My Dad Isn't Coming to Our Wedding
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- Опубликовано: 27 фев 2020
- Thank you for listening. Thank you for caring about me. It means more to me than you could possibly know.
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In January 2020, a documentary was released called “The Witnesses.”
TRIGGER WARNING: basically all the worst things people can do
“The Witnesses” can be found on Amazon:
www.amazon.com/A-Window-For-J...
or Oxygen: www.oxygen.com/the-witnesses/...
and also on Google Play: play.google.com/store/tv/show...
and other places on the internet if you dig deep enough. I encourage you to watch it and share it. I believe the survivors. I know survivors. I am a survivor.
(UPDATE 2/29:
If you need resources or are looking for answers about the JWs:
www.jwfacts.com/ & jw.support/)
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I can’t describe what it feels like to be a child rejected by their parent. It strips you of your humanity. It makes you a shell. Nothing more than an object someone can opt-in to cherish and love when convenient for them and their beliefs. It reduces you to a choice.
I am not a choice. I am a person deserving of love and respect.
Back in August, my Dad and step-mom pulled me aside to tell me that they would not be coming to my wedding. I had included them on a list of “family” e-mails my wedding planner asked for, but had assumed we would all silently agree not to discuss it. That surely I had suffered enough. That I had struggled enough. That I had lost enough family already.
But they needed to remind me that my love was unnatural, immoral, and a crime within their organization.
To remind me that Ella wasn’t worthy of being in a family photo.
And lastly, to remind me that if I ever used my public platform to speak out against their organization that that “would be it.”
It’s taken me six months to decide I am comfortable with that.
My Dad is an Elder. I was a raised a Jehovah’s Witness. I was never baptized. However, I grew up in the organization, I can recite all the names of the literature from memory, I’ve been to more District Conventions and Memorial Services than I care to recall. I’ve gone out in Field Service. I’ve preached Door to Door. I still have the songs singing in my head.
I grew up fearing my annihilation and the annihilation of everyone who is not a Witness.
Returning to the choices we make… I choose to share this:
I do not believe it is a safe or healthy environment for women or children. I believe it protects those it should not protect. I believe it holds itself above the law.
I believe it is a cult.
If you would like to learn more about The Witnesses - I encourage you to speak to people who have fled the cult and lost everything in the process. Again, I was never officially baptized, and yet this organization has taken from me something I desperately wanted to carry through this life and into the next - the unconditional love and support of a parent. 
Приколы
Here is a link to the documentary on Amazon:
www.amazon.com/A-Window-For-Justice/dp/B084TDX7L3
I'm so proud of you
www.oxygen.com/the-witnesses/season-1/the-watchtower
Hannah you are a beautiful person, and your dad choosing the witnesses over you is his lose.
Hey Hannah, that is Their peace...to tell you in person that they will not be there. I feel your pain and understand coming from a kid of an excommunicated son. Watching this has made me count my blessings that my father choose to leave the fellowship. Seeing you struggle with the fact that they told you in person made me realize that as hurtful and as hard as it feels right now, that it was a blessing. They gave you a gift of closure. They were in the moment with you. They didnt have to be. What's important is your peace from all of this. Thank you for sharing your story and being vulnerable tending to your wounds with us. I have been here since the beginning of MDK and I'm rooting for you. We all are.
we don't talk about it enough unfortunately. My wife's parents are witnesses to Jehovah and did not attend the wedding. it was very difficult...
“Why am I upset about this?” Because even when you know you’re going to be punched in the face, it still hurts.
Exactly! Just because Hannah knew he wouldn't come doesn't mean it doesn't still hurt.
Thank you for giving me words to express the answer to Hannah's question
Damn. That's the best way to describe it
@eagle PHD whether Hannah talks about it or not, her dad isn't coming to her wedding. That's the pain that was referred to as a punch in the face.
So unless you think hannah daring to get married to the person she loves is "being a twit" I think you missed the point.
@eagle PHD stop being a troll and going comment to comment looking for a reaction.
The voice crack on “I have nothing to be ashamed of” really hit home. Never tolerate intolerance, we’re all behind you Hannah. ❤️
Not intolerance just preferences
Tommy Shelby ... Preferences can still mean intolerance. Gosh you’re dumb.
Tommy Shelby It’s not preferences . You cannot prefer humans to be any sort of way because the world doesn’t revolve around you. Or at least, they’re wrong preferences that you shouldn’t have because you should care about yourself and not others.
Isabelle Malott Yes Isabelle. Pop off legend.
God I'm so emotional after watching this
"When your parent continually doesn't choose you" God that hit hard. You and Ella deserve so much happiness. I wish you all the best and all the love.
This is the first video Ive seen from this channel and I was very confused for a sec since my name is Ella too.
GOD DOESNT SUPPORT HOMOSEXUALAITY SO I DONT BLAME HER PARENTS. IF SHE MARRIED A GUY THEN BE DOFFERENT
@@JCMAGIC7 Really? Get the fuck out of here.
This is so sad. I did not go to my daughter’s wedding. Biggest mistake of my life. I will never forgive myself. I was in this evil cult for 19 yrs.
annika hopp but so do some other cults..
@@shouldacomewithawarninh4974 It's not a cult because of the things they believe, it's a cult because of how they CONTROL you. I was raised a JW so I know.
@@shouldacomewithawarninh4974 That's not an argument. And definitely not fitting here. Jeez, read the room...
I’m so sorry that happened to you. We all make mistakes. Some are big, small, and freakin massive. Everyone deserves another chance.
Remember to tell her that
“I’m surprised about why I care”
The same reason why my mother-in-law cried when her physically, emotionally, and sexually abusive father died, whom she hadn’t seen in ten years. Because you’re mourning the relationship you didn’t have, and the relationship that should’ve been.
You're exactly right! You mourn what should have been.
broadwaymelody33 : Very wise words. You mourn the relationship that might have been. You mourn the memories of a parent who once loved you, but then suddenly does not seem to care. My goodness, this must be devastating.
broadwaymelody33 , omg SO TRUE!!👏🏻😭
Yes. I've been through so etching similar. U r right. Also, I feel bad that it took me so long to let him go. To end everything... To realise Things will never be alright with him... He will never change...
YES, you nailed it.
Oh Hannah, when you said, "Why do I still care?" all I could think was this: You care because you have successfully taught yourself that you are worthy of love, that you deserve a family and a community that chooses you, that it is your right as a human to receive respect and kindness. The fact that it hurts so much is evidence you have shifted your normal far enough toward love and acceptance that you can genuinely and fully experience your father's actions as wrong and hurtful.
I'm so sorry your father's love for you has been blatantly and explicitly conditional. I'm so glad that you are putting your foot down and saying that your implicit support for his choices is also conditional, and that you are withdrawing that support.
I wouldn't even say his love is conditional, it's non existent, you don't treat someone you love like that
Thank you Kella for so beautifully capturing this sentiment. Hannah, I echo the community's outpouring of empathy and compassion. May you be safe, may you be well, may you find peace. 💙
This! 1,000,000 times this!
Beautiful.
@Quantum Dune no you don't have to respect others' opinions and that is not what being liberal means.
This video is a huge deal because if her Dad is a strict Witness, he is now not allowed to contact her anymore. By speaking publicly about leaving the cult, she has become an apostate. She chose informing people about the dangers of this cult and speaking her truth over being able to mend her relationship with her dad, possibly forever.
Thank you for speaking out! I wish you lots of love and support in this grieving process. You'll be okay :)
Oh wow, I didnt know it had THAT much of an impact
JW are EXTREMELY controlling of social circles. They highly dissuade people from going to college even. They’re really messed up :/
Sounds like scientology in a way
wow i am beside myself. thank you for clearly emphasizing the gravity of the situation. i now have an idea of what she must have been feeling at the time she posted this. it really deepens my respect and hurt for her to know that all along she was conscious of the choice she was making
He can still talk to her if she was never baptized (unless they’ve changed their policies recently aka ‘new light’)
“Why am I surprised?” - as the daughter of a narcissistic woman who abandoned me and my dad when I was 3 and has continued to float in and out of my life I can say with full confidence the answer is this: Because you are a good person and you can’t fathom how someone makes that choice. He chose to abandon you throughout your life like my mother abandoned me. I’ve learnt that I can’t understand my mother and I will never stop being surprised by her shit because I am a decent person, a good mother, a good wife and my mind doesn’t work the way hers does. We are not the same. I don’t want to understand her. Take your hurt as comfort that you hurt because you would never do this to someone ❤️ your hurt makes you different from them. Congratulations on your wedding ❤️
They say blood is thicker than water, but here’s the actual quote:
“The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb.”
Meaning your friends are closer than your toxic family. If you have a toxic family member, DO NOT be afraid to cut them out. Be strong.
I love that quote.
SO TRUE!!!
Thank you! I hate how so many quotes are cut in half, reversing their intended meaning. Like curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back.
I recently learned about this whole quote. Its crazy how the derived version sounds like which is "Blood is thicker than water".
thenerdgirltori 💗💖🥰
Just saw this, I'm a Christian minister .... 65... stuck in the old ways, in a decade tug of war with whether gay marriage is "wrong" or "right." Seeing your pain, the emotion, the hurt took me to the tipping point tonight. Damn.... what ultimately matters in life is that we love and are...loved. If you were my daughter after seeing what I saw tonight I'd be standing next to you on that wedding day loud and proud. (and yeah....I'm a fan of Drunk Kitchen :) )
John Wantz Thanks for sharing your journey of walking through this. As a Christian who’s now LGBTQ-affirming I would like to recommend Matthew Vine’s book “God and the Gay Christian” and the work of The Reformation Project. I encourage you to keep going. 💒
If you are a minister, may I please ask if you can do a sermon about this? I feel like more churches should do sermons about those who are of the LGBT community, not ones with fire and brimstone, but ones in which they actually explain that we are people too, that we feel the same things that you all feel. I live in a community which has so many churches, a very small town but we have like 16 different churches here. There are times I am hated on because I am bi and their was even a big fight here when the mayor actually said that they would not celebrate or let even just let people know about the LGBT awareness day. I know myself, I don't ask that Christians say 'all is right in the world with LGBT' because I know that is way to much to ask, but I do ask that they understand that we are human, we feel the same feelings they do. (The way I was treated was one of the reasons I felt like I needed to leave the church I was in myself.)
I pray that more people can become more accepting as you have.
Also a soon-to-be Christian minister, and people need to know that they are loved, God knows their heart and their struggles and they are still loved by Him. We all sin, and gay sex is equal in God’s eyes to premarital sex. I don’t know why more pastors don’t say this. Maybe because then it’ll put several Christians in the same boat as gays. We are all put on this earth to learn a lesson, and we are all expected to turn away from sin. 🤷🏻♀️
@@quieteyes307 I was brought up religious, but from the outset kicked and screamed against all of it - teenage rebellion fuelled by the gaping logic-chasms that dogma does a piss-poor job of justifying the indefensible.
In my later years of atheism I've quietly developed a respect for some religion and those that care.
In my mind the problem is never religion - but people - but people can be awesome and people these can be the same religious people - and it gets really really complex from this point onwards - but that's life and we've not got long in the sun to make sense of it all.
My humble take is that if you look within yourself with some deliberate introspection, you can answer most external questions pretty easily and obtain peace.
I don't (and suspect you don't) imagine god to be a guy with a tally-board, who's decided to chalk on an equal penalty for pre-marital or gay sex (or thoughts, or inclinations, he made us all in his image and well could have scored us all at the dawn of the universe... well it makes no sense if you think of it this way).
My own view is we should be shaped by the world we find ourselves in and specifically with compassion. Compassion is the greatest thing.
You clicked that reply button because you felt compassion - and whilst I might not agree with everything you typed afterwards, that click was important to me.
All the rest you typed was how you justified it - in the same way I'm typing this meandering mess (sorry, btw).
You clicked reply, I clicked reply, maybe somebody else will (many others have if not in this thread)
Something didn't feel right and that felt wrong to us.
“You don’t protect families by keeping secrets” really hit home
100 percent
Our absolutely perfect daughter is gay, she’s married to one of the most beautiful compassionate creatures that ever graced this Earth. I may have only given birth one time to our daughter but we’ve now got 2 awesome daughters, one carried by me the other born in my soul. I wish all parents would love their children regardless, life is so short. There’s no time for hate.
The love you feel for your daughter in law is magical x
@@emmajenkins4732 Thank you for the kind words 💕 she’s absolutely beautiful inside and out
@@jules1011 You are an amazing mom. I wish all mothers could be like you♡
happiness truly IS a choice
I dream to marry the girl of my life too..I hope she will love me back..
If Hannah's dad cannot love his daughter enough to put aside his beliefs.. he doesn't deserve a daughter like Hannah.
As I wrote in one of my posts on here, His God gave him a gift, his daughters. He is blind enough to not notice that he was given that gift.
Faith come first before anything else in the world
Mahli Smith Family first, always.
Agreed!
I'm willing to be a internet sister to Ella and Hannah. They deserve the universe and more
"you don't protect families by keeping secrets"
🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌
Preach. This really hit me in the feels. Thank you for your vulnerability and honesty and thank you for sharing it with me.
YOU. HAVE. NOTHING. TO. BE. ASHAMED. OF.
♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Agreed. I’m mustering up similar courage and I needed to hear this. ♥️
Yes! This got me too.
Same! I suddenly found myself ugly crying! That quote is everything!
Amazing. It’s so true. Hannah this was so powerful to watch it and thank you for sharing.
I started sobbing. My brother has physically and mentally abused me since I was young. The only thing that stopped it is me leaving the household. My family is very large and they kept the abuse hidden. Nobody in my family was safe from my brother but he kept up appearances so nobody knew. After divorcing myself from him and moving out I no longer hide when extended family ask me about him. I say what he is and what he’s done. I don’t care anymore.
“Some people refer to it as a cult... and that’s what it is.” Thanks for speaking the truth
My daughter is 12 and she recently told us that she is bisexual. My first thought was, how are people going to treat her when they know? and then I thought about my inlaws, an evangelical paster, and I am genuinely afraid of what they will say to her or how they will treat her. We told her we love her and we support her and who she loves doesn't change who she is or our relationship with her. When she feels ready to come out to others we will be right there with her. My grandmother is a JW, and it consumes her life and her love and time is for her brothers and sisters above her family, ALWAYS. It's challenging to have a relationship with her. This is the first video I've ever seen from your channel. I'm happy that you are able to use your platform to get this off of your chest. I wish only amazing things for you and that your heart feels a little bit lighter now that you've shared it. You are absolutely right, you have NOTHING to be ashamed of.
Hello
My friend was a witness, married with a child. Her son needed a blood transfusion for a rare medical condition to save his life. She gave him her blood, and she was shunned from the church. Witnesses do not support blood transfusions evidently. Her family will not speak to her because she chose to save her son. Turns out she fell in love- with a girl! They married last November. Everything happens for a reason :)
Wtf with the blood transfution thing tho
holy shit... so they're strict with blood transfusions, but relaxed when it comes to child sexual abuse.... so backwards
Cordial_Lump yeah..it’s crazy. Their literature says "'abstaining from ... blood' means not accepting blood transfusions and not donating or storing their own blood for transfusion.” Her son literally would have died. Yet her husband at the time, a devout witness, was so angry she did it. He left her. It all lead to a much better life for her though. I’m not religious but that seems more like “gods plan” than not giving your child life saving blood...giving blood lead to her breaking ties with a cult and finding true love- with a LIVING son to show for it
@@jessicapreston9808 wow I guess they can't have surgeries either, I wonder if they can visit the dentist?
N_H that’s how Selena Quintanilla died they couldn’t do the blood transfusion bc of her parents religion
As a dad who is holding his child right now, I cannot imagine doing anything to hurt or damage this child's self worth or love. I'm so disappointed that there are humans that could do something like this to their child
❤❤🤗 same! I've told my 9 yr daughter no matter who she loves we love her and support her!
Blaine Upshaw I’m crying... bawling my eyes out, my parents don’t support me they think dating a girl is a sin, I love them to death but I don’t even think they’re coming to my wedding since they don’t believe in same sex marriage, I just love you not only as a supporter but also a father to a child, thank you, god bless you
Amber Garnett god bless you, thank you so much for what u do... my parents might not even attend my wedding even tho it’s far away, they say dating a girl is a sin, I’m crying reading this comment, I love you not only as a supporter but also a wonderful mom to a child!
@@rosyreads sending light and love doll!
@@rosyreads so sorry that's happening to you, noone deserves that. I've never understood love needing to have restrictions, like man women gender spirituality income, none of it matters if love is there and they make you happy!
"You don't protect families by keeping secrets".... that hit HARD. I'm trying to work out my relationships with both of my parents... oof... I need to write
I hope that over time you find clarity in your situation. Sending you love and care.
Hello
@@lauradavis9344 hello
Hanna: Describes Jehovah’ Witness
Me in my head: So a cult...
Hannah: So a cult...
Oh no she can read minds!
My exact thought! I thought the same thing.
Dude I totally agree
It is. I hope to leave this cult soon. It is very difficult to leave. They basically won't let me leave. It is especially difficult to leave while you are married.
You're "surprised" because at the end of the day, he's your dad, and you still want him to choose you. It's natural.
Kristen70364 ooooof this hit hard.
That part.
Cults, man..
💔🙋🏻♀️
My dad is not like that shit head bitch ass nigga
“I am nothing to be ashamed of” - You are absolutely correct. You are a wonderful, amazing human being who has put so much good into this world. You and Ella deserve the world. We’re all behind you, Hannah. ❤️
I came from a family of Witnesses. Absolutely agree about the cult like properties. I walked away from them entirely and created a chosen family. but it still hurts sometimes. I'm so sorry, Hanna.
As a mother I can’t imagine not supporting my child through anything in life. If my son or daughter ever came out as gay/lesbian (I have a son and daughter) transgender, bisexual, whatever. I will welcome them and their partner with open arms and a smile. My child happiness comes first. I’m a part of the lgbtq community (I’m bisexual) and have felt that pain of rejection from family members. Thankfully they have come around tho. They educated themselves on it and realized it’s really not a big deal. I hope this happens for you.
As a mother I give you the biggest mom hug of all time! ❤️ enjoy your day
So good to hear. My mom has three gay children. Never turned her back or judged just loved us. My wife’s family has more trouble with it. Her mom is so supportive which feels great.
“I have nothing to be ashamed of “ powerful powerful true words
FiatDuster Sometimes, you have work hard to undue all the hurt that was caused by someone who was supposed to love you and remind yourself that the things they said are not true
Or...ya know...it's sin. One of the 2.
@@thrillhovanhouten253 why are you here? This is not a channel for bible thumping homophobes
@FiatDuster you seem offended by her braveness
luna moon Cuz Jesus is important everywhere. God bless.
The first thing my dad told me when I came out was "You know we won't be coming to your wedding." I was 16. He is a witness too.
Lorenzo u don’t know me but that’s with my parents too except I came out as bi but they said dating a girl is a sin, I just got so hurt that I didn’t even come out as gay yet, I’ll head to ur wedding we can have the most amazing day not thinking abt someone who would chose religion over someone they love
@@rosyreads I'm so sorry... Isn't it crazy that strangers on the internet support me and my parents don't? But in a way that's beautiful. We don't have to be related to have compassion and love for each other. My boyfriend is such an amazing person but my parents will never know.
@@rosyreads I bet you're a lot of fun at weddings 😉 I'll let you know when the big day is!
@@rosyreads I'm bisexual and I'm 24 and Iv3 never been able to tell my parents because my mom has gone out of her way to tell me that she doesnt think being bisexual is right and saying at least gay ppl could choose one or the other. Bi ppl arnt bi because they cant choose, we are bi because we like men and woman.
Kelsey 23 wow ur mom had the audacity to say that? U know what! Don’t let her change u, be urself! Be happy and that’s all that matter, no matter if it’s ur parents, ur relatives, ur friends NO ONE should ever change who u are, being bi is an amazing thing in my opinion! Love both genders is also very sweet! Stay strong love!! Maybe ur parents are a little shock but what can we know, all u need to do is stay true to urself love!!
I've put off watching this video for a long time because I knew it would hit home, but I needed this today. I'm someone with a father who hasn't chosen me, over and over, for years. We are now in a place where we no longer speak, and I struggle with that constantly; all I've ever wanted is a parent who wants me back. Thank you for sharing your own struggle and being real about the pain that comes from wanting a relationship with a parent so badly when they do not prioritize you in the same way. It's something that very few talk about, so thank you. I feel heard, understood, and want you to know that sharing your hurt is not in vain. I hope sincerely that you've gained some peace from sharing your story, and I thank you for your honesty. Stay healthy!
My mom had me at 16 and my dad tried to force her into having an abortion just to save his reputation. He broke up with her very soon after she made the final decision to keep me. Im now 20 and I see my dad maybe once a year. Every time I try to make plans with him he cancels last minute. Every time i ask myself why I care. I ask myself why would this time be different? yet i still cry and scream into my pillow every single time. I understand what you're going through & I hope you know I'm here for you or anyone else going through a similar situation. you are worthy.
I subconsciously care about what my dad thinks... Would be great if he didn't exist in my subconscious but he just sits in there, quite well hidden actually. Idk... just and simply human psychology? Sigmund Freud had some ideas, who honestly really knows it's so complex.
what a worthless dad... I hope you can find closure.
Sometimes the family you choose is stronger than the one you’re born into.
Absolutely 👏👏
Once more with feeling: YOU HAVE NOTHING TO BE ASHAMED OF. YOU ARE SURROUNDED BY LOVE!!!
Yes…we are loved by Jehovah since He had help us to get out of this criminal False Religion….now we are free and we are enjoying this great event in our lives!
“You don’t protect families by keeping secrets” this touches so many bases…
I don’t wanna offend anyone but when you choose to have a child that means you choose your child over anything, another person, a religion, work. You always choose your child. One day you may have a child yourself (I hope you do if that’s what you want) and you’ll realise how wrong it was that you haven’t been chosen over the witnesses. You are amazing. I’ve been there myself with both of my parents and not over religion but over something else. It’s easy to say don’t bother but it’s hard to not. You are amazing. I hope you can learn to let go of people who make you feel negative or make you feel like you’re constantly emptying your cup to fill theirs. Family or not. You enjoy your wedding and the planning. Enjoy your love. Enjoy your life. And never ever let anything or anyone hold you back from doing that! YOU ARE ENOUGH! And we support you 100%!
"I am nothing to be ashamed of" - Hannah, hun, anyone that could ever say they are ashamed of you, especially a parent - they're just flat wrong. I know it doesn't much help, know you need to work through this on your own terms, but: we're here for you.
We love you, and Ella, and are so happy you get to spend your lives together & be happy with one another. We're so damn proud of you. You're brave, and kind, and filled with so much love that it spills out and you share it with the world, with us.
Thank you so much for just existing.
Take all the time you need. We'll be here for you, when you're ready.
Speaking as someone whose parent's love has also been conditional: You deserve to be happy, no matter what they say, and have nothing to apologize for. Say it, let it out, allow yourself to feel, and heal.
Sending so much love. 💗
Hi
@@mikewerndy8556
TROLL
I'm leaving a Mennonite church. Same thing there. My parents will never eat at the same table with me again. They will never shake my hand again. They will never come to my wedding. It sucks. I feel for you.
I’m going to have faith god changes their hearts and minds. I’ve seen a lot more open Mennonites lately.
Religion is a cancer
@@nobodysmith8580 ehh. At least Modernism's idea of a grand narritive and objective truth builds strong foundation in family, life, and society.
Be free my love
Hey Derrick, my partner grew up very Mennonite and it took us a few years to even come out to his parents. There was a lot of work on all sides but we are good now. 17 years in and we go to all the functions and we are equal to all other relationships in the family. Do they know their own history? They are pacifists historically. Anyways, I’m sorry that our experience is not your experience. I really like Hannah, I love her spirit.
I know Hannah may never actually read this but I want to thank you for this. In 48 hours, I will finish my undergrad degree as a 28 year old trans man. By the end of 2022, I will be engaged to the love of my life. And I am planning on coming out to my father as a queer trans man with a psychology degree, and not the cishet pre-med daughter he thinks he has. My father has also used religion to hate others. I know he will not accept me nor my love for my partner. Since this video came out, it's been in my head and can only act as an inspiration. Someone else I look up to did this. Went through this. And it's okay to admit that it hurts, even though "of course he would react like this."
Thank you Hannah. Thank you for your vulnerability. Thank you for giving me a voice to the complicated emotions I hold. I'm sorry for your loss of a person in your life. But I do thank you, profusely, from the bottom of my heart for this video. There is no shame here.
You are beautiful & perfect as you are. If your father rejects you, then he is not your father or parent -- just happened to give you some genes and that's it.
I’m a trans guy, my fiancée is a beautiful trans woman, and my father isn’t coming to our wedding either. Thank you for sharing your story. I have faith the Jehovah’s Witnesses won’t be able to get away with things for much longer. You and so many other brave people have spoken up and people can’t ignore your voices forever ❤️ sending so much love to you and Ella.
💜💜💜💜💜💜
Love to you too !! You are super stong
My dad hasn’t even associated with the witnesses for years but he still clings to that mentality of picking religious convictions over his own daughter. He didn’t come to my wedding either. I was and still am hurt and angry and sad and disappointed. I’m not sure that ever goes away completely.
It's hard for someone to break away from the way that they were taught. Call it Brainwashing or whatever you like, but if your father was in there for some time, its probably why its so hard for him to break it. I don't know, thats from someone on the outside looking in.
@@angelsinthewindow maybe she's the brainwashed one ever think that
king 24 she can’t choose not to love her girlfriend love isn’t something you choose or force but he can choose to step away from a cult
@@king-kd4yb Yeah, you're right... falling in love must be brainwashing, while choosing to reject your child because your religion says they're wrong is not. That makes perfect sense and is definitely not backwards...
@@blindmouse7796 so let me get this straight according to you he has to leave his religion but she can choose to sleep with whoever she chooses to and he can't say or do nothing and he has to go to her wedding right?
This hurts my heart to hear... as a daughter who’s father “doesn’t choose her” everyday as well.. not through religion but through a divorce I can only imagine the pain your heart feels.. I’m so sorry Hannah you’re a wonderful human you don’t deserve to be treated as anything less. Much love xxo
❤
As if I wasn't crying enough...I read this. I've had to watch my kids go through this and it's heartbreaking, anger inducing all at once. Just know there are many people out there who will love you in your lifetime, and those that don't choose you are the ones missing out. ❤️
Seeing you start to cry when you said you did nothing wrong seriously broke my heart. Eff your dad's beliefs. You had a BEAUTIFUL wedding. And omg did you both look so beautiful.
I hope regardless of what happened the day was everything you wanted it to be. Cause DAMN was that a beautiful wedding with two GORGEOUS brides.
“Why do I care?” He’s your Dad hon, it’s okay 🙁💛
Just because you expected it, doesn't mean it doesn't hurt.
That's what is unexpected.
YES. 🙌.
Hey at least she can make some dough off this situation by posting this video.
@@Jeff-dt6gn Ah yes, a woman's sole motivation. Monetise their trauma.
It definitely is nothing to do with processing grief, sharing her story so others in similar situations don't feel isolated, or informing as many people as she can about the horrors women and children face at the hands of a cult.
Nope, definitely just about the bottom dollar.
Hey it worked for Jussie Smollett
from a christian woman-you are so loved and worthy of receiving love and worthy of giving love. love is the goal. so happy for you and Ella.
god is the goal not love remember that
king 24 god is love
AMEN 🙏🏼
king 24 God literally is love. Total and pure love. This is from a soon-to-be pastor.
Incredibly brave and vulnerable. I so know this feeling. Thank you for continuing to share your story in authenticity and love. It's encouraged me for years.
My dad didn’t want to be at my wedding, but he came, and it kinda ruined it for me. So, I hope that helps.
Rejection always hurts. He's not just rejecting you, or Ella; he's rejecting the idea that real love or humanity can exist outside of a heterosexual, deity-focused context. He is not living in the real world.
Yup, this. He's rejecting the idea that his own daughter's love could possibly be true, even though she and Ella show how real it is every day. He's choosing to ignore the emotions of his daughter in order to cling to an idea someone taught him about people they didn't know. It's heartbreaking.
Ale_Fiend this reframing is so important
My father didn't choose me either. He has three granddaughters he has never even asked about. But you know what? They're missing NOTHING! That's on him. I'm so sorry you're hurting.
I'm sorry that he hurt you. That sounds awful.
I’m in this cult. I can’t leave because all my family, all my friends are in it. I’m bi and trans, and my parents have told me they WILL choose their religion over me if it comes to it. I am not allowed to wear a binder. I’m not allowed on the internet at all. This is a secret account. I know now, though. I know everything.
And I’m going to tell them that I WILL choose freedom over them if it comes to it.
Edit: oh yeah, and my uncle’s parents hit and abused him. He has PTSD and is forced to associate with them because they’re in the cult, too. The “elders” did nothing about it and allowed it to happen. I’m still so angry about it. That man is like a second father to me.
You’re not alone & there is help out there... Don’t suffer in silence .
Hey there, I’m an ex Jehovah’s Witness member. I was never officially baptized but please know you’re not not alone. My DM’s are always open on Instagram if you’d like. You are so valid and deserve happiness
Jubilee Rivera girl shut the fuck up. A “religion” that ACCEPTS child sex abuse, forces families to separate, and promotes misogyny is a fucking cult. Get the fuck out of this person’s mentions if you don’t agree. This why nobody fucks with y’all cause y’all always wanna invalidate peoples experiences of the trauma y’all put us through.
are u still a minor? how can we help you?
@@jubileerivera9462 Why don't you think it is a cult?
"I can only be happy if I'm one person."
This is so powerful. I'm so sorry for the turmoil you've endured at the hands of your father's religion. So, so many people love you and support you. Family is not always blood, but it sucks when people you love are ensnared by harmful ideologies and treat you poorly as a result. But you said it best: you're not responsible for what others think of you, and you have NOTHING to be ashamed of.
“That is your choice and I’m sad for the choice that you have made” - my Step Mother. That was the moment that I realized the person that I considered to be a parental figure, good friend and mentor needed to eventually be cut from my life. Those cuts leaving very deep mental scars. That’s all I’m willing to share the subject for now. I thank you for opening up about this subject. You are a beautiful person and your existence is valid and not a choice. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
Hannah, as you travel on your journey remember this:
1. You are allowed to mourn the relationship you wanted to have with your dad, but were never able to have.
2. The family you choose to embrace is stronger than one you can't
3. Thank you for sharing not just your joy, but your vulnerabilities with us. You give strength and joy to so many daily, now let us give that back you.
Love; the internet family that you chose.
PREACH IT SIS 💜
And the family that chose you
theattch I could not agree more
Perfectly put. Absolutely correct.
Choosing a family that aligns with your values way outside the mainstream is the height of selfishness. You freaks can hang together, but don't expect your families to be dragged through your mess. It's not them, its 110% YOU. NOW TAKE SOME FUCKING PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY!
Really grateful that you shared this with us. Thank you 🙏🏾
Thank you so much for posting this video, I can't even express how much it helped me to cry along.
The saddest part is that they'll be missing out on this beautiful moment because of prejudice and indoctrination.
I think maybe the "shock" you're experiencing with your dad not coming is because he's drawing a line. It's not just "not coming" it's not supporting the biggest day of your life. He's shown you where he stands before but as his child, it's in the back of your mind to expect that love to be there in the background. It's shocking because it's the realization that this is it. He's officially throwing away your relationship and that hurts.
I'm getting married in May and have friends drawing those lines with me and it hurts, but at the end of the day, you're marrying the only person in your life who chose you to be their family out of billions and is loving you unconditionally. Thats all you need. Anybody else who wants to come along for the journey is welcome, but not needed.
Congratulations on your engagement Hannah ❤️
You are so precious Hannah. Sending blessings and comfort your way. 💕
This is the first video I’ve watched of yours and wow I am so moved by your emotion. You are so strong ❤️
I think the fact that he didn't want people knowing his religion is enough to say that he knows there's something wrong with it. I can't put into words how sorry I am to hear this. It may seem like empty words but you have millions of people who love and support you for who you are and I hope it's enough to outweigh all this 💕
As a parent I could never imagine not accepting my child and not celebrating their life, love and achievements with. It blows my mind.
Thats probably because you were raised right and were not brainwashed into thinking that there was anything that was worth more then family. The most amazing people in the world are people like yourself.
@@angelsinthewindow I mean, you know *at some point* people do form their own opinions. It doesn't always matter how someone was raised.
It really sucks, my parents and family aren’t accepting of the fact that I have an amazing girlfriend and that I want to spend the rest of my life with. They don’t ask about her at all and they don’t really know her likes and dislikes or what she wants to do in the future. It hurts a lot. Especially because I’m family to her’s already and her aunt and cousins know a lot about me. It’s hard coming from such an accepting environment and then coming home and not being able to talk about the happiness and love that I experience everyday with her. Like I found my person. And I can’t even talk about her with my family because they’re so religious and it just...idk. It’s an awful feeling that they stick to the religious beliefs instead of enjoying the fact that I’m being loved. They don’t understand me being gay and they think it’s a choice. I’ve mentioned to them that they could do some research on the topic and they won’t. It’s been 6 years since I came out to my mom and dad. And a year since I came out to my family because all of my friends know.
You are so brave! Thank you so much for sharing this. Thank you for being vulnerable. It breaks my heart because I am in the same position as your mother. There's nothing I want more than for my children to have healthy, loving relationships with both of their parents, but I can't do anything about their dad, other than pray and love and support them as much as I can. Thanks again and blessings to you and yours!
You are so incredibly brave!! I am so proud of you for speaking your truth! You are healing yourself and the world! 🧡
When people choose religion over another human being they show their inhumanity to the rest of the world.
Not true
Mahli Smith When all we have is each other, we need to stick together no matter what. Religion shouldn’t get in the way of us loving one another. What God would want us to hate each other? No God that I can think of.
I’m gay and religion is what gives purpose to many people so saying it’s inhumanity to choose what you believe comes after your death ,your destiny , and what you believe is right is pretty ignorant it is terrible to throw someone away that’s the inhuman part but not choosing your belief over someone cuz many religions believe they have to choose god first. I’m actually an atheist and it’s wrong to not accept the world and it’s people.I don’t have to be supported by anyone just accepted.
@@mahlismith8734 you have been brainwashed
It's not even a religion it's a cult is the problem
I’m sorry your father is so blind to love. You aren’t the problem.
@@king-kd4yb
Why?
@@KTGMetalheadSwiftie she's being selfish that's why
@@king-kd4yb
Like not respecting his religious beliefs? Just curious!
@@KTGMetalheadSwiftie yes that and she doesn't get is that he does love his daughter very much
king 24 if he truly, truly loved his daughter he would support her and what makes her genuinely happy. It does not mean he needs to agree. My friend married her wife in November and their entire family is Mormon. They all came to the wedding despite it being against their beliefs. It’s a choice that he is making. Seems like he is more concerned about what his church peers think. It’s sad...for him not Hannah.
Much love to you and thank you for being who you are. You are the best you and you have SO much value. Thank you for sharing,
You are wonderfully brave. Thank you for being strong. Wishing you happiness and healing.
Hannah's dad should be ashamed of himself.
No he should not
Anyone who abandons their child for religious reasons is a useless parent.
Yea seriously, what kind of God would ask that you forsake your own child? Although, the fact that people worship a God like that says more about said people than the God.
@@onlyme722 All Abrahamic religions… Look up "The Binding of Issac". That doesn't make it right or acceptable, and it's still horribly shitty way to act. Just want to use a broader brush when it comes to religion and religious people.
Tommy Shelby I agree just because his ass didn’t want to go to your wedding you shouldn’t make a 9:47 minute video on it like god damn
“I’m not surprised but why am I hurt?” My god that’s powerful. I’m so sorry Hannah. ❤️
Yep....but it will gets better in the end 😟
Bruh I felt that
Bless your heart.
You have nothing to be ashamed of, your dad is making a mistake.
I wish you both a wonderful happy life together.
Wow, my dad is also a Jehovah’s Witness. I can relate to how you’re feeling. The feeling of your dad choosing the witnesses over the relationship with you is so real. I’ve always felt like no one can really understand what I’m going through because I still have my dad in the picture so it seems ridiculous to feel how I do. Thanks for sharing. It’s comforting to see someone I view as happy and successful have such a similar issue as me and not having that hold them back from being who they are.
When you talk about how you're not going against his beliefs: "I'm not. I'm just getting married." It resonates so loud. Why do people think you live your life for their sake? It's so controlling and manipulative.
Because those people are incapable of a larger scope of thought processes. Leave them be and just accept that they don't have the same abilities as what we label a normal person. It's hard not to pity them but at the end of the day we have to accept who they choose to be and move on.
@wind x Loving someone no matter the gender even if it is the same gender as you isn't weak. It just shows love transcends everything. Hannah was expressing her pain over her father choosing a religion that has cult like undertones over her when a parent should love their child no matter what. One that Clueless Blamer expressed fairly well as long as many others. I understand where Hannah is coming from, I've been in a similar place with my own father and it's heart wrenching.
@wind x and by acting like this, your condoning hurting millions. Destroying families and driving people to suicide and self destructive behavior.
Just try to think what it is like to be someone other then yourself for a second. Because you'd be signing a very different tune if it was you that was being told you're an abomination by everyone. Including your own parents.
@@PunkishXNerdX666 "cult like undertones"…interesting
@@niggasaurusrex3952 I chose it express it in that way because of how people see cults. Some do not see this group that way when having talked to them when they've come to my door, they are a cult. But most equate cult to groups like Heaven's gate and others like them.
When she said “if you have a parent that doesnt choose you” i started full out crying in the break room
Hannah ily sm thank you for being so strong
Absolutely same here! That statement hit harder than I expected it to. I’m not necessarily estranged from my dad, but he definitely decided to “try again” with a different family instead of being a better dad to me. Definitely punched me right in my heart, haha..
Same. It was like a punch to the gut. I could barely breathe there for a second!
You are beautiful!
Jill Rubin my biological father did a similar thing with me and my siblings. Remarried, new wife, new kids. They always came first. No matter what. Behind our backs and in front of our faces, he always chose them. We haven’t had any resemblance of a relationship since I was 18. I just turned 31. Sometimes I forget he exists. Sometimes I’m still furious. Sometimes I’m just sad. It’s just one of those things that will always be a part of me.
I'm glad that you shared and are working your way through this tough experience and i am looking forward to preparations for the celebration of your love and your future
Someday you'll feel grateful that he didn't come. Someday when you have your own children you'll feel relieved that he isn't in their lives, that he isn't able to inject into their veins the same poison he gave you. Take it from a middle-aged guy who's seen a lot: someday when you and Ella have your own family, the impact of your father's ignobility will fade.
Period John West!!
My husband father and wife didn't come to our wedding...reason..."I'm to busy with my new family bud."
Side note he has 3 grand children now..and hasn't met any of them.
Some people aren't meant to be parents....you can thank them for their DNA donation.
I accept you. I choose you. I love you.
Sounds like my husband's father.
His loss. His kids and grandkids are fantastic. Thanks for the DNA!
@@emilylemay3722 exactly ✌️
Emmy Villa do we have the same dad? Because that’s how mine is.
Hes a piece of shit
Words can’t describe how terrible this is. I was raised a Jehovah’s Witness and I am now excommunicated from my friends and family due to me no longer being a believer. You are so strong, it is a very distorted organization and I am so sorry you have to experience the effects of this religion’s dogmatic teachings.All the strength and support sent to you ~
I'm so sorry. I know how hard this must be. My only best friend is a part of this organization. I'm afraid to lose her as a friend. But I just don't believe. I haven't told her yet.
@@chelseygarrett4221 you must be a athiest lol no comment
king 24 Why does it matter? It doesn’t.
@@isabellemalott9976 would you ask a muslim to go to a gay wedding pls answer i'm interested in your answer
king 24 Sure, I don’t assume the worst from anybody just based off their religion. However I wouldn’t be surprised for somebody from a homophobic (generally) religion to say no. I’m sure other people would have different responses but that’s my answer. If they were a threat to my life, then no I wouldn’t ask, but I would be able to base that off the person I’d be asking and not necessarily the religion they believe
I have watched your videos for so long. You are such a strong human!
I just now saw this video. Stay strong. I am so sorry to see that have to go through this. Everyone has the right to be happy, no matter any circumstances. You are wonderful. Keep being you!
Hannah, I’m in the same situation. My family is Jehovah’s Witness, and I am gay. They know, it’s kind of obvious, but we’ve never talked about it before and I live in the constant fear that all of a sudden they will come to me asking questions about my sexuality and eventually kick me out of the house and distance themselves from me. I am also un-baptized and I do have a good group of friends that support me and love me; but no matter how many good people I surround myself with it will never be equal to the relationship that I want with my parents. It really is the hardest thing that I’ve ever had to deal with. Since I was around 12, and realized that I was gay and was aware of my situation, I fell into a deep depression. I self harmed for years and thought about/planned my suicide more times than I can remember. Thankfully now I’m doing somewhat better, mental health wise. I’ve been in therapy for over a year now and talking medication for my depression for about the same amount of time. My therapist has been a huge help when I came to dealing with the existentialism surrounding my family. After telling him about what it’s like growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness, and gay, he said that he was shocked that I was doing so well for someone who had gone through so much trauma as a young person. Seeing people like you on RUclips, just being yourself without apology has definitely been very inspirational for me growing up. It pains me to see that you went through, and are still going through, the same thing that I am; but it does make me feel stronger in some sort of way. You keep showing me how important it is to be myself, cheesy as it sounds. So I just want to thank you for everything you do for the community, even if it is just making me laugh for a few minutes. ❤️❤️❤️
Also, the Jehovah’s Witness have the worlds largest list of know pedophiles that have not been reported to the authorities, because they don’t do that apparently.
The best thing you can do, Patrick, is build the life YOU want and will make YOU happy. You're valuable and important just as you are.
You are so beautiful and so strong
People like me (out in the community) will always be there to support people like you. You'll find your real family some day, don't worry.
I see you Patrick, and I see Hannah. Both of you turning your pain into love for yourselves and your communities. You are such unbelievable, amazing, incredible and infinitely valuable people in this world, and I feel so privileged to share the planet with you both.❤️
Her saying “that’s not my fault” you can tell took a lot of strength, for something that is solid truth. Beautiful Hannah, I’m so excited for her marriage.
That doesn't make it accurate. This isn't a marriage. It's pageantry. There's no marital covenant here.
Thrillho Van Houten I think by your use of “covenant” that you must consider yourself to be a “Christian” and I can assure you sir, as someone who personally leads in love first, you are helping NO ONE with your comment. You have garbage beliefs that are not welcome here.
Julia Collins I'll pray for you, too, Julia.
We all need Jesus. You, Hannah, and I are not exceptions. God defined marriage, and redefining it doesn't make it true, just as calling you a desk makes you a desk. I pray you find Jesus if you haven't already and that He stays in your heart.
Thrillho Van Houten I have found Jesus, I have been a dedicated, involved Christian for over 10 years. I just know what Jesus preached, and I hold his truths close. We are called to love, and lead in that Christ centred love. Not judge, and share opinions when it’s not called for. especially when that person is so deeply wounded. I don’t need your false prayers, thank you. As I said, you’re opinions are not welcome here.
I'm going through something very similar, and let me tell you everything you said rings true to me too. I'm so sorry someone else in this world had to go through this pain. where the love of a parent has for their child is conditional and leads them to miss big parts of their life. I want my father in my life too. *hugs 4 harto*
Thank you for sharing this with us. You are incredibly strong and help us find the strength within ourselves. Thank you.
My dad became a jehovah's witness when he got married about 10 years ago and I haven't really had any kind of relationship with him since. He even told my sister that his new wife was more important than any of us. (I have 3 older siblings) I'm so sorry you're hurting. This time in your life should be the happiest. Stay strong. ❤
Talk to the Elders of his church. That is wrong in their eyes. I can call if you want
It's extremely heartbreaking to know that some people would still choose silly prejudices over a beautiful moment meant to be shared with family. I'm sorry that your dad won't be in attendance and even more sorry that he hasn't gotten around to understanding that love is love no matter who it is with. Regardless, we are all here for you, Hannah. Enjoy your moment. This is about yourself and Ella. You've found a soulmate in this life and that is a special thing that not everyone experiences, so don't let this setback dampen your shine ❤️
thank you for sharing and being vulnerable with us
Sending all the love and support!! 💕 It’s because of brave human beings like you that the world is keeping on moving.
From a Christian woman: I'm so sorry your dad just can't accept you. I'm so thankful for your content and all the days you've made me laugh. I'm so happy you found your true love in Ella. Wishing you the best. ❤
@Anthony A. shut up. Why do you feel the need to come to these videos and try to force your fucked up beliefs down on other people. You are Miserable people who cant think for yourselves. The OP is not any less religious because she is accepting of people, she is choosing to follow her religion without trying to use it to control other people.
Worry about yourself and leave everyone else alone.
@Anthony A. if there is one thing I know for sure, Jesus NEVER pushed anyone away. He ALWAYS operated in love and He moved towards people. Telling hurting people that it is basically their fault that they are hurting does nothing to help show other people the love of Christ. How about let's quote "Let he who is without sin cast the first stone." Before you lash out at someone who has clearly been deeply wounded by a religious organization maybe take time to consider that using the Bible to lash out and hurt her more is not the way to draw her close to the Lord. Or did you just want to let her know how much you think Jesus doesn't love her? Maybe that was the point. If so, you are wrong and I hope the people in your life show you more grace than you have shown here. Don't use the word of God to wound people.
@Anthony A. hannah is a lady.
@Anthony A. "Love one another. As I have loved you, you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Jesus, in John 13:34-35
“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’[c] 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[d] 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Jesus in Matthew 22:37-40
We can quote the Bible all day long, Anthony A., but what it comes down to is that God loves us and wants a relationship with us. The verses in the Bible that reference homosexuality aren't talking about consensual relationships between two people of the same gender, so your argument that homosexuality is a sin is moot, as is your assumption that Hannah's father is an actual Christ-follower. Additionally, Jesus doesn't even TALK about homosexuality as being a sin. Instead, He tells us to love one another and love our neighbor.
Being obedient unto righteousness in this case would be Hannah's father going to her wedding, showing love and support at a time when Hannah needs it most.
I wouldn’t gi either
MyHarto, my name is Bina and I’m a father of two beautiful girls ( age 29 and 27 )
I wish I can walk you to the aisle. Sending you lots of love from Kitchener, Ontario
I hope she sees your comment. ❤️❤️
I’m also from Kitchener, Ontario! Small world!
Lisa Hoshowsky hello Lisa, stop by Costco Waterloo sometimes and say hello, I work there. 😊
I'm also in Kitchener, Ontario. Hi neighbours! 🙋♂️
Good grief! I read this and teared up... what a lovely thing to say and what a great Dad
You are so brave to share this. You have made such a powerful choice that will help countless people. Love wins 💜
You are so brave. I am so sorry this is something you are going through. May your hurt one day be eased. You are loved.
As another ex-jw, who has 90% of my family treat me like I don't exist, I am sending you the biggest warmest hug of understanding. I luckily had both of my parents leave the jws in 2008 and had their love and support, but other family members cut me off entirely. Aunts, uncles, cousins... and every friend I knew. They ARE a cult, and destroy families. I only have my mom and sister left. (dad passed away in 2016) I decided to create a new family for myself with my husband and kids and his family. You're getting married, you can make yourself a family full of love. Leave the JWs behind and look forward to the future.
my family does the same 😢
Lizzie Warner so sorry,❤️
Hi
I'm a dad myself. ...my daughter's have been in and is in a relationship Im not 100 % cool with...but I see with my own eyes how much this person makes her happy . and to me that makes this person worthy of my daughters love..her happiness is far more important to me than my own fear of her getting hurt ..so I did learn to except this person. although as my daughters dad this person or any other person ever will ever be good enough for my baby girl...as long as I'm still alive NO other person will walk my daughter down that isle..
You are a shit dad. Control your freak daughter and stop her from throwing her heritage away.
This is so nice to read. That you see the greater picture in it all -- that your love is unconditional in the end. Sad that so many people don't have that.
@@SamTamb The idea you have to love someone no matter what they do is patently false! Those that live abnormal life styles should learn to live with the consequences of your actions. Having a gay wedding takes a normally traditional event and turns it on its head. Those classless individuals who continue to charge their horrible values on traditional institutions should question their actions and motives. Quit seeking attention life is not all about you.
@@chrissudlow8638 "Life is not all about you" Lol. If that were true, you wouldn't let your own beliefs about what 2 people do make you so angry. Mind your own business, it's not that deep. Lol. Go get laid or something dude.
@@SamTamb This is part or your psychosis. You don't understand how truly selfish you are. If you want to live an abnormal lifestyle that is FINE, just understand it's YOU that live with the CONSEQUENCES of YOUR actions. I'm mad when you throw what you are doing back at other people and tell them its THEM that have the problem. I'm not going to run into your bedroom with a protest sign. You should also understand that your family doesn't have to go along with your abnormal lifestyle. It's a two way street you selfish bitch.
I am so very sorry and I am so very proud of you for being so open and honest. I have admired you for many years and still do! You have Nothing To Be Ashamed Of!❤️💕
So much love for you Hannah! I was raised mormon so can relate. Sending you love and light. You are a credit to yourself and your love with Ella is beautiful. Sending you happiness and good vibes xxx
My brother didn’t come to my wedding because I’m a lesbian. It’s nowhere near not having a parent there, but I get being rejected for who you are. I saw him at my mothers funeral 4 months later and he was so rude to my wife that I decided then and there to cut the cancer out of my life. It still hurts. We were very close growing up until I came out. I’ve learned a lot out of that situation. I learned that sometimes family isn’t blood and also that I have way more blood family that love me and support me. I realized that I don’t need his approval to be happy. But it still hurts everyday. I’ve mourned him as though he died because I don’t know what else to do. But I’m happy and I have the most amazing marriage. He is alone and a miserable human. I think I won that battle.
songbird20028 Good for you for letting him go. Some people’s opinions are unshakeable. I feel sorry for him but happy that you found strength to surround yourself with love, not hate ❤️
He sounds like he is resentful of your happiness no matter what. I'm also sorry about your mother it must have been an awful time for you at the funeral. x
It's not stupid to hope that your parent will change a toxic part of themself to be able to accept and fully love you for who you are.
Been watching you go since the early MDK days. You’re amazing and inspire me. Thanks for always being you. I love you more than you know.
This broke my heart. Sending you love and healing, and the same to anyone else hurt in this way.
I’ll be your dad at your wedding.
Honestly the “I have nothing to be ashamed of” hit me so hard. I don’t know what you’re experiencing, but all I know is that I am so proud of you for everything you have accomplished and how much self love you try to teach everyone everyday. You don’t have anything to be ashamed of. Keep being your wonderful little self
Tixiana Ferrari I’ll be a back up Dad as well.
I'm going to there in spirit also as well!
I'll come stand with you. Dad, 53. My wife will come and fuss over your hair and dress. My daughter will come and be whatever you need.
What a lovely thing to say Tixiana Ferrari
This is exactly right. We are all her dad at her wedding. She HAS nothing to be ashamed of. I am old enough to be her granddaddy rather than her father, but still she has taught me how to be a better person merely by being herself. I will stand with her in any way I can.
I feel this so hard. When my dad remarried, I found out after I saw pictures of the wedding at the Kingdom Hall via family through Facebook. I was crushed. He never told me? He never invited me? I didn't even know this woman existed. But of course, he didn't tell me. Of course he didn't invite me to the Kingdom Hall. I know this. But why am I surprised? Why am I constantly caught off-guard by their casual callousness? I should know this.
But it never stops hurting. I know that when I marry my boyfriend, I will feel this all over again. I just want you to know that I understand, and thank you for speaking out about this on your platform.
Because we never think of them in the terms they think of us. To us, they are still family.....mothers, fathers, siblings. Intellectually we know how they really see things, but in our hearts we hold on to our familial love, and so it kicks us in the teeth when they reject us....each and every time. It's been 15 years since I left the religion, and they still have the capacity to hurt me. I try to keep it compartmentalized, but they have a relationship with my daughter and granddaughter (my daughter was never a baptized witness), and so I hear about them and it hurts. I would never stand between my daughter and my mother, but sometimes I wish my daughter would just refuse to see her out of loyalty to me. I understand how you feel. There are many of us who do. I'm so sorry.
As a practicing Catholic, I'm weeping for you - I'm so sorry that you're going through this. I wish you the most fruitful marriage ever.