I’m not Homophobic! Here’s Why?
The Oxford Dictionary defines the term “homophobic” as “having or showing a dislike of or prejudice against gay people.” This definition is clear and straightforward. Now if you have read my previous post titled “Pride Parade or Fools March?” you might have gotten the impression that I am homophobic as well. However, I want to clarify that this is not the case. My intentions in that post were not to express dislike or prejudice. Instead, the post was primarily focused on discussing important aspects such as safety, ethical considerations, and the broader societal impact of the event. In addition to these points, I made a promise in that post to explain my stance on LGBTQ ideology, the community as a whole, and their behaviour patterns. Today, I am here to fulfil that promise. I believe it is important to have open and honest discussions about these topics. By sharing my perspectives, I hope to contribute to a better understanding and more constructive dialogue around LGBTQ issues. [Image: The Pride Parade in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, marching through Queen Elizabeth Drive on 16th June 2024.]
Warning: This post contains mature subject matter. Reader discretion is advised.
I am a Man in a Brothel
I want to be brutally honest with you even if it costs me my dignity: I find myself attracted to certain physical traits—eyes that speak a lot, radiant skin, crimson red lips, revealed cleavage, and perhaps long legs. I feel not just porn but even those billboards promoting lingerie by Midnight Divas are irresistible to look at sometimes. When I encounter such allure, my mind transforms into a bull in a china shop—I must quickly look away to avoid getting emotionally entangled. Twice in my life, I’ve managed to walk away from tempting situations with my integrity intact, only to scold myself later, wondering why I turned down such a world-class hottie! Confucius the Chinese philosopher said “A man in a brother is no one’s Judge” — I am like a man in a brothel. Therefore I have no right to judge others. (Thankfully, I find grace from above, as this struggle is a constant part of my life.) It’s the main reason I’m not homophobic.
Let’s face it. Most of us wouldn’t hesitate to sleep with a woman, even if she’s another man’s wife. We don’t because we’re either afraid of the consequences or haven’t had the opportunity. Not because we love our wives deeply or because we’re very religious – Yet we’re quick to curse and condemn homosexuals to hell, thinking their way of life is unnatural while excusing our heterosexual misconduct as masculine nature. Don’t get me wrong. I am not defending homosexuality here. I am simply saying Homosexuals are not to be singled out and rallied against by us. Their sexual misconduct is not greater than our own. Therefore we need to be careful not to gather up our self-righteous robes and attack a particular lifestyle that we, ourselves, do not struggle with. A wise man once said, “Let the person who is free from sin among you be the first to throw a stone.” Unfortunately, none of us are!
Bigotry Breeds Violence
Here’s the next reason I am not homophobic. My stance on homosexuality and the LGBT community comes from a belief that using bigotry to try and change people breeds, discrimination that ultimately leads to violence and hatred. When you attempt to create change through aggressive and negative means, such as discrimination and violence, it is natural for people to resist and push back. This resistance can foster a cycle of hostility and conflict, which is not conducive to positive transformation. (Throughout history, I can draw upon thousands upon thousands of examples to support my argument.) On the other hand, if we approach the idea of change with love, kindness, and compassion, people are more likely to be receptive and willing to listen. By treating others with respect and understanding, we open the door to meaningful conversations and the possibility of genuine change.
Compassionate dialogue can help bridge divisions and encourage a more harmonious society. To be clear, I am not here to defend the ideologies, interests, or lifestyles associated with homosexuality or the LGBT community. My point is not about endorsing or opposing these aspects. Instead, I am emphasizing that we cannot and should not try to force people to change their lifestyles or sexual orientation through coercion or discrimination. I advocate for a different approach: one that appeals to people on a human level, through empathy and respect. By doing so, we can create an environment where individuals feel valued and heard, making them more open to considering different perspectives. This is the approach I believe in and intend to pursue moving forward.
I am not a religious Nut
Finally, I want to make it clear that I am not homophobic because I am a religious person. Sadly, it seems that many religious people are often at war with LGBTQ ideologies and communities. This, however, does not need to be the case because true religious teachings advocate for a different approach. So, what would a truly religious person do when it comes to homosexuals and the LGBTQ community? A truly religious person would not condone or endorse the homosexual lifestyle. However, they would also not view homosexuals with contempt, disdain, or hatred. The genuinely religious individual would confront homosexuals not with scorn, but with love and compassion.
True religion teaches that while one may disapprove of certain behaviours, this disapproval should not extend to the people themselves. Instead, a truly religious person would distinguish between the behaviour and the individual, condemning the behaviour but not the person. In essence, the truly religious approach is one of compassion and support, focusing on the potential for positive change and fostering an environment of mutual respect and love. This way, the religious community can engage with the LGBTQ community in a manner that aligns with the core tenets of their faith, promoting understanding and harmony instead of conflict and division.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, I want to reaffirm that I am not homophobic. My previous post, “Pride Parade or Fools Walk,” might have given a different impression, but I intended to address concerns about safety, ethics, and societal impacts, not to express prejudice or dislike. I believe that open and honest discussions about LGBTQ issues are essential for fostering understanding and constructive dialogue. Additionally, acknowledging my imperfections and struggles, I recognize that it is not my place to judge or condemn others based on their sexual orientation. True change and positive transformation come from a place of compassion, empathy, and respect, not from discrimination or hatred. As a religious person, I strive to follow the core tenets of my faith, which advocate for love and understanding rather than conflict and division. Thus, my stance is not about endorsing LGBTQ ideologies or opposing the LGBTQ community but about promoting a humane and respectful approach to all individuals.
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