Come as You are.

            I find it ludicrous that many individuals think gay people are against good morals and family values. It’s painful for me to have to testify that a large amount of the misunderstandings, misconceptions, and socially accepted intolerance affecting my community streams from many religious communities. I, myself, was raised in a Christian family with Christian values and strong faith. My Mother was careful to instill integrity, honesty, and a clear concept of right and wrong in her children. I learned about love, family, and sacrifice from my Mother and thanks to her and my amazing family, I can testify to my ever-present faith and relationship with our Heavenly Father. No one’s feelings about my lifestyle can or would ever change that.                 

          
            When I was coming out, many people told me I would lose my relationship with God because I was going against Him by "choosing" to live a gay lifestyle. Yet, I KNEW the God who brought me into this world was the same one nurturing my tears when I cried myself to sleep each night. God was my refuge and shelter those terrible nights I felt alone and afraid. If it wasn't for my faith, I may have ended up killing myself like many other confused and scared LGBT youths. I felt scared and badgered by my feeling and thoughts before I even realized and understood what they were. Once I knew I had to face myself and my sexuality, the first step was attempting to bridge the gap between my faith and my sexuality. In this day and age, it’s been a steady grown and learning process. All the while, I know I have not lost my place in Heaven. I am still blessed and loved regardless of what some uneducated or uncultured individuals may say. My soul’s home is Heaven. 

           Like straight people gay individuals, who are Believers, long for strong spiritual and passionate relationships. We too, seek His guidance and grace through prayer and worship. I always believed and knew that God does not care to judge me over my physical attractions. I believe God cares more about the actions we take towards ourselves and others in this life. I believe He watches, with a careful eye. Especially those moments when we are alone and our values and integrity are tested. I believe His request and demand is that we seek Him and His guidance through this life. Have we made him proud with our contributions and time on Earth or did we use our time to demean and devalue his other children? At a young age I saw and understood that there was so much ignorance, hypocrisy, and cruelty in this world. I saw people using God as a weapon and excuse to disrespect and attack others. I swore to always learn about and be kind to others, regardless of our differences. 

            We were all born onto this planet innocent and uneducated. No one asked to be sent here, to struggle through a human life only to find peace and purpose at the end of it! So stop stigmatizing and labeling people & open your hearts. Don’t be shocked and stare when you see the lesbian parents and their kids bow their heads in prayer at your local eatery, or when we pray besides you in church, or if you see us wanting to be a part of the beauty that is fellowship. Gods love is for all, AGAPE!?! Faith is not an exclusive club; Heteros Only!! Whoever so calls upon the Lord, shall have his mercy, grace, and everlasting love.