Even though, at that time, I did not know what homosexuality was, I intuitively felt that I must keep my feelings to myself. To those who believe homosexuality is a choice rather than a natural occurrence, should ask themselves why anyone would set themselves up to be a subject of discrimination and humiliation. Gay men and lesbian women come from all corners of the earth, from every culture, ethnic group and economic level. Homosexuality, like heterosexuality, in and of itself, is not a mental or emotional disorder. Numerous research studies have indicated that homosexuality is a natural occurrence and not something one chooses to be or not to be.
People have no choices in their feelings of affection.
Like myself, studies have concluded that gay or lesbian children are often aware of being different at a very early age. They generally become aware of their sexual orientation in primary years, during adolescence or early adulthood. Approximately one of every four families has a gay member. Rejection of a gay person by his or her family is a tragedy for each person in the immediate and extended family. It causes pain for those who reject as well as those who are rejected.