Ever feel like you just don't fit in, even in places you're supposed to? I (24m) grew up in a very conservative, religious family. It's been a journey, especially since I moved away a couple of years ago, which was when I finally felt free enough to come out to my friends and at work. Haven't broken that news to my family yet, but it's on my to-do list.

Being around my family always made me feel like a stranger. It's like I was playing a part in a play that I hadn't auditioned for. My faith is still a big part of me, but I see things differently than my family does. My version of faith involves being kind and caring for all living beings and it doesn’t matter who we choose to fall in love with.

I thought once I came out, things would click into place, and I'd find my community. But, honestly, that hasn't quite happened. I'm in a big city (Vancouver BC) with a lively gay scene, yet I still feel on the outside looking in. I'm not much for the typical scene – drag shows, bars, reality TV aren't my thing, plus I'm sober, which adds another layer of complexity to socializing.

On top of this, I’ve never actually dated anyone. The thought of starting feels daunting, almost as if I’m not ready yet, adding another layer of feeling like an outsider. It’s like there’s this whole part of life that I haven’t even begun to navigate.

It's been tough connecting with other gay guys who share my interests, and sometimes I feel even more out of the loop because I kept a big part of me hidden for almost 22 years. I see others who are so comfortable with themselves and think, "What's their secret?"

Sometimes it feels like I'm standing on the edge of two worlds but don't fully belong to either. Still, I'm hopeful there are others out there who get it, who've felt the same way. Anyone else feel like this? How do you manage these feelings and find your people? I'd love to hear from you and maybe learn a thing or two.

TL;DR: Raised in a conservative, religious home, I felt out of place, especially with my family. Moving away let me come out to friends and coworkers, but not my family yet. Even after coming out, I still feel like an outsider in the city’s gay scene, not fitting into typical social circles and being sober. I’ve also never dated, which makes me feel even more disconnected. Hidden for 22 years, I’m seeking connections with others who might share or understand my experiences. Ever felt like you’re on the fringes, too? How do you navigate it?