A Family and Friend's Guide to Sexual Orientation helps individuals and families to bridge the divide between gay and straight, to heal wounds that often accompany individuals and families' negative feelings about lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, and transgendered persons. Consisting of thirty stories by individuals who have come to accept and embrace their own sexuality, twelve of the stories are by heterosexuals who, in addition to talking about their own sexuality, speak of the homosexuality of a loved one. The book also includes five personal stories from two families.
Today’s youth struggle with difficult questions of sexual identity. How can a youth worker offer wise care and counsel on such a controversial and confusing subject? Mark Yarhouse, Director of the Institute for the Study of Sexual Identity, writes to equip youth ministers so they can faithfully navigate the topic of sexual identity in a way that is honest, compassionate, and accessible. Reframing the focus away from the culture wars, Yarhouse introduces readers to the conversation beginning with the developmental considerations in the formation of sexual identity—all of which occurs in the teen years. He offers practical and helpful ways to think about people who experience same-sex attraction. Sections of the book are also dedicated to helping parents respond to their children and teens who struggle with questions of sexual idenity, as well as how youth ministry can become more relevant in the lives of youth who are navigating these issues.
A Family and Friend's Guide to Sexual Orientation helps individuals and families to bridge the divide between gay and straight, to heal wounds that often accompany individuals and families' negative feelings about lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, and transgendered persons. Consisting of thirty stories by individuals who have come to accept and embrace their own sexuality, twelve of the stories are by heterosexuals who, in addition to talking about their own sexuality, speak of the homosexuality of a loved one. The book also includes five personal stories from two families.
Mark Yarhouse gives honest and accurate answers to parents and pastors who have questions about homosexuality. Throughout the book, the author uses a new framework for understanding the issue, carefully separating the concept of "same sex attraction" from a "gay identity." In a clear and compassionate style, he explains the research regarding what causes same-sex attraction and whether or not it can be overcome. He also discusses what Christians can do when someone they know opens up to them about their homosexual attractions.
It started as a class project—a young, married, small-town white woman interviewing a gay acquaintance and his circle of friends. From this developed a three-year exploration of the complexities of carrying on gay-straight friendships. This reflexive, thoughtful, and compellingly written study moves from gay bars to softball leagues to visits with families and friends, both gay and straight. During its course, the author develops a growing understanding of the differences between the two communities, the difficulties of developing bonds across groups, and the inherent rewards of seeking (and being) the Other in contemporary society. She explores sexuality, marriage, lifestyles, and the meanings of friendship, culminating in a boisterous dissertation defense attended by her new community of friends. As a study of a gay community, a narrative of personal development and change, and an exploration of the use of friendship in conducting research that transforms both participants and researcher, Tillmann-Healy's work will be compelling reading for scholars, students, and the broader community.
Ed was sent to a religious treatment camp when he first told his family he was gay. When Sarah recognized she was a lesbian, she found support from a gay teacher in her high school. Comedian Ellen DeGeneres announced her sexual orientation on national television, and internationally-recognized musician Ricky Martin told the world he was gay on his website. For each individual, the experience of coming out and openly acknowledging oneself as being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender is very different. And it can take a lifetime. Share the personal coming-out experiences of these and other lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people to find out more about this complicated and exciting process. Learn about organizations such as gay-straight student alliances and Parents, Friends and Families of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), which provide support to people whose loved ones are coming out. Find out what you can do to help make someone's coming out a positive, happy, and healthy experience.
"Embracing My True Colors: A Guide to Explaining Your Sexual Orientation to Family and Friends" is a heartfelt and empowering book that offers a compassionate and practical approach to navigating the journey of coming out and sharing one's sexual orientation with loved ones. Written with empathy and understanding, this guide is designed to provide support, guidance, and reassurance to individuals who are ready to embrace their authentic selves and communicate their truth to the people who matter most. This comprehensive guidebook recognizes the unique challenges and emotions that can arise when discussing sexual orientation, providing a roadmap to help readers navigate the process with confidence and grace. It addresses a range of common concerns and questions, offering strategies for choosing the right time, place, and approach for coming out conversations. The book emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and provides practical tools for building resilience and self-esteem throughout the process. "Embracing My True Colors" encourages readers to embrace their individuality and live authentically, while also acknowledging that everyone's journey is unique. It provides insights and advice on handling potential reactions from family and friends, whether positive, negative, or uncertain. With an emphasis on fostering understanding and maintaining healthy relationships, the book offers guidance on how to address common misconceptions and prejudices, providing readers with tools to educate and enlighten their loved ones. Written in a warm, inclusive, and accessible style, this guidebook also draws upon personal stories, interviews, and real-life experiences to provide relatable examples and inspire readers on their own paths. It recognizes the importance of self-care and offers practical tips for coping with potential challenges, including self-doubt, rejection, or confusion from others. "Embracing My True Colors" is a beacon of hope and encouragement for individuals seeking guidance in expressing their sexual orientation to their family and friends. It provides a safe space to explore personal fears, challenges, and triumphs, offering insights and strategies to help readers build stronger connections, foster understanding, and create a supportive network of loved ones. Ultimately, this book seeks to empower readers to embrace their true selves and build a future filled with love, acceptance, and authenticity.
In order to thrive, young people need to be surrounded by an environment of positivity. They need to feel secure and supported by their friends, family, and the community. Sadly, many LGBTQ teens feel isolated and unsafe. This helpful guide is designed to give LGBTQ teenagers the support and resources they need to feel not only accepted, but also confident and empowered. Readers with questions about sexuality and identity will find the answers they need. With relevant narrative examples and helpful resources, this text addresses the challenges that LGBTQ people face and provides insight into how to cope with discrimination, find support, and create change.
