What a touching article. I can only imagine the courage it took for you to have this conversation, and I could relate to your relative's struggle on a deep level.

Today, I share the same gratitude for the few people in my own life who patiently took time to talk to me and helped me, in their words and in their actions, to reform my own misguided beliefs about where gay people fit in God's community. It was very tough work for us all and took some years, but they didn't give up on me. I am forever grateful because it has added to richness and depth of my friendships, and my understanding of how big and creative God is. I hope I can pay that grace forward in any small way.

Thank you for sharing this wonderful story, and many blessings to your marriage.