So many people in this world are happy where they are at in this very moment. They are out and proud of it and they have little to no repercussions for being gay. Yet, there are a handful of individuals who are not out either by choice or are not out due to fear of persecution. Now I am not saying that to be a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, one must come out and boast it in a parade, however coming out creates a whole new world and experience and here's what coming out can do for you.

1. It relieves a huge weight off of your shoulders.

After coming out of the closet it is this huge relief. You just feel as if you could conquer the world and no close-minded person could ever tear your spirit apart. That weight of fear and self-hate will be lifted off by your courage to come out and be the best you only you could be.

2. It can bring you closer to your family.

Coming out if the closet is a tough thing and most likely you’ll come out to people that you trust and who you know will accept you for who you are. Many families are different but no matter what your family will love you unconditionally. If they don’t then you will have a new family to belong to, the LGBTQ+ community.

3. Coming out can inspire others to come out as well.

There are many people struggling with their identity and are terrified to come out because they may not know anyone else who has come out. Having the confidence to come out to just a few friends and family or a whole community can inspire someone to take the steps to come out.

4. It can reveal your true friends.

Your true friends will help you get through any persecution and will accept you know matter what. Coming out will help you see who your true friends have been all along and the “friends” that will judge and hate you just for the slight reason of being “not like them”.

5. You’ll meet new friends who are like you.

In the LGBTQ+ community, we are all a family. We all share similar struggles and want to help each other get through all the challenges in life. Being apart of the community can open your eyes to a whole new world full of love an acceptance and will make you feel like number one, rather than feeling like a zero.