#but the love and support and connection lgbtq+ people have for each other

[anxious-and-in-pain]

i’m fucking terrified for so many people right now, both USAmerican and not. for my LGBTQ+ (especially trans, intersex, and two spirit) communities. for my disability community. for the vulnerable people who will take the brunt of the repercussions of military activity, environmental destruction, demonization of refugees and asylum-seekers, reduced emergency protections, and retraction of resources for the poor. for people who will suffer hate crimes. for people who will die from lack of access to legal abortion. for people i don’t yet know to be worried about

our anger and our fear will be felt together. we will keep the connection and care for each other, or so fucking help me. these social supports are something i will hold on to with all i have

i don’t know what this means for me and my loved ones yet. it’s likely i will lose people. i will try to process and fight things as they come. because me getting overwhelmed to the point of shut-down will help no one

looking more personally, my health insurance, future government disability, trans healthcare, standard medications and doctors’ visits, and future ability to marry may all be taken away. that fact might take a while to sink in. Fuck

it feels wrong to let my queue run right now. i’ll still have it going but slower than normal. i’ll reblog any extra kindness posts i stumble upon. we all need it. feel free to reblog this or add to it as you’d like. bigots will be blocked

please be gentle with yourself. gift yourself space for your emotions, self soothing, or distraction if you need to process things more slowly. reach out to people you care about 💜

[clau1r9i]

Hey, everyone. Just a little check-in. 💜

I know these past few days have felt heavy for so many of you, especially women and LGBTQ+ folks. If the election results have left you feeling worried, unseen, or even angry, please know that you’re not alone in this. This is a space where you are supported, valued, and loved exactly as you are.

Take time to feel what you need to feel. It’s okay to be hurt or anxious, but remember: there’s a whole community out here that’s got your back. Let’s keep lifting each other up, sharing resources, and finding ways to stay connected and resilient. Sometimes small acts of kindness and support can mean so much, so don’t hesitate to reach out—here or anywhere.

If you know someone who’s had an abortion, it’s best to keep that private. If you know someone is trans, keep that information to yourself as well. And if you know people involved in providing safe abortions, keep their identity confidential too—don’t share it unless you’re completely certain it’s safe. If you’re queer or have had an abortion yourself, only talk about it with people you fully trust.

Remember, being part of a minority doesn’t mean you have to be an activist. If being open about your identity feels risky, it’s okay to keep it private; that doesn’t make you any less valid or authentic.

For potentially sensitive conversations (like discussing queerness, abortion, organizing actions, or protests), use secure, encrypted messaging services like Signal. Stay anonymous online, especially for research or reporting. Avoid using regular internet services for this—consider a VPN (like Mullvad, which is affordable and reliable), use the Tor browser for both onion and regular links, and if you need to whistleblow, look into using a Riseup email account or Notion

Also, consider looking into genetic testing to explore possible eligibility for other nationalities. Adding an additional passport could offer another layer of security, especially in uncertain times.

If you’re thinking about moving to another country, go for it. It’s tough to leave behind everything you know, the people you love, and to adapt to a different culture, but your safety and well-being come first. Patriotism isn’t worth much if you don’t feel secure where you are. Sometimes, starting fresh somewhere else can give you the peace and freedom you deserve. It’s a hard journey, yes, but your life and mental well-being are worth any changes you need to make.

This is not the end. You’ve got so much strength together. Let’s keep moving forward and making your voices heard. You are seen. You are powerful. You are loved. 💪🏳️‍🌈💖

Stay safe, and remember that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Reach out if you need to talk; I’m here for you. 🌸

Kisses from a girl from Spain, Europe 💜 💜 💜

[wombatwisdom]

Today I attended the first day of the Gather Conference in Provo, Utah. Roughly 1300 lgbtq+ individuals, family members and allies attended the event making it one of the largest conferences (if not the largest) bridging the gulf between the mormon church and the LGBTQ+ community.

My feelings are still forming, but I think the first day was a success! The opening session consisted of musical numbers, speeches (including Steve Young), and even a new song by Janice Kapp-Perry (which in Mormon circles is quite the get). The second session had break out rooms for LGBTQ+ individuals, parents and family, and allies and leaders. These breakout rooms had speakers and panelists.

While each speaker and panelist spoke on different subjects, a few key ideas jumped out for me:

1. Dissonance isn't bad but usually allows us to move forward.

2. Decisions in life should be made in earnest based on careful consideration in collaboration with the Savior, not because someone else told you how to live or due to societal pressures.

3. Love is not a transaction. We should act in love without expectation of anything in response.

4. The LGBTQ+ community is diverse and there is no singular "correct" way to be LGBTQ+ and Mormon. Respect for everyone's journey is a necessity.

5. Inclusion of other marginalized people should be something we are advocating for in positions of privilege we have.

6. Sharing your story is important.

‐---------------------‐-----------------------------------------

For me this conference was important. It was the first time wearing a dress in public as a trans-femme person. I was probably overdressed but the joy and comfort of wearing a dress in public for the first time was amazing (gender euphoria is a lovely thing).

A kind Transwoman noticed me not really talking to anyone during a break during one of the sessions and she came over and talked to me. I didn't really know what to say or how to keep the conversation afloat but while halting, we had a lovely conversation and it was really nice to have some reach out.

I was impressed with the sheer number of people at the conference. It made me feel so much less alone. There were many of us, all gathered together trying to make our spirituality and our identities work. And it was beautiful.

--------------------------------------------------

I left today more emotional than I expected. I reflected on my thoughts on connection and community. I reflected on my personal views of who I want to be and how I will continue to engage with the Church.

I was struck with how wonderful it is to talk of love, kindness, and personal healing, but it still feels like not enough in the face of an institution that is not willing to make space for us. There is a lot of pain, trauma and hurt in our community and the tears from Leaders seems to be more due to us simply existing than the hardships they impose or endorse.

But this conference isn't going to be able to do anything about church politics, so it is doing what it can--showing love and support and reminding us of just how many of us there are.

We aren't alone. We are part of a community. And maybe, hopefully, I can believe that change will come to the church eventually.

[rafaelsilvasource]

9-1-1: Lone Star’s Ronen Rubinstein and Rafael Silva on TV wedding and the beauty of queer love

9-1-1: Lone Star fans will finally see TK Strand (Ronen Rubinstein) and Carlos Reyes (Rafael Silva) get married in the two-part season four finale

BY REBECCA LEWIS | Hello! Magazine, May 2023

After four years, some false starts, and far too many near-death experiences,  9-1-1: Lone Star fans will finally see TK Strand (Ronen Rubinstein) and Carlos Reyes (Rafael Silva) get married in the two-part season four finale on Tuesday May 16, 8/7c. But it's not going to be smooth-sailing, as fans have already been promised a tragedy that will strike — and change the trajectory of their lives forever.

"It's a blessing to be given these storylines," Rafael, 28, says on the set of HELLO!'s digital cover shoot in Los Angeles, "It's not every day that you get a story like this with juicy scenes where you have to focus and step up."

Fans already know that Lyndsy Fonseca will return as Carlos' best friend Iris, but the two episodes will see other surprises on-screen as TK and Carlos — known by their portmanteau Tarlos — lean on each other as they work through the shocking complications.

Ronen and Rafael met in 2019 when they were cast as TK, an NYC firefighter who moves to Austin with his father, Captain Owen Strand (Rob Lowe), and Carlos, an openly gay Latino police officer in the Austin PD.

Their relationship has become the focal point for the Fox drama, and a beloved character all its own, and the decision to have them finally wed means so much to so many, especially at a time in the US when conservative legislation has been attacking the LGBTQ community, making this wedding all the more poignant and important.

Over the past four years, the two actors have built such a bond on and off-screen that even among all the "chaos around us on set," as Ronen describes it, they are able to stay focused on telling their stories.

That connection also helped Ronen, 29, come out publicly as bisexual in 2021; he credited Rafael at the time as one of a few people, along with wife Jessica Parker Kennedy and stylist Chaise Dennis, for encouraging and supporting him to live his truth.

"I shouldn't be here," says Ronen. "Little Ronen's from the slums of Staten Island, growing up as a degenerate and fighting, doing drugs, and not going to school, we don't really get to come full circle to this sort of position."

Truth and love are what Rafael and Ronen both hope is the lingering legacy of this show, and these characters, no matter how many more seasons it stays on air. "I hope this inspires people, in the simplest way, to say, Love yourself," said Rafael.

When you think back over the last four years, and see the growth of Tarlos as a couple, and TK and Carlos as individuals, has there been anything that has truly surprised you?

Ronen: Not surprised, but I am most proud of their communication skills! We've seen the evolution of these two, and what were terrible communication skills!

I mean, Carlos made TK a beautiful dinner and then he stormed out like a little bitch! But it's all thanks to the writers; the fact that they were able to connect all the moments up to this level of communication which we saw in episode 16, when Carlos says, "Even if you don't remember who I am, I will stay in this, and love you and stay with you and support you and I'll introduce myself, 'Hi, you're TK and I'm Carlos and we're soulmates.'"

How have TK and Carlos changed you as actors?

Ronen: I don't even know where I would start. It's changed me as a person but as an actor it definitely has taught me speed and efficiency. After Lone Star, I'll be ready for any sort of set in any sort of situation. We're on this massive production, but sometimes it still feels like you're in an independent film when you get a script the day before.

This show has also given me the opportunity to provide a life for myself, and my wife, that I didn't necessarily have growing up.

I shouldn't be here. Little Ronen's from the slums of Staten Island, growing up as a degenerate and fighting, doing drugs, not going to school, we don't really get to come full circle to this sort of position. It's a blessing.

Rafael: I wanted to go to grad school before I booked Lone Star, but God has a way of showing you that life is your school. When I booked Lone Star, I felt so inadequate but now I realize it's healthy to have some doubt — and I love the fact that I talk about this now without any sense of feeling like an impostor, because if we don't talk about these things, we dehumanize these very human experiences.

Carlos has allowed me to learn a lot just simply by watching, listening and playing. I'm extremely grateful that it has changed me as a professional, and also the way I see myself, and the kinds of stories I want to tell. Now I say, 'Know why you're doing something and don't be shy to be yourself, go for the truth,' and I think that's something that this show has truly required of Rafael.

What would you say to 2018 Rafael who cried in the bathroom after his audition?

Rafael: Do exactly what you did and be exactly who you were. It's OK to feel all of those feelings — like you don't belong here because that is what you were being told, but you had to be that person in that moment in order to be this person here today I don't think there's such a thing as a coincidence.

Jim Parrack (who plays Judd Ryder) says, "Coincidence is God's way of staying anonymous," and for me it's a sense of trusting life and the work  —  and when I speak of this, it comes from a place of humility and not necessarily any attachment to religious indoctrination that is going on today to put others down.

I want to make that very clear, that it comes from my relationship with God, [and] a world where everyone belongs, everyone has a place, everyone has a voice and no one needs to close themselves off or hide.

Ronen, what has it been like building your relationship with Rob Lowe?

Ronen: I walked into the audition room for our chemistry read, Rob went to shake my hand and he looked me right into the eyes and he said, "Yep, that's it." We had a spark from the moment we met, but when Rob's on set, there is no time to mess around, everybody brings their highest game, and that's also why I love our father-son scenes so much.

We're very lucky we get given really special storylines; from the moment we meet those two, the bond is so strong and it's just been a beautiful place to build from - and now he's my best man at the wedding.

Does the pressure of the meaning of 'Tarlos' to so many, and what it has become outside of the show, get to you?

Ronen: No, I don't let it get to me. I feel like a lot of pressure is self-made; I don't know if this is just the way I was raised but I am able to compartmentalize really well. I stick to the root of things:the character, the story.

I do appreciate seeing what the fans think and and feel, and this actor-fan relationship is becoming really beautifully interwoven, especially when you get to meet the fans, but I'm able to separate the two. The core of everything is always the work, because if these characters aren't fully lived in and we're not giving our everything, we're not giving our heart and soul to these characters? Then I don't know if fans would necessarily connect with them as intensely.

I won't share what me and Rafa talk about, but the beauty of this whole situation is that I've been able to lean on Rafa, and Rafa has been able to lean on me through all this, because nobody knows what we're going through except for us. Fans can feel that we really care about these two guys — and we care about them maybe more than anyone because it literally is on our shoulders.

But I'm just very lucky to be on this journey with Rafa, because this could be really stressful if you're working with someone that you don't get along with ,or vibe with, on a professional level.

Rafael: As soon as you start making it about you because you were listening to people's opinions, or the critics… As an actor I need to stay focused because at the end of the day, the reason why Carlos and TK get so much attention is because the focus has always been on the character.

In theater, it's always about making it about the other person. When you're doing a scene, always make it about the other person, and that's the work that as actors we need to do with our characters, make it about the character. Forget the noise.

What do you hope the legacy of Tarlos is?

Rafael: I hope it inspires people, in the simplest way, to say, Love yourself.

We had these two broken characters that reacted very differently to their brokenness. One of them abused substances, the other one isolated himself, and both were responses to trauma. When you neglect who you are it's because that's what you were shown from your closest people, so we had two broken characters who came together because I think they were both yearning for a deep connection, not only with each other but with themselves.

I can only hope these two characters and their love can inspire you to, if not completely love and believe in yourself, but to start that conversation with yourself.

[kanazawa-division]

Happy Pride Month!

Happy Pride Month! Be safe and have fun celebrating! You matter and who you love and who/what you identify matters too, you are completely and wholeheartedly valid. ��️🧡💛💚💙💜💖

In celebration, I decided to reveal the romantic and sexual orientation Justice Shield! I had to do quite bit of soul searching and research but I finally feel like this is the most accurate results I could come up with. Enjoy!

— Wataru

Heteromantic Heterosexual

Wataru has been heteromantic his whole life, of course he is aware of people dating the same sex and people transitioning from one gender to another and doesn’t judge them for it. He himself has no interest in dating another man and solely prefers women.

The same goes for sex, he’s only ever been attracted to women and for a while, his wife had been the only person that he wanted to act on those urges with but since she died, so did his sex drive.

— Kyler

Heteromantic Heterosexual

Much like Wataru, Kyler prefers women and only women, he’s been in a few relationships before but they’ve all been with women. He’s all for supporting the LGBTQ+ but he himself has never felt any attraction to the same sex, there have been a few guys to have crushes on him and approach them but he’s always turned them down.

Again, his feelings on sex are the same, he has no interest sleeping with the same sex and despite having flings and one night stands when he was younger, he’s also stopped sleeping with women almost completely, the only person he wants to dirty the sheets with is his fiancé and soon to be wife, Roxanne.

— Joey

Panromantic Bisexual

Joey knew from a pretty young age that he’s romantically interested in people, not just men or just women but people in general, it doesn’t matter to him what you identify as or what you have in between your legs, if he feels that there’s a connection than he’s gonna go for it.

As for the topic of sex, it’s pretty cut and dry in that he’s more than willing to sleep with both males and females alike, he’s pretty firm in his beliefs about his sexuality and doesn’t see much of a problem with it. However, he has noticed that he tends to go for males a bit more than females which he finds interesting.

An example of his raging bisexuality is his attraction to both Kaoru Shinozaki of Edogawa and Lyall Shiba of Niigata, he feels a tad big guilty for falling for both of his friends, especially since they’re attracted to each other but he would he lying if he said he hadn’t thought about what it would be like to date both of them and have them both double team him in bed.

[spacefacedtragedy]

Things you can do to prep for Trump 2025!

Please keep in mind this is based off of things I'm actively doing or trying to encourage others to do. Only participate in activities and actions that genuinely bring you safety and/or joy. The most important thing right now, is staying alive.

1: Make connections

Go out and meet people! Connect with groups, friends, anyone in your community that is supportive of you and any lifestyles you have. There's going to be a horrible rise in conflict and aggression, it's best to stay together and focus on helping support each other, love will win in the end!

2:Stockpile resources

As inflation hits, discrimination rises, and people may loose access to resources, stockpile what you can afford. If you have EBT, stockpile rice, canned food, frozen things esp, and be ready to distribute if you hear about it in the community. Food banks may be allowed to deny food, same with medicine and even health products for daily living. Try getting what you need the most of, or things that are hardest to grab first. If you're staying as long as you can, keep a small bag of food near you too, that can easily be snagged.

3: EDUCATE

They love banning things, from books to expressions to people's activities. Read everything you can, get copies and make libraries. Open your mind to how other people think and feel so you can try to relate and help. Learn skills you might not have, like sewing so you can fix clothes, making your own books, ect. Read up on laws, and keep an eye on your area for warning signs. Learn about survival tactics, self defense, basically anything you might need.

4: Start programs/community

Even if it's just a small meeting once a month, start organizing events. Ask spaces to use them if you trust them, but definitely keep private, enclosed areas as a plan too. Meet as much as you can handle it, and talk about that others might need vs what you can actively do. I meet up with people once a week to drink tea and knit, and I've learned how to make clothes just by doing that. You could teach them the trick you learned on cooking something, or good ways to cope with loss/fear/dread. Support groups are important, but lgbtq focused ones need to start hiding now.

5: See a doctor

There's massive plans that will affect those in lower classes. Go to a doctor, get a check up before it all goes down. However much you usually pay, will no doubt doubly by a year in, so get what you can out of the way now.

6: passports!

Legal papers, like birth certificates, IDs, immigration documents, these can help so much! But a passport is almost certain proof for some us agencies that it may even help if they start doing harder crack downs. Some news sources also report locking down our borders down, so I'm not sure how real that's gonna be but it's best to have the documents, than having to wait nearly a month or two to get the card.

7: Save money

I know, inflation is so harsh rn, everyone is struggling to even eat it think. But it's gonna get so much worse for the lowered classes, and if you don't have a savings you need to start. Even $50 could change something for the better, or get you somewhere safer. Pull out cash if you can't trust your bank, but save as much as you can over the next few months. It's not gonna be easy, and giving up going out to eat is really hard, I miss it so much too, but you're not doing this because it's fun. You're gonna survive it, and you can control yourself.

The very worst thing one can do to their enemies, is stay alive and be happy.

[tarlossource]

9-1-1: Lone Star’s Ronen Rubinstein and Rafael Silva on TV wedding and the beauty of queer love

9-1-1: Lone Star fans will finally see TK Strand (Ronen Rubinstein) and Carlos Reyes (Rafael Silva) get married in the two-part season four finale

After four years, some false starts, and far too many near-death experiences, 9-1-1: Lone Star fans will finally see TK Strand (Ronen Rubinstein) and Carlos Reyes (Rafael Silva) get married in the two-part season four finale on Tuesday May 16, 8/7c. But it's not going to be smooth-sailing, as fans have already been promised a tragedy that will strike — and change the trajectory of their lives forever.

"It's a blessing to be given these storylines," Rafael, 28, says on the set of HELLO!'s digital cover shoot in Los Angeles, "It's not every day that you get a story like this with juicy scenes where you have to focus and step up."

Fans already know that Lyndsy Fonseca will return as Carlos' best friend Iris, but the two episodes will see other surprises on-screen as TK and Carlos — known by their portmanteau Tarlos — lean on each other as they work through the shocking complications.

Ronen and Rafael met in 2019 when they were cast as TK, an NYC firefighter who moves to Austin with his father, Captain Owen Strand (Rob Lowe), and Carlos, an openly gay Latino police officer in the Austin PD.

Their relationship has become the focal point for the Fox drama, and a beloved character all its own, and the decision to have them finally wed means so much to so many, especially at a time in the US when conservative legislation has been attacking the LGBTQ community, making this wedding all the more poignant and important.

Over the past four years, the two actors have built such a bond on and off-screen that even among all the "chaos around us on set," as Ronen describes it, they are able to stay focused on telling their stories.

That connection also helped Ronen, 29, come out publicly as bisexual in 2021; he credited Rafael at the time as one of a few people, along with wife Jessica Parker Kennedy and stylist Chaise Dennis, for encouraging and supporting him to live his truth.

"I shouldn't be here," says Ronen. "Little Ronen's from the slums of Staten Island, growing up as a degenerate and fighting, doing drugs, and not going to school, we don't really get to come full circle to this sort of position."

Truth and love are what Rafael and Ronen both hope is the lingering legacy of this show, and these characters, no matter how many more seasons it stays on air. "I hope this inspires people, in the simplest way, to say, Love yourself," said Rafael.

When you think back over the last four years, and see the growth of Tarlos as a couple, and TK and Carlos as individuals, has there been anything that has truly surprised you?

Ronen: Not surprised, but I am most proud of their communication skills! We've seen the evolution of these two, and what were terrible communication skills!

I mean, Carlos made TK a beautiful dinner and then he stormed out like a little bitch! But it's all thanks to the writers; the fact that they were able to connect all the moments up to this level of communication which we saw in episode 16, when Carlos says, "Even if you don't remember who I am, I will stay in this, and love you and stay with you and support you and I'll introduce myself, 'Hi, you're TK and I'm Carlos and we're soulmates.'"

How have TK and Carlos changed you as actors?

Ronen: I don't even know where I would start. It's changed me as a person but as an actor it definitely has taught me speed and efficiency. After Lone Star, I'll be ready for any sort of set in any sort of situation. We're on this massive production, but sometimes it still feels like you're in an independent film when you get a script the day before.

This show has also given me the opportunity to provide a life for myself, and my wife, that I didn't necessarily have growing up.

I shouldn't be here. Little Ronen's from the slums of Staten Island, growing up as a degenerate and fighting, doing drugs, not going to school, we don't really get to come full circle to this sort of position. It's a blessing

Rafael: I wanted to go to grad school before I booked Lone Star, but God has a way of showing you that life is your school. When I booked Lone Star, I felt so inadequate but now I realize it's healthy to have some doubt — and I love the fact that I talk about this now without any sense of feeling like an impostor, because if we don't talk about these things, we dehumanize these very human experiences.

Carlos has allowed me to learn a lot just simply by watching, listening and playing. I'm extremely grateful that it has changed me as a professional, and also the way I see myself, and the kinds of stories I want to tell. Now I say, 'Know why you're doing something and don't be shy to be yourself, go for the truth,' and I think that's something that this show has truly required of Rafael.

What would you say to 2018 Rafael who cried in the bathroom after his audition?

Rafael: Do exactly what you did and be exactly who you were. It's OK to feel all of those feelings — like you don't belong here because that is what you were being told, but you had to be that person in that moment in order to be this person here today I don't think there's such a thing as a coincidence.

Jim Parrack (who plays Judd Ryder) says, "Coincidence is God's way of staying anonymous," and for me it's a sense of trusting life and the work — and when I speak of this, it comes from a place of humility and not necessarily any attachment to religious indoctrination that is going on today to put others down.

I want to make that very clear, that it comes from my relationship with God, [and] a world where everyone belongs, everyone has a place, everyone has a voice and no one needs to close themselves off or hide.

Does the pressure of the meaning of 'Tarlos' to so many, and what it has become outside of the show, get to you?

Ronen: No, I don't let it get to me. I feel like a lot of pressure is self-made; I don't know if this is just the way I was raised but I am able to compartmentalize really well. I stick to the root of things:the character, the story.

I do appreciate seeing what the fans think and and feel, and this actor-fan relationship is becoming really beautifully interwoven, especially when you get to meet the fans, but I'm able to separate the two. The core of everything is always the work, because if these characters aren't fully lived in and we're not giving our everything, we're not giving our heart and soul to these characters? Then I don't know if fans would necessarily connect with them as intensely.

I won't share what me and Rafa talk about, but the beauty of this whole situation is that I've been able to lean on Rafa, and Rafa has been able to lean on me through all this, because nobody knows what we're going through except for us. Fans can feel that we really care about these two guys — and we care about them maybe more than anyone because it literally is on our shoulders.

But I'm just very lucky to be on this journey with Rafa, because this could be really stressful if you're working with someone that you don't get along with ,or vibe with, on a professional level.

Rafael: As soon as you start making it about you because you were listening to people's opinions, or the critics… As an actor I need to stay focused because at the end of the day, the reason why Carlos and TK get so much attention is because the focus has always been on the character.

In theater, it's always about making it about the other person. When you're doing a scene, always make it about the other person, and that's the work that as actors we need to do with our characters, make it about the character. Forget the noise.

What do you hope the legacy of Tarlos is?

Rafael: I hope it inspires people, in the simplest way, to say, Love yourself.

We had these two broken characters that reacted very differently to their brokenness. One of them abused substances, the other one isolated himself, and both were responses to trauma. When you neglect who you are it's because that's what you were shown from your closest people, so we had two broken characters who came together because I think they were both yearning for a deep connection, not only with each other but with themselves.

I can only hope these two characters and their love can inspire you to, if not completely love and believe in yourself, but to start that conversation with yourself.

[fatherlybeast]

how are you gay in turkey? are they not homophobic as fuck? did they try to kill you? or you dont live there anymore?

Hello,

I obviously can’t speak for every LGBTQ person living in homophobic countries, but my experience as a gay dude in Turkey hasn’t involved fear for my physical safety. No one has ever tried to kill me, to answer your question. Have I faced challenges because of my sexual identity? Definitely. But I've never had to fear for my life. Maybe it’s because I’m straight-passing, or maybe I’ve just been lucky. I know people who’ve had it much worse—brutal experiences, even. So, that's a thing for sure.

Does this mean there aren’t extremist people here? Not at all. There are people who believe in a "gay agenda," thinking that LGBTQ people are part of a secret organization sent to attack family values or other conspiracies. These individuals often mock and ridicule the LGBTQ community. Some Pride parades have been shut down by the police, and there have been many hate crimes as well. So, as I said, I’m just speaking from my own experience.

By law, every citizen—gay or not—is protected from mental or physical harm. But how does that translate into daily life in Turkey? LGBTQ people, especially those who present more "fruity", if I may, often face discrimination and bullying. Turkey is a large and diverse country, and depending on where you live, people can be more accepting. Some will see you as just a person who happens to be gay, rather than reducing you to just being gay or as a threat to the continuity of society and it's "values". That’s not the common experience, especially in rural areas, but it’s been my experience since my early 20s.

Before that, I had friends who turned their backs on me or said things like, "You’re just doing it for attention." They were teenagers too, so in hindsight, I understand that they might not have fully grasped the situation. Still, it was hurtful at the time. Ouch!

After high school, I left my hometown and met my then-boyfriend. With him, I could be out and open—we’d go to cafés, restaurants, the movies, hold hands, kiss—just do normal things every other straight couple does. I didn’t need to hide or feel afraid. Of course, it was young love, you know? You feel like you can do anything because you have someone by your side. Even if someone harassed us, I felt like it would be okay. That experience was life-changing for me. Before that, such things were only something I saw in movies or TV shows or imagined in my head. So in regard to your question, this is also something a gay guy can experience in Turkey.

Weirdly enough, I feel like nowadays gay people take such connections and relationships for granted. But that’s a different topic.

From my observations, younger LGBTQ people (born in the 2000s and later—and I’m not that much older than them, which might explain some of my luck) are much luckier when it comes to finding supportive friend groups or safe spaces in general. I’m in the final stretch of my 20s, and almost two decades ago, when I first hit puberty, I realized I wasn’t just into girls, but I didn’t even know there was a name for what I felt. "Being gay" wasn’t something you could just ask about or learn easily. I really had to claw my way into being understood and accepted, in a way. And such psychological struggle does affect a person deeply. So you are right, it is not easy. -But in a way, these experiences are also how we mature. -

All I knew was that it wasn’t "okay" to be this way. There were no TV shows, discussions, or Netflix series about it—nothing. Some shows featured LGBTQ characters, but they were rare and hard to find, and never in Turkish. It was easier to come across endless porn than any genuine representation. I remember discovering the movie 'A Single Man'—you have no idea how happy it made me back then, even though the movie itself has a tragic story. It taught me one simple thing I simply didn't know before: men can romantically love each other. Before that, feeling constant terror and uncertainty because of the urges I had was my reality . I thought I was some freak of nature for having crushes on other fellow boys.

Imagine this: back then, as a kid who had just hit puberty, all I had was a Wikipedia page titled "homosexuality" that I read countless times to try to make sense of myself in secret. Then I found chat rooms down the road, which were often predatory in nature and unsafe for teens. But many teens, including myself, ended up in those spaces because we wanted to feel like we belonged. My experiences there weren’t great, but I also made my first gay friends and had my first encounters that way. But that’s a whole other story.

This question found me at a strange time I suppose, and I guess I could go on and on about it all.

Imma stop jabbering real quick tho lmao

To summarize, Turkey isn’t the best place to live as an LGBTQ person, but experiences can range from terrible to fairly chill, depending on where you are, given how diverse the country is. That said, I believe future generations will have an even easier time accepting themselves, finding safe spaces, and creating better environments for themselves and others with different identities. At least, that’s what I hope for them.

Thanks for asking, it made me think about things I hadn’t in ages. xx <3

[theprophetsaid]

it's so irritating to me when people claim that brian is making up/exaggerating how close he was with freddie... just because there's not as many explicit quotes from freddie on brian and these people can't read between the lines or do any sort of research for themselves. brian's love for freddie shines through every word he speaks about that man, and somehow a group of random kids can't believe that brian was close with freddie before they ever made it with their music and when they were just good friends with a dream.

of course brian isn't perfect (e.g. his comments on how queen would be forced to have a transgender member if they had formed today, him being against the brit awards getting rid of gendered categories), but to call him racist and homophobic is such a low and baseless accusation.

in any case, i feel that brian is more (and honestly a bit validly) against the jumping to conclusions and forced righteousness that some people take up rather than diversity itself. i get the sense even that he's a bit against the modern categorizing when for him, it was very natural to work with freddie and to love him for who he was without much thought (quote: "He was a musician, he was our friend, he was our brother. We didn’t have to stop and think: ‘Ooh, now, should we work with him? Is he the right color? Is he the right sexual proclivity?’ None of that happened, and now I find it frightening that you have to be so calculating about everything."). of course i see the world a bit differently, but brian comes from a very different time and background.

he's always been a great supporter of the lgbtq community, championed aids awareness, and truly loved and understood freddie's strengths and insecurities. it literally drives me crazy when people say there's no evidence that freddie liked brian or was close to him.

I'll keep this very brief.

Anyone who denies that Freddie and Brian were close friends who loved each other is a spiteful clown. Their connection has nothing to do with Brian's unfortunate tendency of putting his foot in his mouth from time to time (mind you, Freddie had no filter at all). And this tendency doesn't undermine his decades-long advocacy for AIDS victims and queer rights.

[surrogacyagencykenya]

My Own Experience with Same-Sex Surrogacy in Kenya!

Most surrogacy specialists have differing ideas about same-sex surrogacy in kenya, and this issue has always drawn discussion. A few people refer to it as a safe refuge for same-sex parents seeking surrogacy, while others express worries about the lack of surrogacy rules in the nation. But for me, the experience of using same-sex surrogacy in Kenya has been significant and transformative. 

My partner and I, as a homosexual couple, decided to go on this road in order to realize our desire of having a child. I will recount our tale in my blog, starting from the early difficulties we had and ending with the joyous day when we finally received our kid in our arms.

Making an informed choice!

It all began with a strong desire to establish a family. In addition, my girlfriend and I had been dating for a few years when we both had strong parental desires. Either way, we were aware of the social and legal obstacles that came with being a same-sex relationship. Furthermore, we started looking into our possibilities because we were aware that gay surrogacy in Kenya may be a drawn-out and dubious procedure.

Surrogacy seemed to be the best option for us, but we were unsure about the legal and social views, especially in a country like Kenya where LGBTQ+ rights are not widely accepted.

Getting through the challenges!

Finding a surrogate mother who was willing to cooperate with a same-sex couple was one of the initial worries in this area. In Kenya, surrogacy was not well-informed or supported, so we had to rely on private associations and internet forums to connect with possible surrogates. Furthermore, it took us months to find someone who understood our situation and was ready to help.

The legal barriers were similarly formidable. Furthermore, there were unclear legal guidelines governing same-sex surrogacy in Kenya. We also got in touch with several family law attorneys, and they advised us to create a thorough surrogacy contract in order to protect the interests of both sides.

Handling the emotional aspects!

The emotional conundrum arose after we had settled on the legal positions and located a willing surrogate. Having said that, we developed a strong relationship with our surrogate and she became an important part of our lives. Also, when we took fertility drugs and awaited the results of the pregnancy test, the overwhelming feelings of expectancy, trust, and unease.

However, there were also happy and inspiring moments when we learned that our surrogate was expecting a child. Anyway, while we discussed the instabilities of pregnancy and labor, there were also times when I felt uneasy and afraid. Throughout the voyage, we relied on the support of our chosen family and companions and clutched each other's hands tightly.

Our child is finally here!

We were overcome with joy on the day of our child's birth, which was a turning point in our lives. It was also an amazing sensation to be in the delivery room, watch our baby breathe, and hug them for the first time. Furthermore, our surrogate had bestowed upon us the most priceless blessing we could possibly get.

However, there were difficulties involved in surrogacy for same-sex couples in Kenya who chose to become parents through surrogate pregnancy. That said, we encountered opinions and preferences from a small number of people in our neighborhood as well as from medical professionals. Still, the affection and encouragement we received from our loved ones and relationships outweighed the pessimism.

We fully embraced our responsibilities as fathers, providing our child with a nurturing and loving atmosphere. In addition, we discovered how to balance job and family obligations, and every day presented fresh opportunities and difficulties. Regardless of sexual introduction, parenthood may be a learning and growth adventure.

Making it through with the legal battles!

The most notable obstacle we faced following the birth of our child was getting official recognition as guardians. Due to the illegality of same-sex marriage in Kenya, our parenting rights were problematic. Furthermore, we were aware that we would need to defend our child's legal rights and ensure that they would have the same legal protections as other children.

We further partnered with LGBTQ+ organizations and legal experts to advocate for legal recognition and communication. In addition, the battle was exhausting and protracted, with many setbacks and disappointing times. Whatever the case, we persevered surrogacy for gay couples in kenya thanks to our confidence and the community's support.

We achieved a victory when Kenya acknowledged our parental rights, following a protracted court battle. Furthermore, it was a turning moment for LGBTQ+ rights in the country in addition to being a personal victory. Additionally, other same-sex couples wishing to become parents through gay surrogacy in Kenya now have a clear path to follow because to the precedent our case created.

Final words

My own experience with same-sex surrogacy in Kenya has been a life-changing one. Every decision we made, from the initial decision to become parents to the difficulties we encountered along the road, helped to mold us into the loving and adaptable family we are today. Our experience might also serve as evidence of the value of affection, assurance, and the encouragement of a supportive community that values communication and recognition.

In sharing our story, we hope to inspire others who may be confronting comparable challenges and inspire them to seek after their dreams of parenthood, notwithstanding of their sexual introduction.

[yautjalover]

First off, if you’re not in the right mental state right now and are unable to handle talk of dark, triggering topics then please come back later or keep scrolling. Please take care of yourselves. The world is a dark and scary place at times and I care about the well-being of other people to warn you ahead of time. This is also for the folks who just want the comfy escape of fandom. You don’t have to engage with politics if you don’t want to, so here is this warning. ☺️

I get it. Enjoy Yautja ya’ll. ❤️

The TDLR of this post is Free Palestine and just me ranting about the media lying and my anger at injustice.

Love you guys. ❤️

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I’ve been relatively forgetful of Tumblr lately, and for good reason. My focus has been shifted on my writing and current events that are unfolding on a massive scale. I have followed the events occurring in Palestine for about ten years, rallying for their freedom from the Zionist colonial settler state.

I will in no shape ever support apartheid and genocide, nor ethnic cleansing. It’s monstrous and there’s no excuse whatsoever to justify it. There is no whataboutism, period. You can’t justify the murder and targeted attacks of civilians. I’m also thoroughly disgusted in the government, good ole USA, and the media for continuing to peddle the outright proven lies the IDF and Israel say. They’re not even being quiet about wanting to commit genocide!

If you disagree with reality, then this ain’t the blog for you!

Supporting people who have been oppressed for 75 fucking years isn’t anti-semitism—that’s the propaganda speaking and isn’t factual. Talk with real anti-Zionist Jewish people and they will agree that what’s happening is monstrous and they don’t support it. I stand in solidarity with the oppressed. I do not represent my country’s backing of this fuckshit. I have, and will continue, to defend people’s right to peace and freedom over this heinous bullshit.

I’ve cried more than I ever have seeing LITTLE KIDS digging in the rubble of their home to find their family without a tear in their eyes because what Israel is doing is NORMAL FOR THEM.

I HATE to bring real world events and politics to fandom, but it intersects with our daily lives and the world around us. I disagree with connecting the real world with fandom being a bad thing. I have LONG been an activist for justice in my personal life, and I will continue to do so. It’s who I am and I will always fight for the world to be a better place.

No, I am not “Anti-Semitic”. There is decades of research backing the evil that is being perpetrated by Israeli occupying forces.

Please take the time to do independent research and listen to Palestinian voices and Jewish people who say that this doesn’t represent Judaism. Please do not send hate to Jewish friends or people you don’t know. Please do not send hate to Palestinian or Arab friends or people you don’t know.

I grew up in Post-9/11 America and it’s all happening again. I remember it clearly. The media is doing what it does best. Pitting good well-meaning people against each other with their lies. :/ Please, please, take the time to talk and meet with people and find the humanity in one another. I beg you.

We all want the same things.

Peace and safety.

I’m horrified that my hard earned tax dollars are funding this genocide and they’re saying “we can afford it” when they can’t bother to pass Affordable Healthcare for All, actually fix this corporate greed of artificially inflating prices, they can’t bother to help our veterans who are ending their lives daily because our government turns their backs on them, they continue to harm and demonize black and indigenous people, ignore entirely the missing and murdered indigenous women and children, put literal children in fucking cages instead of stopping the destabilization of the global South (South America+), do nothing to defend our most vulnerable citizens such as LGBTQ+ kids and adults, refused to codify the right to reproductive healthcare, and expect US to pay for ANOTHER WAR that has nothing to do with our own perceived “freedom”.

I wish I could hug every person who’s suffering and solve all their problems. I, too, am struggling, more these days, we ALL are, but I sincerely hope that GOOD WILL PREVAIL.

It has to, right?

I love you guys, all you faceless folks behind your screens and stuff. We don’t personally know each other, but I see you and I hear you.

I pray for the people who are being killed in the darkness, the Congolese who are being murdered for metal that’s used in our tech, and every other person fighting for their basic right to PEACE and a fulfilled life where they are safe! Everyone deserves that! One day the world will be a better place and I hope our actions and fight for it will come true. I wish for our distant future folks to look back and see that we tried, as best as we could, and gave a shit.

If you have made it this far, thank you for reading and I hope you have a wonderful day. I wish you a cold pillow, your shower to always be the perfect temperature, the commute to be easy and traffic free, and that every good boy and girl cat and dog gives you the snuggles that you need.

Peace be upon you guys. ❤️

[palaeoiris]

It's hard to put into words how heart-warming it was to see how many of you resonated with Volgaynoes and how grateful we are to everyone who supported this collection and helped us make it such a success.

This collection kept surprising us with overwhelming support from all around the world. From the crowdfunding campaign that funded all stretch goals within the first few hours to an almost sold-out Leftover Sale, you kept showering us with your love.

We are beyond grateful to @alias_in_ink , who agreed to join forces and who designed such incredible little pieces of art, that are now spread literally around the world (5 out of 7 continents!) bringing joy and strength to all of you lovely people. If you're not following her work already, we encourage you to check it out, because aside from creating stunning art, @alias_in_ink is also a volcanologist who uses art to study the lives of people living in the foot of volcanoes. How incredible is that!?

Here is a message from our artist Alias in Ink:

What a colourful and vivid journey it's been to collaborate on Volgaynoes. I have the original Volgayno sketch - a rainbow Stromboli erupting - in my room, and it's hard to believe that this whole campaign and collection grew from there. But many snowflakes make an avalanche! I hope that by bringing the idea of Volgaynoes to life, we have been able to support LGBTQ+ individuals to feel both unique and part of something greater. And that we offered a means for other individuals to show their support and solidarity. It's been such a joy to share the journey with you, our wonderful backers. I'm in awe of Palaeoiris - their creativity, their work ethic, and their principles of spreading love for and between the LGBTQ+ science community through art. Who is to say what projects each of us will move on to next ... I am sincerely grateful for the chance to share art and spread love, in all its queer forms, through Volgaynoes.

With much love and respect from Guatemala!/¡Con muchísimo respecto y amor desde Guatemala!

Thank you, once again, for joining us on this amazing journey. For now, we offer this little wrap-up video to see the project off, as we ship the last Volgaynoes orders and prepare for the Hivos donation. Please look forward to the donation receipt later this month.

VOLGAYNOES has been a volcanology-inspired art collection that celebrates LGBTQIA+ people through the beauty of nature motifs. Brought to you by @alias_in_ink and @palaeoiris team, they are now spreading joy, being source of strength, and facilitators of human connection all around the Earth. 

[thestarlightforge]

“From Your Internet Big Brother”

4/8/24

******

Y’all know that account on here who signs all his messages, “From your internet dad?” The guy who goes around offering support to discouraged LGBTQ+ youth, filling the life advice gap for those who need it?

I’m gonna try not to be preachy. (Not that his posts ever strike me as such.)

But, hi. It’s your big internet brother, and I have something important to say.

Friends? The amount of times I’ve said to myself, in the past 3 months, “Thank god I didn’t kill myself in high school?”

Incalculable. I lost track weeks ago.

Don’t do it, y’all.

I realize that I am probably no more or less effective than any other internet stranger in saying this to you, much less someone who really knows your life.

But I promise you—and if you know me at all, you know I don’t mess around with promises—it is not worth it.

Not for the jag weeds making you miserable right now, whether at school or elsewhere in your life. Not for the Southern oppressive education system that’s teaching you inaccurate (if any) information about racism, misogyny, queer people and hell knows what else. Not for the classes you don’t understand, the grades or scholarships you do or don’t get, or the fear that courses from the pit of your stomach to your fingertips 75% of the time about everything you’re facing.

Literally, none of it makes it worth it to opt out of this life.

And no, it’s not because the sky is pretty, or you might have a great career, or those stressful things will completely go away. The sky is pretty, that’s true; you don’t know what your adult life will look like, no matter how the grown folks around you currently feel about it (or how they may project their own fears and/or dreams over yours); and a lot of the stressors probably will at least change. But the color of the sky can’t fix everything. Most if not all of us will still have some bad people in our lives, even if it is less bad people. And we still live in a racist, sexist, queer-phobic, ableist, late-stage capitalist world.

So that’s not why.

I don’t talk about it much, because I hate it when my pain gets twisted into an inspiration-porn-like pity sentiment, e.g. “Your life is SO HARD with that WHEELCHAIR and OPERATIONS and HORRIBLE BRAIN, I can’t IMAGINE how you EVER do ANYTHING with such an AWFUL and PATHETIC existence.” (My new favorite answer to these sorts of wildly inappropriate comments is, “Ma’am, this is a Wendy’s.”) But I’ve had a pretty hard life. A lot of trauma and pain, both medical and personal/emotional. A hard life whose stress has, many times, gotten on top of me, to the point where I felt I didn’t know how to withstand it anymore—and no amount of contemplating either nature’s beauty, leaving toxicity behind, or a possible illustrious future career was enough to alleviate the pain.

But the reason, kids, why you shouldn’t kill yourself in high school, no matter how bad you’re hurting or how hopeless things feel—why you should instead get through it however you can besides acting on that thought—is because you never know when you are going to meet people who will make magic come back into your world.

We should all learn to love ourselves. The therapists are right about that. We should love us for us—not just for what we can give back, what we can contribute or produce, or how we can be “useful” to others. But humans are social creatures. We evolved to exist amidst communities. We grew and changed, and are changing, within nature—and it’s important to both appreciate those connections, and to understand and dismantle the oppressive systems that have been imposed on top of them as much as we can. But in my experience, for us wacky little gremlin guys, the most important part of this human thing is our ties to each other.

Chidi Anagonye/Michael Schur/“The Good Place” got it right: “Why choose to be good every day if there is no guaranteed reward we can count on, now or in the afterlife? I argue that we choose to be good because of our bonds with other people and our innate desire to treat them with dignity. Simply put, we are not in this alone.”

So you keep going. Even if that means for years, you have to go on autopilot. Get through the trauma. Keep your head down, survive, whatever it is.

Because, simply, you never know when you’re gonna find your people. You never know when you’ll meet others who will turn out to be some of the loves of your life. The chaos of our universe—of living as a (mostly) three dimensional being who (mostly) experiences time linearly—is that you’ll never know who’s still out there. You can be observant, look for the signs, and do what you can to build community. But no matter what you do, you can’t predict with any real certainty when the day will come where you’ll look around and realize that instead of feeling hopeless, you are laughing with people who genuinely love and care about you. It’s asinine, for how years of pain can seem to drag themselves out and make a muddy, gross soup of your life. But the turnaround really does happen in a snap, just like that.

One morning, I felt I would be lonely forever, and I struggled to convince myself that all my life’s struggles were worth fighting through—or that my past traumas had been worth soldiering through.

Then, one evening, I sat with loved ones—people I didn’t even know existed six months ago—and instead of ignoring or chastising me… The first thing that happened? Was they asked me about “Dungeons and Dragons.” I didn’t expect them to understand or care, I just loved them anyway; thinking little of my own heart, I have a bad habit of resigning myself to letting it be enough just to be near people I care for, not hoping they will really care for me. But they started our group hang by asking that, and then really listening—even though they don’t understand it. Because they care. About me. They love me.

Just like that, kids. Just like that.

So your mission, friends? Survive. Because I want this for you, too. ❤️

Love,

Your Internet Big Brother.

[queer-and-dear-books]

Title: If I See You Again Tomorrow

Author: Robbie Couch

Genre: Sci-fi | Friendship | Romance | LGBTQ+

Content Warnings: Internalized Homophobia

Overall Rating: 9.8/10

Personal Opinion: I was already convinced that Robbie Couch was my favorite author and then he goes and releases this banger? It is so riveting, unique, romantic, and refreshing. Something Couch does really well is not putting the romance dead center. He focuses on the friendships that the protagonist cultivates first and foremost and the romance naturally comes forward after. And every pairing feels so genuine to me. Clark and Beau especially. They make me believe in destiny.

Do I Own This Book? Technically yes. My friend bought it (and also Blaine for the Win) for me when he was in NY visiting but he also borrowed it so it’s not physically with me at the moment. But yes, I do own it.

Spoilers Below For My Likes & Dislikes:

Likes:

- I love the way everything is connected. I love the way everything has a reason for being. Down to the last detail. Everything from why Clark couldn’t find David Dopamine’s time loop video to why Thom freaked out on day 310 when Beau showed up. It doesn’t matter how small or big the detail was, it was important. The significance of Beau’s errands too, being the key to Clark curing his loneliness is so special to me. Because I love every person Clark came into contact with on day 310.

- Let’s talk about the people Clark met on day 310. Starting with, of course, Beau. Oh my god, the guy is nuts. But his spontaneity was truly magnetic and I can see why people so easily gravitate toward him. He can be a bit over-the-top with his shenanigans but he shines brightest when he is acting over-the-top. 

- Otto is my favorite though. I just love burly bakers. Gentle giants. He deserves a hug. In the loops where he gave Clark the recipe to his blue velvet brownies, I was breaking down in tears. And then when he finally talked about Ben, I just about lost it. My emotions were a mess but Otto is just so kind and so friendly with everyone, I just can’t. I’m getting emotional all over again just thinking about him.

- Emery was an unexpected joy. He feels like a supporting actor in this story which is, well, exactly what he is. Like he fits the role to a T. What I mean by that is that I didn’t really expect much from his interactions with Clark but as they learned about each other, became friends in some loops, I really felt a bond with him. It’s like when you get attached to minor characters in shows and you cheer when they come on screen. That’s how it felt with Emery. Like he was just some guy you want to support and see thrive away from the antics and chaotic messes of the main cast. I hope he gets his breakout role someday.

- Dee is a delight. I mean, she is a whirlwind. And I find it so hilarious that she would reject Clark so vehemently in some loops. Which is reasonable! She is a woman alone at night, she has every reason to have her guard up. But on day 311, when she invited Clark out for BLTs and milkshakes, I could feel her cry for help. Her need to not be alone. And wow, when she explained everything that happened at The Wrinkles concert, it’s no wonder why she felt like she could die from embarrassment. But I love that she found courage in Clark’s vulnerability and was able to share her secret. Not only that but I am just overjoyed that she and Emery are likely going to get their fairy-tale ending!

- Now for the people Clark has known since before day 310. I am talking about Sadie! Oh my god, that ominous, “I need you” text deviation on day 310 had me in a chokehold. I was so fucking worried about her and it turns out she was just lonely without Clark. Not to downplay her loneliness at all! She just moved to a new place before her senior year, that’s nuts. I get why she’s sad. But oh my god, when Clark Facetimed her and she started crying because she missed him, I was all up in my feels because I truly felt their friendship. It was palpable every time they Facetimed but that last one on day 364 had me in a vicegrip.

- Clark’s family! I had already guessed that his dad had an affair. Or at least, I knew he was the one who was actually at fault for the divorce. It was obvious but also still a surprise enough to gut punch me. Like, you see it coming but the impact still surprises you. But god, when Clark decided to check in on his dad for the first time on day 364, I was a mess again. I just can’t handle a family crying session. And I love that Clark was mature enough not to end things on a bad note even if time was going to loop again.

- Then we have mom and Blair. Mom was really trying her hardest to connect with her son and Clark did not make it easy on her. And I understand why. A divorce is a big deal. Combined with their fight and Sadie moving, it’s no wonder why Clark erupted on day 311. But on day 364, when he decided to finally bake with his mom and apologize for what he put her through, I was going to go ballistic. My emotions were everywhere. As if it was not enough for Blair to say, “You’re a great big brother and I love you.” Like stop. Sibling love gets me worse than parental love. 

- Ms. Hazel is such a good therapist. Oh my god, I just, I love when characters actually seek help. And I love that Clark took his therapy homework and therapy itself seriously. It can be so easy to ignore that stuff, to not take that leap of faith, but he did it. And I love how he openly appreciates her sessions. That’s a beautiful thing.

- Now, as if all of these new and old relationships weren’t enough, we have Professor Copeman. Oh the regret and shame she had for not corroborating Runyon’s story, I felt that in my soul. But the fact that they were destined to meet and change each other’s lives in such a big way is just so beautiful.

- And that’s the last thing I need to talk about. The time loop itself! The fact that it happened because Clark and Beau were meant to meet! I’m glad it wasn’t just a romantic soulmates thing like Beau thought. It’s just about two people who will have a deep impact on each other’s lives. Like that is so special to me.

Dislikes:

- Here is my one real gripe. How can Clark even consider that Mr. Thunderburnt’s theory is correct? Firstly, he doesn’t mention Loop Partners. Secondly, if getting trapped in a time loop has to do with a breakup, then why is Clark experiencing it too? Obviously Runyon’s theory is the correct one in this situation! I guess if I was in Clark’s situation, I would not be the most rational but the soulmate theory is just stupid to me. And it kind of upsets me that Beau just refused to believe any other theory. He wasted a lot of days after giving up when he could have enjoyed them with Clark.

- Also soulmate is written as two words and that bugs me.

- Thom. I don’t really like that he was framed as being wrong for wanting a subtle partner. I do think it was wrong of him to try to change Beau into something that fit his needs better, yes. But I don’t know, maybe it’s because of my culture but I just hate the narrative of a relationship being good only if it’s out. The Long Run and The Minus-One Club have shown me just how wonderful in-the-closet relationships can be. When both partners can wait until they’re ready to come out. But yes, I do see why Otto didn’t like Thom or at least, didn’t think he was a good fit for Beau. I just feel so sympathetic toward Thom! As someone who knows people that have been disowned, rejected, and spurned by loved ones after coming out, I can’t not feel some sympathy for Thom. I just hope he finds a relationship that suits his needs from the start.

[enkarg]

Hello, I’m Ameera a 23 years old Muslim lesbian who is trying to come out, I’ve been in the closet with my girlfriend for way too long, because of how dangerous and hard it is to come out as a lesbian to a religious Muslim family, but me and my girlfriend have decided to do whatever it takes and risk it all to come out, do you mind supporting and encouraging us?, we have the plan to go away which is why I have my donation campaign pinned on my profile, if I raise at least that goal I can start the process with my savings, I can’t come out until I’d gotten my apartment and I’m away from family, so please support by donating if you can and help reblog though I know we all have what we dealing with, so I’m not imposing we just need all the support and encouragement we can get, check my pinned post for more information on how you can support, if you are a Muslim queer and you are out, please help with tips on how to make it less complicated, any word of advice is also really needed, we really wanna come out but we need y’all 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ pride please come through for us, I believe pride is for all

Hi, Ameera ^^

I just bought you a coffee. I wish I could do more than that. I know how it feels to have to hide who you are and who you love, but at least in my country I didn't have to be afraid for my safety.

Please, look for people who support you where you are. My friends, who are my chosen family, have been the greatest support through rough times. If you don't have anybody to talk to, please, look for help in any LGBTQ organization that may be able to guide you and help you be safe. I made a quick search and found this:

I hope you find the support you need. Meanwhile, take care of yourself and each other. My heart goes with you both ^_^

[friendofhayley]

Friendofhayley's Top Books of 2022 Pt. 1 LGBTQIA+ Fiction

This Book Rec is on LGBTQ+ books (realistic fiction edition). It includes 5 books. Let's go!!

"There are so many forms of Asian-parent tough love, where parents say and do mean things only because they want the best for us. Is all of that “tough love” abusive? What distinguishes tough-love parenting from abuse? After all, Mom did say she’s afraid of what other people might say about me. Even though she is mostly afraid that people might think she’s a bad parent, isn’t the fact that she’s worried about me a good thing?"

I'll Be the One by Lyla Lee | F/M both bisexual!!

This book follows Skye, a Korean-American bisexual girl in high school who wants to be the next K-Pop star. Her dancing is incredible but the biggest barrier to everyone else is her body. As someone is half-Korean and considered plus-size in that culture, this book definitely felt like something I've always wanted. It hurt but I definitely understood every character's intentions and I loved every second of it. (Even the painful parts. Do we all have mommy issues??) I will definitely read this again whenever I'm feeling down after hearing another Ajumma comment on my body.

Lies We Tell Ourselves by Robin Talley | Sapphic Relationship

This book follows 2 girls: the daughter of the head Civil Rights leader in town and the daughter of his rival. Sarah is the leader of the small group of black students to start integration at Jefferson High. This story was ambitious and carried itself well which is mainly why it's a top book for me. Intersectionality is so important and this author emphasized race but also heavily included the LGBTQIA+ struggles as well in that lens. However, the author is white, so take it with a grain of salt.

"What if this—this rule that says what I did in the back room that day is a terrible sin—what if that’s just a rule some old white man made up, too?"

Juliet Takes a Breath by Gabby Rivera | Latinx Lesbians

Juliet goes on an internship to peek outside the closet by studying under a white cis feminist. She discovers the communities she belongs to and the drama they have, along with finding herself. I loved the queer joy in this book and the warm acceptance Juliet found everywhere in every pocket of the BIPOC community in all the corners of America. You can tell I love intersectionality.

"My God is Black. It’s queer. It’s a symphony of masculine and feminine. It’s Audre Lorde and Sleater-Kinney. My God and my understanding of God are centered on who I am as a person and what I need to continue my connection to the divine,” Maxine explained. She took a long breath. “It’s everyone’s job to come up with a theodicy. One that has room for every inch of who they are and the person they evolve into.”

The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta | biracial gay man

This book is a metaphor for a biracial gay boy growing up while feeling like an outsider in two different worlds. The story is told in prose, yet it cuts you to the core. I absolutely loved this book and how it told this story. It's hard to even put into words how amazing it was. The characters were real and incredible, especially the drag queens.

"If you’re happy in the closet for the time being, play dress-up until you find the right outfit."

The Essential Dykes to Watch Out For by Alison Bechdel | dykes & co

This book was an absolute delight. It has all the comic strips of this story showing the life of dykes (and their chosen families) from 1983 to 2003. It was literally queer joy seeing these characters grow from post-grad to settling down (or definitely not), finding themselves, and supporting each other.