Today we continue our series of Pride Stories sharing Stephen’s story.
Like many of my fellow queer family, I can look back on my life and say that I always felt “different” even if I didn’t understand how. But hindsight is 20/20, right?
If you asked me today can I remember my first same-sex attraction, absolutely! It was second grade and the object of my affection was Tommy the Green Power Ranger. But it wasn’t until freshman year of college, when I encountered my first confident gay role models, that I really stepped into the fullness of my self-expression.
By personally building relationships with other queer people who confidently owned their Truth, I became more comfortable declaring mine—and I never looked back. I am immensely grateful to say that I had a rock-solid support system around me as I went through the coming out process, in my parents, my sister, and my friends.
However, I know that many of my peers do not have this same experience, and so I have always strived to be that support for others when I see that they are wrestling with their identity. I live my Truth—loud, proud, and unapologetically—so that others can feel the freedom to live theirs. And THAT is what Pride is all about, in my view.
You don’t have to be queer to spread Pride…you just have to FIERCELY BE YOU and unapologetically love and support others in flying their beautiful, unique freak flags. Life is a rainbow. Embrace it. Love it. Celebrate it.
– Stephen
