First, I want to thank Ms. Hanna for coming to class to discuss a topic we have not covered a lot in class; homosexuality. As I have expressed in papers and projects I have am an avid supporter of people having the choice to love whomever they want; even if it's the same sex. Although we have come many miles forward, homosexuality is still frowned upon in many places in the world and not widely accepted. I truly hope that equality among all lovers will occur in my lifetime.
Ms. Hanna discussed homosexuality as an illness; unfortunately, this was not the first time that I heard this. I cannot express how hurtful it is to be in love with someone and people look at you like you have a deathly illness. It's unfair that same sex couples have had so many restrictions when coming to loving one another. In my experience, the same sex couples that I know are so genuinely happy. What fascinates me is that same sex couples endure frequent struggles, are not allowed to be themselves in many areas, and are often judged, but after all of that they still love each other; if anything, it is inspiring.
Ms. Hanna read a poem that said, "I die of love for you, but keep it secret". This signifies two struggles, in my opinion. First, I believe that it shows the difficulties that an individual faces with self identity. They think they might love someone of the same sex, but they do not know if that is normal; therefore, their uncertainty keeps their feelings secret. Secondly, they love the other but are not allowed to express their love because of the consequences they would face being a homosexual. No one should have to keep their love for someone secret and they should be able to freely and respectfully display that love just as any heterosexual couple would be able too.
I was intrigued when I learned that words such as "naked" and "make love" are banned in some Middle Eastern countries. I cannot imagine Americans walking around trying to filter these common words from our language and everyday lives. Sometimes I think that Americans can take their freedoms for granted and this just shows how lucky we are to have our freedom of speech.
