COMING OUT STORY - DIOGO
Strangely enough, this is the first time I think deeply about this topic of "coming out”, because my whole process was very natural for me and progressive at the right times. I never doubted myself or how I felt, but I did hide part of myself out of fear.
I grew up at a time when there was little or no representation of the LGBTQIA+ community, in a world filled with expectations and societal norms, which can often leave us with doubts. Fortunately, I never doubted my feelings and never saw myself as a "freak", I was able to realise early on that love is non-binary, a spectrum that changes from person to person. Of course, at the time I couldn't express this as clearly as I can today, but I pride myself on having the ability to think for myself and never letting society's opinion outweigh my own.
When I look back I can safely say that my childhood phase was composed of many moments of pure happiness and innocence. From a young age, I found joy and comfort in playing with Barbie dolls, immersing myself in a world of imagination and creativity. Luckily for me, I grew up surrounded by female cousins and so my love for the more "feminine" toys went a little unnoticed by people outside my family circle. But yes, I was that kid who liked Barbies, everything pink and always picking the female player of every video game... very cliché I know ahah. I think it was at this point that unconsciously my family started to realise that my interests were different from what is normally expected of a boy.
But I always had the support of my family in exploring my feelings without any prejudice or guilt. I was always a fortunate child as I received a lot of affection, and was very innocent with my choices.
Meanwhile, we’re forced to grow up and enter a different world, which in my opinion, was the most difficult phase of my life. As I journeyed through college, I faced the harsh realities of a society that often struggles to embrace diversity. The bullies emerged, armed with their ignorance, seeking to diminish my spirit.
It was never my intention to hide my true self, but at that time I felt the need to protect myself from others. I felt it would be better for me to hide what society said was different and not let anyone into my world, at least until I could understand what was really going on. And well… even then I didn't stop being bullied.
It was during this phase that I met people who were going through the same problems as I was, and they were my refuge. Without ever saying "look, I'm gay" or "look, I like boys", I created connections where words were not necessary for my true friends to understand me.
When I went to college was when I really stopped caring about other people's opinions and started caring more about myself. I broke free from the weight of society's expectations, embracing the light emanating from my truth and a new sense of freedom that filled my spirit.
Oddly enough, I never specifically told my parents that I liked boys, they simply understood. I dated Gerson "secretly" until it didn't make sense not to share with my parents how happy I was to be with him. It was never a planned or thought-out conversation, it just happened that they realised my “dear friend” Gerson, who spent hours on end by my side and was always there, was not just a friend... he was the love of my life and made me the happiest person.
Throughout this journey, I've discovered that coming out is not just a singular moment but a continuous act of bravery. It's an act of self-love, of honouring the beautiful soul that I am, and celebrating the authentic love that fills my heart. It's about sharing my truth fearlessly, even in the face of adversity, because I deserve to live a life unburdened by secrets and falsehoods.
To those who are on their own journey, I offer you my hand and my heart. Embrace your truth, for it is your greatest source of power and freedom.
You can follow Diogo & Gerson’s journey on Instagram @diogoandgerson