A Remarkable Experience

Yesterday brought the close of the International Cultic Studies Association's annual meeting, held here in Philadelphia. While I've had fun and interesting times at conferences of other sorts in the past -- mostly either political or sf-related -- there's been nothing as meaningful as this. Almost every session had me discovering things that had a bearing on my own experience, often shedding light on memories that had made no sense or been disconnected before. This was especially true of the programming that was specifically geared to ex-members (i.e., former cult members).

And I think I chose well in attending these whenever possible. The more academically oriented sessions were doubtless interesting, but it was logical, at my first conference of this sort, to take the fullest advantage of opportunities to learn about things that could aid me in my recovery, as well as to meet and make connections with fellow survivors. I exchanged contact information with several before leaving, including a few who live in this area.

Actually, I was disappointed I didn't find more who live in this area. Since there have to be a great many more out there, this is evidence of the outreach that still needs to be done.