Loves God, Likes Girls by Sally Gary

Loves God Likes Girls: A Memoir by Sally Gary is her story of being raised in a devoutly Christian, yet dysfunctional family. Her mother was extremely overprotective, but could also be hard to please and her father had unexpected bouts of rage usually followed by an emotional disconnect from the family. The uncertainties of pleasing her parents caused Sally to doubt her value, her identity, and to be unable to feel secure in any relationships she had as she grew older.  She believed that women were consistent and comfortable, yet felt that she would have been better off as a boy. Although she did date boys, she believed no man would really want her. Sally also had "crushes" on a couple of girls, but did not admit to herself that she was attracted to women sexually until after she had entered college. After going through a lot of Christian counseling (alone and with her parents) and having a network of supportive friends, she continues to live in the tension between same-sex attraction and her belief that a gay relationship is against God's will.

 This is an honest look at Sally Gary's life and some of the factors that may, or may not, have played a role in her attraction to women. When I was offered the chance to read this, I had doubts I could fully relate to her story, but was hoping for a greater understanding. First off, this is a woman I could definitely be friends with since we have quite a bit in common. She also has an engaging writing style that kept my attention and the things she had to say stayed with me. Actually, there were times I would read how she felt and think, "Me too...but I have never had an attraction to another woman." Admittedly, she had some very bizarre encounters with males in leadership who abused their authority, but did that make a difference?

In fact, there are no definite answers offered. The author does provide answers of ways that a Christian can be more compassionate and willing to listen and the benefits of a strong support group. As a single woman, I certainly understand the lonliness she sometimes feels, and it isn't something you always feel comfortable sharing within a church setting. There are Singles groups that provides a safe haven for some, but how many are welcoming to those who struggle with homosexuality? I would have liked to have had a few more answers on having a safe place for a civil discussion, and her struggles as an adult. On the other hand, too many authors are willing to share way more detail than I want to know. I do recommend this book to others as the chance to get to know someone who struggles with an attraction that she honestly feels is against God's will. We all have them, but there is no doubt that this is an issue that can cause outrage no matter what your belief system or personal experience.

I was given a copy of this book by New Leaf Publishing Group in hopes I would give a fair and honest review. There was no compensation and all opinions are my own.

 SALLY GARY holds degrees in communication from Abilene Christian University and a law degree from Texas Tech University. A former high school debate coach, trial lawyer, and college professor, Sally is a teacher at heart. Her deepest, darkest secret has become her greatest passion--educating people about same-sex attraction. She is the founder and director of CenterPeace, a non-profit ministry providing safe places for conversation about same-sex attraction in families and churches. 

SALLY GARY holds degrees in communication from Abilene Christian University and a law degree from Texas Tech University. A former high school debate coach, trial lawyer, and college professor, Sally is a teacher at heart. Her deepest, darkest secret has become her greatest passion--educating people about same-sex attraction. She is the founder and director of CenterPeace, a non-profit ministry providing safe places for conversation about same-sex attraction in families and churches. Sally lives in Abilene, Texas. - See more at: http://www.bible.acu.edu/leafwood/pg.asp?ID=199#sthash.FbpuP9s9.dpuf

SALLY GARY holds degrees in communication from Abilene Christian University and a law degree from Texas Tech University. A former high school debate coach, trial lawyer, and college professor, Sally is a teacher at heart. Her deepest, darkest secret has become her greatest passion--educating people about same-sex attraction. She is the founder and director of CenterPeace, a non-profit ministry providing safe places for conversation about same-sex attraction in families and churches. Sally lives in Abilene, Texas. - See more at: http://www.bible.acu.edu/leafwood/pg.asp?ID=199#sthash.FbpuP9s9.dpuf