REFLECTIONS | ALEX BARNES-ROSS

Title

What Alex Barnes-Ross Taught Me About Leaving Faith and Finding Identity

The Story

Alex, known as Apostate Alex, was expelled from Scientology and now uses his platform to expose its abusive practices. Facing ongoing backlash, he shares his experiences to raise awareness, support others leaving the organisation, and help guide them towards support through The Aftermath Foundation.

Opening

Alex was upfront about what he wanted his episode to be. It was a messaging board to help others in the world of Scientology. To show their intent and to warn others of the trappings that led him to where is now. A spokesperson against the organisation.

What Stayed With Me

I usually imagine that people escape Scientology, but not Alex, he got kicked out. This surprised me as I always assumed (never assume) that they want to keep you, will do anything in their power to manipulate you in any way. This wasn’t the case. So I was more intrigued how and why. I was also curious to know more of who Alex really is, but, I don’t think I managed to really find out anything else other than Scientology. This I feel I may have let the interview down in a way. Did I only scratch the surface? Was I asking the right questions?

I’m not sure.

The Bigger Reflection

Identity and acceptance. I really think that this is why we are drawn to groups, societies, religion, it is community. Community is a good thing, but, like anything in life, there is a bad.

I do know that Scientology takes advantage of that community spirit, that want and need to be a part of something. To be accepted. To feel special. Some may fit in, some may not.

Is it a cult more than a religion? I think so.

A Line I Won’t Forget

“They go after anybody who speaks out about scientology”

Being stalked and threatened, physically and mentally, threatened seems to be something we can all agree is bad. I felt for Alex, as he was lost, thought he had found his purpose, but that was just a young naive mind could be taken advantage of.

Closing Thought

Whether you are for or against Scientology, religions or societies. I do think the one thing that really shows bad intentions is to go after people. It’s a choice. And leaving is a choice. We do need to hear these stories and we need people like Alex to speak out about them. It only takes one person to make a difference and Alex is certainly flying that flag.