He does not see humans as objects…but as children of God. Others sense his pure motivations. Old and young, men and women; all feel secure in his presence. He does not seek his own gain.
He loves like a brother.
His love requires self-denial; self-control. He strives to protect his own soul and the souls of all he encounters. He offers a generative love that helps others flourish and thrive.
He loves like a father.
In his longings and temptations, he loves with a submissive spirit. He offers his sufferings for the conversion of family and friends, the strengthening of marriages, the flourishing of vocations to the priesthood and religious life, the protection of the unborn, and that all souls may know the love and mercy of our gracious Father.
He loves like Jesus.
When he falls short, he runs right to the arms of his merciful Father in the sacrament of Reconciliation. He is given the grace, the encouragement, and the love to keep trying. He does not hate himself for his shortcomings, but gratefully receives the tender and forgiving gaze of our Lord.
He is loved as the prodigal son.
How different would our world look if men took more seriously the beautiful and noble call to chastity? How would the hearts of men change if they could see this virtue as a gift – both to themselves, and others?
Thanks be to God for the Courage Apostolate, which helps those of us with same-sex attractions to strive for this brotherly, fatherly, Christ-like love. And so too for the gift of helping us more fully realize our identity as beloved sons. Let’s hope that through our imperfect witness, we may play a small part in helping the world to better understand this often ignored but desperately needed virtue.
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Brian R. is a 33 year old in the Washington, DC area who works as a hospice nurse. He has been involved with Courage since 2018 and is active in the Baltimore, Washington, and Arlington chapters. He loves outdoor activities with friends, coffee and a good book, and quiet time in front of the Blessed Sacrament.
The opinions and experiences expressed in each blog entry in “The Upper Room” belong solely to the original authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of Courage International, Inc. Some entries have been edited for length and clarity.