A popular gay couple is sparking conversations and inspiring discussions with their recent post.
Meet Timothy Paul Jasper “PJ” McKay and his husband Thomas McKay, famously known as “The Property Lovers.” These two have amassed quite a following with their stunning DIY home renovation projects.
They even had their own show on HGTV, titled Down To The Studs in 2017, plus they enjoy nearly 750k followers on Instagram and an impressive 160k subscribers on YouTube.
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Aside from flipping homes, they also share pieces of their heartfelt love story and family journey. They first crossed paths when Thomas was just 19, and PJ was 24. Fast forward 15 years, and they now have three adorable kids.
Chattanooga, Tennessee, is their lifelong stomping ground, and it’s where they still proudly reside today.
This past weekend, they shared on social media that people often wonder why they haven’t packed up and left their “small Southern town” for more “accepting” bigger cities.
Their meaningful response resonated with many followers.
“Representation Matters”
“If we relocate, what kind of change could happen again?” They pointed out. “If all gay individuals leave their conservative small towns, those communities miss a chance to evolve.”
After spending their lives in Chattanooga, the last thing on their minds is trading it all for a bigger city.
“Being open about your life in your hometown often does more than you can imagine.”
“We aim to help our kids recognize that being genuine is possible no matter where you are, not solely in the bustling circles of urban life.”
“For us, happiness isn’t just about city skylines. It’s also about family meals, cozy porches, and the amazing community that shaped us.”
They wrapped up their thoughtful reflections by saying, “Every individual journey is unique. While leaving your roots can sometimes be necessary and safe, staying back also packs a punch. Both options show courage.”
Responses from Followers
The couple’s post took off, racking up nearly 30,000 likes and a flood of comments.
“Wow, I’ve always thought about how challenging it must be for you to raise a family so openly in a conservative setting,” one follower shared. “In my town, just stepping out with a date feels dangerous.”
Another chimed in, “You nailed it! Being out is tough in a small town. My partner and I share similar thoughts, just without kids yet. Leaving isn’t how we want to make waves; that mindset needs to shift first.”
Yet another follower, a queer woman, commented, “We’re on a similar path raising our little ones in a small Utah town, but boy, I sure wish our place had as many jaw-dropping views as yours! Here’s to dreaming of progress, regardless of where we live!”
Conversely, some expressed their readiness to leave their small towns.
“I totally understand where you’re coming from. I grew up in North Carolina’s heartland, surrounded by conservative views. But, I don’t see staying behind as part of my purpose. Real change requires individual awakening, not just influence from outward circumstances. Love you both!”
Small Town Living vs. City Life
As PJ and Thomas remind us, each person’s path varies. Finding love early like they did can certainly make it simpler to stay in a small town. Many queer folks feel the need to move to begin living authentically and to improve their odds of relationship bliss.
Nonetheless, we can’t overlook the importance of those who show their true selves in more conservative areas. As PJ and Thomas believe, their presence can help shift public perception, benefiting the larger LGBTQ+ community as a whole.
If you ever wandered away from that small town of yours, could you ever consider returning?
Photos used with permission.
