Random Musing - January 17, 2011

Last night, Chris Cofler won a Golden Globe for his role on Glee. I love that show, but I think I love it because of the way that Chris Cofler's character, Kurt, is written. He is flamboyant, sensitive, and a fashionista, just like I was when I was 17 trying to find my way in high school. He is bullied for being different, just as I was, and he rises above it on a regular basis, just like I did. In his acceptance speech, Cofler told those kids who are different and who are bullied because of it to keep on being themselves. I am inspired.
I am inspired because in this day and age, it is easier to be out than it was when I was a kid. I hated going to school everyday when I was 17. I hated that just because I was different, I was scapegoated and made to feel like less of a person. I hated the taunts, the jeers, the shoves, the names, and everything else that made me feel insignificant. But I was incredibly lucky. I had people who had my back, stood up for me, and made that pain disappear immediately. I can't imagine not having a network like I have, and I would hate to think about what would have happened if I didn't.
I know that there are several people from my youth who read my posts. I am grateful for that, but more grateful that because you knew me in my awkward years and stood by my side, I am who I am today. Sure, I have had my run of bad luck over the past few years, but it hasn't stopped me from being who I am. I guess I am pretty lucky; I am still here, and everyday is a new adventure.
I wouldn't trade my life in for anything. I LOVE who I am. I love that I have amazing people in my life who challenge me on a daily basis. I love that I have a family who would take a bullet for me, let alone provide me with advice that is so important and so necessary. I love that my friends who knew me then, loved me then, and stood up for me then, are the same ones who continue to do that today.
Tonight, this puts everything into perspective. And, congratulations to Chris Cofler. He is not just my hero, but an amazing human being who has so much more to offer the entertainment and LGBT community.