Kindness & Love

Right now I am working on my Master’s degree in counseling and this semester I am taking a class on human sexuality. During this class there are discussions with other soon to be therapists on topics relating to human sexuality. This past class discussion was about sexual orientation and gender identity. Listening to everyone and their opinions left me wondering: why is being different such a bad thing?

I have grown up with conservative folks. Usually, I enjoy hearing other people’s perspectives and viewpoints because hearing it has helped shape my own. Now, I’m not in any way, shape, or form saying anything negative about my cohorts in the class. Most of them are a product of their environment and have probably never even talked to a homosexual; much less have a discussion with one. Lucky for me, I have lived a life where I have been on both sides of the fence. Now, I feel like I have this great opportunity to bring information and perspective.

So, here I am. I love to give perspective and I love connecting with people. I am willing to talk and share my story. I’m not perfect, but I try hard not to judge. I have lived a very interesting and colorful life.  I have been asked bizarre and not so bizarre questions and each time I have answered to the best of my ability because I feel like knowledge is the key to curving judgement.

I know for a lot of people it’s hard to open yourself up to anything different. You’re set in your beliefs and you don’t plan on changing them. But, no matter your religion or set of beliefs, kindness and love can go a long way. Take time to educate yourselves or put yourself in someone else’s shoes. It can be uncomfortable, but being uncomfortable is okay. Seeing someone who doesn’t fit your idea of normal and judging them because of it is wrong. Discriminating against someone you don’t understand is wrong. Perpetuating hate and exclusion in the name of religion, or political view or whatever excuse that’s used is wrong.

No matter how we dress

No matter how we live

No matter whom we love.

No matter where we come from.

No matter the color of our skin.

No matter whom we do or don’t pray to.

We are all human. We are all capable of kindness and love.