What Happens When You Leave a Cult

I've been cult-free for 2 1/2 years now.
What I've found out since I left: I have money to spend on things that really are important:

I've been able to put a pellet stove in my house.
I've been able to go on vacation.
I've been able to take my daughter to the movies on the weekend.
My wife and I were able to buy three lots on an island in the Pudget Sound, and will be able to put a cabin on one lot (the other two we will give to our daughters when they get married).

When I was in the Hare Krishnas, we couldn't do things like this.
I thought I was free, but in reality, the cult was stripping me of my social life, my family life, my money and my future.
Were my years wasted in 'the cult?" In most ways they were. Sure, I learned a FEW valuable things, but all in all, I was raped of my resources and my time.
Just wanted to share this with you all.