homophobia

[scuba steve]

is it ok to feel slightly homophobic towards certain people, i don't even know if it is homophobia as i don't mind seeing homosexual people on t.v and think no diferantly of them on this site.

but when i meet them in person it's like i act differantly around them or something

[Ripplemagne]

I don't like how homophobia is viewed so negatively. Personally, I don't mind them, but some people feel uncomfortable around certain members of an orientation and that should be respected just as much as the initial person's sexuality. Don't force them to adapt to your world perceptions.

Also, it should be noted that there is a clear difference between homophobia and anti-homosexuality. The difference being that the former is a fear or uncomfortable feeling around them, while the latter is a hatred for, which can lead into violence.

[scuba steve]

oh i've never heard of the anti-homosexuality one before, i think it may just be shock though as i don't even meet homosexuals that often, i think this may be the case as i felt the same feelings when i met lesbians for the first time

[byee]

Steve, I think it's fairly normal to feel awkward or uncomfortable around anything (or anyone) 'different'. It's not so much about THEM as it is about YOU, and you seem to be aware of that, so that's a good first step.

The best way to overcome that 'stranger fear' is to get more info about them, and by that I mean not so much personal stuff, but just some actual experience with them, as people. So, finding out someone's *different* gives you the opportunity to talk with them and be with them and not only see and experience which ways you are actually different, but more importantly, how you're the same.

People are so much more than their *differences*, be it gender, or sexuality, or race, or religion, and by being with them and giving yourself some exposure and time with them, you get to balance those things and ultimately see that what makes us different from eachother isn't nearly as important as what makes us similiar, and that those differences offer the opportunity to grow and expand our horizons.

[scuba steve]

thanks sam i just needed help to clear things up, it must just be the nervousness and shock thing you described.

the first time i actaually met homosexuals to talk to was at this dinnerparty and the whole time sitting next to the couple i was just thinking ahhh this is weird, what do i say why are they dressed like that, major meltdown in the head

[Ripplemagne]

You should have asked them who gives and who receives.

[scuba steve]

hahahaha i was like 12 at the time the only way i had actually really heard of gays is school friends calling each other it as in weird cus they didn know what it meant, and my sisters unhelpful advice "they like each others willies"

[punkjake]

if your reasons are such as raised around homophobic or religion but not always true because im catholic and i support GLBT teens
PS THIS IS MY LAST POST BEFORE I GO ON TO A 100!!!!!!!!!!!!:D

[scuba steve]

if your reasons are such as raised around homophobic or religion but not always true because im catholic and i support GLBT teens
PS THIS IS MY LAST POST BEFORE I GO ON TO A 100!!!!!!!!!!!!:D

what do you mean my reasons and whats it got to do with your relligion, please be more thorough as i can't make out what kinduv point you are trying to make:):( and they may not always be true through your eyes but remember an opinion is not a fact