A Life In Letters

Dear Steph,

I’ve recently discovered churches and programs designed to help “free” a person of their homosexuality. The church or programs claim to possess the ability to assist any gay/lesbian person in changing their lifestyle in EVERY manner so not to be presumed homosexual. Some institutes go as far as teaching you how to sit properly according to your sex. Churches, like Exodus, believe they can “free” people from their homosexuality through Jesus Christ. Some of these facilities are voluntarily, however, there are some places were a parent who wishes to rid their child of homosexuality can enroll said child. The child, under 18 years of age of course, can be held against his or her own will.Is it really possible for someone to suddenly change their sexual preferences, or are these people in denial? Should parents be allowed to submit their children to these places?

Apparently there are some homosexuals who prefer not to be homosexual, whether it’s from a religious view or other wise, and who seek out places such as Exodus churches and NARTH (National Association of Research and Therapy of Homosexuality) facilities to help change their lifestyle. The main question is, do they really work? Is it as simple as therapy and change of lifestyle to end homosexuality?

And what of the children? Most gay/lesbian adolescents fear the day they come out to their parents due to fear of rejection. So imagine how it must feel to have your parents send you away in an attempt to remove a part of who you are. Can no one see the damage to these children??!

I can understand the need to “free” yourself from homosexuality. Most religions, Christianity for example, depict homosexuality as dirty and sinful, and preach that anyone who is gay or lesbian will be damned to hell. If you’re able to look past such prosecution, you have to deal with social stereotypes on a daily basis. After a while, it must be tiresome, and depressing, not to mention intimidating what with anti-gay movements becoming violent.

It’s sad that some people would rather subject themselves to ridiculous processes, even exorcisms, to escape social inquisition. Maybe it’s time for the world to change and accept homosexuality, rather than the gays/lesbians change to be accepted.

Sincerley,
NightWriter.

To the Readers:

• What do you think?
  • Can gays/lesbians “free” themselves from homosexuality, or are they in denial?
  • Should parents be allowed to send their children to programs such as those offered at Exodus?