A Liberated Son

Based on actual events in the author’s life, this compelling coming-of-age journey follows DJ Thompson as he navigates an unusual path of self-discovery. Struggling with both his sexuality and spirituality in a strict southern evangelical black Christian household, he leaves for the Big Apple right after high school to gain clarity and to pursue his dreams of becoming a famous music star. However, at the tail-end of his twenties living in the Big Apple, the trajectory of his music star dream transforms into mental health advocacy. DJ returns to the small town he grew up in to reveal his decision to become a certified life coach. But back home, he starkly realizes how much his family is an incredible mental health concern. This ushers him into deep, pensive reflection, taking inspired action on playing his role differently within this dynamic.

Everyone keeps projecting their truth onto DJ as if it were a universal truth. But he keeps cleverly challenging it. What if there is no universal truth? What if all universal truths are nothing more than universal contradictions? What if truth is merely subjective; based on unique, individual experiences? For DJ to live freely in his own truth and embrace clearer answers to his existential questions, he makes the conscious choice to stop living enslaved by everyone else’s truth and their questions. As DJ unravels the deep layers of his identity and the spectrum of his sexuality in New York City—an emotional rollercoaster ride of twists and turns from intense grief to blissful relief—he embodies in the end profound healing, inner peace, surprising reconciliation, and unexpected prosperity, affirming that the pursuit of sincere authenticity can, indeed, yield the most fulfilling rewards.