I've known I was pansexual since like, second grade. Cognizant of it (as in, knowing I was 'different') since I was 12. Out since 13. I am now 31, so I'm really comfortable with myself, but after recently discovering my wife is a trans woman after 10 years together it has me doing a deep dive into LGBTQ history, culture, our place in society and basically just going down that rabbit hole of learning and introspection.

Recently my son asked me what the coolest thing about being LGBTQ was and on reflection, its the fact that when you meet someone else who is you instantly have something in common. It's like meeting someone with the exact same hobby as you. And you don't have to necessarily 'explain' your situation.

I started a new job recently and one of my colleagues pinged my gaydar instantly. And I asked a leading question and they responded and we've been bonding for real. We just clicked. And tbh I really do think both of us being LGBTQ is part of that bonding experience! And I've had many instances of that over the years. It's wonderful.