By Robyn Leaky Riri
I know and am pretty sure a lot of us have been able to live again through the articles and the guests.
The article about Abdul* this week is still fresh in my mind.It’s painful and disturbing that one has to go through such hell in the name sexual orientation.Just how wrong is it to love a different person? How wrong is it to be homosexual? I don't want to go there...a gay man's most important moment is when they decide to come out-identify himself as a gay person,meet other gay people,feel good about their gayness and perhaps adopt a gay lifestyle but in the society we living in? This is not an easy road-it’s an uphill climb, a long rough journey that leaves most of us hopeless and desperate.
There are even times when every door will seem to be shut...times you will hear even your own self denying you...you try a step or a move you feel lost in direction...Abdul's* case and many others there are an example but do you have to worry? No one chooses to be gay and if it were a choice I believe you would choose it because it’s the life you are happy in...
(Oh, your usual music treat is in order)
I know there are many of us there who are even in worse and mostly suicidal situations but babe letting anything put you down would be the worst injustice to your fine self. There’s an adage that goes: What doesn't kill you makes you stronger and I subscribe to this maxim. Some challenges have a purpose and impact in our lives. It isn't a smooth journey but you can go the distance without caring how far.
Be strong, let every mile be your while and mostly go anywhere. Do everything to find where you belong!
There is life beyond sexuality: Work hard, achieve your goals and show the ever available critics the best they can see from the little they think you have.
And as they say YOLO(You Only Live Once)don't take chances; chase your dreams and compete with the rest of the world...
Have a great weekend babies!
Robyn Leaky Riri
The writer is a burgeoning Journalism and Media enthusiast. Founder and manager of a vibrant Facebook group: 'Palz Junction'. He loves arts, writing and having quality time with his friends.
The writer is a burgeoning Journalism and Media enthusiast. Founder and manager of a vibrant Facebook group: 'Palz Junction'. He loves arts, writing and having quality time with his friends.
Twitter: @rhe_charlz
Well said....
ReplyDeleteShort n pithy. Quite succint n inspiring
ReplyDeleteAmen..
ReplyDeleteYou have realised your sexuality, and have accepted it, and now you have decided to come out of the closet. You may want to stop and think about whether you are doing the right thing by confiding in certain people at this point. The key is to know if you are ready, then choose the first people you tell for their potential as positive supporters, and then decide whether or not you would like some of your more casual acquaintances to know. If you are in a gay or lesbian relationship, your partner will be able to support you through this.
ReplyDeleteSTEP 1:
Realise that you're making a brave choice, and you will be much happier in the long run than if you tried to hide it. Nothing is more important than being positive of your sexuality. Before expecting others to do so, Learn to accept yourself - if you are not comfortable with the idea of being publicly gay, bisexual or lesbian, think about it thoroughly. Not everyone is ready to let go of old prejudices, but by coming out and being a visible member of the community, you're making a difference in creating social change and acceptance. Although others may initially feel uncomfortable or awkward with your disclosure, the happiest and most authentic life is only possible if you are open with those around you.
STEP 2:
Be prepared. Consider your family, friends, coworkers, and community before opening up to any of them. Do any of these people show homophobic feelings (remember that being opposed to homosexuality is not being considered as a homophobic behaviour)? Many religions do not condone homosexuality, and while the beliefs of others should be respected, there is no reason to tolerate religion/religious people that promote intolerance. It may take some time for others to come to terms with it and accept it, just the same as you did. Be reasonably sure that the first people you tell will be positive and supportive, and save coming out to other people until after you've had a little bit of practice in telling someone about it. It may help if you talk to or come out to other people that you know are gay. Your parents might be great about it, but they might not. If this is the case, realise that they are from a different generation and they may believe they have your best interests at heart.
Be prepared for questions they might ask. They might be afraid of how people will treat you, or that you'll never be able to have children - these are all very real concerns to them, so treat them seriously. If they are religious, you may want to find some material ahead of time to share with them that expresses a positive view. It may help to refer them to a religious leader that reflects a positive and healthy view of lesbian and gay relationships.
If you are in a situation where you believe you could be disowned or even outlawed, wait until you are safe and independent before you decide to come out.
STEP 3:
Choose the first person you come out to wisely. A close friend or relative that you trust is a brilliant start, one who you feel is likely to support you. Discuss your sexuality with the people closest to you before making it commonly known. It is very important that you do not ambush them! They may feel confused or even angry if you do. Instead, tell them that you have something important to share with them, and that you have been thinking it over for a long time. Explain that you have realised you are different from others, but until recently, didn't really connect the dots as to why. By saying this, they will understand that you didn't keep it from them; you were simply trying to figure it out before saying anything to anyone.
@ Livingstone... WORD!Thanks for this...someone really needed that!
ReplyDelete