I just acquired and devoured a book about the debate between gays and Christians (Torn by Justin Lee, if you're curious). The author formed a group for gay Christians and their supporters, which I joined.

Here's what I don't get. There's a forum called Queer Joy.

How is a queer person's joy different from other people's? Aren't we all equally human?

In fact, I don't feel like my "identity" is tied solely to my sexuality. Who I feel attracted to is, as it were, a small thread in a big tapestry. I don't want to spend all day being 'affirmed' for something so minor. It's honestly a bit degrading, perhaps even disgusting.

I enjoyed the book. Maybe I'll make some friends at this "Queer Christian Fellowship". (Why does everything involving Christians become a 'fellowship'? That's just silly.) But I'm not just gay; I'm a whole person. I was aware of myself long before I became aware of my attractions. I know of several pleasures that don't involve sex, like reading, talking to my friends or sitting by a fire.

I don't want to be reduced to simplistic labels like gay, Christian or queer; I want to be loved for all of me.