For me, Pride is about creating spaces where people feel comfortable to embrace their authentic selves.
Becoming yourself is like growing into a pair of shoes that you never thought would fit. Where the leather needed to be broken into or it just didn’t fit right. Then one day, they’re perfect. They just fit. It’s like they were made for you.
Breaking shoes in can hurt, blister your feet and cause aches while walking. Becoming who you are feels so much like that. The parts of you that rub up against the hard bits of life can blister. The journey can be painful and then suddenly you’re there- perfectly fitted to yourself.
Just have faith that the journey will also have surprises, joy and so much self-love.
Get to know yourself, it’s a difficult start but so worth it.
I remember one of the first times I thought I would be my authentic self. I blurted out something in a youth meeting I thought was really funny and would make everybody laugh. Instead, the youth leader grabbed me, stood me up, and rebuked me in front of everybody.
So, instead of my true self being appreciated and celebrated, it was shamed and silenced. We learn quickly. We learn that if this is what it costs to be real, then we have a choice to make:
Be real… OR… Keep hiding.
Can you guess which one I chose?
This Pride Month, I hope to encourage you to come out of hiding. Be yourself — authentically, exactly as you are! Because you are always seen, appreciated, and loved here!
