There are books that entertain, books that inform, and then there are books that dismantle harmful ideologies while offering hope to those who’ve suffered under them. Seth Showalter’s Finally Free is one such book—a transformative read that courageously confronts the damage wrought by conversion therapy and the broader cultural and religious rejection of the LGBTQ+ community. As someone who has spent years calling out the toxic theology that harms so many, I couldn’t be more enthusiastic about this book and the accompanying online course, set to launch in early December.
Seth’s journey from shame to self-acceptance is a deeply personal one, but it’s also a universal story for anyone who’s ever been told they’re not enough because of who they are. With vulnerability and clarity, Seth unpacks the ways conversion therapy—marketed as a path to “freedom” from one’s so-called sinful nature—fails to deliver anything but pain, isolation, and long-term trauma.
The Danger of Conversion Therapy
Let’s not mince words: conversion therapy is abuse, plain and simple. It cloaks itself in religious language, promising redemption, but instead, it leaves people fractured and hurting. Study after study has shown that these practices lead to depression, anxiety, self-harm, and even suicide among LGBTQ+ individuals.
Seth’s book doesn’t shy away from these realities. He details how conversion therapy tears at the very fabric of a person’s identity, forcing them to deny their authentic self in pursuit of an impossible ideal. It’s a system built on shame, not love—a far cry from the message of inclusion and acceptance that should define any faith community.
As someone who believes that the gospel calls us to embrace the marginalized and uplift the oppressed, I find it infuriating that these practices are still legal in many places. Seth’s story is a stark reminder of the work that still needs to be done to protect vulnerable individuals from such harm.
A Course in True Liberation
The online course accompanying Finally Free is a brilliant extension of the book’s mission. Launching in December, it promises to be a safe space for those who have been hurt by religious or societal rejection. Seth combines his personal experience with professional insights, guiding participants through a process of healing, self-discovery, and empowerment.
What sets this course apart is its emphasis on building community. For those who’ve been ostracized or left feeling alone, the course offers a chance to connect with others who understand their journey. This isn’t just about undoing harm—it’s about creating a foundation for a life of joy, authenticity, and freedom.
Why Finally Free Matters Now More Than Ever
We live in a time when LGBTQ+ rights are under attack, both politically and socially. Religious institutions continue to perpetuate harmful teachings, while anti-queer rhetoric grows louder. In this climate, books like Finally Free are essential. They not only shine a light on the damage being done but also offer a way forward.
Seth’s story is one of resilience, courage, and, ultimately, hope. It’s a reminder that while the path to self-acceptance may be fraught with obstacles, it’s also a path worth taking. And for those of us who are allies, it’s a call to action: to speak out against harmful practices, to support the LGBTQ+ community, and to ensure that no one has to walk this journey alone.
A Personal Takeaway
As I read Finally Free, I couldn’t help but think about how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to go. Seth’s journey is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome, but it’s also a challenge to those of us who claim to care about justice and equality.
We can’t just be passive observers in this fight. We have to name the harm, stand with the oppressed, and work toward a future where conversion therapy is no longer a reality, and every LGBTQ+ person can live without fear or shame.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a book that will challenge you, inspire you, and make you reflect on how you can be part of the change, Finally Free is a must-read. And if you’re ready to take the next step toward healing and growth, the online course is the perfect complement.
Seth Showalter doesn’t just share his story—he invites us to learn from it, to grow alongside him, and to commit to a world where no one has to fight for their humanity. Pick up a copy of Finally Free today, and mark your calendar for the course launch in December. You’ll come away changed—and that’s the kind of change we all need.
Also, if you’ve been digging my work on here, and want to see me be able to continue writing as close to full-time as humanly possible, please take a look at my Patreon page at www.patreon.com/mjdistefano. Even $1 a month helps bigly!!!
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