being queer is such a fucking incredible experience like holy shit. I was reflecting on this for a while and I figured I'd give the newest members of the queer experience their flowers while I'm at it
the truth is "baby gays" (loosely quoting- I mean everyone) are some of the most underrated members of the lgbtqia+ community. instead of welcoming them with open arms, for a while online spaces were really toxic and hostile to them (2020 was obv a rough time for queer discourse AND being a closeted kid with mental health issues). so here's me outstretching my arm to the crowd, beyond harmful stereotypes and jokes made at their expense. because learning happens with open minds, and starts with acceptance.
to all the baby queers celebrating their first pride month: we want you here. I want you here. everything is likely so new to you right now, and with this comes curiosity and wonder and discomfort and massive numbers of unlearning.
I see you. I was there once. In fact this is my 6th year out and my identity is still changing and evolving as I move through different chapters in my life. Im still learning. and I want you to know even if it's been hard I would never change this about myself. I wouldn't change any part of how it (coming out for the first time) happened because it brought me here right now to this blog post.
It does get so much better. I know it's hard, being closeted for whatever reason at all cannot only be a dangerous secret for your safety but can also make you feel trapped in your own body and mind. this will pass. you will look like yourself one day and you will feel like yourself and you will love yourself one day. you are celebrated. not only by me but by so many others as well
I see all of you lovely people. I love you all. you are so brave and appreciated. If you needed one more reason to stay today then let this post be a sign.
I'm thinking of you, I know it will work out for all of you like it did me because you are strong enough to admit to yourself that things don't feel quite right the way the world is pushing them onto you. It takes a lot to give in to that and let it take you onto an entirely different path of life and I want you to know that that is acknowledged
be safe, know that someone out there loves you for who you are in your heart, and happy fucking pride. so many members of the queer community are fighting for your chance at a happy future right now as you read this. know that your existence is perfectly yours. it will all make sense in time.
-xoxo your cool queer internet cousin pepper ❤️
