Quote:
Originally posted by MTSUGURL
For religious reasons, the gay lifestyle is not something that I agree is right.
HOWEVER:
Throughout my adolescent and adult life (so far) I have had several friends come out, both male and female. If I professed to love and care for these friends before they came out, and then cut them off afterwards, what kind of love or friendship is that?
I don't base whether or not someone is my friend on their sexual orientation. One guy that I was particularly close to had enough people desert him when he came out. If I had done the same, that would speak volumes about my character. My exboyfriend's sister came out a few months ago, and we have talked extensively about my not agreeing, but that I love her, she is my friend, and we continue to be close.
Homphobia is defined as: "irrational fear of, aversion to, or discrimination against homosexuality or homosexuals." I don't consider myself to be homophobic - I believe that I can disagree with a lifestyle yet unconditionally love the people practicing that lifestyle. Were I in a sorority, I would never suggest someone be cut on the basis of sexual orientation. Nor would I tolerate anyone treating my gay or lesbian friends with less respect and humanity than they would treat my straight friends.
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You shouldn't be blasted for your personal or religious beliefs...that's just as wrong as discriminating against someone who is lesbian/gay/bisexual...but it is hard for some people to reconcile the whole religious aspect and being gay...sometimes (and wrongfully so) religion is often used to discriminate against those individuals who are lesbian/gay/bisexual...so it is very hard for a gay/bisexual individual to listen (and be open) once someone throws in the word "religion" and I think that is unfortunate...it really is left up to interpertation and beliefs and everyone (yes big generalization) but EVERYONE believes what they want and puts a little different spin or interpertation into their life/beliefs, based upon their experiences, etc. I am glad that you choose to stand by your friends that have come out, and hope that you will continue to do so and support them without judgement...it sounds like you would be a great friend to have!
-o.p.i.e.