#ComingOutStories 2: Lollitah and self acceptance

I am Lollitah…

Having been brought up in a strict Christian background I have always refuted me being Queer to my parents, my peers and even to myself…

But I recall one day, an acquaintance of mine told my folks, and for some reasons my refuting fell on deaf ears. My folks pinned me down by curfews and punishments, until I gave up somehow, and in tears and fear I told them.

It took me a lot of courage, but I must say, I felt like a big load had been taken off my shoulders, as I had finally accepted myself by saying it out loud… I faced a lot of rejection,mockery, betrayal (but that’s a story for another day).

Yet, I have never regretted coming out, because it really did help me value me and finally say yes to my sexual orientation not worrying about judgements in the house.

Ever since then, I have also been able to come out to five straight friends; some are supportive, others are homophobic, but either way, I am finally happy to be myself and to learn that it all starts with self acceptance…

Lollitah
Kenya