(Happy?) National Coming Out Day

So, here in the U.S. Oct. 11 marks National Coming Out Day.


At its core, NCOD has always seemed to me about increasing visibility in order to raise awareness; more specifically, about lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people being honest and open with those around them about our lives in order to help those people become more accepting.

Of course, coming out shows a great deal of courage on the part of the person coming out, and signals self-acceptance. Here's to hoping that all those who come out today see our courage positively rewarded.

But, for those who come out today and meet with hostility and lack of acceptance, may we remember that we are not alone and have faith to persevere.

...

Over the years I've found my many own coming outs to be instances of both gain and loss. I doubt this year will be any different. May I show gratitude for all the gains, and acceptance for the losses.