Someone said on social media that I was the son of Satan for being open about my sexuality. I told my mother, and she laughed and said, 'Well, what the hell does that make me?'
Interpretation
This quote highlights the importance of embracing one's identity and the humor found in familial support despite societal judgment.
Gareth Thomas's quote reflects the challenges faced by individuals who openly express their sexuality in the face of societal backlash. His mother's humorous response underscores the bond between them and illustrates the strength found in being true to oneself, suggesting that one's identity does not define their worth or familial connections.
In practice
In a speech about acceptance at a pride event.
I was always driven by the idea that if people ever found out about who I was then the stature I created for myself within rugby would have to be as relevant as the fact I was gay. It was always the driving factor to be the strongest, the fastest, the most skilful.
Faith ventures and hazards . . . counting the costs and delighting in the sacrifice.
I grew up in the South under segregation. So, I know what terrorism feels like - when your father could be taken out in the middle of the night and lynched just because he didn't look like he was in an obeying frame of mind when a white person said something he must do. I mean, that's terrorism, too.
Because my husband, Peter, died young, I've already faced the scariest thing in my life. Now I live out the dreams for both of us.
We’re going to foment our own revolution. So I say to the women out there in America, let’s keep this fight going! Put on your lipstick, square your shoulders, suit up, and let’s fight for a new American revolution where women are paid equal pay for equal work, and let’s end wage discrimination in this century once and for all!
Through persistence, self-knowledge, prayer, commitment, optimism, a resolute trust in God and the building of your own personal moral strength, you can enjoy the blessings of a deeper faith and face the difficulties of life with courage and confidence.
I think that if you do want to be a fighter, then you need to work harder than everybody else and make sure that you surround yourself with good people, especially if you're a woman. You've got to find a team that takes you seriously as a female fighter and is not going to rush you into the ring before you're ready.
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