Before MKP, I kept my insecurities about my life as a gay man from my friends, family, and myself. I feared their disapproval and escaped my pain and fear. As a result, depression, addiction, and other vices became part of my life.

After attending the NWTA weekend, I knew consciously and unconsciously that life as I knew it would never be the same. I focused on my self-worth and self-esteem, instead of trying to gain acceptance of others.

Gradually, I discovered, with the help of MKP men, a new way being of a gay man, which was focused more within me rather than on the outside world. In addition, I am proud to be in a community of men of all orientations, where we help and support each other to be the men we want to be. -DC Benn