Leaving the Fold: A Guide for Former Fundamentalists and Others Leaving Their Religion

by Marlene Winell

Although they were familiar already, in writing this book I had to look up the verses I quoted from the Bible to get the wording exact. As I did this, I gradually became aware of interesting feelings. I found myself turning the delicate pages of the Bible with care and affection, the way I did many years ago. The pages felt precious as I smoothed them out. I read whole chapters in the Gospel of John, and was moved by the words of Jesus at the Last Supper. Suddenly I recognized my experience. It was like reading old letters from a lover I had left. The old bond was still present, the feelings of attachment and love, and a wave of sadness, a strange sense of betrayal. Here I was quoting my old love to build my arguments. “But it’s okay,” I told myself, “This is only part of what I am saying.” Whoever he is, it’s okay that I still love him. Whoever he or she is, telling the truth is important for both of us.