Helping a Child to Come Out

     On Thursday, October 11th, it was National Coming Out Day. Many anxious girls and boys embraced their sexuality and exposed their true identity to their loved ones. Such a topic can be difficult to speak about, but some parents, as explained in the New York Times article, Helping a Child Come Out, took the news by stride and showed nothing but love and support to their children. These proud parents explained that they always had a feeling their children were gay, but wanted them to feel comfortable enough to officially tell them. In fact, new research shows that signs of homosexuality can be prominent at the young age of three years old. Within the last few years, the average age of coming out has become lower and lower, and at such a young age, it is critical to have the approval and support of loved ones.
     Seeing these proud and supportive mothers really made me appreciate the love that parents have for their children. These mothers and fathers came together showing that sexuality does not define who you are as a person and is nothing to be ashamed of. Without the support of family, gay children are more likely to have low self-esteem, and face bullying which could contribute to the high suicide rate of gay teens. In the long run, this support at home could save the life of one child at a time.

Texas School Punishes Boy for Opposing Homosexuality

     A 9th grade student, Dakota Ary, in Fort Worth, Texas, was suspended for a total of two days after openly stating he felt homosexuality was wrong during his German Class. His mother fought back saying he was a model student and this comment should not leave any infractions on his otherwise perfect record. She argued that he was only stating his beliefs as a Christian and should not be penalized and more importantly, that he has the right to speak freely. After various phone calls and the involvement of Pope and an attorney, his punishments were lifted and he was no longer held responsible for his actions.
     I believe they made a fair point about freedom of speech, but I believe that does not give anyone permission to discriminate against a certain group of people. His comment could have seriously insulted anyone of the students, proving his disregard for anyones feelings. I believe a two day suspension may have been a little too harsh, but letting him off with no punishment is is almost a reward for his ignorance.

 

'Gay cure' ?

     Early this October in California, two therapist allegedly 'cured' a teen of his homosexuality, as stated in a CNN article. He confirmed this accusation and agreed that he was now heterosexual. Many in California believe this is wrong on almost every level. They recently passed a law that states they cannot speak or attempt any type of 'conversion' for gay teens under the age of 18 because it could cause severe depression. Though many citizens feel this law is helpful in protecting the teens mental well being, others feel it violates their civil rights to speak freely.
    In my opinion,  I feel this law is necessary to protect the teens in California that are vulnerable and confused about their sexuality. If stories and attempts are made to  change who they are and how they feel, it could severely damage their self-esteem, leading to greater issues. I believe being gay is not a choice, but instead something you are born into. I can't speak for anyone else, but I believe everyone offers individuality to this world and if any therapist is trying to change your personality, then it should be kept private to protect the wellbeing others.

Newark Archbishop: Pro-Gay Marriage Catholics Should Forgo Holy Communion

     After large controversy in the Catholic community about the sanctity of gay marriage, Archbishop John J. Myers, published a letter where he defends his stand against it. In this letter, he states his belief that homosexuality in itself is not a sin, but acting upon ones homosexual tendencies is. He strongly believes that it is not natural for two men, or two women to share a sexual relationship. "Two men or two women cannot come together in any bodily way that tends towards a single biological good. They may be seeking mutual pleasure, but pleasure is only a good when it is taken in something independently good." After stating what he feels are facts about marriage, he continued to elaborate that any Catholic that feels strongly towards the legalization of gay marriage should withhold from accepting the Holy Communion. This article on the Christian Post explains in more detail his ideas behind this concept.

     As a Catholic myself, I was disappointed after reading this article. I believe In God and live by the faith that Jesus included all men and women. Jesus' mission was never to exclude a certain group of people for their beliefs, but instead accept and love them for who they were as an individual. He sat with the prostitutes, tax collectors, and even leapers. I respect Myers' opinion against gay marriage, but what I do not accept is that because I believe that love is blind, and that I should include and accept all people, I cannot accept the body of Christ into my life. I feel it is very hypocritical that a man that is meant to live a life like Jesus Christ is excluding honest and kind men and women for something that is not even under their control.