hbrowne24:

National Coming Out Day

Today is National Coming Out day and I wanted to reflect on my personal experience coming out.

If you would have told me 10+ years ago, that I would be an out and proud Transman inspiring others to live their authentic lives… I would have said, “You must have mistaken me with someone else.”

You see, courage doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, and for me it took over a decade. I was in your shoes at one point, terrified of what the world had in store for me as a member of the LGBTQ community. I would pray to not be the way that I was and hope to wake up the next morning “cured.”

When I realized that wouldn’t happen, I had to figure out ways to be happy the way that I am. I began to love myself for me and found pride in my identity. I took baby steps coming out to trusted friends and made my own little support system. Through them I gained my strength and am able to stand in front of you today unafraid and unapologetically myself.

Was coming out difficult?

Extremely.

Was it worth it?

Every second of it.

My only regret in my coming out process was that I didn’t do it sooner.

To anyone that has come out: I applaud you on your courage and wish you all the best on your journey.

To anyone who has yet to come out: Know that in time you will find your strength and that you have a whole community waiting for you.

Much love,

Harrison

❤️🧡💛💚💙💜