Here's a truth you likely won't expect:
I never planned to fall in love with a woman. I don't think of myself as "gay." Truthfully, I don't feel gayâI just feel loved, seen, and cherished in a way I never have before.
Growing up, I loved sports. I was naturally giftedâathleticism came easily to me, allowing me to excel effortlessly at almost any sport. I was lucky; cheerleading wasn't my only option when it came to sports for women. I loved soccer, and I was goodâbetter than all the other girls on the field. And, I had short hair. So, naturally, people assumed I was a tomboy or "gay," associating my athleticism and style choices with my sexual identity.
From a young age, I heard the whispers and endured the jokes. Even my siblings judged me about being gay long before Megan came into my life. I fought these assumptions fiercely, confused and defensive. In my mind, "gay" felt criminally wrongâlike a label that would forever isolate me, ensuring I'd never be truly accepted.
These feelings were in stark contrast to what "gay" meant historicallyâjoyous, carefree, happy. Only later did it become synonymous with same-sex love, carrying layers of judgment, fear, and misunderstanding. Today, thankfully, our world evolves rapidly, embracing broader definitions of identity and love, though prejudice and misunderstanding still linger.
When I met Megan, everything shiftedânot because she was a woman, but because she treated me with kindness, respect, and emotional depth I'd never known. Unlike the relationships I endured with menârelationships marked not just by physical abuse but emotional and mental painâthis love was gentle, affirming, and empowering.
I remain physically attracted to men, but I've learned relationships transcend physical appearance. Love is an emotional resonance that resides deep within your soul, a mental connection that challenges your very existence and purpose, a mutual respect that affirms your worth, and an unwavering support that anchors you with a sense of strength and belonging. Megan taught me this, proving that love's truth isn't bound by labels, traditions, or societal judgments.
I wasn't "born gay," nor did I "choose" to be with a woman; instead, I chose happiness. Love is too profound, too essential to life, to be defined by gender alone.
Historically, love has overcome barriers repeatedly. From The Stonewall Riots to todayâs marriage equality, love has relentlessly reshaped our understanding of human relationships. Yet, despite progress, judgment persists. I wonder, "What makes this love wrong?" The simple truth isâit isn't. Love can never be wrong when it nurtures your soul.
Today, I share this story for those who struggle to find their place in the traditional labels society offers. You're not alone. You're valid. Your happiness matters deeply. True love enriches your life beyond the physicalâit heals, it inspires, and it empowers you to become your truest self.
Love bravely. Love freely. Love unapologetically. Love, authentically.