Open your heart
My look on equality19 total reviews
Comment from Begin Again
What a loving, beautiful and outstanding post! The church is supposed to be the House of God, but I, too have learned they are only humans pretending they know what God expects of us and which of us should be honored. They are wrong! God created us all equal... different in our own ways but equal regardless. We all deserve the same rights! Regardless of who we are, or the color of our skin, or our choice of religion... we are equal.
I believe my thirteen-year-old granddaughter is struggling with these feelings, but refuses to share them with anyone. She has cut herself many times, been hospitalized, and then returned home... only for us to be told by her parents that it was just a moment of depression and all is fine now. Her father told her no boys... then they frowned on her girlfriend... so now she turns to no one. I pray each night for a better outcome than the one that I fear is coming.
I am happy that you reposted and I had the opportunity to read it. It is an excellent write, and your love flows from every word.
My love bubbles over for you and your daughter. Smiles and hugs, Carol
reply by the author on 27-Jun-2021
What a loving, beautiful and outstanding post! The church is supposed to be the House of God, but I, too have learned they are only humans pretending they know what God expects of us and which of us should be honored. They are wrong! God created us all equal... different in our own ways but equal regardless. We all deserve the same rights! Regardless of who we are, or the color of our skin, or our choice of religion... we are equal.
I believe my thirteen-year-old granddaughter is struggling with these feelings, but refuses to share them with anyone. She has cut herself many times, been hospitalized, and then returned home... only for us to be told by her parents that it was just a moment of depression and all is fine now. Her father told her no boys... then they frowned on her girlfriend... so now she turns to no one. I pray each night for a better outcome than the one that I fear is coming.
I am happy that you reposted and I had the opportunity to read it. It is an excellent write, and your love flows from every word.
My love bubbles over for you and your daughter. Smiles and hugs, Carol
Comment Written 27-Jun-2021
reply by the author on 27-Jun-2021
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Thank you so much ❤️ I pray she finds someone she can talk to.
I believe we are supposed to love our children unconditionally.
Big hug♥️
Missy
Comment from blondie560
What an amazing mom you are. Your daughter is so fortunate to have you in her corner. I always was taught to believe hate the sin, but love the sinner. If this is even a sin. I can't believe that minister told you that he didn't want your daughter to be looked up to. Imagine if your daughter made those choices on her job. She decides that she doesn't want to send emergency personnel because the people live in a run-down mobile home because they have zero money. She'd be fired. The one thing I have trouble with organized religion is the man-made rules. Isn't it only up to God to forgive our sins? I'm so sorry for you and your daughter being treated so badly. It makes me sad a person is judge by their skin color, lack of wealth, their weight, or who they love and not what matters most: their contributions to society, their compassion, and their personality. I have much respect for you and your daughter. Best regards, Sally
reply by the author on 27-Jun-2021
What an amazing mom you are. Your daughter is so fortunate to have you in her corner. I always was taught to believe hate the sin, but love the sinner. If this is even a sin. I can't believe that minister told you that he didn't want your daughter to be looked up to. Imagine if your daughter made those choices on her job. She decides that she doesn't want to send emergency personnel because the people live in a run-down mobile home because they have zero money. She'd be fired. The one thing I have trouble with organized religion is the man-made rules. Isn't it only up to God to forgive our sins? I'm so sorry for you and your daughter being treated so badly. It makes me sad a person is judge by their skin color, lack of wealth, their weight, or who they love and not what matters most: their contributions to society, their compassion, and their personality. I have much respect for you and your daughter. Best regards, Sally
Comment Written 27-Jun-2021
reply by the author on 27-Jun-2021
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Sally, your review warms my heart. Thank you so much for just reading and finding common ground ❤️
Always
Justafan
Missy
Comment from RodG
"It is my prayer that this touches some of you." YOU TOUCHED ME, Justafan. Your essay is clear, coherent, and persuasive. I learned much I did not know about the law and how some churches deal with gay members. I hope the Supreme Court does the right thing and gives your daughter the rights she and a vast number of others deserve,
Rod
reply by the author on 27-Jun-2021
"It is my prayer that this touches some of you." YOU TOUCHED ME, Justafan. Your essay is clear, coherent, and persuasive. I learned much I did not know about the law and how some churches deal with gay members. I hope the Supreme Court does the right thing and gives your daughter the rights she and a vast number of others deserve,
Rod
Comment Written 27-Jun-2021
reply by the author on 27-Jun-2021
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They did? it?s been 6 years as of today! Thank you for the marvelous review!!
So happy you found it!
Always
Justafan of yours
Missy
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My pleasure.
Comment from mfowler
If my child were treated that way by any church, I'd be on my way straight out of that close minded, unloving and bigoted place before you could say 'Jesus'. My God, too, does not reside there either. I loved your rant, Missy. This legislation sounds hugely important and is, just like the recent decision in Ireland to allow gay marriage, a big step forward in overcoming prejudice and granting basic human rights. I still can't see how your sexuality has anything to do with anything except your own business. That this rant (and essay) is about your daughter is inspiring as so many kids whose sexuality isn't the accepted norm, are lost to their parents because of medieval attitudes. Your words are powerful, well argued, backed by good examples and are also attested to by being just.
reply by the author on 22-Jun-2015
If my child were treated that way by any church, I'd be on my way straight out of that close minded, unloving and bigoted place before you could say 'Jesus'. My God, too, does not reside there either. I loved your rant, Missy. This legislation sounds hugely important and is, just like the recent decision in Ireland to allow gay marriage, a big step forward in overcoming prejudice and granting basic human rights. I still can't see how your sexuality has anything to do with anything except your own business. That this rant (and essay) is about your daughter is inspiring as so many kids whose sexuality isn't the accepted norm, are lost to their parents because of medieval attitudes. Your words are powerful, well argued, backed by good examples and are also attested to by being just.
Comment Written 22-Jun-2015
reply by the author on 22-Jun-2015
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Oh Mark, your review brings a smile to this ol girls heart :). The majority of reviews have been supportive... Only one bigot... Phew!!!
Bless you for taking your valuable time and sending your sweet encouraging words.
Always,
Missy
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I read that one. No surprise there.
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Xo thanks again.
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Xo thanks again.
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Xo thanks again.
Comment from TAB_that's me
Thank you for writing this letter to your daughter. My wife and I anxiously await the decision too. At least she has great insurance that allows me to be on it even though our state doesn't recognize our marriage. I am so sorry about what that church/pastor did to her. God is the only judge. Does that pastor not read the Bible where is says do not judge?
Teresa
reply by the author on 21-Jun-2015
Thank you for writing this letter to your daughter. My wife and I anxiously await the decision too. At least she has great insurance that allows me to be on it even though our state doesn't recognize our marriage. I am so sorry about what that church/pastor did to her. God is the only judge. Does that pastor not read the Bible where is says do not judge?
Teresa
Comment Written 21-Jun-2015
reply by the author on 21-Jun-2015
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I am glad you found this Teresa. My daughter is a very strong woman and she is moving in her life with the confidence born through faith. :) thank you for this encouraging review.
Missy
Comment from TheFlamingo
Hi justafan,
As I read your story I was reminded of the Monty Python saying "nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition". And why would you? Especially from a man of the cloth.
Having a sister who is gay, and now in her fifties I can tell you it does get easier and the occasional ignorant comment far less consequential as we become older and stronger. Prejudice will always exist in one form or another. A big "nose thumb" to them all.
reply by the author on 20-Jun-2015
Hi justafan,
As I read your story I was reminded of the Monty Python saying "nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition". And why would you? Especially from a man of the cloth.
Having a sister who is gay, and now in her fifties I can tell you it does get easier and the occasional ignorant comment far less consequential as we become older and stronger. Prejudice will always exist in one form or another. A big "nose thumb" to them all.
Comment Written 20-Jun-2015
reply by the author on 20-Jun-2015
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Thank you TF for understanding and loving your sister unconditionally...big hug :)
Always justafan,
Missy
Comment from Nosha17
I am sure any loving parent would feel as you do. Prejudice in any shape or form is evil and has no place in any country of the world. If the Pastor of the Church was truly Christian or Christ like he would not have barred her from singing in the choir-Christ welcomed prostitutes and lepers according to the Scriptures. Well expressed views and important message. I found a few errors: Para 10, us, as well........Para 16, His praises...........He blessed. Para 21, mothers, fathers,...........In the notes, I think you mean 'imminent'. Faye
reply by the author on 20-Jun-2015
I am sure any loving parent would feel as you do. Prejudice in any shape or form is evil and has no place in any country of the world. If the Pastor of the Church was truly Christian or Christ like he would not have barred her from singing in the choir-Christ welcomed prostitutes and lepers according to the Scriptures. Well expressed views and important message. I found a few errors: Para 10, us, as well........Para 16, His praises...........He blessed. Para 21, mothers, fathers,...........In the notes, I think you mean 'imminent'. Faye
Comment Written 20-Jun-2015
reply by the author on 20-Jun-2015
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Nosha17 thank you for this kind and informative review :)
Always justafan,
Missy
Comment from Jackq
It still amazes me that the laws in this country are so far behind what is fair and equitable.
This was an amazing read, very heartfelt.
I hope that your daughter never encounters such narrow mindedness again.
reply by the author on 26-May-2015
It still amazes me that the laws in this country are so far behind what is fair and equitable.
This was an amazing read, very heartfelt.
I hope that your daughter never encounters such narrow mindedness again.
Comment Written 26-May-2015
reply by the author on 26-May-2015
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She tries to act tough, but I will tell you, Jack that she has not crossed the threshold of a church since then. I am glad you found me :)
Always justafan,
Missy
Comment from michaelcahill
So pleased I found this. I was looking for something to review and let you know I'm out here somewhere. I can't begin to tell you how angry that so called church makes me. It took decades for me to find a church that finds my long haired self perfectly acceptable. You should all come for a visit. Wendy pinch hits for the pastor once in a while and she's a lesbian not to mention a great speaker. We're suppossed to be CHRISTians. Christ never said a word about being gay or who to love, he just said to love. The very first time He saved a soul was when he was on the cross. A thief regretted his sinful life and sought forgiveness. He acknowledged that Jesus was indeed who he said he was. Jesus didn't ask him if he was gay or anything else, he just told him he would be in paradise with him that very day. End of story. Well, you know I'll ramble on and on. A beautiful piece. There are more people who believe as you do than you can imagine. You have a beautiful daughter who sounds like she has a beautiful loving partner. Who could ask for more. Fingers crossed. mikey
reply by the author on 26-May-2015
So pleased I found this. I was looking for something to review and let you know I'm out here somewhere. I can't begin to tell you how angry that so called church makes me. It took decades for me to find a church that finds my long haired self perfectly acceptable. You should all come for a visit. Wendy pinch hits for the pastor once in a while and she's a lesbian not to mention a great speaker. We're suppossed to be CHRISTians. Christ never said a word about being gay or who to love, he just said to love. The very first time He saved a soul was when he was on the cross. A thief regretted his sinful life and sought forgiveness. He acknowledged that Jesus was indeed who he said he was. Jesus didn't ask him if he was gay or anything else, he just told him he would be in paradise with him that very day. End of story. Well, you know I'll ramble on and on. A beautiful piece. There are more people who believe as you do than you can imagine. You have a beautiful daughter who sounds like she has a beautiful loving partner. Who could ask for more. Fingers crossed. mikey
Comment Written 26-May-2015
reply by the author on 26-May-2015
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I know your out there Mikey :) I watch from a distance. Kinda spooky like that :) Thank you for understanding and for your wonderful review hon.
Always your fan,
Missy
Comment from Donya Quijote
You express yourself well in this rank-like treatise. Your justifiable anger rises above your hope for a positive decision this June. And you have every right to be angry. No one has the right to treat your daughter differently than he would another person. I find the hypocrisy of the preacher and his church laughable and disgraceful. It's the reason I don't attend church anymore. I hope your daughter never stops singing. A beautiful voice should never be made silent. I'm glad you support your daughter. I know many parents disown their children when their "secret" is revealed. May peace and happiness find you both..
reply by the author on 24-May-2015
You express yourself well in this rank-like treatise. Your justifiable anger rises above your hope for a positive decision this June. And you have every right to be angry. No one has the right to treat your daughter differently than he would another person. I find the hypocrisy of the preacher and his church laughable and disgraceful. It's the reason I don't attend church anymore. I hope your daughter never stops singing. A beautiful voice should never be made silent. I'm glad you support your daughter. I know many parents disown their children when their "secret" is revealed. May peace and happiness find you both..
Comment Written 24-May-2015
reply by the author on 24-May-2015
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Thanks Donya for your review and open mind. I sincerely mean that.
Always justafan,
Missy