Pride Month

Happy Pride Month to all the members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am glad that you have the courage to be what you want to be. In this world full of judgement, coming out is truly an act of bravery. It just goes to show that you're not afraid to be judged by other people. Not everyone has the same fearlessness as yours.

But let's be honest, not all members of the LGBTQIA+ community have come out already. Some are still trying to figure things out. While some are still confused about their real sexual preference, on the other hand, there are those who are afraid to come out. Probably because they have a reputation, they don't wait to taint it. They think that once they come out, people will judge them and won't respect them anymore. And, I guess, that's one of the worst places to be. Being confused and afraid about what other people might say or think. Because, truthfully, not all members of the LGBTQIA+ community are given proper respect. Others see them as weak, so they take advantage of them. That is why respect is very important. 

Moreover, it's important to not give people any reasons to disrespect you. One way you can do it is to respect yourself first. Another way is to show respect. Because respect begets respect. If you know how to respect yourself, you will know your limitations. You will have boundaries. You won't do something to disrespect yourself. You won't do something that you know will harm you. At the same time, you will have boundaries with other people. You know when someone is already crossing the line. And you don't allow it. You know when someone is already taking advantage of you. And you know that you don't tolerate disrespect from yourself, most especially from someone else. You won't accept the bare minimum. You, more than anyone else, know your own worth. If you have self-respect, you will always stick to your values. You know how to distinguish right from wrong. And you will always choose to do what is right. 

Indeed, respect should be the common language for everyone. We should know not only how to speak it but also how to practice it. No matter who you are—rich or poor, young or old, fat or thin, black or white, gay or straight—respect is important. Self-respect should come first, and all else will follow. Again, Happy Pride Month to all the members of LGBTQIA+. Let's celebrate everyone's individuality. 

au revoir. 😊