No one can do life alone. We're meant to be in community with one another. But for many LGBTQ+ people, isolation is their reality because they are given an ultimatum and forced to make a choice between their sexual orientation or gender identity, and their faith, family, or job.

When I came out as gay in 2012, that one moment of authenticity cost me everything. With a father who's been in an important and visible role at Focus on the Family for over 35 years, and a mother who thrived on being a stay-at-home mom who home-schooled her children on James Dobson's principles, I had the epitome of a Christian upbringing. Or so it seemed. But all that changed when I chose to be authentic about who I was and come out as gay. My parents compared my sexuality to murder, pedophilia, and bestiality and told me they felt like I had died. They took away my keys to their home and I was disowned by almost everyone I knew. It led me to the edge of suicide.

But I'm still here.

And I can say with 100% certainty that coming out was by far the best decision I ever made. Even in the midst of all the grief and loss I've experienced, I've never felt more free, more at peace, or more at home in my own skin. I came alive the day that I came out. For the last 8 years, I've dedicated my energy full-time into creating content (such as books, blogs, online resources and communities, and events) for LGBTQ+ people to help them realize that they are not alone, and to encourage them to embrace the beautiful diversity that God designed for them to bring to the world.

So Why Patreon? And Why Now? Real change happens at the grass roots level. That's where I work on a daily basis. However, grass roots work rarely pays the bills. And the myth that once you've published a book you're "rich and famous" is a massive misconception. Being an author is just like any other "starving artist"...you are reliant on other people's belief in and support of what you do to survive. And most of us are doing just that...surviving on what we can and working an extra job on the side (or trimming expenses to the bare minimum) to make ends meet.

I certainly didn't join social justice work for the money! I do it because it is what I am passionate about it and I believe it is needed and makes the world better for those around me. Your monthly support and partnership with me in this work (whether that is $10 or $50 or $250+) enables me to continue working at the grass roots level of supporting LGBTQ+ people as they navigate their coming out process and the difficult family dynamics that often come into play. It also allows me opportunities to educate faith leaders, healthcare workers, business owners, and family members on the importance of full inclusion.

Not everyone is called to social justice work, but everyone can make a difference by teaming up with someone who is and propelling them forward. By partnering with me, you are financially and energetically taking part in creating content that brings hope, life, and love to LGBTQ+ people and in turn, reduces suicide statistics and helps queer people thrive in the world without shame.

Will you come along and partner with me on this journey? I'd be so very honored.

Be Brave, Live Unashamed,

Amber Cantorna-Wylde