Family
In the LGBT* community we often struggle with family acceptance, which leads those who are rejected to define and build their own families. San Francisco State University's Family Acceptance Project shows why family acceptance is so important and highlights the dangers of rejection.
In my particular instance, I redefined my definition of family. My core family includes my parents, maternal grandparents, aunts, and sister. My family extends past the core to my extended family; the people who rally around me and support me such as my fraternity brothers, college girlfriends, work wives, and so many more.
Thank You
To my core family and extended family for always supporting me in my endeavors and putting up with all of my antics, thank you. Your love and support have helped me achieve some tremendous aspirations I did not think were possible. A special thank you to my core family, who have shown me year after year that my decision to come out was one of the best decisions of my life. We've come a long way and I hope that you're proud of the person I have become.
This year for Pride, I'm celebrating all of you.
Honorable Mention
To my sister Amanda, who has been a constant supporter in my life from the moment I came out "it's about damn time!"
She helped coordinate:
- My first gay club at the age of 18
- Pridefest (a few times)
- First drink at the age of 21 (Mount Gay Rum)
- Gay club hopping at the age of 21
- Being the man-of-honor at her wedding (so she didn't have to be a bridezilla)
There are so many more small moments that are going to stick with me for life that I couldn't possibly mention here and that should probably stay between us. Thanks for always showing your little brother some love and for setting the bar on how to be a bitch. ❤️ (In addition to Missie, HBIC.)
Cheers to you,
Daniel
