Ruthless: My Son David Miscavige, and Me by Ron Miscavige

Yes, another Scientology book.  It seems that I find myself being pulled into this subject matter.  Sadly, this book mirrors that of others regarding the negative practices of the "church".  I tend to research religions, theories and philosophies and like to pick and choose pieces of each without needing to join a cult, convert my religion or join a group.  I believe David Miscavige has ruined it for me.  I think there is real insights into the mind with some of these teachings but it is overshadowed by the corruption and slave type lifestyle. I do not think the LRH was a god or anything like that, quite frankly without knowing him, he sounds more like a con artist, but people swear by some of the teachings.

This book is written by the father of David Miscavige, the Chairman of the Board of the church of Scientology.  It is difficult to read how these families are affected due to this belief system and the rules and edicts force by the leader(s).  The concept of parents and kids is eroded into nothing more than procreation.  That love and family bond is only visible as long as there is a Scientologist component to it.  Families have been completely "disconnected" for ever from each other because one of the members of the family decided to leave the church.

This book covers the life of Ron Miscavige and his early relationship with his son.  You get a clear picture of the love he felt/feels for his son.  The book give you great insight into David's early years and his subsequent Napoleonic complex, his rise to the top and the corruption through the eyes of his father.

I think it takes a special kind of person to go into the Sea Organization knowing what is in store for them.  It is truly like being in the Military but never leaving bootcamp.  The sleep deprivation, the disconnection from family and friends, meager lifestyle and overall unhappiness.  Ron spent 26 years as part of the "Sea Org'".

After reading this book and Ron Miscavige's grand Daughter, Jenna Miscavige, it is obvious the David Miscavige has some value for family albeit tiny.  He did communicate with them to some degree.  I believe that "absolute power corrupts absolutely" ~Lord Acton.  I believe that David Miscavige is corrupt because of the power he perceives to have.

The book is not long, but does a good job keeping you engaged.  I could not put it down.  I know to others this may not be interesting, but to me Scientology and Abraham Lincoln are probably my favorite material to read.

** SPOILER ** At the end of the book, Ron is talking to his son through the pages of the book and tells him "David, I forgive you".  Very touching and sad.


Hardcover: 256 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Press; 1St Edition edition (May 3, 2016)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1250096936
ISBN-13: 978-1250096937
Product Dimensions: 6.4 x 0.9 x 9.5 inches