Amanda, age 4
Prospect, Colorado (1993)
I didn't realize my orientation until I was much older.
But there were subtle clues and almost constant feelings of confusion in my childhood.
Such as, I made my Barbies kiss. And why not? Ken and Barbie could kiss!
I loved to play in the dirt with trucks, and loved having dinosaur birthday parties.
As I grew up, my family constantly put down gays and lesbians, telling me and my brother they were all damned in God's eyes. I hurt and felt ashamed of myself, and the feelings I was having.
Especially when I developed my first crush on a girl named Salina.
And I knew I couldn't tell my parents how isolated I was feeling.
Now that I'm on my own, I don't have to hide anymore. I have the support and resources I need to help discover more about myself. And I couldn't be happier!
So if you ever feel alone or unsure of who you are, don't worry.
We've all been there, and will help each other get through it!
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