Thursday, September 11, 2008

Hope and good people

Today I had a really short chat with L.O. (co-worker). In our conversation she renewed my hope in the church and my workplace. To be honest even though a lot of folk know and are supportive, the incident which I wrote about (and then hid because I was nervous about it being too visible) shook me up. I suppose it would shake anyone up to have a close friend talking about how she shouldn't be in her job etc. because she's gay. It made me feel yucky about everything in this community just because of that incident.

Anyway. This a.m. I had a minute or two to ask L.O. about her conversation with ae. I was hoping since they are both more conservative ae would at least hear her. I have no idea if it helped ae but hearing even one or two things L.O. said renewed my hope in all of humanity.

She said to ae that she knows the word of God but that (insert my name) is a living breathing human being who has gone through a ton of hard stuff. Then ae I guess talked about all the "ministry" I've done to her and how she can't understand how this is me. And L.O. said that this is still me. That I was able to be there for her because I am a person of faith and that I am still a person of faith. She actually said it much better than that.

What was most moving to me is that someone stood up for my character. When I come out to a conservative friend it's hard for them, and they suddenly think that I have turned into an awful person, that I'm sleeping around, or who knows what! But nothing changed in me. I said one truth, which has been true for a long time, out loud. So when someone who they respect (since they no longer respect me) says to them "She is a person of faith" it makes all the difference in the world.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

I think knowing individuals, like you, who are "living, breathing human beings," and especially who are people of faith, who then come out, is going to be the best, perhaps only way to change nasty, mean conservative people. I, for one, am glad I know you. :)

Anonymous said...

I'm glad you have someone like L.O. in your life. She is very good at speaking simple truths to people. Even if her perspective is different she is always very welcoming and willing to listen. - M.

Anonymous said...

Your light shines bright so that others see your faith beyond what is in front of them.

Matthew 5:15-16 (New International Version)
Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.