Wow Jan, thank you so much for all you do, and for sharing about it here. I wish my mom were more like you!
I came out to my mom at the ANCIENT age of 9 (long story as to why so early) and she beat me! It was the only time either parent ever struck me, but she slapped me in the face over and over while screaming horrible things about homosexuals. It lasted a very long time. All I could think the entire time was "Oh my god, gays don't have mothers!" Yet I was so thankful that she finally decided to hit me, because before that she was backing away with her hands pulled back like I was too disgusting to touch.
Now that I'm married she completely ignores my involvement in gay activism and refers to my bisexuality as a "phase" that's over. So I can't share most of my real self with her.
A piece of my heart is still back there in 1984 huddled in shock against the wall. You have no idea how glad I am every time I hear of a mom or dad who responds by loving their gay child.
THANK YOU!!
