Queerly Forward: Ring in the new year on your own terms

Columns January 8, 2014

The holiday season has come to a close and the year 2014 has now begun. For many, this time of year means being with family, celebrating old traditions, sharing good food, and exchanging gifts with your loved ones.

Sadly, not all folks who have come out as LGBTQ are welcome or feel comfortable heading home for the holidays. If they are welcome, however, often their partner is not.

As one who falls into this category, I felt the need to reach out to anyone else who has experienced this kind of alienation during a time of year when the overabundance of “Christmas cheer” often has a tendency to accentuate feelings of estrangement.

May you always remember that other people’s thoughts and feelings about who you happen to fall in love with have absolutely no reflection on the intrinsic worth of your beautiful, resilient, and vibrant spirit. Seek comfort in the fact that you belong to an enormous family of other queer individuals who love you for, and not in spite of, your unique identity.

Take this time to connect with the close friends and good people in your life who make you feel at home within yourself. Don’t forget that not all family members are given… some of the best ones are chosen.

And don your gayest apparel, because it looks good on you.

From all of us at Camosun Pride, we wish you a safe and sexy new year. Though it may not always feel like it, you are celebrated.