Moody Philly; NARTH Divided...

I'm currently ending my trip in Philadelphia, PA. I must say that Philly was a rude awakening for folks who adapted to a slow pace environment---that would be me. The people here are both gentle and rude, and I got a dose of both of 'em! Public transportation is served to its people by trains, buses, subways, and plenty of shuttles if one is coming from the airport. The transportation service is so advanced and convenient in Philly, that it's almost useless to rent or own a car! I was also impressed with the ethnic diversity, and the number of youngsters with decent jobs. Philadelphia is a fast pace city. It's either you adapt quickly, or you'll be left in the mud. Thankfully, it took me one day to adjust to the city of Philadelphia. Philadelphia seems to be my kind of city, however, just like all cities, there are always a few problems. Problem one is that it's extremely left-wing, and problem two is that the homosexual movement is on the verge of ruling with an iron fist, but that didn't stop the NARTH (National Association for Research & Therapy of Homosexuality) organization from having its conference.

Yes, my reason for going to Philly was to attend a NARTH convention for the first time, and to learn more facts on homosexuality. Well, I did learn some notable facts on the mental issues surrounding homosexuality, but it came with some rather disappointing revelations regarding some of the therapists. An issue came up regarding if NARTH is a Christian based organization. The answer was no. Although a warning flag was drawn, I didn't react just yet because I figured if the therapists are seeking to help people with unwanted homosexual desires, then there's still hope. However, more warning flags continue to rise. I recall that there was a therapist who basically appeases the religion of his clients. Now what if the therapist is dealing with a Muslim? The Quran teaches to stone homosexuals, so how would the therapist deal with a situation like that? In a nutshell, the therapist is using a therapeutic method of vanquishing homosexual desires which removes God from the equation. Many Christians and a few number of Jews at the convention began to feel the tension in the air...including myself.

No matter how great a therapist is on treating homosexuality, he/she has to realize and understand that there is a spiritual stronghold involved with homosexuality. If the saving Grace of God is not involved in freeing one from homosexuality, then there is still a problem, and that problem is that the client is still hell bound. I personally think that one who has fled homosexuality cannot remain heterosexual or asexual for long if God's grace is not present. The battle of homosexuality is not just a mental struggle, but a severe spiritual one. The heart can only be changed by the Lord Jesus Christ, but I believe that one must submit to God in order for this change to take place. I can't even begin to stress how important God is in all situations regarding repentance. If God is not in the mix of repentance, then I seriously think that the prayer for repentance is vain. I left that session sensing a huge division within the air.

Thankfully, there was one session that was simply awesome. Mr. J. Matt Barber, Associate Dean for Career & Professional Development, shared several facts of the corruption surrounding homosexuality in public schools, courts, and businesses. Barber is fearless when confronting the homosexual movement. He, just like myself, is a Christian who is constantly pushing to expose the evils of homosexuality. He stated that he receives hate mail from the opposing side daily. He's gotten use to it just like me! Barber tells how homosexuals hate to be compared with other sinful categories, and how they bully those who disagree with them---despite their little plea of homosexual bullying. I got a chance to talk with him and said, "You and I know who homosexuals are angry with. They are angry with God". He agreed, as we begin to both thank the Lord for all of the hardships we endure for God's sake.

The NARTH convention brought about a few protesters. They were both old and young homosexual advocates. The homosexual gang were not allowed to protest at the front of the hotel, although sometimes they were quite bold. Thankfully, they were all mild mannered. I spoke with a homosexual of the age of 75. The elder homosexual used the typical homosexual argument that he doesn't see harm in two men loving each other because God is love. A young Jewish homosexual told me that NARTH is the type of organization that allows for bizarre therapy...which includes having the client to undress and grope himself. Now I may not agree with the "ungodly" therapy, but NARTH is not that type of organization...if such an organization exists.

Overall, the NARTH convention started off well, but for me, it ended on a disappointing note. There are some NARTH members who believe in God's grace and others who don't. As I stated, I don't believe that one can truly be free of homosexual desires if God's grace is not present. Ultimately, if there's a side that believes in God, and another side that doesn't, the organization of NARTH may eventually fall.

XFURY

P.S., the philly cheese stake was DUH-li-shush!