Today marks the 32nd anniversary of National Coming Out Day–a day in which we celebrate coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer (LGBTQ).
Growing up, I remember wondering what it be like to move somewhere like New York where nobody knew me so I could figure out these feelings I was having. Those always felt like dreams that would never come true.
Now I’m 30 years old, living in New York, constantly following dreams and making them realities–all while loving a man whole heartedly who loves me in return. But most importantly, I’m loving myself, every part of me, even the parts I’m still figuring out.
Where I am today wouldn’t have been possible if I hadn’t taken those brave steps to come out, and figure out a part of myself that I felt a lot of shame around. Now, being gay is something I celebrate daily and carry so much pride in. The journey can be a difficult one to start, but I can promise you it’s worth it in the long run. It does get better, and know that YOU are WORTH taking that journey, and loving yourself for every way that you were created to be.
Below are a few resources I pulled together that may be helpful to anyone thinking about coming out. And know that there are plenty more resources and allies available to support you no matter where you are on your journey:
- Human Rights Campaign: Celebrate National Coming Out Day with HRC!
- GLSEN, Coming Out: A Resource for LGBTQ Students
- The Trevor Project, COMING OUT: A Handbook for LGBTQ Young People