(3) Reagan’s opposition to the Briggs measure led to a wave of optimism among conservative gays that helped launch the Log Cabin Republicans.

well… yes and no
Log Cabin formed prior to Reagan’s announcement and lobbied him to do so. But his article definitely contributed to their continued existence.

But if you operate solely from a “sinful behavior” paradigm, all that matters is behavior.

Timothy, that’s not been my experience. Being chaste, but still being gay, is still quite unacceptable to these people. Also, the alone behavior (masturbation, etc.) would probably be more acceptable to these people, just don’t tell us if your gay. Being out and chaste … they don’t know what to do with this. In their minds, we’re perverted, deviant, a danger to society in some amorphous way.
Here’s my take on the ex-gay position, which really only arose after the Stonewall Riots … STAY IN THE CLOSET. If we’re in the closet, and aren’t too limp-wristed or butch, then they don’t have to worry about civil rights for us. If we happen to want to keep company with other closeted gays, and get beat up, hung on a fence, disfigured or killed, get fired, kicked out of our home … well, it’s our fault.
Though the ex-gay world, because of poor results of gay to str8, is trying to be ‘appear’ more accepting by the newer phrase: “the opposite of homosexuality is holiness” … and that catchy little distancing term: “I’m a person with same-sex attractions” … in my mind, it’s still all about the closet. Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell … and, at all costs … Never Tell.

You do realize, Ann, you’ve just supported the idea of “being in the closet”, right? Does “our being in the closet” make str8, single people’s lives easier? Does it make everyone’s life easier?

Teresa,
I was sharing with you how others I know have handled intrusive questioning about their private life. I think it is very unfair to ask personal questions of anyone or make assumptions if they do not volunteer personal information. That is what I was trying to articulate. You have expressed frustration about people’s reaction when you tell them you are gay or homosexual (think you have used both words). As to your friends, of course, those are the people you should tell and share and gain inspiration from. Other people who do not know you and are being nosey – I don’t think you owe them any explanation. I think it should be your choice as to what you want to share with anyone. I only share with people I know and trust and have my well being at heart.

Ann, you certainly are correct here; but, I’d be willing to bet if someone said to you, “oh, you’re probably gay, that’s why you’re not married” … you’d correct them on that notion. If you wouldn’t, kudos to you … if you did correct them, why?

Hypothetically, if that question or assumption were posed to me, I would let them know that if I ever do get married that I will give them plenty of notice to buy a new dress or tuxedo for the event. I doubt they would ever be invited though.

My question is this – if one is chaste as you and others are, why do you feel you have to explain your personal motivation for being chaste to anyone? Being attracted to the same gender is not the only reason a woman would be chaste.

Sorry, I couldn’t resist this last thought.
You do realize, Ann, you’ve just supported the idea of “being in the closet”, right? Does “our being in the closet” make str8, single people’s lives easier? Does it make everyone’s life easier?