Gay Issues

The most commonly accepted explanation for why it is that some people are same-sex orientated, while others are only attracted to the opposite sex, has to do with the idea that it is somehow related to genetics. However, there are those in the gay community who are just as adamant that their homosexuality was a conscious choice. They freely decided to be gay. Although, the argument for the "gay gene" is still theoretical, there is something in the choice approach that speaks of intellectual honesty. The first is easier to use in justifying one's gayness but the second will obviously demand a more carefully thought out explanation should one feel it necessary to explain his/her sexual preference.

The Gay Lifestyle...
The gay female like their heterosexual counterparts come in a multitude of shapes, forms, and types.

They can be very quiet people whose sexuality is known by no one (referred to as living in "stealth mode"), including immediate family members, to openly aggressive, who use intimidation to get what they want. In between are every kind and gay type. Like heterosexual people, they are both varied and complex.

Their social life includes the same interests, activities, and hobbies that others might enjoy. The only marked difference would be the gay bars and clubs that are found throughout our cities. No doubt, most straight people would feel uncomfortable in such a setting. The clubs can range from a casual dance atmosphere to a leather bar for the more macho type.

Whatever their preference or choices, they are indeed human beings placed on this planet for the time that they are given. They hurt, laugh, dream, and have hopes for the future.

To love and be loved is just as much a part of their makeup as any person.
They are human beings.

Gay Issues...
The homosexual community has come out of the closet. As a result, it now finds itself facing many complex and complicated issues such as same-sex marriages, palimony law suits, the HIV epidemic, homophobia, etc. All of these concerns affect gay people in some measure.

However, one of the greatest challenges facing gays is that of acceptance (or the lack of it) by the heterosexual community. It lies at the base of all of their social issues.

For gay men, this is especially true. Since lesbians, transsexuals, trans gendered, and inter sexual people have a kind of sensual attraction to the general population, they are more tolerated. That is not to say that they don't experience criticism and abuse. The point here is that men are basically the more violent of the two sexes and those who feel that their masculinity is threatened by the presence of a homosexual man are more apt to express their disdain. This has been historically evidenced over and over again in situations where gay men have been physically attacked and even murdered.
Interestingly enough, those who have been the most brutal and violent toward gay people also claim to represent God.

As a result, those who are gay have an inbred fear of Christians; especially those of the fundamentalist persuasion. One wonders if such believers were to take the command of their Saviour more seriously in regard to God so loving the "world that He gave His only begotten Son" what a difference it might make in the willingness of homosexual people to listen to their Gospel.

There are more things in this world than most of us can begin to imagine, let alone comprehend or experience. In the lives of gay people there are issues that straight people cannot truly relate to or understand. As gay young people have said to their parents, "It's a tough life, but it's the one I have chosen to live no matter what happens."

Gay Relationships..
Gay men are not as monogamous as female homosexuals. In fact, the general perception is that they are extremely promiscuous. In some cases, this perception is much deserved. Hearing such men boast of having had a thousand lovers in their lives has only enforced this false concept. The truth is that, like any young man, they go through the same stage of over-experimenting when the "Pandora's Box" of sexuality is first opened wide. However, the basic human need for friendship, companionship, and intimately relating to someone special eventually kicks in. As a result, the time comes when they settle into what are more stable relationships--some for a lifetime.

In a world dominated by heterosexuals, those who have chosen the gay lifestyle are not understood in the same context that the word "love" implies. Yet, the reality is that there is little difference except for the fact that these are same-sex relationships.

Romance is not limited to heterosexuals. It is alive and well amongst all those who belong to the gay community, whether they be men, women, bisexuals, or transsexuals, etc.

Even though our society has become more tolerant of those who choose this lifestyle, there are still many who cannot or will not accept gay people. The challenge to live peaceably and in harmony with those around them is a constant one that will never go away.

Whether it's a passing stranger whose expression denotes disapproval or a beloved family member who feigns love without providing any support, there will always be those who focus only on their sexuality while failing to recognize them as real people.

Disagree with their choice if you will, but keep in mind that people are human beings regardless of their sexual orientation. How we treat each other goes a long way in demonstrating our own humanity, or lack of it.