Hey Ryan. How are you doing?

I know people keep telling you this is a confusing time in your life, but you know deep down you've never been more sure about anything. I know it's difficult for you to swallow this truth, especially since you live in an environment that not only discourages what you are but also forbids it.

I know it's hard. I know you have sleepless nights were you cry into the darkness and whisper a prayer to change who you are. I know you can't look in the mirror for more than a minute because you are too scared to look yourself in the eyes and admit your truth to yourself. I know you lie to yourself, your parents, your peers and everyone else about your true identity. You lie because it's a safety mechanism. You lie because you don't want to face the scrutiny, the rejection or the prejudice that walks alongside your genuine self.

It will all get better. I promise.

You're a gay man, Ryan. Don't hide from it, embrace it. Embrace and love that part of yourself. Because one day you'll come to realize that everyone will come to love and embrace it too. You'll look around and see not a line, but a crowd of support behind you. You'll see friends, family, and peers all encouraging you to be your best self. Your most authentic self.

And although you might be faced with people who don't understand you, or don't encourage who you are, you will find that those people will slowly disappear from your life. You'll find that even when faced with that situation, you'll be strong enough, proud enough and loud enough to hold your stance and say with no hesitation, "This is me. This is who I am."

I promise you, the moment you step into the light and show the world your true colors, you'll stop having trouble sleeping. You'll stop having massive anxiety spills. You won't be depressed anymore. You'll be able to start life, finally being in the shoes you were meant to wear.

And guess what? Soon you'll be helping people just like you come into their true selves. You'll start advocating and working towards a more beautiful, inclusive future. You'll be the support for people who need it, the encouragement for those who have none and the leader to look towards when fighting for equality and justice.

You're going to grow into something you never thought you'd be: A happy, healthy human being who lives every day with pride and optimism.

I'd say good luck Ryan, but trust me, you're going to be just fine.

P.S.

Don't worry about finding the right guy. The perfect one comes along... And stays forever.