Mathew Shurka was put into gay conversion therapy when he was 16. He’s now able to talk about what life is like on the other side.
When Mathew Shurka came out to his family at age 16, his father was initially loving and supportive. But then, fearing for his son’s future, he sent him to a “gay conversion” therapist.
Ten years later, after battling through estrangement, fear, and depression, he has forgiven his father.
With “gay conversion therapy” back in the headlines, this story has incredible urgency.
This story comes from I’m From Driftwood. I’m From Driftwood envisions a world where every lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer person feels understood and accepted, and every straight person is an ally.
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I wonder if it’s necessary to forgive your parents. I haven’t forgiven mine for a circumcision. That doesn’t mean I don’t love and care for my mom.
Why do you only love and care for your mom? What about your dad? And yes, I agree, parents have no right to mutilate their children without their consent.
My father died when I was one year old. I never knew him though from what I’ve heard, he’d be the definition of a good man.
You are good to be able to forgive him. I wouldn’t