Hi Donna,
Tara's already answered your main question about timing. All I can add
is that from what I can find about Weigh Down and Lords Table
programs, they do not have a lot in common with Fast-5, so
disappointment with either of those programs is not likely to predict
success or failure with Fast-5.
Fast-5 is not a religious/spiritual commitment and has no religious
affiliation. It's an effective tool that is spreading in many ways,
including through friends, family, schools and houses of worship --
any place where people talk face-to-face and can see results firsthand.
The book can be helpful, especially if you run into problems, because
it explains why Fast-5 works. It also describes some things to expect,
and helps address some of the problems one might run into, but it
isn't necessary.
Good luck if you decide to give it a go,
Bert