Community Submissions
I couldn’t understand why I was being judged for wanting to be loved, understood, and cared for. I was at my lowest, looking for help. That’s when I found in Affirmation a home and a family where I was loved and could be authentic.
Affirmation has helped me to rebuild my self-esteem. I’m grateful for being a part of Affirmation. I am happy in my knowledge that Jesus Christ lives and that he is my Savior.
We have to be strong in the face of opposition that seeks to place doubt and fear in the hearts of those succumbing to their lies. Facing those fears with kindness, patience, and full faith and confidence, the truth will eventually prevail.
Affirmation is a space created by our Lord to include those who were excluded and to liberate and heal with His example and love all the beloved and multicolored hearts who have been wounded by pain and, above all, by the guilt inflicted by believing that we are not worthy of His great love.
Believing I had no other choice, I also had a girlfriend, but I never felt the butterflies in my stomach that I did on that day in the school courtyard when I saw that boy.
I had found a measure of peace that told me that I was going to be okay. That who I was, who I am, is okay. While I have at times questioned this, I also feel that I have opened the door wide enough for the Lord to redirect me if that be His will. Hearing none, I have moved forward.
The divisions caused by our divine varied identities are temporary. Our identities connect us with Our Father in more extensive and wonderful ways than we can imagine. We share a divine origin and a glorious future. We should celebrate the wonderful present, inclusive of the full colors of God’s creation.
Visibility is critical in the fight for progress. Just as Harvey Milk called upon gay and lesbian individuals to overcome prejudice by coming out, allies of the transgender community must support them as they also combat prejudice with visibility. We must do what we can to educate ourselves and those around us.
Through applying the principles of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, I found the truth about my own eternal nature, identity, and purpose. I found joy and hope I had begun to fear would never be available to me. I experience the fruits of the spirit like never before.