Hi BrokenNBeautiful.

As a Christian, I'm not the least bit offended by your post. I'm only shocked that people can be so cruel to someone so young, and outraged it was done in the name of something like religion, which is supposed to be a good force in one's life. I am so sorry that this has affected your view of Christians, but for what it's worth, I don't blame you one bit for it. I know I would be affected, had it been me.

I think it'd be redundant for me to say that we certainly aren't all like that. Unfortunately, some people have horrific talent for perverting the word of the Bible to justify nearly anything...I think the Crusades illustrate that fairly well. I think what you experienced is an illustration of that point.

In a nutshell, Christians are supposed to love one's neighbor as thyself, and strive to lead a life that's pleasing to God, which taken very broadly roughly equates to general compassion and morals in one's life. We're supposed to show the love of Christ through our actions, imperfect as our efforts can be in many cases, and accept Him as our Lord and Savior. By and large, if one follows that, I find the rest usually falls into place (though this is from me and my views, and I'm certainly not in the running for Saint Harley47 anytime soon). What you were shown wasn't at all Christianity. It was abuse and hatred clothed in the guise of religion...a wolf in sheep's clothing. I am sorry that ever happened to you. No one deserves that.

I do hope that time will help you in your road to healing. Please know you're in my thoughts and prayers, and that I'm in your corner.

Hugs,
Harley