***Random Play
*Gary Go: Self Titled CD
*Francessa Battistelli: Hundred More Years
*Will Young: Echoes
*Sade: The Ulitmate Collection
*Kiff: You Can't Keep It Down
*Texas: The Greatest Hits
I have always been raised to be proud of my Catholic Faith. It's the Faith that was handed down to me and I've accepted the Catholic Church as the foundation for my Faith and moral compass. As a gay man, I have always been asked and interrogated as to why I would allow a religion into my life when I'm not openly accepted as a member of the Church. I don't even know where to begin to when I responded to that question or how to start my response because it's not an easy answer.
I am no longer ashamed to be gay. When I was a teenager, I believed I would be doomed in society if my truth surfaced beyond the walls of 'my closet'. My Faith allowed me to stay grounded while I worked on my self worth and confidence. I didn't come out until I was 23. That was such a difficult time in my Life for so many reason. I won't get into all of that right now but the point I want made and remembered was that My Faith kept me alive and wanting more. I can recall being ridiculed and laughed at during the Middle School and High School years. My Faith prevented me from doing stupid things. Things weren't always easy but never ever considered the easy way out - suicide was never an option. Momma didn't raise no mouse plus I loved food too much to leave this world! It wasn't easy being a Gay overweight Catholic Hispanic young male during those years.
I can remember praying for solace and inner peace thoughtout that whole troubled time frame. I look back and My Faith guided me. God, Angels & Saints helped me get through the worst of times. It's only been in recent years that I finally learned that I don't owe anybody a reason or a response concerning something that is so close and dear to me. I attend Mass to give thanks for Life and to share Conversations with God. I could care less what others think of me. I would like to believe that the other members of the congregation are there much for the same reasons.
I am proud to be Catholic. I love the Catholic traditions. I love my relationship with God. Do I like the fact that I'm not openly accepted? No, it makes me quite sad but it's no reason for me to toss my Faith aside. I do believe that Change will come. It may not be during my Lifetime but I do believe. As I tell people now, my relationship with God is none of your damn business. Nor is it my business as to your relationship with God or not. My Faith is like an old friend - it's always there and it has never failed me. I'm thankful for the gift of Faith.
Current Music: Texas' Say What You Want
Curren Mood: Blessed
