National Coming Out Day is celebrated every year on October 11th, when some people in the LGBTQ+ community may share who they are to their family and friends either in person or on social media.
Other chose not to, which is understandable. On October 10th, I chose to fully come out to my father regarding who I am because I knew he was going to support me no matter what.
I texted my dad, while I was on my lunch break, and told him that I had something to tell him. He asked what I had to say, and I replied back saying that I am homoflexible. His response was eye-opening and heart-warming to me.
He told me to stop labeling myself and be me because he loves me for who and whatever I choose to be. In addition, he told me that life is too short to be put in a category or waste time feeling pressured to being happy. After he told me that, I felt so happy to know I had someone who fully supports me, and cares about my well being.
I chose not to come out to everyone in my life (including my mother and other family members) in person or on social media on National Coming Out Day because I was unsure of what they were going to say or do. I love that I wasn't pressured to come out. I wasn't ready to receive the unknown responses.
I already came out to my best friend and sorority sister prior to National Coming Out Day, and I am totally alright with that because I know they will always be there for me throughout my journey.
On National Coming Out Day, I liked all of the posts I saw on my Facebook timeline and posts that were posted on LGBTQ+ Facebook pages. I liked the posts to show that I am supportive, respect them for coming out, and know they are not alone in their journey.
Then, I saw a post of a photo in one of the Facebook pages say the following:
1. Please do not out anyone (even if you "think you are doing them a favor." Trust me when I say you aren't) and make sure you don't accidentally do so.
2. It is okay to be in the closet. Please do not feel pressure to/obligated to come out because there so happens to be a Coming Out Day. (Do it for you if it's what you want).
I am willing to pass on the same advice to those who are reading this right now. If you are someone who is struggling, read this every morning because there are people all over the world who is in the same situation as you. Just know that I support you, I love you, and I am there for you. If you need to reach out and speak to someone, I am there to be silent and listen.
