What readers are saying about the book

This book is a wonderful, introspective look into the life of a man raised in a society that at times demonstrates conflicting moral values. It gave me an appreciation for what it must be like to have raised in a traditional, conservative Catholic household and deal with a powerful realization of who you are coming of age.

Amanda Gonzalez

As a gay Hispanic man, I can appreciate the cultural issues that Rev. Lopez’s writes about in this amazing autobiographical work. The themes, though, are universal in some ways. We grow up among social constructs and expectations of what is “normal.” It’s a continuing struggle that many persons – straight or gay – can relate to.

Juan Ramirez

Selected Excerpts

By Pedro Gabino, Ph.D.
Forensic and Health Psychology
Las Vegas, Nevada

As a professional in the field of psychology, I have had the opportunity to assist persons with various backgrounds.  When working with them, many unique and fascinating life stories emerge.  During these encounters, one basic question comes to mind:  what life circumstances did this person face that made them who they are today?

Reflecting on this question, I look back at my teenage years where I, myself, had no direction in life. Fortunately for me, it was during this time when I met the author, Antonio Lopez, who made an impact on my life.  Antonio’s life story helped me understand that in spite of life challenges, it is possible to pursue one’s own personal goals.  Consequently, as a result of his guidance and example, I chose a profession in clinical psychology, and am grateful to him for it.

Throughout his autobiography, Antonio feflects on his life journey, echoing his caring persona, openness, uniqueness and honesty. His personal experience and perspectives of family friends, love, struggles, and faith are encompassed with expressions of hope, fear, joy, sadness, uncertainty, and finally, with acceptance.  His journey is not a solitary one, but is linked with people he helped and those who also impacted his life.

Antonio’s personal story will intrigue and pull you in to experience each event and circumstance right along with him.  His story is much more than a chronicle of unique life challenges and successes, but is one that we all can relate to.

It is my hope that Antonio’s story, a literary contribution of self- undersanding and acceptance, will motivate you to connect and reflect on your own life’s journeys.  May you discover and appreciate the people and the life circumstances who made you the person you are today.

A Message from Rev. Antonio

Antonio Lopez

I am an ordained Episcopal priest, a son of immigrant parents, a brother, and a married gay man. This is my story.