August 15, 2008
Out of Pain, God Restores (Ethan Martin)
by Ethan Martin, Intern, Exodus International
Excerpt of article: As is the case with most male homosexual strugglers, my struggle began at a young age. . .
Although experiencing the same abuses as children, my brother and I had very different temperaments. I was a sensitive, compassionate child who often cried at the pain of others, empathizing with them. My brother was seen as stronger, had a high tolerance for pain, and rarely showed emotion. My dad wanted us to be athletic so he pushed us into sports. I grew fearful seeing his verbal torment of my brother in sports and did not want to receive a similar attack. I found myself rejecting sports, and doing things that I was naturally good at, like singing, dancing, and acting. I also rejected the idea of masculinity as portrayed by my only male role model, my father.
As I continued to grow, more and more people called me names: sissy, fag, queer, and gay. My pain intensified when my parents got divorced. By the age of twelve we moved across the state, so contact with my father was limited, which I was okay with.
From Suzie: I believe in the power of story. Many times we want to debate issues, but this story is shared simply because it is Ethan’s to tell. What did God do in his life? Where did he turn for answers? The rest of the article shares his struggle, his hopes, and his journey to find God in the middle of real life. Read the rest of this great essay at Exodus International.
Debbie says:
Wow, that’s an interesting site. Thanks for posting this, Suzie!
Debbie