I never thought I would be one to post on “national coming out day” yet here I am being pulled to share my story, for I never know who is struggling and who my words may lift up and encourage them to keep going.
Brutal honesty for you, coming out was the MOST challenging thing I’ve ever endured. I lost friends and family members whom I no longer see or hear from, I’ve been told I need “to find the “real” Jesus” or “this is the devil in my heart”. Ive been questioned. I’ve been judged. I’ve been hurt. But I kept going. (A quick glimpse at the finish line if this is you; keep going, it’s worth it, the peace, the confidence, the unconditional love, the ability to live, all of that is worth all the lows. I promise).
I am a firm believer that those that were meant to love you will still love you, those that are mature enough to see that we can have different views and still have a relationship will stick around. Those that support you will still support you. Those that want what’s best for you, will see it may not come in a way they envisioned but it’ll still happen. Don’t ever put the fear of losing someone over the priority of being true to yourself.
My biggest piece of advice is realizing coming out takes time. Lots of time. Just as I knew long before I let anyone else know, the process takes time. Grant yourself time, time to feel, time to pray, time to share, time to heal, and time to celebrate. No matter your experience give yourself and your heart time. Everything you’ve experienced from day one of wrestling with the thoughts and uneasiness in your heart, to deciding to be open and honest, changes you. But in the end it makes your stronger. Be stronger, the world needs more strong, honest, confident and ‘true to themselves’ individuals. The world needs more of you, the you that the world loved before ‘being open’ will soon feel the love again, regardless of who you love. Love is love, and everyone deserves to feel that!
Ps: if you ever feel lost or alone, please know I will always be there for you, with arms open wide, and a heart that loves you for you. We can do this together. It’s worth it
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