As could be expected, freedom of expression does necessarily bring with it a voicing of opinions and with that privilege we then must come face to face with the reality that there are different views and opinions. With the expression of different opinions can come heated discussion and in some minds controversy. For some, this is unacceptable. For some, the world should be a place for peace, peace. Reality tells us that is just not the case. And for that we should all be grateful.
When researching the concept of “freedom of expression”, we must cite some obvious sources. An obvious choice would be our U.S. Constitution: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Other sources that would help with the understanding of the idea of freedom of expression or freedom of speech would include some text found here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freedom_of_speech#cite_note-22
“A succession of English thinkers developed the idea of a right to freedom of expression, starting with John Milton (1608–74), then John Locke (1632–1704) and culminating in John Stuart Mill (1806–1873). Locke established the individual as the unit of value and the bearer of rights to life, liberty, property and the pursuit of happiness. It was the role of Government to protect these rights and this belief was first enshrined in the US Constitution, with the First Amendment adding the guarantee that “Congress shall make no law… abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press”. John Stuart Mill argued that human freedom is good and without it there can be no progress in science, law or politics, which according to Mill required free discussion of opinion. Mill’s On Liberty, published in 1859 became a classic defence of the right to freedom of expression.[21] Mill argued that truth drives out falsity, therefore the free expression of ideas, true or false, should not be feared. Truth is not stable or fixed, but evolves with time. Mill argued that much of what we once considered true has turned out false. Therefore views should not be prohibited for their apparent falsity. Mill also argued that free discussion is necessary to prevent the “deep slumber of a decided opinion”. Discussion would drive the onwards march of truth and by considering false views the basis of true views could be re-affirmed.[23]
Let’s break this down: “Mill argued that truth drives out falsity, therefore the free expression of ideas, true or false, should not be feared.” At least the first part, I don’t see Jane Whaley or those at Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) arguing this point. They do teach “truth drives out falsity”. It is just all truth comes from Jane and there is NO “free expression of ideas”. And yes, within the group, the free expression of ideas IS feared. From what I have experienced, Jane fears the free expression of ideas. How many times while inside did I see someone express their ideas and have them quashed by Jane? I lost count. For others to express their views freely inside of WOFF jeopardizes her control and her power. Does anyone still inside or that has left the group deny that?
Mill then puts forth the idea that “Truth is not stable or fixed, but evolves with time.” From my experience inside WOFF, Jane may say that Truth is fixed, but our (her) understanding of it grows. That is why rules change and some don’ts become dos and some do’s become don’ts over time at WOFF. For example, children wearing shorts; that was/is a don’t that became a do. I could list others but the point is taken that truth evolves at WOFF, but at Jane’s pace and personal direction.
We move on. “Mill argued that much of what we once considered true has turned out false. Therefore views should not be prohibited for their apparent falsity.” We look at this and we must agree. Much of what was considered as truth years ago has become revealed as false. An example would be the “truth” that the earth is flat, or the “truth” that the sun and moon revolve around the earth. Other truths that turned out to be false would include the idea of a human priest or priesthood as necessary to have a true relationship with God. Shall we read the literary works of Martin Luther to see new light on this? Certainly a Protestant church would not deny this, right? But, in reality and practice at WOFF, this is simply not the case. The individual believer is always subjected to the self-appointed “priesthood” of Jane Whaley. There may be a different stated belief which I could not find on the website, but, the practice and function within the group does not support an “individual priesthood” concept. In practice, Jane acts as the high priest or priestess, as you will. There is no sanctioned freedom within WOFF for the regular members to present an alternative view from Jane and have it met with a foregone acceptance which merits equal review and consideration. That is just not a part of the membership privileges or benefits of WOFF. If you expected things to be different, you would learn quickly once inside the group.
“Mill also argued that free discussion is necessary to prevent the “deep slumber of a decided opinion”. Discussion would drive the onwards march of truth and by considering false views the basis of true views could be re-affirmed.”- What can be said? Freedom of expression “is necessary to prevent the “deep slumber of a decided opinion”. And this is where we come back to the title of this post. The freedom to express an alternate view in order to prevent the opinions whether true of false to be stagnant and forever decided is a freedom that has long been at the core and foundation of this great nation. If we were not guaranteed the right to express freely our opinions then women would not be able to vote and there would still be slavery in this nation. For years the “deep slumber of a decided opinion” on those two subjects was set. Today, we only read of the struggle and in that respect we may lose the truth of the preciousness of the privilege of freedom of expression.
My Spring Missions Project has caused many to express their opinions about WOFF. Those opinions could have been set for years or brand new, I do not know. Some opinions may be based on hearsay or conjecture. Others may be based, as mine, on experiences from inside the group. All of those views and opinions should not be quashed, but, brought forward on the “march of truth”. False views and opinions should not be feared but, discussed freely until truth drives out the false. Let me be clear, the religious beliefs of WOFF are not my point of scrutiny. It is the practices that are to be exposed and set on the march of truth until the practices be sanctioned as life giving and healthy or condemned as control over individuals and emotionally unhealthy. I contend that the practices are unhealthy and destroy families and relationships.
The right to express my opinion, whether believed to be false or true by others, is a right and privilege which others in years past have died and given their lives to defend. Our nation grew out of this very desire to establish this freedom and others. Not all colonists agreed that we should take such bold steps. Thank God, certain men and women did not listen to the naysayers.
Today, do we look down on or show disdain for others when they express views contrary to ours? In years past, I have shown my support openly and on the streets of different cities including Washington, D.C.; for my views and opinions on subjects ranging from abortion to big government or high taxes. Recently, I have taken to the streets of Spindale to tell others my views on the practices of WOFF as being UNSAFE. My views and opinions come from INSIDE experience. I am not just repeating what others say they have heard. I may not remember every detail or get the order of events right, but the results of these deeds upon me and those I love cannot be denied.
To the citizens of Spindale and Rutherford County, please, allow me the right to express and tell my opinions and experiences. You may not agree or you may think my methods are “weird”. So be it. But, take the time to learn for yourself from not just this blog, but other sources where survivors tell their experiences. One source is www.freedomofmind.com . Do not assume that because WOFF portrays themselves and an innocuous “non-denominational, Protestant church” that all is well and they deserve the ““deep slumber of a decided opinion”. Practices have changed through the years within WOFF, not all for the better.
To the members of WOFF; the exercise of my rights and freedoms has caused some of you discomfort. I have seen it on your faces as many turn away from me and my signs. That I cannot change nor will I express any regret. Please, take this expression of an alternate view and differing interpretation of the WOFF experience along with the accompanying discomfort and measure it against the questions and personal doubts within your own heart. Do not excuse my views as merely misguided or prompted by devils. Do not ignore the many that have left your group and suffered emotional trauma from the drama of WOFF-life. Could it possibly be that the ones who have left are just a reflection of many who have stayed? Could there be others in your group just like you that have doubts and questions and nowhere to turn for unbiased answers? You are not alone. Reach out to someone, email or call me. Also, Faith Freedom Fund is available to help. Do not believe the lies told us at WOFF about this group. You may call them at 828-286-2631.
For the right and honor to write on this blog, I am grateful to God above and to the men and women who have died in defense of this nation. God Bless America.
Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.
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(Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, the information about WOFF is from my memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be. ) Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 295.