Alyssa Hankey

Happy #nationalcomingoutday 🌈

I am twelve or thirteen in this picture. It was around then I realized I liked girls. Although looking back I probably knew long before that. I think about her often. I wasted too many years loathing myself. Struggling with body dysmorphia, suppressing my feelings and feeling like I wasn’t good enough or worthy of love. I carried that secret for a decade until I couldn’t anymore. It’s crazy how many years we waste tearing ourselves down. I always say I didn’t arrive at myself until the age of 27.

I would give that girl a hug and tell her she’s beautiful just as she is and this thing you hate about yourself is actually a gift. Oh, and Led Zeppelin is still the greatest band of all time.

“Being gay has taught me tolerance, compassion and humility. It has shown me the limitless possibilities of living. It has given me people whose passion and kindness and sensitivity have provided a constant source of strength.” - Armistead Maupin

Life is hard and growing up is hard. We all carry a heaviness that we don’t need to. So anyone out there struggling, no matter what it is, you’re not alone.

Sending everyone peace & love

- Alyssa