Coming Out (Again)

I am 14 the first time

I develop a crush.

I  don’t know what to do with these feelings.

I sit my parents down for a talk.

I come out.

I finally date someone.

Nobody knows.

This isn’t something I want to hide about myself.

I speak to my friends, one-on-one.

I come out.

My first break up.

These are always hard.

My brother wonders why I’m so sad.

He’s old enough to understand now.

I come out.

My newfound friends and I dance.

Songs we’ve heard on repeat blasting around us.

The man next to me makes a move, I stop him.

I come out.

I move out.

Meet my new roommates, full of excitement.

I want to bring someone home.

I come out.

I write my story.

Constantly coming out, constantly afraid.

No one knows who I am unless I tell them.

I am tired of the cycle.

I come out.

Writer: Anonymous

Editor: Shannarra Lupardo