LGBT men and women embraced by their loved ones and community.
"For my AP English IV class, I was assigned to write about a 'weight that I carry daily.' This was my paper, and a comment from my teacher."
imgur.com / Via reddit.com
The essay:
"Dear Mrs [Name redacted],
I wish to write to you about the biggest thing I carry. I've been carrying this since middle school and it's a been a huge weight on me since I discovered it. The knowledge of my sexuality has been with me for about six years now, and it was a burden for a great deal of time.
It wasn't until recently that I started to slowly lift this off of my shoulders. I've carried this for so long because of fear. I'm afraid of certain people finding this weight. I'm afraid of them finding the weight and thinking differently of me. Thinking negatively of me. Hating me. That's why I carry it. I just don't want to be hated. Or even worse, kicked out of people's lives.
I want things to stay the same, but I want to get rid of this weight. It's weighing me down and keeping me from greater things, but again that fear comes into play and makes me think differently. The fear forces me to burden myself by carrying it even longer.
Thankfully I've been able to set down minute portions of it, by sharing the knowledge that I'm not "normal" per society. I've received mixed emotions. Some couldn't care less about the knowledge. Some liked me even more for it. And ultimately, some detest me for it.
But I care not for those who detest the knowledge. They can go off into their sad little world full of bigoted hate. I couldn't care less for them. I've been able to shave off a great deal of what I carry, but sadly, a bit remains. The bit that is reserved for my family.
They will be the hardest ones to share the knowledge with, for I don't know how they will accept it. I have no idea if they will think nothing of it, or if they will reject the love I offer them and disown me as their son, or brother, or nephew.
That, like much of this cold, dark world, can finally remove this weight from me, liberate my world, is the first great victory in my life. That is the day I just can't wait to see.
Best regards,
[Name redacted]"
The teacher's response:
"I am honored to be a witness to this weight being lifted off. You are an amazing, dynamic, compassionate, 'with it' young man who will give the world a gift just by you being you offering your love and spirit.
If people choose not to be comfortable with your honesty – their loss my friend – their loss."
"When I came out last week, I never expected this much support. I knew my mom would be fine with it, but I never expected this letter."
"Zack, I was surprised by your Facebook post where you came out.
I want you to know that I love you unconditionally. I love you with my actions, not just my words.
I'm so proud of you. You are the bravest person I know. I'll fight for you always. Your sexual orientation does not define you. You are still the boy who forever won my heart.
The only thing that concerns me is the number of empty soda cups and tea bottles in your room. Throw them away before ants come inside.
I love you always – Mom"
