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Sunday, May 31, 2009

Daddy's "Gay Sperm" Excerpts

Daddy's "Gay Sperm" Excerpts from http://www.whosoever.org/issue2.html:

Leviticus and Homosexuality:
Keeping God's Law In Perspective

By: Rev. Timothy Shirley
Virginia-Highland Baptist Church
Atlanta, GA

"The Bible clearly and succinctly states in Leviticus 18:22 that "You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination," and in Leviticus 20:13, "If a man lies with a male as with a woman both of them have committed an abomination; they shall be put to death; their blood is upon them." What's the old saying? The Bible says it -- I believe it, that settles it! Leviticus also teaches us that women are unclean during their menstrual cycle, that defecating within the camp was unacceptable lest God step in it while walking in the evening, and a woman giving birth to a male child is considered unclean for a week -- for a female child two weeks. Is this the inerrant Word of God? Not even the most fundamentalist/literalist would claim all of the Levitican Law is the inerrant word of God. For the rest of us, it's not even worth debating. (Some scholars point out that this section of Leviticus is dealing with situations that existed and were against the very basic laws of God...in this case...'idolotry'. Historically one of the ramifications of a society absorbed with 'idolotry' is 'prostitution'. This section of idolotry had already disclosed that it was an abomination for man to lie with woman for pay. Exegeting the word 'woman' is this verse would be more properly translated 'If a man lies with a male as with a woman of ill repute, both of them have committed an abomination'... - Daddy D)

This is not to say, however, that Leviticus and the other books concerning the Law should be excised from the canon nor that it is not relevant or that it has not place in contemporary Christendom. Throwing out the baby with the bathwater is never an appropriate response in the world of biblical interpretation. There is much in Leviticus, as well as the other books containing commentary .. the Law, that is not only practical, but was necessary for the health of the tribe. Therein lies the issue for Leviticus, et.al. -- it must be understood and interpreted within the framework of its own particular cultural milieu.

The book of Leviticus is a product of its culture. Not only that, it is a commentary of the Law as represented in the Ten Commandments. The writers were not scientists nor historians writing from expertise, but were persons of faith -- priests, writing from the unique experiences that they encountered. They were problem solvers in a era where simplistic, yet decisive, actions were necessitated by illnesses and controversies that arose withing the camp of the tribe of Israel. They were cultic people who were forced to make quick and sudden decisions as need arose. For twentieth century Christians to use these formulas as criteria for ethical and moral decision making would be naive at best, heresy at worst. The priests used the tools of knowledge at their disposal, just as we are required to use the tools of knowledge available to us. Today, we can benefit from thousands of years of learning!

Bottom line -- the arguments suggesting and concerning homosexuality in Leviticus as well as in all of scripture, must be treated equally. The Bible is not a cafeteria, there can be no picking and choosing! The rules of interpretation must be consistent across the board. Therefore, the Leviticus text must be critiqued as a whole, and not willy-nilly in order to defend or condemn a particular point of view. A verse taken out of its context is never an appropriate rule of measure for doing biblical exegesis and interpretation with integrity. This is especially so with the Book of Leviticus. A little common sense never hurt either!"

Sodom and Gomorrah:
The True Story

By: Rev. Paul Turner
Gentle Spirit Christian Church
Atlanta, GA

"Arguably, the story of Sodom and Gomorrah is the biblical story most often used to condemn homosexuality. Yet as popular as Genesis 19 is with religious zealots, this story is the weakest of all passages used against gays and lesbians. A close reading of the story, along with some simple research on the meaning of the words used proves this.

The word "Sodomite" today generally means a person who participates in anal sex. Yet at the time of this Biblical story it meant something entirely different. The Hebrew word which we translate as sodomite is "kudash" (plural kadeshim): it literally means hallowed or sacred and according to author John Boswell, "referred to prostitutes in pagan temples." The sexual practices of the pagans were long considered to be idol worship because of the connection with the pagans' religious rites.

Research shows most early theologians made no connection with homosexuality until after scripture was translated from Hebrew and Greek to English. For a more complete word study read Boswell's book, "Christianity, Social Tolerance and Homosexuality."

Most preachers begin with Genesis 19, but to get the rest of the story, you must start in Genesis 18. In this chapter, the messengers are sent to Abraham to inform him of his impending fatherhood (yes, at the age of 90 or so) and to let him know about the impending destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham bargains with the messengers to save the cities. The point here is the fate of the cities is already sealed. Chapter 19 is nothing more than a report of how the inevitable destruction unfolded.

In Jewish tradition hospitality was of the utmost importance. Lot had an obligation to protect his guests when it became obvious the locals intended to harm them. Lot offers his daughters instead. No matter how one views homosexuality, this final act is about rape, a crime of violence.

So, what is the sin of Sodom? If you search the scriptures, there were many:

Deuteronomy 29:22- 28 -- serving false gods;
Deuteronomy 32:15-19, 21-25 and 31-33 -- apathy, sacrifice to demons, idolatry and gluttony;
Isaiah 1:2-4, 9-10, 20 and 23-31 -- forsaking God, showing contempt to God,
Isaiah 3:8-11, 15 -- oppression, discrimination.

Finally the New Testament's description of Sodom's sins has to do with the rejection of "the message" (Matthew 10:14-15, Matthew 11:23-24 and Mark 6:11).

Given the evidence, it's easy to see the destruction of these cities, which for years has been conveniently blamed on homosexuals, was caused by much deeper issues than sexual orientation. God's wrath was brought down on the cities because of cruelty, neglect, oppression, the persecution of the poor, and idol worship.

The "sin of Sodom" may be evident in today's world, but the gay community is not to blame."

Romans 1:26-27 and Other "Fundamental" Myths About Homosexuality

By: Rev. Dr. Jerry Stevenson
Grace Church
Miami Shores, FL

"In the past few years the religious right has sought to make homosexuality and the Bible its number one issue. Having come out of the fundamentalist movement as a pastor, teacher and theologian, I feel it only right to answer their bigotry, hatred and lies.

In the New Testament, the fundamentalists emphasize Romans 1:26-27 to show that homosexuality is wrong. As with other texts, here again they fail to use the principles for Biblical Hermenutics. One must look at the whole passage to understand Paul's message.

Verse 23 shows us the problem, which was pagan worship. They were committing indecent acts with animals and people. They were worshipping the creature rather than the creator (Romans 1:25). Verse 26 gives us a key to understanding who these people were. It can only be the men who are mentioned in verse 27. Therefore, what we have here is married men and women having an orgy. This type of act was very common in pagan worship, a fact seen throughout history. A sex act does not make a homosexual. This passage does not say anything about homosexuals. Using proper Biblical Hermenuetics makes this clear. Now, those who want to judge at this point better read Romans 2:1 and Matthew 7:1, which says, 'Do not judge.'

There is nothing in scripture that says homosexuality is a sin. We even find the love story between Jonathan and David. David told Jonathan in II Samuel 1:26 that his love was more wonderful than that of a woman.

It saddens me that fundamentalists tell me I'm going to Hell for being a homosexual, yet the Gospel message says nothing of the sort.

There are other misconceptions that are coming out of fundamentalist churches. They say homosexuality is a mental disorder. They conclude it is a behavior. But, professional psychologists stopped classifying homosexuality as a mental disorder in the 70's. Let's remember they are the experts in the field.

The fundamentalists claim homosexuality is due to a poor father or mother image. This is also not true. We know that sexual orientation appears prior to adolescence and prior to homosexual or heterosexual sexual activity.

They also claim that homosexuality is due to being molested by another homosexual. But, extensive studies by the Kinsey Institute disprove this theory. They report that the majority of men and women they studied knew their sexual orientation at a very young age, several years before they actually engaged in any sexual act.

John 3:16 assures us of God's love. 'For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.'

That is our hope. We know we are secure in Him. It is amazing how many fundamentalists will try to convince me I am lost and going to Hell. But, thank God, I know where my salvation lies."

Coming Out To God:
Being Gay and Christian

by: Candace Chellew

"'I am a lesbian.' I was 16 years old, staring into the mirror when I first uttered those words out loud. They were hard to say, even harder to hear. I knew by saying it I had to make a choice.

My father was a Southern Baptist preacher, an evangelist who pastored several churches from Georgia to Virginia, and spent his later years holding tent revivals. I knew from sermons I had heard from many pulpits over my 16 years that being a Christian and being gay was a contradiction in terms.

When I had the first inkling that I might be a lesbian, I began to pray -- fervently. I knew I could only be one thing, gay or Christian, but not both. I desperately wanted to be a Christian. So I prayed for God to make the choice easy ... make me straight.

As I stood staring in the mirror that day I was convinced God had abandoned me. He had not listened to my prayer ... I had been forsaken to a life without God, left to wallow in my perversion. 'Fine,' I thought, 'if God doesn't love me, then I don't love God. I can live just fine without Him.'

For years that's what I did ... or so I thought. With my first real relationship in crisis, my lover decided we needed to go back to church. I was dead-set against the idea, but she persisted.

We found ourselves in an MCC congregation in Atlanta. The speaker that evening was Rev. Elder 'Papa' John Hose. As he spoke, I felt the spirit of God surround me. I knew I was home. That night I discovered that I may have turned my back on God, but He had never turned his back on me.

Thinking back to the three years I had spent not talking or thinking about God, I could suddenly see all the wonderful things He had done for me over the years. He saw me through job changes, relationship troubles, moves from home to home -- whenever I needed help, He had been there.

I now realized that God had heard the prayers of that pained teenager. He had answered my prayer to be made straight. God said 'no.' I realized God had created me as a lesbian, and there was nothing that could change that!

But, there was still the question -- how could I be gay and a Christian? I thought that was an impossibility! That's when I embarked on a search of the scriptures. Coming from a Baptist background where the motto is 'The Bible said it, I believe it,' it was a struggle to believe some of the interpretations that pro-gay scholars had come up with. But as I searched the scriptures for myself, and prayed for God to guide me in that search, I came to realize that the Bible does not condemn homosexuality, and instead has some wonderful blessings and lessons for gay and lesbian Christians.

In this issue of Whosoever, we shall explore the scriptures together and share the Good News -- that you can be gay and Christian!"

For other similar reading, see:

http://www.faithinamerica.info/index.php

http://www.forthebibletellsmeso.org/indexd.htm

http://gaychristian.net/

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Monday, May 25, 2009

Daddy D's Tombstone!
Category: Life

This past weekend, I spent some wonderful time with Trint & Zack Divine in Commerce. 6 miles from where they live, my father lies in a cemetery. We went to that cemetery and as you can imagine, it made us all think about “death”. You have heard people, particularly Christian people, say “I am ready to go!” Well for me it is more like “I am ready to stay here as long as I can but I have preparations in place for when I do go!” I for one believe that the death of this physical body begins my eternal life in spirit.

Regardless of what your faith, heritage, and beliefs are, we all know that we are born to live and we live to die. When we do die, many believe, as do I, that we meet our Maker face-to-face. When the physical body dies, we live on, but “in a better place”!

Some believe that when one dies, that is it…there is no after-life I find it particularly interesting that a lot of those who say there is no after-life will be the first one in referring to someone who has died, “They are in a better place.”! For me personally, being under ground would not be a “better place”!!

Please permit me to challenge you to take a look all around you…all the different types of trees, birds, insects, the axis of the earth’s rotation, the stars in the sky, THE MIRACULOUS BIRTH OF A CHILD…everything we see and take for granted. When I become fully cognizant of all that is around me, especially my friends and family, I come to the conclusion that there is definitely a “higher power”. Being prepared to meet that “higher power” then, in my opinion, should be something that all of us should consider.

Having been brought up under the Christian faith, I believe that having that personal relationship with God is paramount in “being ready to go”. Specifically, I believe that Jesus Christ indeed was the Son of God and that through His willing sacrifice I am given an opportunity to have that face-to-face meeting and escape “eternal damnation”. Now don’t get hung up on all the consequentials…just remember that we all must live our life in a way that we serve our fellow man and that we please our Maker!

While I may have all my preparations in place, along with a great multitude of on-going self improvement activities (yeah I have lots of “flaws”!), I am “ready to go” when that time comes. But for now, I want to keep on living with you, my wonderful friends!

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Monday, May 18, 2009

As The World Turn...YOU HAVE TO READ THIS!!

When I was a kid, there was a soap opera, maybe it is still on today. I don't know because I barely turn a TV on more than once or twice a week. Just don't have time for it. Anyway, "As The World Turns" was very popular. It represented a lot of everyday life issues and was very identifiable with most persons in modern day American society.

Everyone struggles with life issues everyday. It could be trouble with your job, your wife, your husband, your boyfriend, your girlfriend, your children or any one of a multitude of other challenges. Whatever the problem, you've probably found yourself wishing for a quick fix to all the obstacles that confront you. The problem with quick fixes is that they do not last. We just know that everything we do in life on a daily basis affects THE REST OF OUR LIVES. If there are things in our lives that keep us from being the very best at what we do or want for our lives, then we have to make CHANGES! Changes that will truly make your life count.

As most of you know, I use MySpace to share life changing decisions that I have already had to make, as well as some I have yet to make, and show how to overcome those pesky obstacles that seem to make the world stand still. Keep your eyes up and your heart open. If you are dealing with "coming out of the closet" or maybe you are just "gay curious", know this! I am here to assist in any way I can. Message me and let me know if you, or any of your friends are having issues! Love you all!

:DD

PS - Remember we ALL are...

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Sunday, April 26, 2009

THIS YOUNG MAN HAS A MONSTER!!
Category: Life

As many of you know, my real name is Richard. Well, I have a friend who is 26, handsome guy too, whose name also is Richard. Richard and I have have some things in common, one of them being that we care about the youth of today and their well-being.

Unlike myself, Richard is very talented with art and communication, and the message he wants to spread is one of great importance. It is my heart’s desire that you will embrace this cause and help it grow. I am going to ask you to become interested, involved and help spread the word about his upcoming campaign.

Richard’s message is related to two characters, “Monster” and “Woowoo”! The subject matter is safe sex practices in order to promote STD and HIV prevention and awareness. By making HIV prevention information more visible, Richard hopes to increase conversations surrounding safer sex.

Protect Your Monster (PYM) is very proud to voice its support to a growing list of Non-Profits. A percentage of the proceeds for future "Protect Your Monster" products will be donated to non-profit organizations to give back for the important message they stand behind... protecting your
monster.

YM appreciates likeminded individuals who want to promote safer sex practices, including but not limited to: STD testing, using condoms, asking about STD status, avoiding risky sexual behaviors, abstinence/ waiting, honesty. PYM doesn't judge anyone in regards to status, but rather focuses
on personal responsibility.

If you are HIV negative, ensure that you are taking precautions to remain that way. If you are HIV positive, take the precautions to protect the people that you care about. A large majority of people living with HIV don't know their status; make sure you know your status, and encourage others to know their status as well. Ultimately, everyone is responsible for their own being; taking extra safety measures can give you peace of mind.

So please, add Harry Monster now as your friends. Even more important, ask your friends (all of your friends if you really care about them) to add Harry Monster by clicking on this link: www.myspace.com/protectyourmonster

And remember, we ALL are…

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Saturday, April 25, 2009

It’s all good…

Some of you have asked me, “What is happening with the Divine Family?” The answer is short and the fact remains that I became a disappointment to some in the fact that I make mistakes. I am not the super leader they thought I was, and I will be honest to say there is much in my life that needs improvement. That being said, I will continue to strive for the principles at the bottom of this blog that were initially set ups as a “Divine Family Code of Ethics”, knowing that I will NEVER be 100% successful. I am a human and never desire to be put on a pedestal. I want to be just like everyone else…I want to love and be loved, even when I make mistakes and when my family members make mistakes.

A family is a place where principles are hammered and honed on the anvil of everyday living. - Charles Swindoll

It has always been my encouragement to others interested not to be caught up in taking on the “Divine” name, but to concentrate on being the best moral, positive, and caring influence you can be in your own life and in the lives of others who look to you for example. Those behaviors which we recognize are not in the best interest of our future as productive and influential members of the family and of society, we need to work on eliminating them from our daily lives.

What families have in common around the world is that they are the place where people learn who they are and how to be that way. - Jean Illsley Clarke

As we all take on the tasks of changing things about ourselves to be a better person and a better family member, we find that it all boils down to one thing…living love not living large! For those of us who believe in Him and love Him, we know this to be true by the basic truth, “God is love”!! No matter what we decide is the best direction in all of our lives as family members, we have to do what is best for us, and those of us who consider that person as part of our family, we embrace them and support them in their decision. I would hope we would always be a FLASHING EXAMPLE of acceptance!

In dwelling, live close to the ground. In thinking, keep to the simple. In conflict, be fair and generous. In governing, don't try to control. In work, do what you enjoy. In family life, be completely present. - Lao Tzu

My original intention for MySpace, as you have heard me say in the past was NOT to start a family but to be there for gay, lesbian, and transgendered youth who felt outcast and lend them encouragement and hope. Little did I know that parents and grandparents of some of these would rally behind me in being available to do the same, and they have! For that I am grateful! When members of the Divine Family have been accused by others or have made negative comments made about them, I have been faithful to share with that person what was said. Unfortunately, some who have been confronted have taken it as be being accusative as well. That has never been my intent to be an accuser but to be an informer and reassure that person of my love, encouragement, and support.

Families are the compass that guide us. They are the inspiration to reach great heights, and our comfort when we occasionally falter. - Brad Henry

As I am reminded of the “Lord’s Prayer” which says “forgive our debts as we forgive our debtors” I am admonished that when I harbor negative feelings against another, I cannot even pray the Lord’s prayer if that ill feeling still resides in my heart. All of us as Divines must never hang on to hurt when others offend us. We must be forgiving just as the old proverb tells a husband and wife to not “let the sun go down on your wrath”. Let’s always let the flame that gives off healing spirits bind us together.

At the end of the day, a loving family should find everything forgivable. - Mark V. Olsen and Will Sheffer

Whenever a member of the Divine Family feels uncomfortable changing the old ways of doing things and difficult, my only guess is they have not completely bonded with what we all are supposed to be striving for. I encourage us all to be as understanding of each other as we can. Starting with me, if I say or do something that you think is wrong or an embarrassment to our family, tell me and anyone else who may be involved, not the whole world. Let’s stand by each other’s sides and support one another!!

"The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other's life." - Richard Bach

As each of us commit to support and love one another, then and only then do we continue to exist as a family, and I feel that those of you who still call yourselves Divines are of the character and determination to live this daily. Every single one of you, and I mean every single one of you, have taught me much. I value you more than you will ever know!

In truth a family is what you make it. It is made strong, not by number of heads counted at the dinner table, but by the rituals you help family members create, by the memories you share, by the commitment of time, caring, and love you show to one another, and by the hopes for the future you have as individuals and as a unit. - Marge Kennedy

There is no doubt that as each one of us realize and grasp the aforementioned truths thus far that we will forever in history be not only a family but friends for life. I encourage each of us that as we rise out of the turmoil created by a few, that we never refuse to accept them back should they decide to come. While some have left because they do not like the drama that some have caused, and some have left because they believe I am a poor example and horrible leader, we must always be open and receptive to receiving ANY of them back into the family should they ever choose to reassociate with us. Remember the “Prodigal Son” story in the Bible when the son forsook his family for a more fun and care-free life, and the father with open arms received him back? That is a great truth of life and living that we all should embrace.

The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when he discovers that someone else believes in him and is willing to trust him. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Thank you, all of you Divines and friends of the Divine Family, for being my friend. Know this too that I value your friendship more than life itself. You are what keeps me going and without you, I am not the leader and advisor that you make me to be! Anything that I am able to do and accomplish comes first from my Maker and from you who make me who I am! Even more so, I am humbled when I know most of you know my faults and weaknesses, yet you still call me friend.

A friend is someone who knows all about you and loves you just the same. - Elbert Hubbard

We, together and individuals, will face difficult times ahead, but I trust you will join me in committing to each other that we will always be there for EACH OTHER!!

Friendship is the allay of our sorrows, the ease of our passions, the discharge of our oppression, the sanctuary of our calamities, the counselor of our doubts, the clarity of our minds, the emission of our thoughts, the exercise and improvement of what we dedicate. - Jeremy Taylor

In conclusion, as has been seen in the past, a Divine that leaves the family is always welcomed back with open arms. I have never stopped loving them, and others have not either. We support all people in their efforts to be who they want to be and how they seek to achieve good, positive and moral results for their lives. While the below quote uses the word “enemy”, I never consider anyone who leaves the Divine family either in disappointment or hate as an enemy. I genuinely do still love them, and I hope all Divines would do the same. Likewise, anyone else who has hated on me in the past on MySpace or out in the gay community, even today, I never consider them an enemy. I will continue to greet them with a smile and be as loving toward them as they will permit me to be. I challenge you to the same effort…and believe me sometimes it takes a lot of effort!

A true friend is one who loves you when you make them happy. A faithful friend is one who embraces you when you hurt them. A loyal friend is one who supports you when others turn against you. A friend who deserts you was never a friend. Keep your friends close, your enemies closer. – Sun-tzu

AND REMEMBER, WE ARE ALL…

DIVINE FAMILY CODE OF ETHICS:

MEMO FROM DADDY DIVINE TO THE DIVINE FAMILY

Below are some initial guidelines upon which we can operate as a family. While none of us are the full epitome of these values, they give us something toward which to strive. I especially want you to pay attention to this! I am a human being and I make mistakes, say things I shouldn’t and do things I shouldn’t. If you are ever hurt by my words or my behavior, remember, I am a human being just like you!

WHO AND WHAT IS A DIVINE?

Daddy Divine will be the first to say he is “chiefest of all sinners” in declaring that he does not consistently measure up to all of the below qualities. But as we look to better ourselves as individuals and as family members, the desired traits give us something upon which to focus our lives:

A Divine is one who has identified with the below principles, expressed a desire to be a Divine, and has been selected by the Divine Family to be a Divine. While it is acknowledged that all or very few of us are perfected in the adherence of all of the prescribed principles, we all agree that we are charged to grow and work toward bettering ourselves as individuals and family members by striving to represent each principle as best we can.

A Divine on MySpace is one who strives to be the best they can be at whatever they do.

A Divine believes and practices the principle that “Honesty is the best policy”.

A Divine is quick to stop and consider the consequences of their actions.

A Divine is ardently committed to keeping their involvement in the Divine Family and activity on MySpace and other such sites to be representative of a positive attitude and a good role model.

A Divine is thorough in thinking that “If you can’t say anything nice, then say nothing at all.”

A Divine is slow to criticize and quick to encourage.

A Divine family member strives to be courteous and polite.

A Divine takes delight in building one up and offering support to one in need to the best of their ability.

A Divine has no desire to be caught up in divisive schemes and attempts to disrespect anyone in the gay community, be they straight, gay, lesbian, transgendered or transvestite.

A Divine strives to avoid argumentative behavior, vicious gossip, and character assassinations.

A Divine family member does not engage in the practice of discrimination against any family member or non-family member based on their sex, sexual orientation, sexual behavior, religious affiliation, nor personal life behaviors. Terms and derogatory names with the intent of hurting a family member or non-family member is strongly discouraged.

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Thursday, April 23, 2009

Be The Best You Can Be!
Current mood:

determined

When I started this MySpace page, it was my focus to be available with my years of experiences in life to help others. To be there for advice for that teen boy or girl coming out of the closet...to be there to give understanding to the parent or grandparent of that teen coming out of the closet...that was my purpose. Some seem to think it was to start a family...it wasn't! But it continues to be a resounding statement I hear weekly..."I want to be a Divine".

Being yourself is more important in your life than any name you attach to yourself. You have read me make a statement time and time again about what Paul said in the New Testament, referring to himself as the "chiefest of sinners". Well that is me! I am not a divine being other than the same God that created me created you. I make mistakes...BIG MISTAKES! Some I learn from and some I make again.

Over the past 16 months, I've seen people of various faiths, most Christians, become a Divine and start looking at me only to be disappointed and drop the name, Divine! I have seen the same thing happen in civic groups and in churches. People get their eyes off of who they are, who they can become, and what is best for them and their lives, and get them on another individual only to be disappointed.

Concentrate on your character. Don't be quick to hate on people...even those who disappoint you! Don't be quick to criticize others! People who constantly are so free to verbally crucify people for their admitted faults and mistakes are of low character...this is a fact of life! Be quick to look at yourself and what will make you a better person. Learn from your mistakes and the mistakes of others! Stephen Covey captured this in a quote when he said, "The character ethic, which I believe to be the foundation of success, teaches that there are basic principles of effective living, and that people can only experience true success and enduring happiness as they learn and integrate these principles into their basic character."

It is my intent to keep my focus on being available first to share what I have learned in life, reiterating don't look at what I do or don't do, but look at what you should do and be with your own life!! Secondly, I pledge to you to hear you when I make mistakes and as God is my witness, I will try to learn from you and your advice as well!

"Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are." -- John Wooden

1:44 AM

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Tuesday, April 14, 2009

DADDY DIVINE IS A SNAKE HANDLER!
Current mood:

determined

Thank you for viewing my 9:00 PM MySpace Bulletin hours earlier in my blog. Please comment me and let me know what you think I can do better and how I can improve. I welcome your comments either way.
Thanx & God bless! - Richard
..........................

In the Atlanta gay community, 30 years ago, I was somewhat very active in the gay community, especially in the clubs. Sweet Gum Head, Bulldogs, Weekends, The New Order, Backstreet and The Cove, to mention a few, were my stomping grounds. No matter where I went, I would have several “guests” (occasionally only 1) come home with me but not to play cards. The rule of thumb was, as one of my favorite entertainers from Backstreet used to say, “If you come to my apartment and there is a skateboard parked at the front door, DON’T YOU DARE RING THAT DAMN DOORBELL!”

Yes, the reputation of Dick Divine goes back to the very late 70’s and early 80’s and is not something that I am comfortable talking about. Some of you who knew me then know that I was a wicked slut, an out of control “chicken hawk” and now, in my humble opinion, a young and wicked violent man. I will not preach you a sermon but I will keep it sweet and simple. God changed me. Later, I met a young man who for the next 25 years was my life. My clubbing days were next to nothing during the last 10 years with him as partners!

When I first came on MySpace, some of you actually knew and recognized me as Dick Divine. It wasn’t working for me in what I wanted to do. I changed my name to Daddy Divine. As some of you also know, that page was deleted when a young man hacked into the page and posted nude photos of himself. It was just as well because it helped me to realize that in order for me to be effective in reaching out to gay youth and young adults, I have to not only talk the part and walk the part, I literally have to GENUINELY be the part of Daddy Divine.

Unlike a lot of older adults and senior citizens like me, I do NOT believe the youth of today and young adults of the now are stupid. It has been my mission to let young Georgians, Americans, and now even international friends know that you do NOT have to leave your families to be who you are. You do not have to leave your spiritual heritage to be gay. My message is plain and simple, and it boils down to one fact, “GOD IS PRO-GAY!” Read the “Heroes” section of my MySpace page and get a glimpse of where I derive that conviction.

There have been assumptions about me on MySpace that I am a “pervert”, a “pedophile”, a “dirty old man”, and a few others we won’t repeat. I have been accused of having illicit relations with “some” or “most” of the young people who are my MySpace friends. Well, I firmly believe the truth is known and any of them will tell you…I have not! Not with ONE of them. One thing I have learned in overcoming all the abuse, criticism, and name calling is if I stay consistent and driven by love, young people will know whether or not I am genuine! Coming out of nowhere literally, since January 2, 2008, almost 3,300 friends and almost 133,000 page hits later, I am assured that God must be doing something with me in these last 15 months. But wait, not all my friends believe the way I do, yet they KNOW I still love them.

As many of you know, I have been in seclusion for the past few days. Sometimes when we see some good that “we do”, we get the “big head”. We start taking back the credit from Him who made me, and start gloating in what is being accomplished. Whether or not you are a “spiritual person”, I think you get the picture. It is my belief that sometimes God allows us to experience agony in order to know just how wonderful he can make our lives to be. There have been some things I have done over these few days of seclusion that I regret. There have been some I have turned on in the past and of recent because of their disrespectful, lying and slutty behavior. Now you may call me a hypocrite! I am learning more and more each day, while we may not repect or even like a person any more, we still have to forgive them for whatever they did , and we have to love them. It is commanded of us. So, while I may not always measure up to everyone’s expectations, please know I am trying. I will always say as Paul said in the New Testament, “I am the chiefest of sinners!” Rest assured though, I am changing and when I come back, I hope you will see a new and better Daddy Divine!

Bottom line is, as is in the story of Moses and the burning bush in the Bible, MySpace was my rod! I had thrown it down to see just what kind of serpent it can be when I control that rod and throw it off. I came very close to deleting my MySpace page these last few days. It became very clear to me and I knew that if I continue to let God use me, I would have to pick that serpent up by the tail. I did! May God use this page in an even greater way this 2009 than He did in 2008! I now see where the slogan “Divine By Design in 2009” came from! It was His inspiration. Please know this: I love every one of you and thank you for taking time to read this! If you have any comments, good or bad, leave them.

.. ..

YOU are what makes me what I try to be everyday!!

Currently listening:
Quiet
By John Scofield
Release date: 1996-09-24

6:42 AM

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Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Bitching Bishop!

When I was young and free and my
imagination had no limits, I dreamed
of changing the world.

As I grew older and wiser, I realized the world would not change.

So I decided to shorten my sights somewhat and
change only my country.
But it too seemed immovable.

As I entered my twilight years, in one last
desparate attempt, I sought to change
only my family, those closest to me, but
alas, they would have none of it.

And now here I lie on my deathbed and
realize herein (perhaps for the first time)
that if only I'd change myself first, then by
example I may have influenced my
family and with their encouragement and
support, I may have bettered my country,
and who knows, I may have changed the world

- An Anglican Bishop

1:53 AM

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Thursday, February 12, 2009

LONG LASTING MARRIAGE!

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

LONG LASTING MARRIAGE!

What is a “relationship” or “partnership”?

What is “love”?

What is “dating”?

What is “acquaintanceship” or “friendship”?

What is the correct order for the above when wanting a
life-long “marriage”?

No man can put a time on any of the steps that lead to a
successful marriage. Each person is
unique and time happens differently for each person according to where they are
in getting to know another.

However, for the most part, it is somewhat safe to say that
the proposed schedule to a long-lasting marriage has to start with friendship.
As the friendship blossoms over a few
weeks or months then dating may become our next advance to getting to know that
person outside of intimacy.

Entering into intimate “relations” too early in the
friendship-building process may diminish your good judgment of that person in
important areas that should be visited. Maybe I am a little old fashioned, but a lot
of people jump in the sack too quick. That diminishes the “getting to know you”
in areas where it counts.

After dating for several months then both may feel that the
phrase “I love you” has some REAL substance.
Too often, early in the friendship building process, people say one
thing but what they are saying is “I lust you”. For the sake of their own
uncontrolled urges, they would disrespect someone by engaging in cheap
meaningless sex…sex that happens before you even know this person. The phrase “save
it for the right one” seems to make sense.

Want a long-lasting relationship or just a lot of quick
flings? Be honest with yourself. I hope you choose the path to a LONG LASTING
MARRIAGE!

12:13 AM

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Friday, February 06, 2009

Starting a Gay Straight Alliance in Your School!
Category: School, College, Greek

http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/student/student/index.html

http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/student/index.html

http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/educator/index.html

http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/supporter/index.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gay-Straight_Alliance

http://www.gsaforsafeschools.org/

http://gayteens.about.com/od/school/ht/gsa.htm

http://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Gay-Straight-Alliance-at-Your-School

http://www.youthnoise.com/page.php?page_id=6264

http://www.ehow.com/how_2188664_start-gay-straight-alliance.html

http://www.glsen.org/binary-data/GLSEN_ATTACHMENTS/file/1-1.pdf

https://www.studentorganizing.org/login/index.cfm

1:38 AM

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Sunday, January 04, 2009

What are the qualities of a good boyfriend for me?

What are the qualities of a good boyfriend? True relationships can start instantly but they take time to build. Here are a few qualities I look for while searching for my next long term relationship.

1. A good boyfriend for me is honest.

A good boyfriend may not share every detail of every second of their life, but they do try to be clear about their intentions. This means that they try to present an accurate picture of who they are and of different situations. When something doesn't seem right, they let me know. Accompanying their honesty is fidelity!

2. A good boyfriend for me is fun, unique and interesting.

Getting involved with me and the social scenes I frequent is very important. They not only support my attempt to reach out and promote but assist me and offer me comfort by being by my side lovingly and affectionately.

3. A good boyfriend for me is attentive and adaptable.

A good boyfriend is at least a fairly good listener and notices how little, day-to-day things affect you. They can't read my mind, but chances are they can usually tell when I am happy, sad, excited, shocked or upset. If they're aware that they're doing something that annoys me, they try to change their ways or at least talk to me about it.

4. A good boyfriend for me is supportive of my and my goals of lending support to gay & lesbian youth and their parents.

My boyfriend may think I am cool, but at the same time they are on the same page as me? A really good boyfriend will know what makes me tick and help me become the person I want to be. They won't try to change who me are or drag me into situations that make me uncomfortable or put me at risk of losing something that matters to me.

5. A good boyfriend for me is a friend I can trust.

A true boyfriend won't try to steal from my "thunder" or belittle me. They won't gossip about me to our friends. They will let me know when they're concerned and do their best to stick up for me when I'm in trouble.

6. A good boyfriend makes it clear that they care about me.

A big clue that my Mr. Right cares is that they talk to me fairly often and, in general, know what's going on in my life and is genuinely interested about it.

7. A good boyfriend for me sticks with me in good times and bad.

Loyalty is a quality almost everyone lists when asked what they look for in a boyfriend. A loyal boyfriend will stick with me when my new promo is a flop, or when I bomb on something important for us both.

8. A good boyfriend for me accepts me for who I am, even when I'm being a butthead.

In my relationship, being accepting goes hand in hand with being loyal. A true boyfriend rolls with the punches as you grow and change and know how to deal with my quirks and faults.

They are also patient with me when I make mistakes -- even big ones -- and learn how to forgive me when I hurt them. In other words, they treat me as they would like to be treated, even when I am not at my best.

9. A good boyfriend for me will be between the ages of 18 to 24 and prefers the company of an older gentleman for a long term relationship.

They are also not bothered by the pointing fingers and whispering gossips when others see us together. There is nothing or no one that can come between the bond we share.

2:41 PM

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Monday, December 01, 2008

The ABCs of a Stable Relationship

Assumption of goodwill. Assumption of trust reciprocated between the two

Both have positive self-esteem. Not overly jealous, possessive, controlling or paranoid. Able to acknowledge and admit wrongdoing. Cup half full. Positive outlook. Believing in yourself.

Continuously looking at what's fun for the two of you. Planning together and playing together out and about. Planning together and working together around the house.

Devotion to their needs in sickeness and health never letting the sun go down on your disagreements.

Eager to continually learn from each other those things that will be essential in bonding your relationship for life.

Friendship and support. The feeling that your mate is on your side (Not that he/she always agrees with you, just that you feel your partner generally is your friend and ally and you can turn to him/her for emotional support.)

Good conflict resolution skills. Good problem solving, negotiating and compromising skills. Careful and skilled with anger. Absence of threats, name calling and labeling. Making an effort to initiate reconciliation after a fight, and to be healing when the other person is hurt or angry. Absence of viciousness when angry.

Honesty. This includes the absence of dishonesty. Saying what you mean and meaning what you say. Acting reliably trustworthy.

Indebtedness to one another. Doing whatever you can to help your mate feel secure about your loyalty. Foster the belief that there is and never can be no other.

Joyful bonding for the prevention of malice. Always giving benefit of doubt. Absence of unwarranted hostility. Absence of suspicion.

Keen sense of belonging by occasionally doing things out of the ordinary. Willing to try new things with each other.

Love that passes understanding. Love God first, love yourself as God made you, love your mate with a spirit of thanksgiving to God for them, love your children with direction and admonition, love both families represented by the relationship, and love others last. This is first and foremost in ANY relationship.

Master those things that bring your partner the most sexual pleasure. Lots of touch. Sexual receptivity. Trying to please sexually. Wooing for pleasure rather than demanding sex.

Nurturance/Giving. Being responsive to your mate. Making what's important to them important to you.

Open and self-disclosing and skilled communication. Good listening skills. Sharing hopes, dreams, wishes, problems and personal intimacies.

Physically/Emotionally available. Present. Not distracted, preoccupied or thinking about other things. Able to relate in the here and now.

Quiet times together OFTEN. Willing to take input, feedback and suggestions. Willing to try things the other person's way. Not too set in your ways.

Respect. Believing in your mate and their capabilities, skills and efforts. Not trying to undermine their self-esteem.

Stability/Reliability. Keeping your relationship on solid footing. Not destabilizing, threatening or withdrawing from the relationship.

Tact/Diplomacy. Saying things carefully so you're not unnecessarily hurtful or wounding.

Understanding needs, wants, and desires on a daily, weekly, and long term basis. Plan together.

Virtuous admiration. Instilling within each other the knowledge that no one can replace the other in any facet of their lives together.

Willing to emotionally risk. Permitting yourself to be vulnerable and to emotionally surrender to your mate. To not be very emotionally guarded, armored, defensed or protected.

Xenially active in entertaining so there is not doubt in other's minds that the two of you are completely bonded, faithful, and committed.

Yield to their desires more than you do to your own.

Zoetic longing to make the relationship work FOREVER!

10:06 AM

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Monday, December 01, 2008

They didn’t Choose. We all are uniquely made!!

Some men like women.
They didn't choose to be that way.

Some men like older women.
They didn't choose to be that way.

Some men like younger women.
They didn't choose to be that way.

Some men like men.
They didn't choose to be that way.

Some men like older men.
They didn't choose to be that way.

Some men like younger men.
They didn't choose to be that way.

Some men like men and women.
They didn't choose to be that way.

Some men like older men and women.
They didn't choose to be that way.

Some men like younger men and women.
They didn't choose to be that way.

Think about it!

DD for gay marriage!

9:37 AM

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Friday, November 21, 2008

Atlanta Runaways: If this applies to you...take heed!

Get this down pat and you will be happy in time!

You are the ONLY person that can convince her that you did not CHOOSE to be gay AND SHE DID NOT CHOOSE TO BE STRAIGHT. You are her son and you want her to know that you willfully love and honor her because she is your Mother...even if she cooses not to love you back you will still lover her...you have to let her know that if you could choose to be straight, for her sake, you would just to make her happy...for you to live straight and be gay would be living a lie!

----------------- Original Message -----------------
From: NAME WITHHELD
Date: Nov 20, 2008 9:48 PM

i am so sick of my mom i dont know what to do about it! she is all ways on my case about being gay and that its not right and she wishies that she didnt have a gay son she wants a normal son i dont understand her but am not changing for no ONE i am me and am gay....but it depresses me that she is the only that hates it, my aunt and some of my other family doesnt care they still love me for me...i dont know i just want to run away

11:40 AM

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