Here is a man who was popular in the ex-gay/anti-gay world, a man praised as a "herald of truth" by the conservative Agape Press and presented to the nation as an icon by those who believe Focus on the Family and Exodus International have redeeming qualities.

So, yes, I am sad for his "fall." Whatever his faults may be, Michael Johnston is a human being. I am particularly sad that he may not have told the men with whom he had sex of his HIV status. My prayers go out to Michael, to his family, and to the people he hurt through his admitted walk on the wild side — and through his so-called ministry.

Take his story as a cautionary tale: As I note in "The Other Side of the Rainbow,"

In my travels through ex-gay ministries and my meetings with those who criticize them, I have encountered many people. Some reject the idea of change outright. Many entered ministries and continue to struggle with their sexuality; only time will tell how their stories will end.

Let's hope Michael Johnston's story — and those of other "fallen" ex-gays (many of whom have found healthy lives once accepting their reality as gay or bisexual people) — will have a better ending than this "fall." Let's hope he can find a life of happiness, healthiness, and truth.

originally published at All Facts & Opinions