Have you ever felt like you are different from others? While everyone is gushing about their latest celebrity crush or that attractive classmate, you can’t seem to relate to them because you’ve never felt that way toward individuals of the opposite gender. Have you ever felt like you don’t fit into the gender definitions that […]
Have you ever felt like you are different from others? While everyone is gushing about their latest celebrity crush or that attractive classmate, you can’t seem to relate to them because you’ve never felt that way toward individuals of the opposite gender. Have you ever felt like you don’t fit into the gender definitions that society has created for you? It’s very difficult to navigate these conflicting feelings where you feel like you don’t fit in., It can be quite isolating and challenging.
If you are someone who grapples with their own identity or cannot come to terms with the fact that you are on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, please know that it is okay to embrace your identity. It can be daunting at first, especially when society judges, discriminates, and refuses to accept LGBTQ+ individuals. But it’s important to accept that you are different and embrace that part of your identity. Only then can you fight against discrimination, prejudice, and hatred.
Having to deal with all these complicated feelings alone can feel like a nightmare and that’s where having a support system comes to the rescue. It can be anyone; a friend, neighbour, or family member who accepts you for who you are and does not judge you based on your identity. There is a huge network of LGBTQ+ individuals across the world who know what you are going through and can relate to the struggles you are facing. They can offer invaluable guidance and empathy which should help create a sense of belonging and solidarity.
Coming out as an LGBTQ+ individual is a very personal experience and the journey is different for everyone. Know that it is completely okay to reveal your identity at a pace you feel comfortable with. This may mean starting with close family or friends with whom you feel comfortable and safe and then slowly disclosing it to others. It’s important to know that not everyone, even family and friends, will be supportive. This might be due to deeply ingrained beliefs, lack of understanding, or fear of societal judgment. Some people might need some time to come around and some people might not get there. Just remember prioritising your mental health is crucial even if it means distancing yourself from them.
In the end, it all boils down to being okay with yourself and embracing your identity even if it means that you don’t fit into the labels that are defined by society. Remember that belonging to the LGBTQ+ community is only a part of your identity. You are so much more beyond that! Don’t let anyone define your worth solely based on one aspect of you. Embrace your uniqueness and the complexities that make you who you are.
Writer: Keerthana
