Yes, I had a choice about what direction to take with my life, but I chose one which has provided me and my family with many years of deep satisfaction and purpose.

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"All my life I've had a choice between hate and love, and I chose love, and now I'm here, " he said.

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That particular boyfriend and I only lasted six months, but I did not visit home for nearly two years until my mother and I agreed that unconditional love meant accepting anyone, of any race, who I chose to spend my life with.

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And I specifically believe, because I chose that day to speak a life over myself.

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