A Miracle
Submitted by Mark on October 31 1999 at 21:44:52
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I was away from CBF for several days, and came back yesterday to find a lot posted on the board. As I read it, I became very worried that after the incident with "honesty", the decision to allow flames might mean our support place would degenerate into just another place for flaming. If so, I would leave. But as I worked my way up the board, I started to realize that something wonderful was happening: the BLers and our new non-BLer participants were discussing things civilly and lovingly. I think God may have worked a miracle here. In Sunday school today, we were discussing James 3:13-4:12 (about conflict), and it seemed so appropriate to mention what had occurred here at CBF. Of course, I couldn't, but I spoke with my pastor (who knows I am a BLer) and told him all about what had happened here at CBF. I want to thank Faith, Pamella, and Shari for having the courage to come here. I also want to thank Bach for bringing them here. I think it is essential that we not become a "BL ghetto". This can be an even better support, accountability, and educational place if we have a good mix of BLers and non-BLers, Christians and non-Christians. BTW, for those of you that are new here, here is a little about myself: I am in my late 30s. I first realized I was homosexual when I was 11, then realized I was a BLer when I was in my mid-20s. I was never abused. I have always been celibate. I am a high school teacher at a conservative Christian school. A year ago I began the process of coming out to my pastor by meeting with him once a week. Those meetings continue. He is the only person in my everyday life that I am out to. We have a good relationship of honesty and trust: I trust him to keep my confidence, and he trusts me with children. In fact, last summer he recommended me to the staff coordinator at a nearby church camp to be a counselor, knowing that I am a BLer. I worked for two weeks with children aged 11-13. I am now starting to get involved in a group for gays and lesbians in my church denomination, and hope to come out to a few of them. Again, a warm welcome to Faith, Pamella, and Shari, and also Val.! And it's good to see you back, Andy and BLues! Mark |