Jamie and I have talked about this at length and debated on whether or not to post anything today.  I think we have to because we owe to these kids.  

I think boys have, at one time or another, been called queer, faggot, etc.  However, when you know you're gay (and I have since I was 5 or 6), those words sting a little more and, usually, you hear them a little more often than others.  I never really had a whole lot of problems until middle school and that is when you have an influx from other elementary schools that you don't know.  It was then I started getting picked on and called queer a lot.  I was a chunky kid and not very aggressive at all.  I had my lunch ticket stolen, people would say stuff in class that I hear, etc. etc. etc. It got a little better by the end of Jr. High

I got to high school and it was very awkward.  This is the time of your life you're supposed to start dating, going to dances and parties.  I think I only went to two dances that whole time I was there and it was a nerve wracking experience.  In the 9th grade, just by chance, I sat next to a girl in science class because a seat was available at the two person table.  That person, Sue Ann, has been a soul mate of mine since that day.  As it turns out, Sue Ann is a lesbian and, for some reason, God put the two of us together to make it through high school and be each other's support. Luckily, we

I can't say my teens were miserable.  I did have a lot of fun and a lot of good friends.  But, I still knew I was different and it scared the hell out of me because the only gays I knew were flamers that were perpetually ridiculed and bullied.  I made up my mind that was not going to happen to me and set out to play it as straight as possible.  In retrospect, I have so much respect and awe for those guys and girls because it took true courage to be themselves, face the ridicule and make it through.  I wish I had half that courage. 

It's maddening to me all of the teens taking the suicide route because they are different.  Trust me, it TRULY gets better.  When I went to Jr. College my first two years, I fell into a group of friends that made my life joyous.  When I went to Auburn, it was the same thing.  Those places are large enough that you can find your niche and group of friends that "get" you.  You just have to make it through high school.  It's though.  Life is tough, but you will make it.  You just have to reach out to your parents and if you think you can't, contact any number of gay support groups, your favorite teacher...anyone that you can trust and they will help you through this.  You just have to listen to them. Please understand that you are normal, you are loved and, most importantly, you are one of God's children.

My life has been blessed.  I have a great spouse, a great career, family and friends that love me and my health.  I consider those here on the VS as friends, close friends.  Everyday I come here and it brightens my day and I'm accepted.  This is truly a special place and y'all are special people.  Let's all work to stop ALL bullying.