Coming out reminds me of paying it forward in a sense. Some friends trusted me and came out to me long before I realized that I was bisexual, friends who were out and visible when I was only out to myself, and the friends who supported me as I began to come out publicly. It felt like there was light and hope held in the visibility of others in the LGBTQIA+ community, whether I knew them personally or not. Seeing visible LGBTQIA+ individuals was a beacon of how I one day could authentically be myself. I carried some of these moments of hope for almost three years before I publicly came out. I hope that I can hold some hope for others as well!
Paying something forward is a gift, but it is also not required or expected. There is no obligation to come out if you would be unsafe, if you are not ready, or don’t want to. One of the things I love about being bisexual is being part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I’m grateful to my friends who demonstrated brave authenticity and held space and hope for me.
Happy Coming Out Day, whatever that may look like for you! I hope that you feel safe and loved and have supportive people in your community.