I spent the best part of my childhood barefoot, roaming the mountains of northern Alabama, sometimes tracking feral goats. My brother and I caught a baby goat once, and we kept it as a pet for a long time.

Your story reminds me that my idyllic, full-of-natural-beauty childhood was actually pretty stressful and scary. Despite the mountains, the hidden meadows, and the icy streams I sometimes bathed in, I have a lot more to worry about than enjoying natural beauty.

I already knew I was gay and therefore "condemned." I already knew that my neighbors would think terrible things about me if they knew I was attracted to other boys.

I knew that the state I lived in dealt harshly and cruelly with people like me. Of course, back then, it wasn't just Alabama. It was everywhere. There was no escaping. My adolescence was miserable, culminating with a suicide attempt when I was 18.

So I understand where you're coming from, from my gut. I'm both sad and angry if you can't live where you want to live, surrounded by nature and beauty.

I'm happy that you're doing what you feel is best for your child. You're strong parent! The child is lucky to have you.

Thanks so much for sharing your story with us!