In The Life: Sean Milan

Sean Milan

I was born a poor black child. Well maybe not just black, and maybe not so poor. The truth is I've been pretty much loved, accepted and sheltered all my life, if not by my family, definitely by my communities.

It's funny that I'd use that word, "Communities" as opposed to, "Community". And man has it taken a long time to embrace the fact that I am not only one thing, in actuality I am all things. You see when I was in the 5th Grade my Dad was the one who told me I was gay. Well not straight out like "Son you're gay" more like "why do you carry yourself in these ways". That was followed with "well regardless to why, you're still my Son and I will always love you".

To this day I don't think he even knows that he set me on a path of self-discovery that would change my life forever. It led me to question not only my existence, but also my origin and my actions. Allowing me to bond and learn with people from all different walks of life. You know, the bonds of humanity are there if you embrace them.

Although it wasn't so easy in the beginning, seeing myself in others has become a reward. To know that I am not alone in my journey and to return the sentiment to others nowadays make this life worth living. They say as LGBTQXY and Z folks we get to choose our family. The fact of the matter is, everyone does. And don't worry, if you can't find who you are, who you are will find you by way of one of your "Communities."

IN THE LIFE: A story series for #30DaysOfHIV. Life experiences of Black, gay/bisexual/NGC men/trans men, told in their words. Visit www.blackaids.org to submit your story from May 27-June 27. #IntheLife #BlackBoyJoy #BlackHealth#Storytelling #GayisGood #Blackisbeautiful #community