Wow, Alex. What a sad tale beautifully presented. First of all, I'd like to say that I believe in God but I believe too that I cannot force that belief upon anyone. Your story is very true, as it always happens. Such a belief is laid waste when the person talking about that belief does not even understand what it means to love after all.

It is tragic that people have used this belief as a license to impose rather than a license to understand and love.

Another great, honest piece from you.

Wow Alex, What a heartfelt piece. I have no words for this kind of heartache, but if you didnt stand up to her mother, imagine how you would be now.. a different person, one who couldnt express himself as freely as you do! Im glad you did it and took a stand! Well done.

Alex.. this is so so personal.

I bow my head to your strength of sharing this,

Em

Alex, such a personal write that shows how much this person meant to you and how much she hurt you. There's nothing wrong in believing in something or somebody but when you put blinders on and the only person that's right is the one who believes the exact same thing you do and everyone else is wrong, well, that's just wrong. I grew up with organized religion but have distanced myself as I have gotten older, some of the rigidity just rubs me the wrong way. I will never lose my faith but I have tried to be a more open and understanding person to all that people believe or are. Well done and thank you for sharing this-