I know homosexuality is a constantly discussed and heated issue among Christian conservatives, politicians and people who just don't understand. Most who oppose gays base their hatred from their interpretation of the Bible, or that it is just plain wrong and immoral. I want to tell my story.

I was born into a loving two-parent family. I first realized that I was "different" at the age of 6 when I was chasing boys and innocently telling my mother, "That boy is cute."

When I entered first grade, I then realized I could not say those things anymore because it was not the norm; it was wrong.

I was involved in music and sports and had a solid upbringing. I played baseball, basketball and was always roaming around the neighborhood on my bike. I attended University of Miami football games religiously. I attended and was very involved in the Lutheran church.

Growing up, my parents did not personally know anyone who was gay - it was a taboo subject, although they are card-carrying Democrats. We were a typical all-American family.

When I entered junior high school at 13 years old, I realized that my difference had a name, and it was called gay, homosexual and fag. I didn't understand why this was me. Why did I not like girls when I was supposed to? I often thought being gay was wrong because of what I used to hear on television, about the "going to hell" issue and that being gay was frowned upon, weird and wrong.

I felt betrayed by the God I grew to love and worship because He hated me. I even heard that you could go to a doctor and get "changed." This was promising news to a 13-year-old who hated himself, although later I realized nothing would change me. At that moment, I vowed that I would never tell a soul for as long as I lived. I was embarrassed, ashamed and angry - very angry.

I proceeded to act "the straight life" until my junior year at MSU where I finally accepted myself as a gay man. I told my parents and friends, and they were surprised but happy for me.

I have been in a relationship for four years and my family accepts him as one of their own. I have a storybook ending for my situation; most are not so fortunate.

The reason why I am writing this is because I am sick and tired of hearing about kids killing themselves because they are gay. I am sick of listening to conservatives preach what they believe is right and wrong. Who are they? What makes their words right? Why would they know more about me than me?

I am sick of not having the same rights in my relationship that I deserve. I am sick of people passing judgment on something they know nothing about, or worse, passing legislation against it.

I will never understand why some people will devote their entire lives to hating another group of people. I'm no expert on religion, but I don't think God would understand either.

Take it from me, this is how I was born, this is who I am and although it took a long time for me to accept, I would have it no other way.

Herb Parlato
2000 graduate