I am a 23 year old lesbian from _____ville, Utah. At the age of 17 I dropped out of high school. I was a good student, athlete and an out lesbian at _____ville High School. I thought coming out would prove my love to my girlfriend of two years and strengthen my friendships with people because now they would know the real me. Instead team members who I had played basketball with and formed friendships with for years decided to hate me. My coach would tell the team to go to the locker room and get cleaned up or change and then he would say, "except you (my last name) you go to the mens locker room." Or he would say "Everyone go change, remember (my last name), no peeking."

At the same time in my life I received a letter in the mail from my church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, saying that I was being accused of being guilty of homosexuality and was to appear in front of the bishop and his councilmen to prove my innocense. It stated that I could bring witnesses and evidence in my behalf...to prove my heterosexuality I suppose. I went to the meeting and expressed my love for my girlfriend and that I could not change who I was. They set up weekly meetings for me to attend so they could heal me and they were to call me with appointment times. Not that I planned on attending but I found it ammusing that I never heard from them again, except a letter to say I had been disfellowshiped.

My family was not supportive of my relationship and my only safe place was my job. My boss told me any time I was out of school to stop by work and help her out and she would keep me on the pay roll. Eventually I was working full time and not attending school at all. Three months later the school called to tell my mother I had not been to class for three months. She freaked and I soon received my GED.

All of this happened in 1994-1995. Until one month ago I was still employed with the same job. I just came to realize that my life long dreams to attend college can still come true. I applied to the University of Utah and was accepted two weeks ago. I would love any information on scholarships that may help me with my education I have always dreamed of having. Please help me with any information you have.

Lesbian.com's Answer
Hi
I am touched by your story and i thank you for sending it to Lesbian.com. Have you checked out the Youth section of Lesbian.com? Here is the direct link to the Youth Section. There are some wonderful resources out there on the web and so many more stories such as yours. You're not alone, tho' I know that is how it must feel at times. The choices you make and the paths you take are for you to decide. Meanness and hatefulnes are based in ignorance. I am so sorry that you have had to deal with others' ignorances. You are so very brave! I hope these links will be of help and that you make the connections that will feed your strength!

Please feel free to stay in touch with me. I would love to know how you are doing from time to time.