I feel confident this post will cause a bit of uproar among some of my readers. I don’t apologize for that. That’s something that those folx will need to reconcile. For the record, today is NATIONAL COMING OUT DAY. Today is the day we celebrate authenticity for ourselves and others; we advocate for our equal rights and bring visibility to our cause. National Coming Out Day serves as a powerful reminder of the strength, vulnerability, and authenticity it takes to embrace one’s true self. For those that this post offends or makes angry, my hope is that they will reflect on why this post makes them angry or offends them and then decide if they want to perpetuate, (my guess) negativity and hostility. Remember, negativity breeds negativity and misery loves company. I don’t want either in my life.

So, for today, please take a moment to celebrate empowerment, visibility, and belonging. It doesn’t take a Rocket Surgeon (See what I did?) to understand that we ALL deserve to feel respected and loved for the wonderful humans we are. This isn’t a political thing, nor is it a religious thing. It’s a HUMAN thing. Don’t you agree?

And finally, many of us struggle with living an authentic life well into our adult years. If today YOU decide to live authentically, I applaud you. This may be the most positive, affirming and impactful decision you ever make. To be honest, it’s likely you will experience hatred and negativity as you begin to walk an authentic life, but the rewards will be much greater. Coming out is not going to be easy, but the Peace you experience, as an authentic person, will enable you to gain a higher level of respect for yourself.

If you do make this most impactful decision, please find someone you can lean in to for advice and support. It’s going to be a little easier if you have someone with you.

As you begin this journey, I hope your life is filled with wonderful people and experiences. Focus on the good and invite the bad out of your life. Best of wishes.

Joe from the South.