Recent discussions have left me wondering about what qualified professionals have to say about the nature and effects of homosexuality. It’s funny what a small amount of research can reveal:

The American Psychological Association writes, “Same-sex sexual attractions, behavior, and orientations per se are normal and positive variants of human sexuality—in other words, they are not indicators of mental or developmental disorders. … Gay men, lesbians, and bisexual individuals can live satisfying lives as well as form stable, committed relationships and families that are equivalent to heterosexual relationships in essential respects.”

The Royal College of Psychiatrists writes, “It would appear that sexual orientation is biological in nature, determined by a complex interplay of genetic factors and the early uterine environment. Sexual orientation is therefore not a choice, though sexual behaviour clearly is. Thus LGB people have exactly the same rights and responsibilities concerning the expression of their sexuality as heterosexual people. … There is now a large body of research evidence that indicates that being gay, lesbian or bisexual is compatible with normal mental health and social adjustment.”

Both sources readily indicate that the only demonstrable connection between homosexuality and poor mental health is the prevalence of discrimination of homosexuals, and the negative impacts that discrimination has on individuals. As such, rather than suggest that gay people would be happier if they chose to change (despite the evidence that this is not a choice), we should instead be focused on making our society a place where they’re as welcome as everyone else in this world. Wouldn’t that be a breath of fresh air?

Why title this blog Marvels and Mysteries? It is a reference to a favorite quote of mine from Joseph Conrad:

“The world of the living contains enough marvels and mysteries as it is—marvels and mysteries acting upon our emotions and intelligence in ways so inexplicable that it would almost justify the conception of life as an enchanted state. No, I am too firm in my consciousness of the marvelous to be ever fascinated by the mere supernatural which (take it any way you like) is but a manufactured article, the fabrication of minds insensitive to the intimate delicacies of our relation to the dead and to the living, in their countless multitudes; a desecration of our tenderest memories; an outrage on our dignity.”