hi there : )

[celestial_rain]

Hi, my name is Amy. I may only be 18 years old, but I definitely know my fair share about the struggles gays and lesbians face everyday.

I've been with my girlfriend for almost a year now, and I came out to my parents when we first started going out. My entire family has been very supportive, and it was actually my sister who told me about Soulforce (I had been struggling with accepting myself, and she found the "What the Bible Says-and Doesn't Say-About Homosexuality" article) Well, my girlfriends parents haven't been nearly as open about it. In fact, they have threatened to press charges if I "contaminate" or "harm" their daughter any more. This is a very real possibility, because she is still a minor and will be for another 9 months.

Also, starting in August I will be attending a Reformed Presbyterian college, and I could be thrown out if they find out that I am a lesbian. Needless to say, I will not be able to come out to many people there. So I will be counting on my friends and family to support me while I am at school, and am hoping that these forums will give me the hope and strength I need to deal with the intolerance I will face.

I have been asked why I am going to a school that will not accept me for who I am-and honestly? I don't know why I'm going there. I just know that it is where I feel called to go, so maybe God has a plan for me there. It is for this reason that I am going, even with the very real possibility of being thrown out. But now that I have this community, I feel that I may just be able to make it through.

[tvmt]

hello I'm 34 yrs old and I understand where you are. when u get to your 30's you will have already made it past the tough times.

[Gennee]

Welcome to the site, Amy. I graduated from a Christian college last year. I came out to myself as transgender in 2005. I was also where I was called to go. I believe that there's a plan for your life there. I wish you and your girlfriend the best.


Gennee

[celestial_rain]

thank you, I truly do appreciate the support

[Poetic Awakening]

Welcome.

I commend you on your courage and strength, and wish you the best of luck!

[Melissa_L]

Hi Amy. I went to a Bible College and have a friend who didn't come out until afterward. I unfortunately didn't know him well until after we both graduated but I can attest to the fact that if you believe in your heart this is where you need to be, our Creator will be there with you no matter what. As an ally and someone who has attended a religious college, I want you to know you will find allies and other GLBT students there who will love and support you. I will pray they find there way to you and give you the support you need.

[Jennifer5]

Thought I'd say an official hello

Hope all is going well with your gf and school. I look forward to getting to know you better.

[antiochian]

Hi, Celestial! I'm currently attending a Baptist university, and at times I've kicked myself for transferring there from a state school. Yes, I've encountered some blatant homophobia in the classroom, and it was upsetting. At the same time, I had the opportunity to come out to one class and share my story (luckily, they don't expel students for being gay here). People warned me against attending this university, and in hindsight, I may have been happier in a more liberal college setting (although I've come across homophobia at state schools as well), yet I am glad I chose this school because I've had a chance to make an impact that will hopefully be for the better.

Having said that, I'd recommend you weigh your decision carefully. You can always check out other universities and make comparisons. If this college will not even allow you to be out, that could be a big problem, unless you're willing to sacrifice a part of your identity for some 3-4 years in school. I'm not doomsaying, just throwing out something you should consider.

Best of luck to you!