When I look at my childhood photos, I remember those times fondly. I had a normal and happy upbringing. I was six years old when I first became aware that I was gay. I was too young to realize exactly what my feelings meant, but I knew I was attracted to guys. At school I felt like an outsider, but thankfully I found like-minded individuals I could be friends with. We were involved in plays and drama club and I found a great sense of community there, so I never felt lonely or sad growing up. Strangely enough, I was never a victim of homophobia, but I was a victim of fat-phobia. I was picked on for being fat rather than being gay.
After high school I left Miami to study at NYU where it seemed everybody was out and proud. After a semester, I decided it was time to tell my mom the truth about my sexuality. Although my mom was accepting, she wasn’t glowingly receptive of the news. It’s difficult for any parent to understand that their child is going against what the world views as “normal.” Over the years, my mom has become more accepting of my sexuality, and our relationship could not be better right now. Being gay has become easier over the years. When I was growing up there weren’t many gay role models on TV. Today the media is filled with positive examples. I’m also privileged that I am viewed as a successful individual who happens to be gay, and that I can be who I am without judgment.