Find a group of people who challenge and inspire you and spend a lot of time with them. It will change your life. - Amy Poehler
My early twenties were a tumultuous time. The internal struggle of being a closeted gay man, compounded by societal pressures, took a heavy toll. I appeared happy on the outside and unhappy on the inside.
Coming out is a significant milestone in the life of a queer person. It is a liberating event. Some find coming out easy, but it was a considerable challenge for me.
At twenty-five, I found a supportive community of gay men that would be my lifeline. My first gathering with them revealed a diverse group of ordinary people, and I realized I wasn't alone. I left that night free of the weight on my shoulders.
That night, I realized personal growth required a supportive community. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals changed my life’s path. This community gave me happiness, self-acceptance, and friends who turned my life around. From that day forward, I embraced community and finding like-minded individuals and organizations that would help me grow.
Our world is a reflection of our inner selves. To change it, we must first change ourselves. This requires confronting our beliefs, thoughts, and biases and seeking out people who inspire growth. I've been on that journey for forty-five years.
Every Wednesday, I select a quote from my thoughts-to-keep journal. I tune out the outside world for ten minutes to reflect and write about that tidbit of wisdom.
Thanks so much for this.