John

I came out to my family twenty years ago. It was the holidays — cold, damp, and moody in Olympia, Washington. I have a military father, an immigrant mother, and I was terrified of how they would respond. But I had reached the point where I could no longer hide. The urge to live a different life, other than the one I’d become uncomfortably accustomed to, was screaming to come out. So I did, and something clicked.

I got through the awkward family conversations and managed to keep my holiday spirits intact. I was grateful the outcome was positive, and besides some uncomfortable moments, life could go on. I’ve never looked back.

Life is a constant journey of work, but it also takes patience, kindness, and forgiveness. Looking back, I realize the dreams that seemed so impossible, were in fact, very possible. Some were easy to obtain — others felt entirely out of reach, but remembering to stay positive, lean on my community, and remain optimistic is exactly how I was able to make my dreams come true. It’s a reminder to continue to believe in myself, those I love, and the opportunities this life brings. 

As a board member of the It Gets Better Project, I write this note because I’m a testament to forging ahead. It wasn’t easy, but believing in yourself when no one else will is the first step. The beautiful thing about this world is no matter where you go, our people exist — humans who understand kindness as a currency. When we support one another, we can make amazing things happen.

The sentiment behind It Gets Better is simple because it's true. The LGBTQ+ community and this incredible organization are rooted in the power that comes from uplifting and empowering each other.

This holiday season, please join me in supporting the It Gets Better Project. We’ve seen some incredible kindness this holiday season, but we have a way to go to hit our 2019 Give Hope Challenge fundraising goal. Help us continue our critical work in 2020 and beyond!    

Shaun Lewis
Board of Directors
It Gets Better Project