Melissa, I know you receive thousnds of emails and letter, but I hope you find it in your heart to answer me.

I came out at 45 years of age becuase the love felt for Diana was too great to live without. I don't have many people to talk to about this change in my life, and I am hoping you might fin a place in your heart that will speak to me.

I have been in a committed relationship with Diana now since 2005, we're registered as domesteric partners in Cook County of Illinois, but I could use a friend right now. I know this is an unusual request, but if you could find it in your heart to call, it could help me in more ways than you may know.

Thank you for your consideration,
Dina Joseph
708-364-0944

I AM POSTING THIS AFTER EASTER. BUT I HAVE TO SAY OT'S AN INSPIRATION WHENEVER I READ SOMETHING FROM MELISSA'S HEART. SHE'S OBVIOUSLY VERY BEAUTIFUL AND STRONG AS A WOMAN. I WILL SOON SEE HER IN CONCERT IN ALBANY NEW YORK FOR THE THIRD TIME. I CANNOT WAIT BECAUSE IT WILL NO DOUBT BE A UPLIFTING EVENING!

God is love, but God also is holy, pure and righteous, and He will come to judge.

(About Jesus Christ)(Revelation 19:11-15)
"With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter."He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty.

Notice Jesus' robe is dipped in blood?! That's the blood of those who haven't truly followed Him with their lives. They haven't asked for his forgiveness for their sins,(such as having sex before/outside of marriage/ lustful thoughts/stealing/cursing/hating people/murder/gossip/etc.)Those people haven't truly recognized their need for Jesus as their Savior;(that He came to die on the cross to pay the price for THEIR sin--if they will only follow Him). If they refuse Him, and turn away from the only One who could ever possibly pay the price for their sin, then they are CHOOSING to have an ETERNITY burning in the lake of sulfur in hell.

Revelation 22:12-15
(Jesus Christ speaking) "Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End."

"Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city. Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood."

God allows us to CHOOSE; you're either following Him with all your heart, or you're not. Their is no fooling God. (Just as you know who your family members are, so does He.) Anyone who is not His follower isn't going to spend eternity in heaven with Him.

If you think that is harsh, just think-- if you didn't want to spend life following Him on earth, you wouldn't be happy with Him in heaven.

But until your last breath you have the chance to call on God and be saved. Salvation isn't just mechanically saying a prayer. Recognize your need for Jesus; there is no way any of us could ever be holy and perfect as God calls us to be on our own. We can only be holy through Jesus Christ (because of His payment-death, for us). If you refuse Jesus, the only One that came to pay your debt in full, you leave yourself no bridge to heaven.

That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

God bless you all

Melissa,

I have never heard Easter explained more beautifuly. Your passion is inspiring.

And you may not be the only dreamer but you are 'THE ONLY ONE"!

Peace
Jayme

Melissa
That is all there is
love
so i choose love

thanks
see u in madison square garden
peaceout!

stephnancy

As of this moment, there are 106 comments to one article. One small article, from one person who shared what they believed.

I have read some of these comments from people who call themselves Christians, people who call themselves Pagens and some who don't call themselves anything and I see strife, petty arguments and attacks on one another. Much of the reason is because one doesn't agree with the other.

I don't think this is the message Jesus was trying to send to the world when He gave us the great commission.

What if someone who didn't know anything about Jesus came on here and began to read the comments to this article? Would they find the love of Christ? Would they be enticed to want to know more about Christianity? They will know we are Christians by our love.

They will be known by their fruit.

I think it is time for us to bump it up a notch as Christians and stop trying to give our opinion everytime someone doesn't have the same views as ours. If we continue to tell people when they are wrong in their thinking and when they are wrong in what they believe or what they should practice-what does the Holy Spirit have to do? When do we get to learn from Jesus? We are getting in the way dear Christians.

I think we, all of us, Christian and non-Christian alike have enough to contend to when it comes to learning how to love one another, genuinely, just as we are. God's second command and as Jesus confirms in the Gospels. What would happen if we laid down all the petty arguements and learned how to love each other, despite of our differences? It takes a lot of work and effort.... but they would know we are Christians.

What if Melissa was only sharing part of what she believes? What if she believes FAR more than expressed but didn't feel the need to express it? Perhaps she expresses it by her life and her deeds. Who are we to say any differently?

Take the pressure of yourself and let God correct, let God judge, let God reavel the darkness and what may be wrong in someone's life and in someone's heart. Regardless of popular belief, God didn't ask us to take all that one because He know we would fail at it. It is way past time to practice what we preach. Practice the gospel with our lives. We are not Pharisee's are we? I believe as Christians, we need to start questioning the motives in our OWN hearts first.

As for Melissa......he who cast the first stone.

May God continue to bless us, help us and forgive us all.

Melissa continues to inspire me with her truth more and more. I love how she is not afraid to share her spritual awakening with the world. Once again, thank you Melissa!

Melissa-I am so proud of you for all you have accomplished. I admire your strength and music.

Those who love, no matter who they love, are emulating what Christ has taught!

Rock on!!!

NAMASTE...Dearest Light Bearer 'Melissa'

You are a glorious Gift to Gaia-and this Universe (as are we all)! This Ascension Journey is indeed a Magnificent one, forging new 'realities' far beyond our 3D realms. Your messages radiate powerful Joy to millions around the world-and I offer you my deepest Gratitude -Honouring your devotion & willingness to openly speak from your Heart...of the Oneness that is being Re-birthed in this Eternal NOW!

I recently composed this poem and lovingly share it here...

'THE GIFT OF CHOICE'

"Each Dawn invites unseen gifts and presents them to us in an ethereal guise...Choices from the Heart.

The Power lies softly within the Heart...awaiting the AWAKENING!

What do we CHOOSE to CREATE-as our GIFT to this Newborn Day?"

(submited to Poetry.com/March 2008)

Lord forgive them all for they know not what they say or do.

Anyway, Arminius, that touches on anger.

Being called dishonest for my faith is certainly something that leads to a certain atavistic point of view:

It's like, "If you don't believe I can speak honestly, why are your lips still moving?"

"Yeah, I know, what's justified? Hard to say, can be a grey area for sure, and a tricky minefield to cross."

Well, there, all I can say is that maybe you should let your teacher teach you and don't figure Biblical exegesis on every feeling you have is some kind of internal inquisition or judgement day.

Folks who think 'justifying' something is really what it's all about usually find a way to, whatever it is they end up feeling like doing.

I do prefer a good heart and the more immediate presence of the Divine at decision-time.

What you guys call 'Grace,' actually. A concept I'm sure you're familiar with, (I'm not afraid to use the word, myself, but, hey, it's another borrowing from Paganism: share on. :) ) ...but too often a thing Christians seem to overthink, generally to the point of 'justifying' what they did when out of control and disavowing responsibility if they can find the right book passage.

There's a legalistic mindset in there, when people are 'justifying' things they just shouldn't be doing, one I think too many Christians have projected on Jews, in recent millenia.

Kind of like when 'Christian business owners' go, 'I'm a Christian, so you know I'm honest.' They say that, what it tells me is, "Ok, now I know that without the return sign, you presume I may be the non-Christian I am, and thus 'justify' anything you feel like doing to me.'

Insult and bigotry. 'Justified,' of course, but I've had worse 'justified' things done to me than a bad deal on a major purchase.

You don't justify. You look me in the eye and do the right thing, or you are not doing the right thing.

'Justify.' The right thing isn't in a book. Excuses are in a book.

Paganplace,

Well, I was angry for sure, but not the Celtic, claymore-swinging fury kind of rage. Just seriously pissed off. I can deal (usually) with that. So I made a careful reply, saying some positive things, trying to open the door for dialog, but leaving no doubt as to where I stand. Harder to write than an angry howl.

I know about repressing anger. It has bit me hard on occasion, and caused me to say things that really hurt people. So I have developed ways to recognize that and try to deal with it. I don't ever want to hurt anyone again, except in justified defense. Yeah, I know, what's justified? Hard to say, can be a grey area for sure, and a tricky minefield to cross.

Arminius

Well, Arminius, I think it's a page you could take from the Pagan playbook without cheesing off your savior, who, to my recollection, was known to get a little punk rock about hypocrisy, himself, as I recall, is that feeling anger isn't some kind of sin or character flaw.

(As, ironically, some Christians try to claim when their words or actions anger you. Can't be that they're doing wrong, it must be *you.* But, hey, pretty much everyone that ever preached 'Turn the Other Cheek' to me was in some kind of process of aggression in my general direction. Pagans get something more like, "Eyes forward, balance centered, Right Action, and watch for the telegraphing." :) )

Anger is an emotion, a natural emotion. It turns ugly when you cling to it or repress it or deny you have it and are responsible for it.

You've asked why so many Christians *hate* the likes of me. It's partly because they're taught to repress and deny their anger at one thing or another, and then they're given acceptable targets like myself to possibly uncork on.

With issues of homophobia, for instance, males who may have some homosexual attractions now and again, they're taught that this is a threat, to be repressed. Being males, they tend to harbor anger when their sexuality is frustrated by authorities... There's instincts to dominance behavior. They may not be allowed to be angry at the people who told them they were threatened with eternal death for having their feelings, they bottle up that anger and point it at more 'acceptable' targets. Like queer folks.

Anger is like fear, ...and they're often related, and not *only* like Yoda says in the movies, either.

We're reasoning creatures, but between that reason and the rest of our bodies are some important bits that are still all about fight, flight, or freeze, when a threat is perceived.

If a physical survival situation crops up, we are *capable,* if we learn to, to feel these things and direct them, or even say, 'OK, I'll take the adrenal dump' and pop the clutch, so to speak.

When we *mentally* threaten ourselves, or teach others to respond to words and ideas and differences *as* 'threats' ...especially if we are taught, not to breathe through anger, not to govern it without denying it, but turn it inward, especially if we're taught to evaluate mental ideas or perceptions of others as *eternal and horrible threats,* that's when anger builds up into hatred or actions that people later can't believe they went and did.

That's what's to be worried about, not feelings.

I've got a certain amount of experience of being subjected to violence, particularly in contexts where I had more to fear from the authorities that should have been helpful than the actual stomping.

I learned, really, that in a context of such disempowerment, in my case physical as well as by conditioning, that the last thing you can afford to do when subject to aggression is get upset at yourself for being upset just because the situation is happening.

That's the surest way to be at least one kind of victim.

For me, the conditioning broke long before it came around to make sense to physically-fight back, there was a certain brutal logic to my circumstance, but that knowing enabled me to endure a lot without breaking myself. And when the day came to pop that clutch, *I* did it. *I.* (Many thanks to certain more-terryifing aspects of Goddess on technique.)

And I slept well that night.

The thing about *anger,* Arminius, is that it's part of us. The more you feel it, the more you *must* accept it's part of you, and *take* responsibility for it, ...not by seeing devils and denigrating others, not by beating *yourself* up, but by saying, 'I will breathe this, accept this, I will express this or I will not,' but *never* by trying to deny it.

It's a sort of skill, like anything else. It doesn't make you a *bad* person, it makes you a *person.* Certainly, a person responsible for your actions and inactions and words, but *that's being a person.* Comes with the equipment.

OK? :)

Paganplace,

You're welcome. It was a conscious effort for me to not be very angry. This time it worked. But there comes a time, I suppose, when 'fight the good fight' (St Paul!) gets wearisome and non-productive. Time to move on.

Arminius

Guess I should have said 'anyone,' rather than 'everyone,' there, Arminius. Thanks for the bit of support, there. Thread's kind of off the scopes, anyway, but, Gods, that was offensive.

If there was such a thing as 'fighting words' in my world, (Apart, of course, from words that say, "I'm about to try and hit you really hard, now,") there'd be some in those posts.

Ah, I can really only conclude the writer's probably just confused, Arminius, not that that gives anyone the right to say things like that, confused or not.

One gets very tired of this thing where everyone who believes they found Jesus thinks it came with a license to treat people like that, heedless of what can happen to people like me when someone believes them.

Think it's worth the karma?

To Happy Easter and Anonymous:

After re-reading Paganplace's posts, I find nothing evil or satanic. I did not expect to find anything of the sort. I have exchanged views with her here in On Faith for some months now; we have certainly had some spirited debates! But I have come away with an enduring respect for the lady, and consider her a friend. I know now that at heart she is loving and compassionate, and certainly has more courage than the average. She has been put on the defensive here, and when that happens, she comes out swinging. I don't blame her. I respectfully ask that you stop judging, and continue the dialog with patience and without bitter accusations.

Arminius, a Christian

Cause I'll tell you what's cowardly, Happy.

Cowardly is seeing devils where good people are.

As is done to so many lesbians. like Ms Etheredge, and her wife, whoever she is.

No, I'm not her partner, ...what a silly thing to say to try and discredit the notion she's making perfect sense to me, as though some personal connection could be the only reason.

Nope, not her partner. But I'm someone's. And we have a life that plenty of people such as we see here would rather call 'evil' than treat fairly.

We also have our faith. Oft-defamed as it is. It's a little different from Ms. Etheredge's, but not so very. No Jesus in it, but no devils, either.

And I don't exist for your moralistic titillation, either. Whatever you think saying those things about someone like me does for you.

Uhh, whatever you're talking about, 'Happy Easter/Anonymous,' ...I was responding to someone who got it in their head I must be Melissa's partner to be *supporting* her statements vs the usual crop of homophobes. (As opposed, presumably, to actually being a reasonable person saying she makes some sense, here. :))

I'm not sure what 'evil' you see in that, especially not to the point of calling someone Satanic, and all those other nasty implications of yours. But you can keep those to yourself, frankly. You *aren't* making sense.

Though maybe you should try applying those glass house metaphors to yourself. You're the one speaking of 'evil.' What, cause I'm not Christian? Yadda, yadda.

dear patanplace:

Nobody cares what you have to say. These
postings are about Melissa and her comments.

God watches those who cast evil stones. I hope
the house you live in isn't glass.

Learn from truthful people before you speak.

dear paganplace:

whoever thou art a coward more than thyself?

Posting comments are for those to share about
Melissa. Nobody cares what you have to say.
Are you sure you aren't from satan's place?
Such evil words flow from you. Perhaps you
should find the light and learn from people
like Melissa. Who are truthful to their
God, who are loving, show are kind.

Bless you! Hope you find peace.

Thank you Melissa! I love your music and all.

But I would have to say that so many people today don't even know that real meaning of these holidays (Christmas and Easter). If you really look at Easter is more important than Christmas.So many people today don't even go to Church. I would have to say that I'm guilt of that also. It s that lifestyle and the lives we lead now days. Many, MANY MOONS AGO NOTHING WAS EVER OPEN ON SUNDAYS. NOW LOOK AT IT. I also belive that God loves every person now matter who or what there lifestyle is.
I pray that everyone has a blessed Easter!

Paganplace,

Go for it.

Arminius

Or, of course, my posting history here for however long it's been was all an elaborate deception in preparation for a defense of a sentimental Easter essay against you taking it all manner of personally that the writer is a lesbian.

You make the call. :)

Sheri: You betcha. :)

And.. *chuckle.*

" coulditbe:

Hmmmm, I wonder if, could it be, that Paganplace is actually Tammy, Melissa's partner?? Sounds like her."

You do realize 'we' don't actually know all of each other, don't you? Gods. It's not like we have secret meetings to undermie the marriages of straight people who apparently follow celebrity gossip better than we do. :)

I didn't even know she was actually a lesbian till, well, some time a few years ago, I forget the occasion, and didn't know she was *married* till all manner of Christians took the occasion of Easter to say she *didn't* have a wife and was going to their Hell for it or whatever passes for 'joy' in their lives.

(Yes, it actually slipped by without particular notice that she was married when I read her article. If I was her wife, I wouldn't be a very good one, now would I, never having heard of myself, and all. That could get awkward. :) )

You, on the other hand, seem to know her business pretty well. Why is that?

Thanks Melissa!

It is always awesome to hear your thoughts of
truth and faith. What amazes me is how much
truth triggers anger in people that are not at the
same level of faith as someone so respected like
you.

Keep it going! And don't let the negative seeds
interfer with your calling in life!

Love & Peace to you as well!
All the way from the U.P. of Michigan!
You Go Girl!
Sheri

melissa is so right! about everything she said!

Nice sentiments...and I enjoyed the opinion piece, however, creating "our reality" has proven to be futile in so many cases...you may spin on your own for awhile, but in the end...there is someone with a far better plan than your own...and that one is God.

If you believe we are on a "beautiful heavenly planet that is spinning in perfect balance with the rest of the universe"...that may be true for the planet, but what about its people?! Surely, you recognize that there is not too much heavenly going on between us earthlings.

I appreciate your all encompassing spiritual path...but it seems to be mostly wishful thinking. There is only one Prince of Peace...may you find Him now!

Love in Christ!
--Alexander

Hmmmm, I wonder if, could it be, that Paganplace is actually Tammy, Melissa's partner?? Sounds like her.

" Come On:

Does anyone really think that what Melissa Etheridge says above makes any sense?"

Sure, more than a great deal of what we hear here. Especially in the comments. :)

Well, NH guy:

"Thus my thoughts about Melissa's essay and much of her writing, and my suggestion Melissa write more from a perspective a little less about herself and a little more about Everyman."

People are allowed to talk about their personal experiences. It's probably not easy for anyone to talk about their personal faith without sounding schmaltzy or preachy or whatnot ...or even self-absorbed, to *someone,*

Frankly, I sill think it beats just telling *others* what to believe.

Or, frankly, accusing someone of "Evil Acts" simply for being a lesbian and writing something.

Does anyone really think that what Melissa Etheridge says above makes any sense? Regardless of your relgious persuasion, you have to admit, she's just rambling.

And, Melissa, there's no such thing as the "winter equinox".

16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,[a] that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.[b] 19This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

LOVEO & LOVEA is arrived. We are Here!

...~~~~~o.... -----___
.~~~~....(♥)...............\
~~~~~................]={|)...) HELLO WORLD!
.~~~~....(♥).......___./
...~~~~~o--------
=
~~~~o ----
..~~~~(♥) \
~~~~~ ]={}..) YA YA!
..~~~~(♥) /
~~~~o ----

Please visit :jo:zevz.us: OR

♦.J
♦♦..O
♦♦♦...Z
♦♦♦♦....E
♦♦♦♦♦....V
♦♦♦♦♦♦.....Z.us OR

:j:
:o:
:z:
:e:
:v:
:z:
.us

THANK YE ALL!

Well said.

There are those who think that the exercise and pursuit of artistic expression is somehow a transcendent exercise, and there are those who think that the pursuit of artistic expression is just so much narcissistic vanity on display. Ms. Etheridge's comments have more in common with the latter than the former. She should have just written a song about it and made it official.

There is no recognition in her words beyond her perception of herself; she seems to confuse this with transcendence.

Like Ms. Etheridge, I was inoculated against organized religion, and I also held those song lyrics as true. But after the doctors had gotten my sweet baby child to breathe after she was born not breathing, I pressed her succulent flesh to my face and cried, I cried "Thank you, Jesus" as those were the only words that seemed capable of transversing my synaptic connections. Thank you for giving me this wonderful baby girl. Baby girl isn't so small anymore, but I still look at her in wonder and it seems like there's something out there a lot bigger than I'll ever be.

Melissa Etheridge is one of the rare human beings, who has a genuine altruistic heart & soul that graces this earth.

She is a teacher who speaks true, and a messenger of Love and Peace to the universe.

I feel so blessed that I am here on this earth at the same time as her.

Touche' Melissa!!!
Patty

Hyannis ;)

*************************************************
A suffering soul on the way to the Kingdom of Heaven
Held up a sign that says "God hates America"
A child has been lost
A mother is shocked and is grieving
And turning away, turning away

He said there is a love that is so hideous and destructive
We must drive it from Earth to save all of our children
He must know it well
In the night it's the hell that he speaks of
It keeps him awake, keeps him awake

My God is love
My God is peace
My God loves you
My God loves me

A suffering soul on the way to the Kingdom of Heaven
Prayed in the dark, "Death to the infidel"
He strapped all his desperate pain and his faith to his body
And blew them away, blew them away

A suffering soul on the way to the Kingdom of Heaven
Shouts on the news, "They are the godless ones"
The anger inside and the fear that it hides
never leave her
When the cameras are gone, when the cameras move on

Oh, people, c'mon? tell me where is your Kingdom of Heaven?
Where is your faith?
Where do you put your fear?
Do you have a price for truth and a price for believing?
And heaven is here, heaven is here

My God is love
My God is peace
My God is you
And my God is me

DontTypeLies:

Perhaps you should live up to your name.

Women who turn to women as an escape from abusive men are not truly lesbian - they're just afraid and looking for safety.

Gay people who "get saved" and then decide not to follow their same-sex attractions anymore will tell you that they still "struggle" with those attractions, but Jesus helps them not to give in - in other words, their behavior has changed, but not their orientation.

Homosexuality is being ATTRACTED to the same sex, whether or not you act on that attraction. If you are a man attracted to men, but celibate, you are still gay.
Having sex with someone with the same genital complement as you does not make you gay if the attraction isn't there.

Paganplace wrote:
"Your brief essay came across as a little flakey and quite self-absorbed--how many times did you write, "I"?"

Hey, it sure beats beating your chest how "I'm a Christian, I love my neighbor, you hellspawn, look how inferior you are if you show any anger at me talking past you."

...............

I hear you, and for sure there's a huge difference between Etheridge and her fake-Christian detractors anyday.

I mean, does one love his/her neighbor or not, you know? You'll notice I didn't bother with the so-called "Christians" responding here.

Didn't want or need to go there. I prefer argueing with rational people.

I was just responding to Melissa, that's all. My response to her is not unlike any discussion I might have between friends or simply acquaintances in my living room.

For sure, we're all just bouncing off of each other in our growing.

My general argument with Melissa is much like the disagreement between David Crosby and Jackson Browne when Crosby first played "Wooden Ships" for Jackson, who allegedly replied, "What about the people who don't have boats?" Browne's musical response was his song "For Everyman".

Thus my thoughts about Melissa's essay and much of her writing, and my suggestion Melissa write more from a perspective a little less about herself and a little more about Everyman.

Beautiful essay Melissa. The memories of what's been forgotten stir old wounds that have yet to be healed. It is indeed the time for awakening. There are many dreamers connected by the thread of Light.

Wishing you and your family a Happy Easter and love everywhere you travel on this earth and beyond.

Peace.

"Your brief essay came across as a little flakey and quite self-absorbed--how many times did you write, "I"?"

Hey, it sure beats beating your chest how "I'm a Christian, I love my neighbor, you hellspawn, look how inferior you are if you show any anger at me talking past you."

:)

Bunnies don't alarm me. :)

NH GUY:

I assumed that WaPo had asked thier guest essayists to write about what Easter is for them - which would necessitate the use of first person pronouns.

And while the medical community can do much to treat disease, I am firml;y convinced that their ministrations are much more effective when the patient is mentally and spiritually contributing effort to his/her own healing process.

Nice to see your name; but to be honest, beyond that I was hoping for a little more depth, for once, from you. Your brief essay came across as a little flakey and quite self-absorbed--how many times did you write, "I"? Did you write this stoned or reveling in the afterglow of a glorious concert experience? You write as if you imagine everyone is hanging on your every word, and I guess you thought your mentions of the "Easter bunny" were supposed to be cute though they came off as merely contrived. You write as if you're quite certain you're correct in your blathering; but more irritatingly you appear to imagine yourself "just a little bit superior" as SNL "Church Lady" would accuse. Your relief from cancer is thanks to medical advancements, not by your self-absorbed, self-healing fantasies. And while you lavish yourself with credit for healing yourself you may have added a mere footnote of thanks to the medical community. Get real. Your fishes and scorpions astronomy is also quite fantasy. And your clever, concluding reference to a John Lennon lyric does not redeem your otherwise quite useless meandering.

At 50, though I've noticed you, I've never been much of a fan of your work, and this has nothing to do with your "choice" of lifestyle. It's your self-absorption I can't buy. This trite mini-essay of yours hasn't done anything to win me over, but I don't imagine it was meant for any other than your adoring fans, and that's fine, I guess. But I wish you well, though I might suggest a little less Melissa and a little more Everyman might be of great use to you.

Best wishes.

"You have no listened to a word I have said."

a) I most certainly did, and gave you straightforward answers and straight-up questions which you've insistently dodged.

b) Do you really think I haven't heard everything you say here before nearly every day of my life?

I mean, hey, if you get something out of talking like that, go keep yourself warm.

Just don't presume like you know my life, or your 'Gay Friends' ' or *anyone's,* sport.

You have no listened to a word I have said. You are blinded by your anger. I will pray that that changes but until then, continuing this conversation seems useless.

Just because they cannot read the Bible, does not mean that they do not believe it, and you know that. You seem fairly intelligent. You have to understand that if you are Christian you believe in the Bible. Its obvious.

I have tried to define no one and I have now said repeatedly that Ms. Etheridge can have a great spiritual life. She can even be saved by Christ for all I know. I have no idea what her relationship is with God, for the last time.

You refuse to hear me because you are so angry and you are determined to make it seem like I hate gay people and think they all go to hell when any fair minded reader who has read my comments will obviously see that is not what I am saying, in fact it is the exact opposite.

Enjoy your anger. I'm going back to studying.

Accepting that personally, I don't care if your Bible speaks of sticks, salvation, or sausages, ....table that:

Again, did your "Gay friends" tell you they made a choice to 'defy God' ...or did you just decide you were entitled to label them so?

"Is that a no, you cannot find one instance where someone believes in God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit but not the bible?

Of course you cannot"

Except, of course, I did. As in, most of my ancestors.

But my whole life is just a 'sinful choice' that somehow revolves around your St. Paul's book in the first place, so you can ignore that bit, right?

Believe what you want, but just cause you can't accept ms Etheredge has a spiritual life, or that I do, for that matter, doesn't mean you get to define us.

Frankly, I think it's *your* definitions that don't match up with life. Not for her as a Christian, nor me as a Pagan.

For the record, I never said that I did not care if she was saved. I hope she is. I simply said I do not know if she is or not because I do not claim to know her relation to Christ, like you apparently claim to.

Is that a no, you cannot find one instance where someone believes in God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit but not the bible?

Of course you cannot.

It would be absurd to believe such a thing. One would have no idea what he said, or did. One would not learn anything from Christ without his words. One would have no way of even hearing his message without his words.

If you believe in Christ, you have to believe in the Bible. If you believe in the Bible, you have to believe that homosexuality is a sin. Its that simple.

"I have never said that any Gay person is any less of a person than a straight person. I have many gay friends and I just disagree with their life choices."

Oh, I'm sure.

And these gay friends told you they made a 'choice...' Or do you just think you're enough of a better person than they to label them as such?

"She can believe in God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit but deny that the bible is true? Can you please provide some evidence of anyone ever having that view."

You do realize, of course, that for most of the history of Christianity, very few could read at all, never mind the languages the Bible was written in?

Paganplace:

I have never said that any Gay person is any less of a person than a straight person. I have many gay friends and I just disagree with their life choices.

I obviously believe that gay people are people too and will even say that God loves them just as much as he loves me or anyone else. It says that God loves you just as you are.

As for your notion that Ms. Etheridge is a Christian but might not believe in the bible, I find this notion to be absurd.

She can believe in God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit but deny that the bible is true? Can you please provide some evidence of anyone ever having that view. That seems like a ridiculous notion to me.

I would quote that the Bible says that in the beginning was the word, but then you can just say that Ms. Etheridge does not believe in the bible just Jesus. I dont understand that view at all, with all due respect.

And I apologize if my views make you angry, but we have a mere difference of opinion. They happen every day. There is no need to get upset about them.

I don't care if she's 'saved,' either, dude.

I'm not the one who believes people need 'saving' from life in the first place.

You're just among the many that claim that you have some right to condemn gay people cause you like St. Paul's rantings.

Now, she claims to believe in some importance of your Christ, and, frankly, that makes a lot more sense than whatever it is *you* are trying to prove about people you don't know.

Paganplace:

I can not say it any more simple:

I have no idea if Ms. Etheridge is saved or not. That is 100% between her and God. It is not up to me.

My opinion of her salvation does not matter because I have no idea what her relationship is with Christ. All I know is that I rely on Jesus. I know that I need him for my salvation.

""I don't care what you think about your book. It doesn't entitle you to claim that either a Christian is 'denying God' or that a Pagan even exists in *that* context."

""Now its my book?"

Well, it ain't mine. I thought *you* said it was your book.

"In your last post you claimed that Ms. Etherdidge believed in the same book? "

Actually, I believe I claimed she believed in the same God and/or savior. This is not the same as a book to everyone. Certainly not to me.

'Can you please make up your mind."

Long since, thanks, but you may not find the verdict 'respectful.'

"I have been nothing but respectful in my posts and I feel you have not been the same."

Nonsense. You claim other people's lives have something to do with 'choosing to defy God.' As written in your *reading* of your book.

That's not respect, that's willful gainsaying of the loving life experiences of others so you can claim to be better than them.

Bigotry, in fact.

"If she believes in the Bible, as YOU claimed, then she is going against part of it. "

That's not what I claimed. It's not my fault if you can't tell the difference between a book and 'God.'

"That does not mean that she does not believe in Christ."

Well, *you* seem to be the one who was saying *that.*

" That does not mean that she is not saved. That simply means that there is a part of her life that she needs to work on. Much like there are areas of my life that I need to work on. There are areas of everyone's life where they can improve."

Your own thinking you're in need of a spanking doesn't entitle you to go claiming others are 'choosing to sin' against your idea of what St paul says, ....cause you feel like it.

"I don't know why you are so angry at me, but I would ask that we keep this respectful."

Then I respectfully say you say things which make people who are not straight *angry.* Because you deny our loves and lives and insult and degrade us.

You act like it's somehow given to you to talk like our lives and loves and marriages are nothing but hedonistic sex acts that maybe you think you'd love to do if only you didn't think your God was dangling your tootsies over eternal fire if you don't make sure my life-partner pays out of pocket if I need hospital care.

That's why.

You wanna whine about *respect,* you start with figuring others are human beings, too.

Paganplace:

"I don't care what you think about your book. It doesn't entitle you to claim that either a Christian is 'denying God' or that a Pagan even exists in *that* context."

Now its my book? In your last post you claimed that Ms. Etherdidge believed in the same book? Can you please make up your mind.

I have been nothing but respectful in my posts and I feel you have not been the same.

If she believes in the Bible, as YOU claimed, then she is going against part of it. That does not mean that she does not believe in Christ. That does not mean that she is not saved. That simply means that there is a part of her life that she needs to work on. Much like there are areas of my life that I need to work on. There are areas of everyone's life where they can improve.

This is all completely logical taking your premise of her being a Christian.

I don't know why you are so angry at me, but I would ask that we keep this respectful.

I mean, let's make it real simple, George:

You do realize the only people really spooled-up about and attached to the notion that sexual orientation is a 'God-defying choice' ...have a real funny way of turning out to be really *bad at it?*

St. Paul's sexuality issues are pretty glaring. Dude had issues. Jesus never even hinted at stuff he blew gaskets over. Plain to see.

So, if you think Ms Etheredge isn't worshiping whatever you think your God is, frankly, I'd take her version any day if the universe was actually set up that way.

"I believe you have completely misunderstood my comments and have frankly taken my quote out of context."

Actually, what's going on here is you're trying to put *your* beliefs about *your* words in *our* damn context.

Hers.

Mine.

Not your context.

I don't care what you think about your book. It doesn't entitle you to claim that either a Christian is 'denying God' or that a Pagan even exists in *that* context.

Your lot keep claiming that others somehow take sanctity from whatever you think a book-marriage is, You keep claiming that others who are living their lives with heart and passion and love and caring are 'choosing to defy Jesus' or whatever the Hel you think you're saying.

*Our* context, son. *Our* God or Gods. Not yours.

You wanna talk about spirit, you bring some, not this talk how everyone else is 'degraded' cause you don't get it.

Capiche?

If your God don't get it, you can have him, too.

Paganplace:

I believe you have completely misunderstood my comments and have frankly taken my quote out of context.

The Bible is very clear about homosexuality. It is a sin. I do believe that you can believe in Christ and sin, in fact, I believe that in order to be a Christian you must admit that you do sin.

I am by no means saying that Ms. Etheridge has denied Christ. I have no idea what her relationship with Christ is. That is between her and God.

You are claiming that she believes in the same God as me and then seem to disparage my remarks about the words inspired by the God that Ms. Etheridge (according to you) and I believe in.

Are you claiming that the Bible is not clear on this topic? If not, then how can you call me out on pointing out a point of the Bible that Ms. Etheridge is living against and even worse, promoting that decision.

Do you have any idea what I'm getting at, here, George?

You come here onto a thread written by a prominent singer who happens to believe in your Jesus, as well as, apparently, a living Earth, and all you can do is *revile* about her, in your imagination, "Choosing" to 'go against your God,' by being a lesbian.

Even if you feel it's important to your soul to think there's something *wrong* with being a lesbian, why is it your ilk are so insistent on denying the experiences of those who *are* when they say '...Umm, no, you don't choose this, why would you?'

Heck, I'm as bisexual as the day is long, myself: despite having been in a committed relationship with a woman for, well, five years now, anyway, and several long-term ones before: I like the menfolk just fine, ...but even that doesn't mean you *choose* who you're attracted to or compatible with. (Before you bring babies into it, I can't even do that, myself, though I've mothered before. Better than the deadbeat male who left a partner of mine with the lovely kid, I might add.)

In between that and my current very-good thing, a man I loved very mush passed on.

What is it with you Christians that you think everything in the world is about *you?* You claim sexuality is a 'choice' because *you* want to. You. It's transparent.

You decide *your* straight civil marriages are 'degraded' by someone else having lives and loves that don't meet your tabooes... because *you* choose to blame others if your own marriages aren't 'sanctified' enough.

And then you claim people's sexuality is some random decision they made to defy someone else's God cause somehow that makes *you* feel oh-so-special, even if you got married in Vegas and treat your spouse like crap.

Even being bi doesn't mean love and attractions aren't blessings we can't afford to deny.

People don't choose what biological shape of person to love. What we choose, is whether or not to do it well.

Period.

"I disagree with Ms. Etheridge's life choices but that is the beauty of free will. God gave us the power to deny him."

Is that *really* all you can see here, sir?

How sad.

There is so much vile on this forum from both sides. I am a Christian. I disagree with Ms. Etheridge's life choices but that is the beauty of free will. God gave us the power to deny him. God gave us the power to make decisions he disagrees with. Telling everyone they are going to hell is :
a) against scripture (Let he who has not sinned cast the first stone)
b) a terrible way to let people see the glory that is the risen savior.

I would like to with Everyone a Happy Easter whether you believe or not. If you do not, I encourage you to pray about it. It says in the bible that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is King. This is true if you believe it or not.

If you do not know Christ, I would also encourage you to do some research. Talk to a pastor. Go online. It says that if you approach God with an open heart, he will guide you to him. It has to be genuine.

I can only tell you this. God has changed my life for the better. I was an angry teenager who was furious at God and the world. I could not keep it up and I found Christ at college actually. Since then, I have led a very happy and productive life. I have tried to be the best Christian I can be, even though I would be lying if I did not often fall short.

I would pray that all here would come to have a relationship with Christ and dont hold all Christians responsible for a few people who condemn everyone to hell. Everyone sins but that's the beauty of the Cross. It's enough. It's enough to forgive all of my sins, and all of yours. May God bless each of you and may all of you have a Happy Easter.

"Does it really matter ? We are all Pagans in one specific sense. In our current carbon based life forms we are all dependent on Earth. We are dependent on sunlight, food, water and air. And it all fits together in an enduring but fragile arrangement."

To a Pagan, that's good enough for us to be getting on with. :)

"Einstein was working on the Unified theory when he died."

He also doomed his own brilliant mind to failure because he couldn't get over that 'God does not play dice' thing. An incredible man, but he got himself stuck.

"One day, could "I travel across the universe divide until I reach the other side" without actually leaving home ? Or have I already done so, who knows. Perhaps the Pagan in me holds me back holding onto a familiar but uncomfortable world."

Well, Pagans are *allowed.* The journey is worth it, to us, as long as we *make it so.* It's someone else that says one has to Know Everything, in one mortal brain, or else be forever doomed.

That has a way of both making people miss out, and get stuck, ...people will choose a false certainty rather than embrace a wondrous life *with* uncertainty. Because someone raised the stakes way past the lives we're given for them.

Enlightenment is *inevitable,* many of us will say. You won't get there any faster by skipping steps. And, really, in a universe like this, what's the hurry?

It's a thing that holds us back; like it did Einstein: the idea which people are taught they must get it *all* right in one life, and thus accomplish little unless they hit on a fortuitious extremism.

It's not just a Pagan thing, though I'll thank you for thinking of us that kindly, since I'm being Pagan now, and woul prefer to be again, ...but those who know, even if they believe they get one life to get judged on, that it's better to light a single candle than curse the tree-huggers, ..they are the ones who *get good things accomplished. :)

Those who can accept they are a small part of a living, ongoing, and generally *good* universe, (Hey, it ain't always pretty, but it's home) ...that the life we and our friends know is *not* a ruthless, helpless, engine of cruelty and penitence and trials of judgement, but the very *fabric and exercise* of that which the human spirit calls divine...

They're the folks that get the good stuff done, ... even if I think maybe everyone's too scared of their own personal death to really assess what we've got and make real good use of it. :)

I suppose at times, I may have suffered from Messiah complex, refer to FBI statistics. Other times I have felt a direct connection with the Creator, a symptom of disease or maybe not. I have scribed my own thoughts as if they were points of light with enduring significance.

History is full of words of enduring significance. In an eclectic sense, do words become history itself as in revisionary historical writings or has someone improved upon the truth ? There are documents known as Living documents. Such termonology is used describing the Constitution of the United States or President Eisenhower's farewell address and maybe of late the book Alice in Wonderland has been ressurected while looking down rabbit and black holes in realtime.

Does it really matter ? We are all Pagans in one specific sense. In our current carbon based life forms we are all dependent on Earth. We are dependent on sunlight, food, water and air. And it all fits together in an enduring but fragile arrangement.

Einstein was working on the Unified theory when he died. A theory to use one equation to explain any or all parts of the known universe. Quantum physics continues that quest trying to scientifically prove we are all in this together, a unification across space and time with Oneness.

One day, could "I travel across the universe divide until I reach the other side" without actually leaving home ? Or have I already done so, who knows. Perhaps the Pagan in me holds me back holding onto a familiar but uncomfortable world.

I accept the realities put before me by the Creator. Like a Scientist, I hunger for truth. This world is neither Heaven or Hell to me. It's just a place that needs improvement but as myself we will probably ever reach perfection in this lifetime and current form.

So on this Easter, I am concerned for the Children of God who feel abandoned on this day. It's a humbling feeling for me to realize I am never alone.

For example:

"To give up a Pulpit of higher stage is to sit in pews as one laughing at Folly's Rage"

A point of light or babble from a fool, you make the call.

"RMiller:
"I'm not sure if Christ's Mercy is attainable for those who mock, scourge, whip, crucify, and spit on Him."

I'm pretty sure you're supposed to be sure of that, but, hey, it's your religion, anyway.

Funny thing is, to my recollection, he never mentioned being particularly scourged nor crucified by people not abusing lesbian cancer survivors enough.

I certainly don't feel any pressing need to mock your savior, ...his fan club better be able to take as they dish out, though.

Yes Melissa

you are right. we are all dreamers

Thanks, Melissa!
what a week it's been!

the vernal equinox, new year (Persian/Farsi/Babylonian
/Wiccan/Easter on Sunday,Purim, the Jewish festival of joy -- ironically celebrating their deliverance from the Persians -- all of them celebrating spring.
And of course there was St. Patrick's Day on Monday, March 17, a date conveniently close to the vernal equinox. Patrick was noted for incorporating Druid/pagan holidays and symbolism into Christianity, so I'm guessing his followers did the same. :-)
It's been a wonderful example of the common basis of all our faiths., whatever we call them.
Blessed be!

SweetJimmyPop:
"Marriage is a Christian holiday"

Really?! Marriage is a holiday? Damn, I must've been totally mislead by the Christians who raised me... I mean, we had Easter, and Christmas, and All Saints Day... but I don't remember the Marriage Holiday. When is that in the calendar? Before or after the Day of Let Us Judge Others?

RMiller:
"I'm not sure if Christ's Mercy is attainable for those who mock, scourge, whip, crucify, and spit on Him."

Actually, it does... remember, "Father, forgive them, they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34).

I know that, and I'm not even a Christian. Pay better attention in Church, okay?

It's the *spring* equinox, btw, folks, not winter. In winter there's a *Solstice,* which is the Sun 'standing still.' Sol-stice.

Personally, I think it's kind of amusing how many Christians have come on this thread claiming Ms. Etheredge is somehow *stealing* a holiday Christianity appropriated from Pagans in the first place. :)

As for this:

"Melissa, you are NOT married. Marriage has a specific meaning and shouldn't be used as a tool to advance acceptance of your lifestyle.

Marriage is a Christian holiday not a chance for you to mislead people."

A holiday, is marriage, to you, now? A 'lifestyle?'

Oh, what a giveaway.

My people call it *life.*

:)

I thought Melissa and others would be interested to know that the Persians and zoroasterians everywhere still celebrate the vernal Equinox and consider it their new year.

Even after the Islamic conquest of Iran 1300 years ago and after Khomeini and his Islamic regime came to power, they could not suppress this celebration. They could not wipe this new year away and adopt the Arab/Islamic traditions in their entirety.

Perhaps after Bush is done with Iran, he could do what the Romans, Arabs, Khomeini and others could not: Wipe out the beautiful zoroasterian faith that is considered the world's first monotheist faith and a truly pagan faith, in its truest and best meaning.

I'm glad your've found something to believe as much as you have. I would encourage you to find why exactly you believe that. There is more out there for ANYONE who looks for it, I'll pray that you could one day have it too.
Nic

Ms. Etheridge,

I hope and pray your cancer goes away for good. The most recent time I saw you was ...some awards show a couple years back, you came out with your head shaved. Sang Janis. And beautifully at that. With Joss Stone? Memory ain't what it used to be.

Happy hunting.

Thank you, Melissa, for shining a little light in this beautiful piece. May you and your family have a happy and peaceful Easter!

Sweet Jimmy Pop:

News FLASH:

"Melissa, you are NOT married. Marriage has a specific meaning and shouldn't be used as a tool to advance acceptance of your lifestyle.

Marriage is a Christian holiday not a chance for you to mislead people."
***************

Thank you, you said what I was thinking but I couldn't put it into words this morning.

Glad to see someone is on the ball, it sure as hell is not me. Guess I need my chocolate bunny.

R Miller:
"I know that the winter equinox is when the sun stands still on the horizon for three days and then is “resurrected” on the third."

Poor choice to put an Easter "testimonial" in by somebody who is mocking Jesus Christ. A new low for the Washington Post.

If she wants to be a weather and planet earth worshipper fine, but the many references to Easter are simply a mocking to Christians. I'm not offended as much as I feel sorry for her. I'm not sure if Christ's Mercy is attainable for those who mock, scourge, whip, crucify, and spit on Him.
"Crucify Him, Crucify Him"

-------------------------------------------------

You do realize that the very NAME of your holy day is taken from the name of the Pagan goddess Oestre, don't you? That she is a fertility goddess, and that the name of your holy day has the same root as the word "estrus," whichis sexual heat in animals. That the lilies, rabbits and eggs that so many Christians incorporate into their celebration of their deity's resurrection are actually symbolic of Oestre's resurrection of plant and animal life in the spring after the bleakness of winter? That the reason Easter falls on a different day every year is because its date is determined by the vernal equinox?

Oh look, it's Easter morning and the bigots have already come out to play . . . .

I will refrain from posting what I REALLY think and simply thank Ms. Etheridge for her words. Your thoughts and your music are greatly appreciated, even in the middle of the Bible Belt.

Happy Spring to you and your family.

News FLASH:

Melissa, you are NOT married. Marriage has a specific meaning and shouldn't be used as a tool to advance acceptance of your lifestyle.

Marriage is a Christian holiday not a chance for you to mislead people.

Ms.Etheridge
Reading you words on this day...easter sunday, have left me with a great sense of renewal and hope.
John Conrad

Easter 2008 – I am writing this from Okinawa, Japan. What am I doing here? Maybe distance creates space for reflection and introspection.
In 1954, time seemed to stand still in Penasco yet there were signs of changes in the horizon. For the moment, each family in the neighborhood had up to seven children each most about the same age as if we had been planned. The Protestantes had just completed their clinic and their church. The priest had warned us that these Protestantes would go to hell and we would not be allowed to go there lest we go to hell, too. My Tio Facundo, a powerful man who once picked up my Tio Eliseo’s car by the bumper and moved it out of the irrigation ditch, had just died. My brother, Pablo, and I went to Morada, a place where Penitentes prayed at a wake for Jesus, their brother Nazareno, sounding the chains on the roof, the lashes suffered by Jesus and praying for Los Hermanos Penitentes who had died before. My brother shouted, “un sudario por Abran, a voice asked Abran de quien, and Pablo answer Abran Lincoln. My cousin, Paul, said “un sudario por el difunto Paul, and they asked Paul de quien, and he said “Paul Lopez” which was himself. Little did he know that they prayed for his soul at his request, which departed in 1962, as he was preparing for his high school graduation and his upcoming marriage. Little did I know that my own father would leave my life permanently three years later. My father, Tomas Cordova, had joined the Protestantes as had I, a couple of months before he died. My father’s funeral was the first time that my father’s family and friends had ever been inside this hellbound church. I lived to see Vatican II change the views of the Catholic church to a more enlighten and compassionate view of Protestantes. I also lived to see this same Presbyterian Church appropriately named, Emmanuel (meaning God with us) offer the Catholic community the opportunity to worship in the same church as a result of the Catholic Church burning down. They declined. This Church ordained me for service in the Christian Ministry which I continue.

Going back to 1954, the signs of change continued. The road was widened and paved destroying a people path for horses, cattle, people walking in favor of a speedier automobile which bypassed neighbors, killing dogs, chickens, geese, ducks and creating a no man’s land through the heart of the village. People did not walk anymore. I could no longer sing or talk to people as they walked by on their way down to the store or back to their homes.
So much changed. What would have hurt to build a nice path for people and bicycles and a well-paved winding road without destroying people’s houses or trees or the irrigation ditches (lifeblood for the community). All our vecinos eventually disappeared to other places or passed on. Our language started changing, under relentless educational pressure to speak English and reject our native culture and identity. Could we have built an education on what people already knew and celebrate the strengths that we already had rather than attack us or humiliate us with all that ideological European views of life?
I remember treat on Easter morning, panocha, a rich wheat based type of dessert.
If I had anticipated the coming losses and changes, I may have enjoyed the company of all these special people in my life including my dad and my grandmother and my neighbors. I would have learned more about them and engaged them more. What would have taken from my dad and my elders and the neighbors to take time to listen and to share how they see the world and help us young ones to feel like we belong as a rich part of them. But all I can do is to try to piece back flashes of memories of these treasures in my past. Maybe that is the way it was with Jesus, that after the crucifixion and resurrection, people who remembered him tried so hard to recapture what they could remember about him and his family and made efforts to pass it on to the future.
Here we are Easter 2008, nearly 54 years later, I am still the same person – now I am the old guy in the community and our community is no more. If you get this note, you are my community. Siempre, Alberto

Where to begin? To all of those negative homophobic posters, I remind you of two facts: Just as an example, while Newt Gingrich's wife was recovering from cancer surgery, he served her with divorce papers. When Melissa and Tammy came home from the doctor's office, Tammy had had flowers delivered with a note that said "In sickness and in health." Now you tell me, who in those stories believes in the sanctity of marriage?

This 44 year old heterosexual female wishes with all of her heart that she could meet a man that would bring her HALF the joy that Melissa and Tammy and their family so clearly enjoy.

She has brought happiness and courage and spirit and her wonderful music to so many, and we are the lucky ones.

How fitting that on the occasion of Easter I would say that my two favorite lyrics of hers are "Life is full of wonder; Love is never wrong" (Silent Legacy) and

"I am a witness to my resurrection." (Heal Me).

My two favorite songs of hers, by the way.

Melissa, you have healed so many hearts; I hope to God that you can conceptualize that... mine DEFINITELY being one of them.

Thank you for being you, and being such a WONDERFUL role model for women everywhere. Thank you for being such a wonderful mother to your four children and a wonderful wife. And Tammy, thank YOU for being you... also a wonderful mother and wife. You are both blessed with the joy of each other, and your children, and many grateful folks out here who consider ourselves blessed to share the same planet with you.

Good night and Happy Easter,

Sue

Hi Melissa, I saw you perform at the HRC concert at RFK stadium in 2000. I have a number of your recordings. Thank you for all you've done artistically, but also your advocacy on behalf of human rights and human dignity. It's awesome of you to share your faith with us! Reading your spiritual witness makes your music all the more meaningful to me. You are a person of strength and kindness. Don't let any negative comments here rain on your Easter parade. Happy Easter Melissa, dearest sister!

Happy Easter to Melissa, whose words reflect well.

For those so caught up in condemnations, I hope the great bunny brings you a big egg full of enlightenment.

Many a great teacher have tried to pass on the fact that we were not given the right to judge anyone other than ourselves for our own choices. I'm surprise so many here missed the memo.

Easter is a beginning, not an ending.

For Christians this is a fantastic time to reflect on Christ's resurrection and what it means for humanity...for through Jesus we are saved and can enter God's kingdom.
God bless all dreamers!

"I know that the winter equinox is when the sun stands still on the horizon for three days and then is “resurrected” on the third."

Poor choice to put an Easter "testimonial" in by somebody who is mocking Jesus Christ. A new low for the Washington Post.

If she wants to be a weather and planet earth worshipper fine, but the many references to Easter are simply a mocking to Christians. I'm not offended as much as I feel sorry for her. I'm not sure if Christ's Mercy is attainable for those who mock, scourge, whip, crucify, and spit on Him.
"Crucify Him, Crucify Him"

Dearest Melissa,

I don't know why after all these years, I am still surprised when I read the things people will sometimes write. You wrote a beautiful sentiment and it's amazing that the haters came seeking it. It is very sad that there are still so many people who live in fear of what they do not understand that they feel the need to take something as sweet as what you wrote above and make it about hate. So very sad.

You are a beautiful person with a beautiful spirit and have an amazing forgiveness of the haters.

You are a hero. I look forward to seeing you again this summer.

Take care,
Kat

Wow. So much malice, contempt, and nastiness. Glad I don't believe in God.

Indeed.

:):):)

Happy Easter to a woman who isn't married and doesn't understand what Easter means.

This was a truly honest and beautiful message for Easter. I am often struck by the fact that if we celebrate Easter because we think Jesus died for our sins, then we are being selfish. I think Jesus, like all the mystics before and after him, wanted us to see the beauty and the glory of the world we live in .. God's magnificent creation. And, I think Melissa's words are a beautiful benediction to understanding this.

"So I am going to decorate a few eggs (I especially like the blue egg dye), and I will hide them in the yard. I will eat a little chocolate, and I will celebrate once again the earth coming back to life and bringing the warmth of the sun and the promise of salvation."

Yes, but in the meantime, the warmth of bullets and shrapnel penetrating the flesh of innocent children continues. Way to rationalize the fact that you are like Bill Gates to poor children everywhere yet you can't seem to give up that latte for 6 bowls of rice. Why? Because YOU EARNED IT!

"There shall be no property in human thought. Let each think as he will concerning the Universe; but let none seek to impose that Thought upon another by any threat of Penalty in this world or any other world." Aleister Crowley.

Melissa Etheridge has wandered through her journey trying to find her own peace, and also bringing happiness to others along the way. Regardless of whatever pile of sticks and rocks you happen to worship, wouldn't we all like to have "the world was a better place because of me" as our legacy? Happy Easter to those that believe it, have a peaceful Sunday to everyone else.

The reactions run the gamut. From "Light and love to you" to "you are deluded".

This is a mirror of our culture. Orthodoxy seeks security in the past in the hope of heaven. The less traditional types also seek the same love, healing, and hope for the future but mix and match ideas from many sources.

Both want a beautiful and ideal future but orthodoxy believes you must live by an authority system inherited from the past to get there. Why does that authority system appear so toxic so often?

Why does the route to the ideal future of traditional people so often seem so ugly and holier-than-thou? This is a mystery? How can so many seek beauty by manifesting ugliness and by threatening others with hell.

Dear Melissa,

What a beautiful post, and what a contrast with those comments from those narrow-minded vestiges of that dying, fear-based consciousness that can't celebrate the life force that you've been gracious enough to share in your inspirational words. I've been a fan for close to twenty years......last saw you at the Virginia Beach Amphitheater in the mid-nineties.

God bless you!

........from Newport News, VA

Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences and thoughts on Easter. It's always refreshing to watching the seasons change, seeing the bulbs push from the cold ground or the leaves displaying a colorful tapestry.

On a side note, the HI concert was incredible. Thanks for taking the time the answer all our questions prior to the concert. Can't wait to see you in St. Paul, MN and KC (?).

Congrats on making it into the LHS Hall of Fame.

Thanks for posting and Happy Easter to all the anti-gay "christian" bigots stopping by! Always remember, God loves you best!

Ms Etheridge,

Did you know that you come across as being a very confused person? There is no logic to your theory, only abstract ideas. You do not love tradition, you are hostile to the traditions of your ancestors despite the manner in which you twist words.

No, you are not married. Just because you attempt to force it down regular folks throat by claiming it, that doesn't mean it is true.

God help those children you have coveted and "choose" to deceive.

Ms. Blake,

It is 2007. I would think your acid trip would have worn off by now.

Melissa,

what a treat to hear your seasonal musings. I discovered your music maybe 12 years ago and have loved it ever since. Your songs reach into so many nooks and crannies, but one of my favorites is Shriner's Park. It conveys most powerfully that mixture of teen-age confusion, fear and powerlessness.

You were most courageous to write for this column, and I am disgusted but I guess not surprised by some of the self-righteous and angry comments that have been posted.

Keep on being!!!

Ms. Etheridge....

Ahem... the "cancer outside your body" is precisely the "cancer" that killed Jesus. It's called sin. I too believe in choice. But from what you have written here you seem to believe that choice is the highest moral good. And it also seems that what constitutes a good choice is the one that pleases you. Such self centeredness and admiration for the quality of your choices is part of the "cancer" that is destroying this world. You are not standing on some holier ground of love, you are just as much a part of the muck as the rest of us. You have no more ability to choose well or love well than the next person. What the resurrection of Jesus is about is the very real victory of God alone over the "cancer" which neither you nor any other human being has control over. God alone does. I hope you give up the silliness of the Solstice and stargazing and look instead to the One who created them and who is in fact the God of Life.

Ms. Etheridge....

Ahem... the "cancer outside your body" is precisely the "cancer" that killed Jesus. It's called sin. I too believe in choice. But from what you have written here you seem to believe that choice is the highest moral good. And it also seems that what constitutes a good choice is the one that pleases you. Such self centeredness and admiration for the quality of your choices is part of the "cancer" that is destroying this world. You are not standing on some holier ground of love, you are just as much a part of the muck as the rest of us. You have no more ability to choose well or love well than the next person. What the resurrection of Jesus is about is the very real victory of God alone over the "cancer" which neither you nor any other human being has control over. God alone does. I hope you give up the silliness of the Solstice and stargazing and look instead to the One who created them and who is in fact the God of Life.

Melissa you have such a beautiful heart! Thank you for your loving post and contributions to this forum!

Happiness!
Lily S.
http://lilyseymour.blogspot.com/

Could this woman write a more hackneyed column? One example, from a Classics teacher: she has the Roman position on holidays completely backwards! Useless and ditzy.

1) Ummm.. you're not actually married. Redefining marriage to gain acceptance for your lifestyle is lame.

2) You can't redefine Easter either.

Stop misleading people.

Ms Etheridge,
is not the equinox but is the Solstice when the sun seem to be dead for two days then is resurected on the third. Sol in latin means sun;
stice, also from the latin, means to stand still.
During the two solstices the sun stand still in declination.
Whishing you well,
a fan of you.

just lovely, sistah.

Ah, Thisis, ...she did this duet with KD Lang, 'Sleep While I Drive.' Sort of a recurring theme for my partner and me, these many years and many moves. ....it's like Springsteen for 'lesbians.'

Can't beat that. :)

Ms Etheridge,
"come to my window...by the light of the moon" any time, I'll be there waiting for you.
You just wrote a masterpiece! We need to re-evaluate what the Mediterranean cultures of the first five centuries CE have done.

*laugh.*

Ok, Bgone. You've surprised me. The last thing I expected of you was egg-dyeing advice. :)

BB. :)

You just like the blue dye best because the yellow dye tends to turn brown and make the eggs look like they came from Road Island Reds that haven't been dyed at all. Write, "Repent, the end is at hand" using a red marker so everyone will know they've been worked on. There's no such thing as a problem without a fix, I hope.

And blessed be. :)

"...now go find some eggs that a bunny left in the yard.” I never thought to question or even try to figure it out. Everyone was doing it and having so much fun, I thought that it must make sense to someone."

Well, of course we know it *does* make sense... to Heathens and Pagans, and many of our ancestors. My suggestion to Christians: Think of it as a European ethnic custom. You're allowed. :)

Love your music, btw, Ms. Etheridge. :)

Thank you, Melissa, for sharing your spiritual formation and beliefs here. I, too, believe in what I call "the Love Evolution" that we are on the cusp of. I believe our collective spiritual consciousness is evolving in a progressive and unifying manner and that it is actually as simple as actively commiting our hearts and minds to chose love and stay positive, no matter what adverserial circumstances we face. While I was saddened to hear of your cancer, it is powerful to hear you sharing your own journey with cancer as an example of the indominitable human spirit's ability to triumph.

You have long been a heroine of mine, not only becasue you rock, but largely because you roll. Your lyrics revolve around issues of redemtion, mystical passionate love, and the promise of survival through engaging struggle by fighting with the power of the heart (silent legacy). Ultimately, your music has always spoken to me of resurrection.

Although I have only caught you live in concert 2xs, in 1992 in east Berlin and a few years later in west Berlin, your music in many ways has been a soundtrack to my life. Thank you for that profound gift! I made a video that premiered in the Berlin Lesbian Film Festival in 1994 and sampled "Silent Legacy" in it. The story was a 45 minute piece called "Set Me Free," and believe me it did. It is about the triumph of a daughter's love over her mother's religious homophobia. It is my story. My mother died of ovarian cancer 6 months ago, with me by her side, telling me that I am her rock through it all and that even if we (gay people) are only 10% of the
population, at least we have the courage to love.

And that is what it's REALLY all about.
May all the blessings of Love be yours,
Lisa