?????? ?????? ???????? ???????????????

This image resonated with me so strongly I found it important to share. All of us within the LGBT community have experienced this more than once. No matter how proud or public we are with individuals there is always a hint of reluctance about sharing your “full self”. This is not limited to just the workplace, the struggles of answering simple questions often leads to these mental gymnastics, too simply answer an innocent question.

Years ago, I would never have followed the yes is in this diagram at the fear of judgment, exclusion, and quite honestly fear. Limiting myself from being able to answer this question, and other simple questions like it, stopped me from being able to meet my full potential. It was about fitting the mold which caused so much limitation on my creativity and self-growth.

This all being said, I put it out to the world not to change everyone’s mind but to continue to grow an Ally a day. As more individuals see the value in differences between people and advocate for an environment where opinions are valued, and talents are recognized, cultivated, and rewarded, we start believing in respecting people for their differences.

This goes well beyond just LGBT, it's about embracing diversity and differences such as gender, age, and ethnicity, or less apparent differences such as educational background, religion, even things such as where someone grew up.

Life isn't always meant to be easy but limiting yourself to be you, no matter the circumstance, will ultimately drain you. So, be you, be your full fabulous self. #NoLimits #StrengthInBeingDifferent 

#whyinclusionmatters #thefuturerallys #thefutureis #lgbt #pride #gaypride #lgbtpride #chicagopride #LAMBDA #WeStandTogether #diversity #inclusion #pride2021 #pridemonth