11/21/2025
Showing up. Scared and proud at the same time.
These photos by capture moments I never imagined I’d have the courage to experience. Standing in front of audiences, sharing my story as a q***r trans man, letting myself be seen in ways that once terrified me.
There’s something powerful about choosing vulnerability over silence. About deciding that my story matters, that representation matters, that someone out there might need to see someone like me simply existing and thriving.
Some of these moments felt like standing on the edge of a cliff. The mic in my hand, hearts in the room, my truth in the air between us. But every time I speak, every time I choose authenticity over comfort, I find something unexpected. I find connection, I find community, I find courage I didn’t know I had.
I’m learning that being proud doesn’t mean you’re never afraid. It means you show up anyway. It means you let yourself take up space, share your truth, and trust that your story has value.
To everyone who’s ever felt too scared to be seen, I see you. Your story matters. And you’re braver than you know.
***rcoach
