A Note to Christopher from Mom (Knoxville, Tennesse)

To My Wonderful Son Christopher,

The day you were born was the most wonderful day of my life. I found out what true love is that day. I knew nothing could ever take that love away. You were so beautiful on that day and you have become more beautiful each day since.

You will never know the pain and agony I suffered watching you be bullied at school. The heartache you poured out to me about the torture you endured. I tried but was unable to get any satisfaction from the school system. They failed you.
 
I suspected you were gay even before you brought up the possibility. As you know I was raised that this was a sin and that it was a choice. Unfortunately, I had shared these beliefs with you in your early life. I struggled with this along with you.  I hope you will forgive my ignorance.

I watched you struggle with not wanting to be gay. You wanted to get married and have children. You did not want people to hate you for who you are. I feared those things for you. I wanted to see you have these things in life. I wanted to attend your wedding and I wanted to hold my grandchildren. You have taught me so much. You opened my eyes to the truth. That being gay is no more a choice than being straight.
 
My love for you never waivered or weakened. I learned in watching your struggles that there was only one truth. I wanted you to be happy. I wanted you to have a good life. I did something good that day. I told you I would never be happy if you were not true to yourself and I knew I was right.
 
When you finally came to terms with the fact you were gay and you admitted it, I saw a weight lift off of you. You changed that day. It was a good change. You became the happy child I had known again. Your self confidence increased and you came out of your shell. You became who you are. I want you to know that person is wonderful.
 
I still want the same things for you. I want to see you married and I want to hold my grandchildren. I pray someday our country will come to their senses the way I did. That someday you will be able to marry the love of your life. I want to hold my grandchildren. Whether they be biological or adopted. I want to be able to say that your partner is legally my son in-law.
 
I want the same things for you I did on the day you were born. I love you as much as I did on the day you were born. (Probably even more)  I am also as proud of you as the day you were born.

I have watched you grow into a wonderful man.  I am so proud to call you my son.  I love you more than you will ever know.

Love Always,
Mom