Since immersing myself in the gay community, I have encountered significant controversy regarding coming out. For some, it is a wickedly brave performance of self-love and acceptance. For others, it seems to further separate the queer community from the straight community; after all, straight people don't have to come out. Personally, my coming out experience was perhaps the most celebratory and rewarding day of my life. It encapsulated my confidence in accepting myself as gay, and thrusted me into a new and open chapter of my life -- one which I still happily live in today! For years I have merely listened to the debate, always keeping my mouth shut. But now's the time for me to break that seal of silence and give my two cents on why all queer folk should come out.
You're not yourself when you're in the closet.
It's simple. You're not your entire self when you're in the closet. Regardless of how you define yourself, our sexuality is a major aspect of our life. It affects family, friends and surrounding conversation. Being in the closet fuels white lies. You're constantly making up excuses or stories. Maybe you're even acting differently just to ward off suspicion. Nonetheless, no matter how much you try to convince yourself, you cannot be your true self until you're out of the closet.
Coming out is invigorating.
Coming out makes you stronger. Because think about it, the level of confidence you must attain before making the big step is incredible. It's like climbing a mountain, however there is no peak -- only a plateau. Once you come out, that confidence doesn't go away. In fact, it will be applied to all aspects of your life -- not just your sexuality. You will be more confident at work, in school or wherever life may take you.
You'll inspire other people.
I remember why I came out. It was senior year of high school and some kid had just come out -- like not even a month before I did. He did it on Facebook. I remember reading through the comments and being blown away by positivity, love and support. I was jealous, and I was ready. Coming from a relatively accepting community, I knew it would go well, especially because I'd be following in someone's footsteps. So, I took the leap and reaped countless rewards. Since then, I have received many messages on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter seeking advice. Every once in a while I get to help someone in need -- just like the kid at the high school did for me. I got to me a role model.
Those are only three of the countless reasons to come out -- but to me, they are the most important. Coming out allows you to be yourself, while giving you an incredible newfound confidence. But most importantly, coming out contributes to a chain reaction. Your coming out story may inspire someone just embarking on their journey of self love and acceptance. And if you're to stay in the closet, others are just going to follow in those footsteps.
Be out. Be proud. And be yourself.
