It is no secret that many schoolgirls are exploring the world of lesbianism. It is also no secret that some of these girls are being led and encouraged down this path by their teachers.

Lanceta Patterson* is one such teacher from western Jamaica, and despite the fact that lesbianism is still a taboo subject, she decided to share her story with THE STAR.

Raised in a strict Pentecostal family by a deacon and an evangelist, who focused on the fact that the body was the temple of God, Patterson began struggling with her sexuality when she was 16.

She explained, "We were always taught that when we are tempted, we should use the blood of Jesus. We were told that the body is the temple of God and must not be defiled by sexual sins. No one taught us the practical way to deal with our sexuality and our drives. I can't recall hearing either of my parents use the word sex in a sentence, much less to talk to me about it. My mother spent her time warning me about boys."

Unrequited love

Even though many males showed interest in her, this was unrequited. Patterson told THE STAR she was "fascinated by females" and had a "tomboyish way" about her. She also revealed that her first sexual dream was about a girl, and added that even though she tried to fight the feelings at first, she became more aggressive with time. "I started looking at my female friends differently, I became outspoken and aggressive," she said.

As she moved on to university, her lesbian feelings became stronger. "I had a muscular build and was aggressive. I was now seeking my first sexual experience, but I found it difficult to approach females. I started jokingly telling my friends that I wanted to 'do' them, just to see how they would respond."

This 'joke' became serious when Patterson's roommate took up the offer. It led to a relationship that continued through college. Since then, there's been no turning back. "I have been involved with women, including university lecturers and company executives. At present I am dating a 'few' of my students."

She added, "These students are going through the same thing I have been through; parents who refuse to acknowledge the fact that times are changing and allowing their young girls to deal with their sexual desires all by themselves. I know I will be criticised for getting involved with my students, but it is prevalent in our schools and these young girls will approach you and tell you that they want to be with you."

She acknowledged that her lifestyle is against Christian principles, but still hopes that lesbians will eventually be accepted in society. "The Christian principle in me tells me that what I am doing is wrong, but I also believe that God made you, so he gave you the desires. The practice of lesbianism is very high in Jamaica, and I am hopeful that it will soon have its rightful place in our society."

More tolerant

According to Patterson, other societies are much more tolerant. "I spent a number of years teaching in England and things are different there. My girlfriend and I both taught at the school and everyone knew of our relationship. In Jamaica, we are so hypocritical. I have been with a number of women who will openly speak against the practice, yet will be in my bed a few hours after," she said.

*Name changed.