I’ve been watching the wonderful YouTube “It Gets Better” videos, and even though I’m not gay (I’m a straight ally) I wanted to share some of my thoughts on the subject.
It really is true that life gets better once you become an adult. It’s not some magical thing that instantly happens the day you collect your high school diploma, but what does happen is that once you leave high school, a whole world of possibilities opens up to you. A world that includes churches to welcome you, straight allies who care about you, and organizations that will stand up for your rights.Â
And there is a huge, world-wide community of LGBT people waiting to welcome you with open arms. No matter how different or odd you feel, there are others out there like you. If you don’t believe me, go watch some of the It Gets Better videos and see for yourself.
Every time another LGBT kid takes his/her life, millions of hearts break, including mine. I don’t know what it’s like to be harassed or bullied for being gay, but I do know what it’s like to lose a loved one to suicide, and the pain and grief are devastating and take years to heal. There’s no going back once you take your own life; it’s a one-way ticket.
The world may feel small and unwelcoming to you now, but it won’t be like this forever. If you don’t think you can go it alone, please reach out for help. The Trevor Project is a great place to start. There are thousands, even millions of people who care about you, and want to help. Let them.