Hello!

[vegansoul]

I'm actually a "convert" from conservative Christianity. A few years ago I began questioning long-held beliefs. I was going through a divorce and living on my own in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I started watching some thought-provoking documentaries, and then read the book that really revolutionized my thinking -- "Religion Gone Bad". I've come a long way in my beliefs since then. I have a unique perspective since I had been firmly entrenched on the "other side", and have good insights into that way of thinking.
During that formative time period, one of the most moving experiences I had was when my daughter and I visited Milwaukee Metropolitan Community Church. It was so outside my comfort zone at the time, and it was incredibly touching and eye-opening.
I moved to Portland, Oregon this August, joining my daughter and son-in-law there. We are all straight, but have a good number of gay friends now, and actively promote equal rights. I have great admiration for SoulForce.
:)

[Gennee]

Welcome to the site, vegansoul. Thank you for sharing your story. It's refreshing that you saw this from a different perspective and was willing to change your viewpoint. I read Mel's book too and I couldn't put it down. Please feel right at home.

Gennee

[Montanna]

Happy New Year! May this year bring many new insights and friends. Maybe you can start a thread on ways to educate others. I hope you get to know us and feel comfortable enough to share more of your story. Blessings!

[dsdrane]

Hello and welcome vegan!

Straight or gay, you are not alone here. My partner is also a "convert" -- many here are. My own particular conversion was to religion from a very anti-religious stance as gay man in the age of AIDS and institutional homophobia.

Post-conversion, I came looking for a place like this...and found it here. And I cannot begin to tell you how happy I am that I did.

Take off your coat and stay awhile.... ;)