In a divisive, often harsh world that tries to mold us, or force us into conformity, Pride month stands as an important symbol of the beauty and diversity that exists within the LGBTQ+ community. I believe it is crucial to recognize the significance of Pride month and the positive impact it has on individuals, families, and society. But why? A Celebration of Identity: Pride month provides an empowering space for LGBTQ+ individuals to embrace their authentic selves. It allows them... Read more
Love is a fundamental human need. We all crave love and affection, and we seek it out in our relationships with others. However, there are certain teachings about love that can be dangerous to our hearts. Specifically, teachings about conditional love can be harmful and damaging to our emotional and mental wellbeing. Conditional love is love that is given or withheld based on certain conditions or requirements. For example, a parent may only show love to their child if the... Read more
One of our most popular YouTube videos is called: A Pastor Looks Up in Tears. It is about a non-affirming Pastor who is shocked at what he discovers about God, others and himself when he gets to what the Bible calls Heaven. We connect with Pastors who experience this kind of regret and change – and we have connected with tens of thousands of parents – most of whom come from a non-affirming Christian background, where they have been told,... Read more
As I write this, my blood is boiling at the sheer ignorance and hatred shown in the recent wave of anti-transgender legislation being proposed and passed in several U.S. states. The blatant discrimination and marginalization of transgender individuals is nothing short of appalling, and it is sickening to see these laws being justified with supposed Christian values. Let’s be clear: denying access to healthcare, education, and employment to transgender individuals is a direct attack on their basic human rights. It... Read more
The term “grooming” is associated with the heinous crime of child sexual abuse. It’s a term that should evoke disgust and outrage. But when it’s carelessly misused in debates about transgender bathroom rights and drag queen story times, it becomes a weapon against the LGBTQ+ community. Let’s be clear: the false narrative that links grooming with LGBTQ+ individuals is nothing but a despicable lie, born out of hatred and ignorance. The truth is that most child sexual abusers are heterosexual.... Read more
America. Land of the free—free to be who we know ourselves to be, even if some disagree with us. Home of the brave—brave people who stand up to abuse of the powerless because that’s the right thing to do. Well, not really. There have always been brave people, but this has never really been the land of the free, not for queer people and not for a lot of other people. Many lands already aren’t free—their people are rounded up... Read more
Transgender people face increasing discrimination and marginalization with new laws being proposed and passed. They are subject to harassment, violence, and exclusion. However, many in society are waking up and becoming more inclusive; beginning to recognize the need to support and stand up for the rights of transgender people. For those who claim Christianity as their faith, it is essential to explore how supporting transgender people aligns with the values and teachings of Jesus. Jesus is often portrayed as a... Read more
“I sometimes wonder just how many people know about my son but think we (my husband and I) don’t know. I sometimes wonder if they pity us. I wonder if they say, ‘Oh no, here come Jack and Debbie. You know their son is gay? I feel so sorry for them.” My friend Debbie messaged that to our group of thousands moms of LGBTQ+ kids. I know what she means. Of course she’s right – I’ve heard women talk about... Read more
Shame says, “There is something fundamentally wrong with you.” It is the lie at the very root of our identity. If I did something wrong, I can apologize and make amends. But if I am fundamentally wrong, what hope do I have? Our greatest need is to be loved, to belong, to be accepted as we are. Shame says the exact opposite – that we do not fit in, are not acceptable as is and, fundamentally, are not lovable. Shame... Read more
I’m the Parent of an LGBTQ Child… Two of Them! Our lives changed the day our child Annie called from college (at 20) to say they were bisexual. We lost family, friends, and community. A year later, our youngest came out as well! Our children took a great risk to come out and live their true authentic lives. I had to learn, and grow, and make mistakes. Annie gave me resources and I did extensive research. They told me stories... Read more
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