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.
Sometimes it takes dealing with a disability - the trauma, the relearning, the months of rehabilitation therapy - to uncover our true abilities and how we can put them to work for us in ways we may have never imagined.
Every time a young girl comes in and asks me for advice, if you start your conversation with, 'How hard is it as a black woman,' or, 'How hard is it as a woman,' I turn you around. Because I cannot - we cannot look at the roadblocks and see the road at the same time.
People need not fear the unknown if they are capable of achieving what they need and want.
I began revolution with 82 men. If I had to do it again, I do it with 10 or 15 and absolute faith. It does not matter how small you are if you have faith and plan of action.
There's something wrong in a nation where six million black men are not allowed to vote because they were convicted of felonies. They've paid their dues to society, but yet their right to vote is not reinstated.
It takes great deal of courage to see the world in all its tainted glory, and still to love it.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.