March 5, 2019

Hi, I’m Mike

I’ve had something on my mind for a long time and I haven’t known how to approach it. I’m finally settled in a place I love and in a career as an interventional radiologist that I’ve spent my whole adult … Read the rest here

Latter Gay Stories

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Latter Gay Stories

9 hours ago

Deciding on last names is a deeply personal choice for any couple, including gay couples. Here are some common approaches they you may consider:

Keeping Their Own Last Names
- Many couples choose to keep their original last names to maintain personal identity or professional recognition.

One Partner Taking the Other’s Last Name
- One partner may adopt the other’s last name to symbolize unity, simplify family naming, or for cultural reasons.

Hyphenating Both Last Names
- Combining both last names with a hyphen is a popular option that allows both names to be represented. For example, "Smith-Jones" or "Jones-Smith."

Creating a New Last Name Together
- Some couples opt to create an entirely new last name by blending their current names (e.g., "Smith" + "Jones" = "Smones") or choosing something significant to them.

Considering Family Tradition or Legal
- Some may follow family traditions, choose the name that aligns with cultural expectations, or stick with what’s easiest legally.

Factors That Influence the Decision

*Equality: Wanting both partners to feel equally represented.
*Children: Planning for a shared family name if they decide to have children.
*Legal Concerns: Navigating name-change laws, which vary by location.
*Emotional or Practical Connections: Ties to ancestry, heritage, or career considerations.

Ultimately, the decision depends on what feels right for the couple, their shared values, and their future plans. ... See MoreSee Less

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Latter Gay Stories

22 hours ago

At the inaugural prayer service at Washington National Cathedral, attended by a sitting president, congressional leaders, global figures, politicians and professors, Right Rev. Mariann Budde, Episcopal bishop of Washington, demonstrated leadership and moral strength.

Just a day after President Trump’s inauguration speech declaring there were "only two genders in America" and signing executive orders targeting immigrants, Bishop Budde used the pulpit to make a heartfelt plea for compassion and unity.

“Mr. President, millions have put their trust in you,” she said directly to Trump. “And as you told the nation yesterday, you have felt the providential hand of a loving God. In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.”

Budde spoke of marginalized communities, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals, saying, “There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and independent families, some who fear for their lives.”

Her sermon called for unity—not as political agreement, but as a deeper commitment to fostering community across diversity and division. “Unity is not partisan,” she emphasized.

Trump appeared visibly displeased during her remarks, later dismissing them as “not too exciting” when questioned by reporters.

Bishop Budde’s courageous words reflect the essence of speaking truth to power and the moral imperative to advocate for compassion and justice, even in the face of resistance.

By their fruits ye shall know them. ... See MoreSee Less

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Latter Gay Stories

1 day ago

Hi, I’m Hayden.

At 15, I was nearly outed by a high school bully who pressured a peer to ask if I was in love with my best friend—a girl. At the time, I still identified as female and was exploring my identity. In ninth grade, I began dressing as a boy to show solidarity with my older sibling, who had come out as transgender, nonbinary, agender, and aro-ace.

Without much support aside from our mom helping with testosterone shots, I wanted to stand by him. My gesture was misunderstood as a phase, both for myself and my brother, but it was my way of navigating identity and allyship.

When the outing attempt happened, I spiraled into despair. I wasn’t ready to label my feelings, especially while grappling with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD. Later that year, I told a close friend I thought I was bisexual, and her support gave me strength. However, rumors about my sexuality, likely started by the same bully, reached me before I even confided in my parents. I finally told my mom, who advised caution around my dad due to his homophobic views.

When I eventually came out to my dad, it was during a contentious moment at General Conference. As Elder Oaks spoke, I expressed my discomfort and revealed I was bisexual. My dad’s reaction was muted, though he later gave advice on navigating conversations with extended family. Around this time, I also came out to my cousin Ruth, who supported me, and began experimenting with names like Monty and Hayden.

Navigating high school, family struggles, and a toxic relationship, I realized I wasn’t just bisexual—I was also nonbinary and gender-fluid. During the pandemic, I officially came out via a video, embracing my identity as Hayden, a name my mom welcomed with love. My dad, however, struggled with pronouns. When I legally changed my name in 2022, it marked a turning point. I began embracing me.

Despite setbacks, including bullying, a temporary family separation, and hospitalizations, I found strength in my identity. Today, I’m in a loving relationship with my trans girlfriend. As I look toward the future, I hope to propose to my girlfriend and continue building a life that reflects my truest self. ... See MoreSee Less

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Hi, I’m Mike

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