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Heather Escontrias's avatar

Honestly, I'm more worried about White Nationalism than about LGBTQ+ people. After Trump took office, I read 1984 and it scared me to death. So, for me, that is where I see the beginnings of tyranny.

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Mark Ongley's avatar

Perhaps Timothy Snyder, the author of the book, would be right there with you, Heather. We are so polarized at this point, whoever has the reins of power could easily be tyrannical. But as for the LGBTQ+ folks, I don't see them as the enemy, of course. Wokeism includes the BLM crowd, but I don't worry about or fear African Americans. And I know that there are plenty of gays, lesbians, and feminists who share my concerns about the trans wokeism. Regardless of the oppressor, these are certainly days to have the wisdom of serpents and the gentleness of doves.

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Cynthia Olson's avatar

Gender dysphoria has always existed, especially during adolescence. And it is common. It is part of the hormone swamp of adolescence. Current trans ideologies are crystallizing common dysphoria into a pathology that requires damaging procedures. Adolescents are in transition and need help navigating their thoughts and feelings. How is it that they are allowed, encouraged even, to make permanent changes at this transitory stage?

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Mark Ongley's avatar

“And it is common. It is part of the hormone swap . . . “ Thanks for reminding us of this, Cindy. I’ve read this also, that it is not uncommon for a “tween” to have a season of dysphoria, however brief it may be. How common? I don’t know. But in the normal process of figuring out life, experiencing the hormonal/physical changes, and finding one’s self, there can be confusion for some.

No doubt that tendency has been complicated by constant cell usage, the availability of porn, and the chaos of Covid.

“How is it that they are allowed . . . ?” It certainly is bewildering. Hence the temptation to think of something nefarious being afoot.

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Mark Ongley's avatar

Thanks, Cindy. Hope you are doing well and God has you using your gifts!

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