What is it about the truth that is so upsetting to people? Most of us say we want the truth, we need the truth, we function better inside the truth, etc.

Does anybody really know the truth? Webster's defines the truth as the body of real things, events and facts: actuality. Another definition is transcendent fundamental or spiritual reality.

Hhmm.

How can that be? The first definition is clear; the second definition defies the first. Some things can be proved but most of what we believe as spiritual truth must be accepted on faith. We have little, if any, factual data on Jesus' life. Yes, we have the gospels, the lost books of the Bible, the Nag Hammadi findings. But…scholars disagree on almost every aspect of their reliability.

So, we put together our own truth about religion. We base it on experience, childhood Sunday School teachings, research into things we find hard to swallow as adults, and a personal knowing that comes from deep within our souls.

One of the most dynamic verses in the Bible speaks about truth. It covers almost everything.

John 8: 31-32 Jesus said to the people who believed in him, "You are truly my disciples if you keep obeying my teachings. And you will know the truth and the truth will set you free."

What is the truth for GLBT people? We must believe that the Supreme Being who created us all, knows us as we are, and allows us his unconditional love pours out his truth and understanding to us. And by doing just that, gives his permission for us to follow his examples in the face of adversity and sets us free of the enslavement we have endured since the discovery of our differentness.

The New Year is a new beginning for us. Just as Jesus came into being under difficult circumstances, we, too, can start over. Take the spiritual journey that is waiting for you. Spiritual awakening is yours for the taking and no one can rob you of your place in the kingdom: and that is the truth.