Name: Sanya Thomas
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Blacksburg, VA
Time: 1998-11-02 04:40:37
Comments:
I was a theatre major when I was an undergrad, and many of my friends are gay/lesbian/bi. Bill's story is a horrible, sad, and beautiful thing to read. Not every Bill has a community, and their suffering is a horror to behold. I am going to be a high school teacher soon, and my classroom will always be safe for all the Bills of the world. I'm rambling, I know, but it's hard to type when you're crying. How dare anyone poison their children with bigotry and hate, and how dare this "society" let junior criminals off with slaps on the wrist. Sites like these should be required reading for all children.
Name: Mike Clark
Website:
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Bellows Falls, Vermont
Time: 1998-11-02 03:45:50
Comments:
I just wanted to say how incredible it felt to read this page and how incredibly sad. For a young man with such drive and passion for others, it is so sad to think that we have lost a powerful friend and ally. I pray that he is watching over those that are having similar difficulties and guiding them to saftey.
Blessings and love!
Mike
Name: Robert Buchanan
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Durham, NC
Time: 1998-11-02 02:27:52
Comments:
Thank you very much for sharing Bill's story. It has most certainly moved me. I hope and trust that our society will change from one of intolerance to one of acceptance. God bless you and give you courage.
Name: karen
Website:
Referred by: Lycos
From: Indiana
Time: 1998-11-02 02:01:29
Comments:
I too am the proud mother of a gay son,and cried as I read
Bill's story..What loving parent of a gay child doesn't live
in constant fear of this happening? My warm thoughts &
prayers are with you & your family for the loss of Bill. I
certainly will not forget him. This mindless slaughter of
our gay children is #1 Americas' shame!! I wish you and
your family love and peace.. Sincerely, Karen
Name: heather campbell
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: tampa, FL
Time: 1998-11-02 01:30:45
Comments:
i came across your page as i was looking for information on hate crimes towards gays. i am doing a research paper for my class called Racism in American Society. the class has opened my eyes so much, but not nearly as much as your story did. it was very touching, and brought tears to my eyes. though i personally am not gay, many of my closest friends are. male and female. it frightens me that acts such as these could be happening to my friends who i care very much about. i consider myself and my friends lucky that we have not yet had to endure such hatred, and i wish everybody could live in peace as we have. my prayers are with you and your family, along with all others who are in your situation. thank you for sharing your story.
Name: donna whitaker-halverson
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: fairbanks, alaska
Time: 1998-10-31 09:56:24
Comments:
I found this to be a very touching story! It is well written. I truly admire you sending letters to the Lions Eye Bank, I have strong feelings myself on this view and don't take the "back seat" either. I am doing a research paper on same sex couples and got this site from charles riffenburg IV. He has many good essays on this subject matter. Good luck
Name: Leslie Hillyer
Website:
Referred by: Net Search
From: St.Croix,U.S. Virgin Islands
Time: 1998-10-30 02:21:37
Comments:
I am doing research for an article on hate crimes and I stumbled across your story. I know there is nothing that I can say to ease the pain that you have gone through and I am deeply sorry for your loss. It pains to me to know that these things happen and this world is so cruel. I have many homosexual friends and it scares me sometimes to think of the dangers they face or any body that is with them at the wrong time could face. I highly respect the love and honor as a parent that you have shown to your son and it marvels me that you still have the strength and courage to talk about it. To see his pictures and look at his face it was almost as though I could have had a conversation with him on his feelings. Once again, I am deeply touched by your story and saddened at your loss. Sincerely, Leslie.
Name: claudia ward-de Leon
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: NEW HAVEN,ct
Time: 1998-10-28 19:44:09
Comments:
i was doing a project that was school related on hate crimes
against homosexuals and i came across this page. i'm sorry
about what happened, but i feel that you're doing something
very important by presenting this to everyone and letting
people know about the hate that exists out there against
any and all minorities. thank you.
Name: David
Website:
Referred by: AOL
From: Alaska
Time: 1998-10-28 06:50:28
Comments:
I am gay and I think we all need to take a stand on stopping hate crimes/gay-bashings. There wrong. Gays are humans, i in a sense am alot like Bill, I go up and down depressed and not depressed. We all need to take a stand and show that we will not tolarate with such unhuman behavior.
Name: Anonymous
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: A.B Canada
Time: 1998-10-27 21:32:38
Comments:
The bashing of gays,and blacks, and any other such races makes me sick!
How could anyone judge someone by who they sleep with,what color they are, or how they look.
IT IS NOT OUR RIGHT TO JUDGE....FOR NO REASON!
This sort of thing gets under my skin!I have many gay, bi,and lesbian friends that are open.
SO WHAT? Should we change they way we think of a person because of that? NO! I think anyone who does such a
thing should got to hell! Because it's not right! It's not! I am discriminated at my school....and i'm not gay, I
didn't do a thing to anyone....and yet they treat me like shit..and parents, let me tell you, if you don't do something
about the way your kids act...they WILL commit suicide or get bashed or depressed..
I had to beg to leave the school because I couldn't handle it, and my parents at first said "no".......
NO? Parents don't know what their kids go through, and the "bullies" and "bashers"
don't know the affect of what they do has on that certain person..........
IT JUST PISSES ME OFF! IT DOES!
That is all....and if anyone would like to e-mail me in response to this..please do.
From:
An anomynous writer.
Name: Daniel Hendrick
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: New York, NY
Time: 1998-10-27 18:12:53
Comments:
Homophobia is a terrible thing. Like many of your guests, I located your site after Matthew Shepard's killing. But not all cases of homophobia go as far as his tragic murder. It is, rather, the incredible isolation and pain that many of us carry in our hearts - due to homophobia both external and internal - that you see most often. I grieve with your family, with the Shepard family, and with all of us. I also find strength and hope for the future.
Name: Alaina L. Jacobs
Website:
Referred by: Net Search
From: St. Louis, MO
Time: 1998-10-27 04:46:46
Comments:
This story really touched me. It makes me worry more and more about my openly gay guy friends. As a 17-year-old bisexual female who's not out to many people, I feel fairly safe though unaccepted. I'm about to come out to the world as a first step in major activism.
Name: Jeffrey Morgan
Website: Out and About
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Medford, MA
Time: 1998-10-27 03:04:25
Comments:
Hi,
I'm not exactly sure how to start. In these past few months since I began to resolve my sexual identity, I've thought about a lot of things. But in all my considerations, not once did I think about the violence that make affect my life. Where I come from, I thought, that just doesn't happen. And now, just a few weeks ago, Matthew Shephard was killed. And just tonight I found that such violence has spread to Massachusetts. A girl was beaten after leaving a memorial service for Matthew Shephard in Boston, and an office at Brandeis University was vandalized. Walking home tonight from a meeting of Cornerstone, a group hear at Harvard for Catholic gaysm lesbians, bisexuals, etc., "What the hell is happening?" I used to think that the biggest problems I would have would be telling my parents and finding a boyfriend. But now, I think I really am scared.
How are we doing this to ourselves? How are we doing this to each other? How can people actually believe that beating up and killing gay people is doing the work of God? Who the heck wrote their Bible??? This is supposed to be an "enlightened age." We are supposed to be able to move beyond our differences, rise above our fears, and live together. But more and more, it seems that things are just getting worse. And the realization is, it can happen to me, and chances are pretty good that it will at least happen to someone I know.
I've never felt suicidal myself. But I can see how easy it could be for someone to not want to live in a world like that.
I wish my mother had reacted as you did when I told her. She certainly didn't disown me, but she never has accepted it as reality. If our own parents can't accept and love us for who we are, how can anyone else?
I used to believe that before long, I would be able to get married. Maybe not in the Church, that may take a while longer, but at least inthe eyes of the state, for what that's worth. But now, I'm not even sure if we will see an end to these hate crimes in my own lifetime. "What the hell is going on?" I don't have an answer. If you do, I wish you would share it with me. How many people have to die, before things change? Whether by their own hand, or by the hands of others? How many have to lose that greatest gift which God gave them?
I'm sorry, I shouldn't burn you with these questions that no human can answer. It's just that reading your son's story just struck a chord tonight, I guess.
There was a quote from "Star Trek: Generations" that I used to make my own. Geordi LaForge (who was blind), asked Dr. Soran, "What's normal?" The doctor replied, "Normal is what everyone else is and you are not." I used to add, "Who the hell wants to be normal?" Over the last few years, however, I found the answer. I do. How much easier would my life be if I had never discovered that I was gay? Well, for one thing, I'd be doing my homework now instead of writing this. And I wouldn't be afraid of being who I am. Who wouldn't want that? Who wouldn't want to be normal?
I guess I should stop here. My prayers are with you, with your son, with his friends, and with all of those who have lost their loved ones to violence and ignorance. And I pray that I will not have to face these things in my own life, but that if I must, that I will have the courage and the support to survive.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey Morgan
Name: Paul Corfield
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: London Uk
Time: 1998-10-26 20:07:06
Comments:
Well what can I say? Thank you for sharing Bill's story and I am sorry that such a loving son was taken from you in such awful circumstances. Your love and acceptance for Bill was mirrored by my Dad's acceptance of me. I never knew my Mum's thoughts as she died before she could tell me. I trust that all gay people who are not yet out to the world will take courage from Bill and from you and stand up to this dreadful hatred and lack of love and understanding. We all need to stand together no matter how frightening it seems.
I hope you continue to find the strength and love you need each day to keep fighting and to keep loving. All gay people need friends like you and Bill.
Name: Anna Langlois
Website:
Referred by: NewsGroups
From: Guernsey, Channel Islands, UK
Time: 1998-10-26 17:47:19
Comments:
Dear Ms. Clayton,
I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciated your web-site. I would also like to send you my sympathy over the death of your son. However I believe that by speaking out you are part of a very powerful move to raise the awareness of hate crimes. I pray, that through your sorrow, people will be transformed through your honesty and desire for change. Thank you once again, love Anna
Name: Niles
Website:
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Hereford, England
Time: 1998-10-26 15:06:35
Comments:
Wow. An important website, I'm glad, if saddened, to have read it.
The donor issue is also a very important one
Name: Helen Aspell
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: UK
Time: 1998-10-26 13:09:45
Comments:
Reading the page moved me to offer you thanks that at least at home and amongst friends Bill found acceptance. At the same time however it saddens me that this wasn't enough to prevent mindless violence. I hope that your right in that through publicity (albeit it painful) attacks like these will end and another life won't be tragically wasted.
Name: Ben Whitehouse
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Dudley, England.
Time: 1998-10-26 11:56:53
Comments:
Thank you for sharing your experience.
It made me stop and count my blessings.
It also made to stop and be thankful that there are supportive people out there who care what happens to gay people
Thank you for being a good enough mother to love your son no matter what. I wish mine did.
Ben. xxx
Name: albert nunez
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: San Luis Obispo, CA
Time: 1998-10-26 05:37:10
Comments:
Hello, I've read your family's incredible story and journey. I am a playwright and director who is currently working on a new script that deals with some of the things that happened to Bill and others. Hopefully we can communicate in the future as your son's story is important to all of us.
Name: ShallowLie
Website: Perfect Isolation
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Ontario
Time: 1998-10-24 05:49:17
Comments:
I read your thing about the bi sexual guy. I don't think what they did him was right at all. I mean i am not a bi sexual and i'm not gay. But still he should have freedom. Assaulting someone for a reason is complete stupidity and ignorance. People have to learn how to live with the fact that there are always going to be gay people and bi sexual people in the world. Live with it i learned how to. And for those people that assaulted him I believe his name is Bill I'd just like to say a big "FUCK YOU"
-ShallowLie
Name: Butch Ford
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Sacramento California
Time: 1998-10-23 20:43:20
Comments:
Dear "Mom"
I'm calling you "Mom" cause I'm sure there are people out there who would wish your were their Mom! First and
formost, I'm sorry for the lost of your son. But take into account that because of your story, awareness is being
done because of you and your son. I came across your story because I was doing a search on "Hate Crimes". I
have been in a state of shock due to the unforgetable crime to a gay person, but also the fact that someone can
do what they did to Matthew Shepard, the 21 year old gay student in WY. My name is Butch, I'm a 36 year old
gay male. I've been out for 6 years now, coming out on my 30th B-day. The first person who I came out to was my
mother. She suspected that I was gay. She had no real problems about my being gay except for the fear for my
own safety. After about 10 days, she was totally cool with my being gay. She needed her own "time" to come to
terms with Gayness in her family. It took me 30 years to her 10 days....sounds like I was too hard on myself. Like
I said before I've been out for 6 years now and have yet to be "rejected" by anyone of my friends or family. But
since the murder of Matthew Shepard and the story of your son, I'm alittle afraid. But be assured that my being
alittle afraid WILL NOT change who I am! I am Proud of who I am and who've I become. I'm just sad because of Bill,
Matthew and others who are no longer with us because they were, as some ignorant people put it "different". We
need to remember that we are all HUMAN BEINGS! I understand that your busy and must recieve hundereds if not
thousands of emails, but I would not mind getting an email from you if you have the time.
Thanks again for being a "Mom"!
Butch
Name: Mairie
Website: ode to the piano queen
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: DeKalb, IL
Time: 1998-10-23 20:21:03
Comments:
I am so sorry about this tragic event that stole the happiness away from your son's life. It makes me feel so helpless and hopeless when I see people with so much pent up hate, which they are taught from day one of their lives, by their parents, by their peers, by the sick parts of this society. And now, with the recent incident with Matthew Shepard in Wyoming, it seems like the hole has been dug even deeper. While it was wonderful to see people gather around the world to pay tribute to the poor boy with candlelight vigils and demonstrations, there were demonstrations on the hateful end of the spectrum as well. There is a church in Topeka, KS, (The Westboro Baptist Church) who protested against homosexuality AT Matthew Shepard's funeral. It disgusts me more than I have words to describe it. Also, they have a website up. It's all about anti-homosexuality, and preaches nothing but hate, and all in the name of the Bible, God, and Christianity. It all makes me so completely sick. I don't know what to do in this world anymore. I hate having to be someone other than myself, hiding my bisexuality away so that I won't fall victim to some of some heinous crime, or even just being taunted and treated like some kind of less than human Thing.
Name: Debbie Bruno
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: New Jersey
Time: 1998-10-22 15:50:26
Comments:
It sounds as though Bill was a wonderful person, and with parents like you it's no wonder. People are taught to hate. You don't just leave the womb hating african americans, or jews or gays. You are taught these things by your primary teachers "your parents". Love and kindness start in the home. We not only need to "re"-educate the younger people but also their parents. No one on earth is so pure, so holy, they should judge someone else. Take care of YOUR children in YOUR home. Teach them love and kindness and understanding to those that are different and the world will be a much better place. I admire your strength and courage as a family unit and as individuals. May god bless you now and always. I will say a prayer for your son.
Name: Christine Smith
Website: 1000 Deaths
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Virginia!
Time: 1998-10-22 04:56:36
Comments:
Gabi, what an awesome tribute to your son! A friend gave me your url tonight and I had to come right over. He said it was *the* site for resource links on GBLT teens and suicide. Thank you!! I am adding a link to this wonderful site, so the many kids who contact me will have better resources to connect with caring people and survive to become the wonderful adults they are meant to be. My son was not gay, but he suicided a year ago this November 7th at age 15 and 1000 Deaths began as therapy for me, but became therapy for many many more. Trevor prided himself on his friendship with ALL people, regardless of any stupid "labels" (and hence stigma) society wishes to bestow. I know he guided me here. Many many hugz. Please visit and support 1000 Deaths when you get the chance!
Name: Mai Yia Vue
Website:
Referred by: Clicked on a 'Guestbooks by GuestWorld' Button
From: Minnesota
Time: 1998-10-21 03:35:09
Comments:
Hello, I'm really sorry to hear about your son's death and how he had been through his rough years. It's not easy
for everyone out in the world. Currently, I'm happy with who I am, as a bisexual, after I found out myself last
year when I first attended the college. Everything I was so fascinated and didn't realize how I felt toward women,
like I was blind till I found out myself. So, everyone and my friends already accepted me and other gay, lesbian,
bisexual and trangenders. I hope that your son has a good happy life in heaven, and I won't forget his story
what happened to him and his life. I don't know who he is, but no matter what, I do support you guys. ;-) \|m|
Name: jabber
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Texas
Time: 1998-10-20 04:10:34
Comments:
I too suffer from this situation. I have often had the same suicidal thoughts that Bill had. I praise you and admire what your are doing to further us as a species. I just hope and pray that i will have the courage you speak of to continue on. I really hope i do.
I guess its kind of strange, we may never meet and you may never know if I will remain strong, but either way know that for at least this moment in time, i am here and am encouraged by your works.
Name: Carole Taylor
Website: And Another Thing
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Tennessee/now in Illinois
Time: 1998-10-19 23:45:22
Comments:
I looked under the anti-violence section, and just clicked on this site. With the recent violence in Wyoming and all the national attention to that crime, I wondered why now...why now all the attention and sympathy, however deserved, when there have been so MANY others who have suffered. Maybe if the nation had seen what you saw years ago with your own son, Mathew Shepard would not have had to fall victim to the same insanity and inhumanity. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Name: Nesh
Website:
Referred by: AngelFire
From: Bristol ,United Kingdon
Time: 1998-10-18 21:48:05
Comments:
God bless you, i dont know what to say.............My thoughts are with you.
Name: oceangirl™
Website: oceangirl™
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: australia
Time: 1998-10-18 15:51:36
Comments:
WOW! This was so sad to see! My brother's gay, and he's very depressed at times. I have to say that to put this on the web, show's alot of courage! {hugs} But good to see that you know that life goes on, no matter what... i'm sorry tho. =) I know how it is at times. Keep strong!
Name: Evon
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Singapore
Time: 1998-10-17 07:01:35
Comments:
I'm greatly sad to see that bias still exists.Not only bias against bisexual,homosexuals,leisbans and gays but also bias against skin color & races do exists.I'm very sad that although humans are equal in GOD's eyes,this kind of hate exists. I'm myself normal but I don't hate the people with different sex lifes.In fact,I have some friends who are those people.They after all,are humans.But society happens to be discriminated against any humans who go against the normal tide.....so they have no choice , but to keep it secret,stirring nothing or don't hide,causing lots of troubles purposely caused to the innocent people.*Sigh* I really feel sorry for Billy who was unfortunate victim.
May everyone be equal somesday!
Name: Chris Perkins
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Federal Way, WA
Time: 1998-10-16 21:33:00
Comments:
I think this is a big issue for all people in general. If I ever hear some one talking about qay's in general I set them down and ask them just why they fill this way. One of my best friends is gay. Yes they are different, but let me tell you that they do have heart that could carry the soul of anyone; even those who don't understand.
Name: David Holton
Website: Ashengrace ||Official Website
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Tucson, AZ
Time: 1998-10-16 20:04:26
Comments:
I'm completely lost for words. I am so terribly sorry for what your son went through. It sickens me that society continues to reward gay bashers by trying to "understand" them. I would be perfectly content with lining up the whole lot of them and gunning them all down. it would be nice to see them get scared for a change.
There are some people who do not need to be "understood" or helped. gay bashers like the ones who murdered Matthew Shepard and the protesters (who ever heard of protesting a funeral?) are of that like.
Name: Susan
Website: Susan Koppelman
Referred by: NewsGroups
From: Tucson
Time: 1998-10-16 18:39:00
Comments:
I found your URL on a Hate Crimes message on FAVNet (Feminists Against Violence Network)and came to read the story of your family. I am touched and deeply sadded by the story. Your ability to honor and respect your son is moving, inspiring -- and also depressing because it wasn't enough to save him. It is so often and tragically true that the love of some isn't strong enough to save us from the hate of many. I have seen messages in your guestbook from African Americans and read your message about your own ancestors fleeing Hitler. My work in the field of domestic violence is work in another aspect of hate crime. What follows is the URL to my collection of stories about domestic violence.
http://www.cornillon.com/nathan/witt.html
Your son was victimized by two kinds of criminals -- his age peers and his gender identity peer. So in both cases, his abuse was at the hands of those we might expect to have been his supporters. I wonder what will happen to those who abused Bill. I don't mean their all-t
Name: Brian Eagan
Website:
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Greenfield, Massachusetts
Time: 1998-10-15 22:05:41
Comments:
To Mr. and Mrs. Clayton,
My love, prayers, thoughts and good wishes are always with and for you.
Brian Eagan
Name: Tom Garrahan
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: SF Bay Area
Time: 1998-10-15 02:47:16
Comments:
In the wake of the Matthew Shepard murder, I was e-mailing a friend and decided to look for something positive from the gay world to offset my sadness. I was deeply moved by your story and will share it with others. All this hatred is so far beyond any reason or justfication and must somehow bww stopped. Somehow, people like us with fair minds and hearts must find a way to get through to people who prefer to use their fists to do their thinking and talking. my love to you.
Name: Adam
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: OH
Time: 1998-10-14 20:08:43
Comments:
I have been so touched by this page. I visit it every once in a while. It goes to show just how cruel people can be. If only people could just understand others, and not be so narrow with their views.
My prayers deeply go out to you.
Name: connie sparks
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: kentucky
Time: 1998-10-14 02:14:47
Comments:
bill's story was the saddest story ive ever read ,to think he committed suicide cause he was bi-sexual and people where mistreating him cause of his preference is so sad..people can be so cruel ,can never know the impact and pain there actions cause others ..i hope this story has taught people to think before they speak and judge others ,cause would you want there blood on your hands for your stupidity...everyone has a choice on how they want to lead there live no one should try to change a person ..
they need to look at there self in the mirror before they judge or harass others
Name: Jen M.
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Connecticut
Time: 1998-10-14 01:41:48
Comments:
I just came out to my mother today. I'm 19 and from a very small town, where there is no such thing as "homosexuality". I hope that my parents can cope with this- it took me quite a while to get used to it. I am fortunate to have many supportive friends who are in the same position, but it would help me a great deal if my parents were as opened- minded as you and your husband. I congratulate you on being so understanding and kind. Ignorance breeds hate, and the more people are educated on the realities of homosexuality, the less we will see tragedies like that of your family's. Thanks for sticking up for us :)
Name: Gryffin
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Canada
Time: 1998-10-12 23:09:04
Comments:
I just read Bill's story today, and it saddened me deeply. I pour my heart out to you. It is a sad time that we live in. Gays are now excluded and for most part socialy unaccepted. We are in a situation which isnt like anything seen before. We face a posing threat of hate because of how we feel. Not because of how we look, or what religion we believe, or our sex, but on who we are attracted to. We have a hard time fighting back and banding together to stick together and fight for the same cause, because we do not have a visible difference in most cases, and it is hard to tell who else is gay or not. I am a closeted youth at Age 17 and I am president of student council, I am on a local comedy troupe and am doing well, but I do not come out for the fact that in my city homosexuality is not accepted. I have nothing but admiration for those who have come out especially in High school, and I am considering it myself, but I want to say "keep fighting....it cant stay bad forever"
Name: LaTonya Goliday
Website:
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Mississippi
Time: 1998-10-12 18:15:16
Comments:
I was in tears reading Bill's Story. I have experienced hate crimes because I'm an Afro-American. I feel
for you and your family. I can not say I know exactly what it feels like because I'm not in your shoes. I would just
like you to know that there are some good people in the world, who do not judge a person on their race, religion, or sexuality.
I admire you for telling your son's story. I must have took a lot of strength, courage, and support.
Thank you for sharing with us.
Warmest regards,
LaTonya Goliday
Name: h peterson
Website: my home
Referred by: From a Friend
From: cali
Time: 1998-10-12 08:01:40
Comments:
love you much & the whole family... am doing well like the up dates... you now have my new address
love you tons!!!
Name: Shyam
Website:
Referred by: Net Search
From: India
Time: 1998-10-09 18:48:15
Comments:
As written by your son, 'This is not my choice.This is not forced upon me. This just is.' If only people would try to understand this. I dont know why this hatred. God be with you.
Name: Yoshinori Arai
Website: White Ribbon Campaign Japan
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Tokyo, Japan
Time: 1998-10-08 20:46:17
Comments:
HI!
This is Yoshinori.
How are you? I am doing fine.
I have just finished to translate half of "Be Yourself", which
PFLAG-National has in its website.
"Be Yourself" is very important informatin for especially teenagers.
Right now, it is 4:45 in the morning. I am sleepy.
So I go to bed. Good night.
Thanks for your support.
Take care of yourself,
and say hello to your family.
Yoshinori
Name: Bill Copeland
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: St. Louis, MO - orig Rochester, NY
Time: 1998-10-08 01:34:37
Comments:
What Bill had written in HIS notebook reflects my feelings exactly. I lost my brother Dan to Aids back in 1993, but I used to talk to him about how both of us felt being gay and whether or not we would rather be straight. We both prefered the way we were, but felt that was simply because that was how we were born. That we neither chose nor were driven into being how we were.
Name: M Harshbarger
Website:
Referred by: Net Search
From: Chicago, IL
Time: 1998-10-08 00:48:46
Comments:
All I can say is good for you, good for you!!!!
Name: Mark Loncar
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: NYC
Time: 1998-10-07 22:20:58
Comments:
"This is not my choice. This is not forced upon me. This just is."
This quote by your son made me think, "If people only understood this,
maybe they would be more compassionate and understanding."
Who in their right mind would choose to be ostracized by a majority
of their parents, friends, society, religion, etc...
It took me a long time to realize that God has something in
store for all of us, even if we don't know what that is.
If I can be of any help to you or anyone who reads this, please,
please, e-mail me. God Bless You Mrs. Clayton, your family, and
friends.
Name: Scott Bradley
Website: The Rainbow Room
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Fort Wayne, Indiana
Time: 1998-10-06 20:03:02
Comments:
Dear Gabi, I am just so moved by Bill's story. The tears still have not stopped. Your support of your son that you relay in the article, is something that I have always wished my mother would have given me. I am a 36 year old Gay male. I have experienced my share of prejudice from the non-gay world. There have been times in my youth and younger adulthood when I have contemplated suicide. I never have because I was always too afraid. I hate pain and Death is too scarey. Suicide for me has never really been an option. I'm not sure what my purpose in life is, but there is one or I wouldn't have lasted as long as I have. I recently read a book called "Prayers For Bobby" I can't remember the author's name at the moment but that book is another moving account from a mother dealing with her son's suicide. I wish there were more people in this world like you and your family. It would make life so much easier to live. Thank you for posting your story! I intend to put a link to it on my webpage. Right now I'm having a few problems with it. So it may take awhile but I will definitly put a link there. If you care to check the page out go to the middle pic on the first page. Something has happened and I can't get the pictures back but go to the middle of that picture click on the hot link and it'll take you to my personal page. There you can learn all of the boring details about me =-) Thanx again for your moving article. Sincerly, Scott
Name: JM
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Oregon
Time: 1998-10-06 04:12:25
Comments:
I was "lucky" enough to not have a clue about my orientation until I was much older..and better able to deal with it. I admire and aplaud your courage and spirit in posting Bill's story for all to see. I hope that it will save some other child from leaving this earth all too soon. I also hope that it may open someone's eye to the damage that is done by supposidly well-meaning people. Bill would be proud of you I am sure...I would be proud of my mother if she was half as loving and understanding as you. Thank you fo rreminding the rest of us that there are SOME parents out there who are capable of loving thier children no matter what. It helps give me the strength to continue to believe that some day my own mother will once again consider me her daugther. Again, Thank You - JM
Name: Aaron Gilchrist, Jr.
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Richmond, VA
Time: 1998-10-05 19:47:53
Comments:
Thank you so much for sharing that story. I don't feel as though I need to offer you any condolences. Bill's
story lives in each and every GLB youth who continues to fight to be recognized as valid human beings in this society... and thus your
son lives through us. Again thank you for sharing his story.
Name: Derek
Website: Gay Teen's Pen Pal Connection
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Georgia
Time: 1998-10-05 02:01:35
Comments:
I truly am moved by reading this story. It is amazing that such things happen, and deeply saddens me. It is, however, wonderful to see how you supported Bill and his fight with the hatered of life. I am sure that you were the animating force of his life, and that he greatly appreciated all you did for him. What a travisty that such an ending has to come for such a beautiful, caring, interesting person! Though I know not of your son, I will miss him as a brother, a fellow homosexual teen. It is a relief, though, that he is in a place where he cannot be harmed, assaulted, or abused for being who he is. That must be a strong comfort for you, for me, and for us all.
Thank you for sharing your story! I wish you the best of luck, and my heart-felt care,
Yours truly,
Derek
Head Administrator, GTPPC2
www.chanton2.com
Name: Dusty Moore
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Camdenton, Mo
Time: 1998-10-04 20:48:53
Comments:
I think you have a very nice webpage I think it will help alot of kids to know that they are not the only ones who have been assualted and such. Dusty
Name: Robert Herring
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Epworth, Doncaster (England)
Time: 1998-10-03 13:31:58
Comments:
I found your story very emotional, as a friend of mine recently committed suicide because he found life as a
bisexual very difficult. He had opened up to a few select people, and he knew his parents would have reacted badly
so they never found out the truth.
I am a gay man myself and have not (as yet) had any abuse for being gay. I have been open to my friends since I was about 14,
but it took a lot of courage to open up to parents (waited until I was 21), and wished I had told them earlier, as they
were very understanding (as you obviously were).
One thing I would like to say, however is, I recently met a guy and we have really hit it off. We recently went out
on a night out from the company where I work and everybody accepted us as two people in love. Life can be difficult
being different to everyone else, but I will never give up the hope that one day everyone will accept everyone for who
they are and not what they do! (Can I also take this opportunity to tell the world what respect I have for the people
I work with, my friends and parents for their understanding and acceptance of me, for who I am.)
Name: Jon Phillips
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: california
Time: 1998-10-02 23:03:14
Comments:
I think its very sad and very wrong for people to have such anger and animosity towards people they know nothing about, only there sexual orientation, people should be more focused on what people say and do, rather than to judge by looks or sex, or what you like to do, truly great story.
Name: anita brett
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: new jersey
Time: 1998-10-02 02:22:26
Comments:
i just wanted to say how sorry i am to hear of youur son's suicide, and i want you to know what a wonderful woman i think you are, your son seemed to be a wonderful person as well, i know where he got it from, you make me proud to be a woman and a mother.
Name: Jenna Wolfberg
Website:
Referred by: SimpleNet
From: Shaker Hts. Ohio
Time: 1998-10-01 23:27:06
Comments:
I am a 16 year lesbian! Big suprise, you probaly hear that alot. Well any way I am just trying to find some groups that are sopportive
Name: Kevin
Website: the circle 1
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Sant rosa CA(S.Sauer's friend)
Time: 1998-10-01 11:51:19
Comments:
cool page! give your self a hug for me.
Name: Laura
Website: AllAmericanGrrl's Center
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: In the midst of Nowhere, IL in the USA
Time: 1998-10-01 04:55:36
Comments:
I would just like to commend you on the work you've done and the spirit you maintain.
It is my hope that some day soon my parents to will understand my lesbian identity and maybe just maybe
stand up for truth, justice, and a person's right to life without harassment or persecution. I'm convinced that
if we as a society had just a few more parents like you, a lot could be accomplished in the ways of tolerance
education and ending the volatile environments in our schools and there would be no question whether or not a
human rights ordinance that includes sexual orientation is right. The majority of people would know and discrimination
wouldn't have to proven in order to be illegal. Thank you for harboring an attitude of acceptance rather than exclusion...
L.
Name: Theron
Website:http://members.aol.com/wiccairish/life1/index.htm
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Florida
Time: 1998-09-30 04:14:44
Comments:
I thought the story was so said. I admire your courage. In my cultures, the American Indian, Celtic, and Nordic, bisexuality\homosexuality\transgender were not only normal but were thought of as being blessed.
Your son was truly blessed.
http://members.aol.com/Nateyboy18/gay.html is the address to another very sad story that you maybe interested in reading.
P.S. I myself am a proud 15 yr old homosexual. :)
Name: Michael Whalen
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Connecticut
Time: 1998-09-29 22:05:34
Comments:
I am a fifteen year old from Hartford, CT. I cried when I read your son's story. I am very sorry, from the bottom of my heart. We need to take a stand against prejudice. It doesn't matter if you aren't being oppressed. We all need to support those who are being oppressed. If a restaurant won't serve gays, then boycot the restaurant. Prejudica affects us all.
Much Love, Michael
Name: Rob Williams
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Portland, OR
Time: 1998-09-29 18:34:05
Comments:
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Bill sounds like a wonderful young man. I hope that his story will remind people of the deep cost associated with hatred of any variety. Thank you for sharing his story.
Name: Dean
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From:
Time: 1998-09-29 06:31:36
Comments:
Thank you for sharing a touching horrific story. And thank you for your efforts to end intolerance and senseless violence.
Name: Joanne T Kim
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: San Francisco Bay Area
Time: 1998-09-29 00:40:54
Comments:
I would just like to say that I think you are a wonderful
role model for parents dealing with gay/lesbian/bisexual
issues with their children. Keep touching other people's
lives through your work. And, I am very sorry for your loss. No one should be made to feel so bad that they
are driven to take their own lives.
Sincerely,
Joanne T Kim
-23-
Name: chele dispenzieri
Website:
Referred by: From a Friend
From: maine
Time: 1998-09-28 02:22:37
Comments:
reading this story has brought tears to my eyes. i've been struggling with my sexuality for some time now and am also struggling with severe depression. bill's story has touched my heart and your family is included in my prayers. i extend my heart to you, gaby and alec, and hope that you succeed in getting your message across to others. also, i am a psychology major and i know that hate crimes are everywhere. i live in a very small northern maine town and this past weekend our synagogue was soiled with others hate. we held an anti-hate march that was very successful. the hate of the world today is very disturbing for me, but my faith is what keeps me going. on that note, be strong and proud, and best wishes for the entire family.
love,
michele dispenzieri
Name: Stu
Website: Stu's HomePage - Under Construction, atm, back later in the year.
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Essex, England.
Time: 1998-09-23 12:14:45
Comments:
Hi Gabi
First I'd like to add my condolencies you, your family and also to the friends of Bill Clayton. It is sad to think that the world and society alone, don't accept us for being either homosexual, or bisexual. In all I was horrified to know that this lad took his own life at the age of 17. I know there are others out there, thinking the same, and expect people not to understand them, but in my own experience, coming out to my family and friends had been easy for me, but maybe not for others. I only recently came out summer 2 years ago, and life has had it's ups and downs, and fitting in with society is sometimes too hard, that you just want ot hide, and be non-existent. Today I am more open about my sexuality and have made it to lgb soceities, at university/college/in your local area, and they can help believe me.
I only wish that other's out there think again about suicide, because it's not the only way out, just be yourself, and soon people around you will come to accept you for not what you are, but who you are, in terms of person, and character, and your friendship should remain the same.
If anyone wishes to further add to this email, please do so, and/or contact me if you want to.
May I take this time to say how amazing Bill was, even though I didn't know him, he was caring, honest, and loving, and that's what makes a person, nothing more.
Stu.
(catch me on IRC sometime, irc.demon.co.uk 6667 / #GayLondon knickname - Ste_98)
Name: Megan Drury
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Silver Spring, MD
Time: 1998-09-22 05:49:53
Comments:
Dear Gabi, I haven't signed your guestbook yet. What does one say? I didn't know.But today I find myself here. It's been a rough week, healthwise. I have this blood disorder and I've been bleeding a lot lately. I mean, I'll be okay, just not doing so good right now. And I had to come to your site. I don't know, there's something about you and about Bill that being here feels like I've come home. Total acceptance and understanding that only comes when both are tested. Thank you for that.Peace tonight and every night, Megan
Name: Thomas Angelo DeMarco
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Conneaut Ohio
Time: 1998-09-22 01:02:17
Comments:
Saw your page tonight and I can understand all of it. I am a contractor in Ohio and do a lot of work in Shaker Hts and Beechwood, perhaps you know the communities.....You are a therapist? If that is correct could I share something with you? It is something almost ...well, almost incredible if I had not experienced it myself. Indirectly it may help you in your work. But I have to say this; can you accept information if it would force a change in your life? (nothing to do with sexual matters).
Name: Ross
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Sydney, Australia
Time: 1998-09-21 16:15:38
Comments:
Hi.
My name is Ross, I am a 14 year old gay male from Sydney Australia. I just wanted to say that your story made me cry. You have alot to be proud of him for. He sounded like a talented, handsome young boy. Best Wishes -
Ross