I don’t tend to talk about gender or sexuality from a personal stand point as someone who was born female and only ever had one serious long relationship with a born male. I don’t necessarily have a story to tell or a battle I’ve had to endure.
I grew up in a household that was extremely accepting and taught us that gender or sexuality ‘didn’t matter’ (in as positive terms as possible) from a young age, so to me it never did. I grew up thinking that it was normal to be that way until it was suddenly an insult to be gay in high school (I think moving a lot as a kid never let me see this nasty ideology that kids [and their elders] carried until my mid teen years) to which I just never stayed friends with those kinds of kids. I’m fortunate to share close friendships with people who have come out to me, and to this day I feel guilt because when my best friend came out to me many many years back I just went “ok, cool.” And we just went out shopping?? (😭 we talked about this in future and he was actually really happy I reacted this way and soon after came out to my parents before his own, I still feel awful about it even though he says it was the best reaction for him;; and of course my parents still love him like he’s their son even today)
But, I never felt like I had to come out myself. I was open and comfortable with any gender but just ended up settling extremely happy with my current partner who happens to be male. This flag represents the part of me that does still exist but is simple expressed through my characters, a flag that they get to wear. I never really had to figure out who I am since I grew up in a household that was accepting, I don’t have a story or battle that numerous people unfortunately still have to go through before hopefully finding acceptance.
I truly hope that you find peace and happiness wherever and whenever you feel comfortable enough to be yourself. Know that there are countless people out there that will accept and love you for who you truly are & if you don’t feel ready to show your colours yet, then that’s ok too.
Sending so much love to you all always, from my family to you, stay safe and be happy.
Happy pride. 🏳️‍🌈
🩷💛🩵