We would do anything we could to help them be happy and successful in life. We are not perfect, nor will you be when you become a parent, but we sure are trying. (more…)