<p>This is my personal statement for prompt #1. What do you guys think?</p>
<pre><code>Through the course of my lifetime, I have undergone my share of struggles, many of which have been amplified by the unnecessary efforts of my parents. Though, there is one particular struggle that has shaped not only the course of my teenage years but, the rest of my life.
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<p>Both of my parents grew up with a strong Christian faith. Their religious upbringing was passed down and forced upon me. I was enrolled in religious preschool, and attended church three times a week for a number of years. Even when church was not in session, Christianity still prevailed above all. I was not allowed to swear, watch certain television shows, or act in an unchristian-like manner.
I never had a preference when it came to religion. However, as a young adult I discovered who I am meant to be. It was then when I realized I was a homosexual. In the eyes of my parents, being a homosexual was an abomination. They told me it would bring shame to our family and would not only embarrass me, but themselves. After discovering my sexuality, I knew my parents would disapprove;which is why my parents punished me for being gay. For the next several months I was unable to do numerous things like: watch television, play video games, use my cell phone, hang out with friends, or use the computer. They even went as far as to not allow me to drink soda. My parents each coped with this “disappointment” in their own way. My mother cried, prayed, and eventually arranged for me to go to counseling. My father on the other hand, refused to talk to me altogether. Considering we didn’t really talk when I wasn’t in trouble, the only time he would talk to me was when he would give me a chore. When I would gain all my privileges back, it wouldn’t be long until my parents would find out again and take them away again. Anything they thought was feminine, they frowned upon. This pattern went on for almost all my teenage years as they still no matter what, did not accept me for who I was.
Since I have gotten older, I have become much more aware of what my parents are sensitive to. Therefore having all of my privileges and keeping my parents satisfied. I saw myself living a double life. Because of my parents denial, at home I would act and be someone who I am not… Outside of the house I can be myself, carefree and confident.
Today I am able to identify myself as a homosexual man. Even though my parents may look down upon the fact that I am gay, it has motivated me to yearn for big things. It’s taught me to overcome people’s negativity, not only in the eyes of my parents, but in the eyes of a lot of people. It is my dream to just live one happy life. Not having to be two people in and out of my house. I hope one day my parents can accept me for who I am so I can share my dreams with them. </p>