Freedom For and From Religion

Freedom for and from religion are the same thing. It is important for all of us to protect that freedom.

As a “born-again” Christian and mother of two gay sons and with a grandchild who is transgender, I appeal to you to not foster the misunderstanding, prejudice, and persecution of future generations by ignoring that laws are being passed that contribute to those. Currently, there are laws in state legislatures that are aimed at preventing any acknowledgement in public school texts or classes of the reality of LBGTQ genders or relationships. There are numerous other laws being considered that are much more discriminatory. We are a democracy. Silence is consent.

Homosexuality is not a choice. My great-great aunt on my father’s side had the intelligence and courage to become a pediatrician and establish a clinic for poor children in the early 1900’s. Her family never spoke of her because she lived with one woman all her life. On my mother’s side, a great-aunt, with education and intelligence, but noticeably masculine traits, lived a quiet, but obviously lonely life. My brother has been in a monogamous relationship with one man for over thirty years.  My son and his partner of over twenty years teach at an orphanage for children born HIV positive in South East Asia. A very intelligent grandchild with an incredibly caring heart and talent in both music and art is transgender.

There is research that suggests that there are several genetic variants that may play a part in LGBTQ sexual orientation.

Sixty years of marriage convinced me that the commitment relationship of marriage is designed to both challenge and enable us to come to truly know and grow in love for another imperfect human being. I have also recognized that sex isn’t just for pleasure or even propagation. It is an integral part of intimacy and learning to love unconditionally. To me that is not only the purpose of life, but its greatest achievement.

Christians, please don’t contribute to denying future generations of people, who didn’t ask to be born different from the majority, understanding and the opportunity for loving and being loved as the person they are.

Even though discrimination in its many forms may not affect you personally, if you agree with my understanding, please help by emailing, calling, or snail mailing your legislators.  There are bills being passed quietly in most states that will contribute to and continue prejudice that provokes not only violence, but suicides by many young people in our times. Please be an advocate for them and future generations.