Normally, I wouldn’t feel compelled to speak about this, but I’m the boy Dylan came out with in high school. I wasn’t really aware of all the hate he’d been getting on this issue, but I just thought people should know a little from my perspective. Dylan, at the time we were together, did not stand to gain anything from coming out, other than no longer having to hide our relationship. From the time we started seeing each other, he had voiced his fear that he’d lose the respect of his teammates and rivals, or that he’d have to stop wrestling altogether-losing an athletic career he’d spent most of his childhood and adolescence cultivating. I myself come from a Mormon background, and I had already lost support from much of my family after coming out to them privately, so there was never any pressure on my part for him to share our relationship publicly. Furthermore, even if it hadn’t been a taboo, I’d only just moved to our high school that year as a junior, and was virtually unknown to most of our peers, so there definitely wasn’t any “clout” to being in a relationship with *me*. I’d also known Dylan still had attraction to women. But that wouldn’t have really mattered to anyone; he still wanted to be dating a guy. It was a huge act of courage to share that, and certainly not one done for attention. Choosing to share our relationship story gave a platform for other kids (closeted or out) to see themselves represented, and to applaud Dylan for taking such a big risk. I’m proud of him, and even though our relationship wasn’t easy, I’m grateful we had each other as support in sharing our truth with the world.
I say, shades of gay. I've been trying to write a book about it. Growing up I was never attracted to men. I had girl friends and crushes on girls. I got married late at 32. I had kids. Then at 35 I found an attraction to men. Not all men but some. I am now married to a man and very happy. I've heard things you have. I must have been this or that... but only you know. So enjoy your shades of gay. Be happy, be you! Hugs your way and thank you for being authentic.
This. After all, the human psyche is so complicated and ever-transforming to even be boxed up in finite colors and definitions, which were also by far just defined by mere human standards. Looking forward to reading your book 💞✨
@@paolom.4646 Sexuality can be on a spectrum. I know I've been attracted to men and only men - and then a few years later only attracted to women. Depends on where you are in life, who you're around etc. Now I'm not attracted to men or women equally, I must be going through an era of being almost a-sexual.
As an older gay man who is trying to understand the new generation you really helped to explain. The idea that we, at any age, had to define, come out, choose is silly. You’ve helped me to understand my nieces and nephews better in this whole ‘fluid’ generation. Thank you Dylan
Right? No one needs to know someone's sexuality. To anyone constantly questioning other people's sexuality - stop being so sex obsessed and perhaps look at why you need to know. Internalised homophobia by any chance?
Hey man it doesn’t matter and you’re right-you owe nobody anything. It’s your life it’s no one’s fucking business, except yours who you are and what you do as long as you break no laws. I personally think this coming out business is a pile of crap. I’m 81 years old. And yes, I am out to some people I’m not to others but I don’t discuss it with them. It doesn’t matter.
I know this may sound a bit convoluted, but I do feel that our relentless need to label sexuality, especially as gay folks, almost has a slightly counterproductive effect any more. Meaning that if we didn’t feel the need to put a label onto others, like straight identifying men who experience enjoy same with someone of the same gender on occasion, then people would be more comfortable accepting that aspect of their own sexuality without fear of having to be viewed as gay. I have heard from too many gay men that the straight men I have interacted with sexually just "really aren’t straight" and wanting to force a label on to them. When in reality if you are only emotionally attracted to women and could not be romantically involved with someone of the same gender, then you are free to identify as a straight man. No one has a right to force you into an irrelevant box just to make themselves feel like they can make more sense out it.
Hi dylan. I watched your coming out video years ago as a teen and it helped me grow stronger finding representation. Im 22 now and still closeted in my tiny hidden room in homophobic Egypt. Its always great seeing you grow up and have wider prespectives about life and about yourself. Wish you all the best bro and thanks ❤️🙏
I really feel for you ☹️😢 I'm also in the closet and I don't live in a safe country to be gay either, but mine it's not as dangerous for LGBT people and as homophobic as yours. I hope you can move to a safer place in your future!
@@semprequevoceleroscomentar6717Problem with the UK is that we have a toxic Home Secretary who attacked people who are trying to move here to escape homophobic persecution and abuse (or worse). Stay safe, most people in UK are decent and welcoming to those escaping danger. Hopefully this toxic government will be gone soon.
Indeed. I don’t care and you are a handsome dude whatever the case is. I think people like to know so that they know what their possible options are with people. I’ve done it all. I love it all. Seriously love it all. You are an awesome human being. ❤
It kinda does, but not for the right and the best reasons it could since it brought him more pain than it should. Pride started in the 60's to stop violence, to promote acceptante, tolerance, to give the community the voice the voice they needed and now it shifted into something completely opposite to that because narratives are being exploited by both sides and at the end of the day individual stories, like Dylan's, are being torn appart with no gain for nobody =/
Yes it does matter. It matter for laws, for discrimination, for abuse that certain sexualities experience. So saying that sexuality doesn’t matter is like closing your eyes to reality
Just love yourself the way you are. It is enough for you to define yourself as you see yourself. That is all. You do not need larger aggregates to justify your choices. It is enough that you stand where you choose on the continuum of the sexuality spectrum...and feel good where you stand. You are allowed to redefine yourself, your definitions and your community.Just love yourself. You will find your tribe. I understand your sojourn.
I’m a gay guy in my 50s and I wasn’t aware of you or your story but the algorithm has smartly brought me to you. I love this video and your fantastic openness about a topic that my generation struggled to discuss. The fluidity of the youngest generation is transformative and the confidence and language to openly discuss it is liberating, but also challenging and downright scary to some people that just find all sexual complexity terrifying. The majority of people, across all sexual categories, like things in safe boxes. For much of the LGBT+ community, hopping in and out of boxes can mistakenly be taken as delegitimizing our very existence, because for decades a central tenant of the fight was that it’s not a choice. Historically, choice was dangerous for us as we tried to fight for our rights. But that’s slowly changing. It will take time for twitchy militant folks in our community to relax and give you beautiful upcoming voices the grace you deserve.
to all the people saying that not all gay people are 100% gay YALL need to calm down,being gay is being gay the same thing goes for bi and queer people in general,there’s no such thing as Gay enough it’s just gay,if you are having so other feelings(towards women for instance) that means you’re not gay you might be bi,pan….
@@hopeintruth5119 that’s the whole point we exist,we are gay and that will never fucking change,that’s also why I’m against the idea that “sexuality is a spectrum” because according to the definition of that term sexuality is changeable,basically that people can move across the spectrum which does not apply to the born this way fact ! We are gay and we will forever stay that way
yes but sometimes your feelings can change overtime... like you can be completely gay one day (in the sense that you only like men) and then the next day or month, something may happen to you to cause you to dislike or stop being attracted to men, and you may find that you like women so you may fall back to being straight. Or a sort of trauma may impede you from feeling attraction to women so you're only attracted to men then you may get over that trauma via a therapist. You might have a difference experience but sexuality isn't as cut and dry and simple as you think it is. Human feelings can be a trajectory. There is a lot of fluidity to it for some people, hence why some people identify as queer and reject terms like gay, pan or bi.Or sometimes reject terms altogether.
@@howler6321 sweetheart it doesn’t work that way,the thing you’re Describing called exploring another thing I study psychology,in psychology there’s something called the unaware aspect which basically present the idea that if you started having attraction towards women that mean you have never been gay,you were bi,pan you just didn’t discover that part of yourself exploring is totally fine the idea here is that if you are born gay you will die gay
I'm breathless, for all the right reasons. This was an eloquent, very thoughtful edit. It spoke volumes even though it was moderately toned. I think we live in an age, where we love to label, but often that doesn't allow space for growth. Then the fear of not being authentic enough, can crush you and inadvertently anger others. Thank you for this timely reminder to live more and worry about others' opinions of you, less.
I am an Older Gay man, and stumbled across this. I Absolutely love the way that your generation has been trying to undo the “boxes”(categories), that my generation tried to enFORCE. The one thing I Have learned in my many years, NOTHING/NO-ONE is 100%, period. The other thing that I am so Proud of your generation for doing, is just being Genuine,…… to Yourselves. Ignore the crusty, crotchety, grumpy Old People, who are afraid of change.
I too am an older gay man and while I agree that this generation is getting some things better, though arguably this is just due to natural progression, they are also becoming intolerant, closed-minded, and hateful overall. They do not accept the Right to free speech, once the birthplace of the free speech movement, Burkley has become the censorship mecca. They have dropped all the liberal virtues and beliefs that we used to fight bigotry and intolerance and traded them for censorship and extremism. We had rightly earned the acceptance of most people, we still had a way to go but we were well on our way until recently. Now because of their actions we are under attack again, laws are again being written against us, disparaging jokes have returned. They haven't undone any boxes, they have created a thousand more. How is making a thousand different versions of the pride flag progress, how many boxes does that eliminate? They have attempted to rewrite our history, even going so far as to say it was not gay people at Stonewall, it was transgendered even though people actually there dispute this. If acting no differently than the bigots of the past is something to be proud of, thank you but no, I'm happy being crotchety, grumpy, and old. I don't mind them being ungrateful little guttersnipes, they will grow out of that, I do mind the long term damage they are doing to our progress.
I agree with you on so many points, but I’m gay. Full stop. I understand other people don’t fit into that “strict label,” but I do. It’s wonderful that many others have the language now to reflect the full spectrum of their sexuality, I just wanted to say that some of us really are just gay. Also, I think one of the issues Dylan faces is that he could “pass” for straight. Their are many queer men who are, quite frankly, jealous of that, and there are layers to that… some might assume that he has an easier time being accepted because of how he presents. It’s a shame he’s had to go through all of this judgement.
@emoody79 I am sorry, but even as a black g4y man myself, i am actually starting to find some of today's LGBTQXYZ Pan-this, Cis-that, non-binary whatevers to be rather annoying. Just MORE LABELS and BOXES and Categories and even they can be rather intolerant when you either don't declare or don't fit in. I think they are also intolerant of masculinity. And this is why they hate a guy like this one. He is visibly masculine, traditionally masculine and does not feel his attraction or desires should make him change the way he presents.
I just viewed this post and was blown away by your being so open and honest! I applaud you for this and will look forward to seeing more. I'm 71 years old and can only imagine having a role model like you during my early teen years. Life would have been so much different and less stressful growing into adulthood. Please continue to post and let us all know how your life progresses. Love to you and stay the course.
You live your life! You live who you love! Take it from someone who went through hell coming out ! I went to so many funerals of friends who died from AIDS and realized life is too short to worry about anyone's opinion! You be whoever you want to be! Love who you want to love! You have one life, and it belongs to you! Live it!
One of your best heartfelt posts I've ever watched Dylan. I've miised seeing you, but everyone at some ponit in their lives reaches a point where we just have to disconnect and travel on our own journey of discovery. I wish you the very best in any and all of your future endeavors. The road ahead of you may be a long one, but until we take that first step, we'll never really find the answers we're all looking for whether gay, straight or any other name we choose to associate with.
As someone who has been working in diversity and inclusion work and being a musician, I think it is important to realize that many creative people don't work within defined lines. It goes with creativity. Glad you are being courageous in staying open in your journey.
@jesterofcards9023 Im sorry but how is labeling yourself "empowering"? If you label youself, it just means you're aware of the state you are in at the time you label yourself. Oscar Wilde, a famous playright, said 'To define is to limit'. defining who and what someone is impedes on who and what they have the potential to become. For instance I can say "I'm straight". But in actuality, because the concept of "time" exists, labels are actually limiting, and can be contradictory. Eventually I may realize Im bisexual so the label of strajght was essentially only useful to help people understand my sexuality at the time I said it. How can I say I accept myself as straight when another hurdle may come that may push me to rethink my sexuality and identity. Labels should not define us, they should be viewed as a temporary thing. Their use,consciously or subconsciously, put people into categories and boxes. Avoiding labels isn't fearing them, especially if you yourself are confused on what to label yourself as. I would even argue that consistent use of labels create division, they breed hate and conflict rather than unity. You shouldnt label people as black and white in casual conversation, you should just label them as people.Not stuff like: Nerd, Jock, Liberal, Conservative, Girly girl,Tomboy. Labels like this create and brew up stereotypes. We do not need to emphasise our differences to others, but we should share them as one. Labeling people can encourage stereotypes. Avoiding labels is freedom, you don't have to constrict yourself to one thing.Labels can be unrealistic and unreliable; people are always prone to change. You are not an object or robot whose experience will remain stagnant via programming, you are a person , living an experience and experiences can change how you view yourself and the world. If putting your identity into a box helps you understand yourself better, then you do you but do not try to label others on how you judge their identity. Nor attach stereotypes to that judgement.
@@howler6321 In my opinion labels aren't empowering, but have a sense of comfort to those who chose to go by a label. The comfort coming from finding a word that describes how you see yourself or feel. But in general I don't really think people should shame others for not labeling themselves and vice versa.
Labeling themselves is not a bad thing, since it’s more personal and allows people to accept themselves. BUT the second people start labeling other people that’s when labeling is not good because it is disrespectful and stupid. So it’s 50/50, there’s definitely a beauty is saying “I’m gay” but you know, then there’s those people who ruin everything for everyone
Of all the years that I've been on the Internet, I've never seen such an open and honest view of ones own experiences and introspective. I love how you preach the latin tern "Temet Nosce", or "Γνῶθι σεαυτόν" (the top Delphic Maxim of Greek culture). I've never met nor seen someone that actually thinks like I do, who understands what queer is and does such a good job explaining it. .. I'm so glad that I got to hear this testimonial/talk. To say watching this video was inspiring, would be an understatement. Thanks for taking the time to make it.. ...Much
“You can please some of the people all of the time, you can please all of the people some of the time, but you can’t please all of the people all of the time”. John Lydgate I really enjoyed watching your video. You come across being genuine and honest. Looking forward to watching more of your videos. Thanks for sharing! ❤
You owe no explanation whatsoever, Dylan! You're an amazing individual, and I honestly love following you. You're an amazing inspiration, and I hope someday our paths will cross so I can thank you for being such a great influence in my life!
Youre coming out video is one the reasons it made it easy for me to come out as well a few years ago. Cant wait to see your next video, hope you can make more videos consistently 😁
The only reason I want to know someone else's sexuality is to feel connected to them. But I also understand that there are others who want to know for the complete opposite reason - to condemn you because they somehow feel better about themselves. Ultimately it comes down to you being authentically you. And that is what matters the most. Because when you are honest with who you are, we are all better for it! ❤
Dylan, you are so authentic, and many people fear authenticity. It reminds them of their unprocessed emotions, their humanity and vulnerability. Often people want to lose their sense of self in sameness, their fear of inadequacy, but not you. You are living your truth, your unique print, which is what we all came to do (except most forgot). Your courage and authenticity are inspiring and amazing; I send you much love on your journey. 🙏
I just don’t understand people’s obsession with labels. We are all so busy trying to pigeon hole people into buckets that we are ignoring that most people don’t fit cleanly into them. It’s so annoying. I’m enjoying your stream of consciousness videos. Good luck on your walking mission. Thanks for putting yourself out there and being vulnerable.
@Jester Of Cards the spectrum has 2 ends that can be binary, the thing is that there is a lot of bisexuals in the spectrum that are forced to an end and that's why there is so much confusion since they never were hetero or homo. More like there is 3 categories hetero, bi and homo, with bi being the fluid one since homo and hetero can't be changed because there is no attraction at all towards the other. I can put examples of situations that can be seen and replicated, but it would be too long, also is hard for me to express myself in English since is not my first language, I tried my best to explain what I meant, sorry if there is mispronunciation.
I've never seen any videos of you until this one popped up. I'm early GenX and have always believed we all should embrace sexual orientation fluidity. We all change and evolve, and we relate to individual persons uniquely. But there are always haters. We have the choice to adopt any label we want because that's all they are: labels. No generalizing category label ever accurately describes an individual. Gender, sexual interest, preferences, sexual orientation, romantic orientation… they're all artificially delineated zones in a multidimensional landscape of spectra. Politically it is helpful in a repressive society, which ours still is, however be it better than when I was 21, to adopt a public label, at least for moments in our lives. As individuals, we should transcend that BS and accept that and celebrate that no label should or will ever contain us. The people that hate or pressure others to conform to a label are struggling with their own need to fit in and understand themselves. It's not your duty to enable them by conforming, not even pretending to conform. It was a huge community fight back circa 1990 to get the B added to our LGCC (Lesbian and Gay Community Center), yet we did it. It kills me that the would-be enforcers of monosexual orientation, that would encompass romantic and sexual activity partner preferences, still demand conformity to their misguided notions. "Community" members who act as such enforcers are no better than the deniers of queerness in all its expressions, gender, who and how we f¶¶¶ or love or spend our time with other individuals and under what circumstances. These so-called "community" enforcers are equal hindrance to freedom of gender, sexual, romantic, relationship expressions, such as the Far White-er-Far Right. They're wrong. Only you know what is right; yet that requires you dispense with conformity to others' rules and define yourself, as well as permitting yourself to recognize all the fluidity and evolution you experience in your life.
Dude thanks so much for addressing biphobia. I identify as a cis male and my pronouns are he/him. Still dealing with my trauma when dating women cuz of how attacked I am for my homosexuality.
You’re very eloquent. No one that is living their truth should consider validation to be a priority for their journey. Self love and acceptance is the only necessity. Stay strong and be proud. Your honesty and perspective is beautiful!
People caring so much about other people's sexuality is so odd to me. I'm in a similar situation as you and I nearly lost friends over it. I've been using the term "gay" to describe myself since I was 15 (I'm 25 now), because it's the one that's easiest for me. 99% of my attraction is towards women, so saying I'm bi opens doors I don't want open. I don't want guys to hit on me, because most of the time it would be a waste of time for everyone involved. But any time I have a conversation about (my) sexuality that goes a bit deeper, I do mention, that, once in a blue moon, there are men I do find attractive, so it's not like I lie about it or keep it a secret. Nevertheless, some friends took it personally when I started dating my now-boyfriend. As if that erases the fact that I have exclusively been in relationships with women in the past or have a strong preference (quantity-wise, not quality-wise) for women. I know binaries make people comfortable because they're easy to understand, but trying to pressure other people into them because of that is just lazy...
Well, when you use your sexuality to garner an audience for attention/monetary value, then that matters. If you make being gay your whole identity in front of a large audience, then once you get bored of it, become straight again. It definitely gives of exploitative vibes.
A man is never attracted to a woman. These are disorders that are present in them. In nature, no animal can fuck a female 100 times a year. There is no contraceptive. They just tell themselves that they are attracted to women.
I am so GLAD I was born in '83 and that I experienced life before and after this internet age we live in now. When I "came out" in high school, I told all my friends and family, but everyone else was oblivious. Thank GOD no one outed me to everyone else and my friends were the BEST. Just because you live in a world that is always posting and sharing portions of their lives, does not mean you are privy to ALL aspects of their life. They still get to have privacy. People need to chill. Sorry you had to go through this buddy and thanks for sharing this experience for everyone else having to deal with this mess.
Где вы проживали, когда вышли из шкафа? Мне показалось, что вы утрированно относитесь к интернету. Это в США и Европе сексуальная революция произошла в 60-70. Для остального человечества это прошло почти незамеченным. И любой другой ребёнок в традиционных, религиозных обществах, в автократичных странах пребывает в тотальном одиночестве в момент осознания своей инаковости. Where were you living when you came out of the closet? It seemed to me that you have an exaggerated attitude towards the Internet. It was in the USA and Europe that the sexual revolution occurred in the 60-70s. For the rest of humanity, this went almost unnoticed. And any other child in traditional, religious societies, in autocratic countries is in total loneliness at the moment of realizing his otherness.
I have followed you from the beginning and I must say my respect for you as a person just continues to grow and expand as to me progresses. Also, you are an incredibly gifted orator!!! Finally, in my capacity as a psychologist, I have referred a number of my struggling LGBTQ+ adolescents to your channel over the years - and they all have felt better for the experience! So, thank you, Dylan!!! Much love & respect from PA!!!
I’m 41. I’ve been out since I was 16. Unfortunately I know all too well how toxic, militant, and combative the gay community can be internally. Fortunately that’s taught me to value love in whatever form it comes in. While definition is important, nothing is ever one thing or another. If people at large understood that, the world would be a better place in so many ways. Your truth is valid just as much as mine is. I see you. And I’m here for all the self discoveries.
Thank you for this. Your video has helped me realize a lot about my own identity and where I am with that. I'm still figuring myself out and there are many experiences that have changed me along the way. Just as I'm sure it has happened for you or others, so thank you for always being real Dylan.
Dylan, I just want to give you the thumbs up for your honesty, it is so refreshing to have a young person such as yourself give their testimony in a valued way, and helping others who are struggling with mental health issues, some hope. I am a lot older than you and yet you have given me some good advice, also I apricate your poetry and have recently purchased your book, I have been Bleeding, enjoyable. and I follow your talent on the piano and singing, again great stuff. Always remember those that take your values matter the most, family and friends . best of luck on your self repairs while you are walking. cheers and stay safe Paul
If more of us would live by this motto "live and let live" and stop judging others without having walked in their shoes then our world would certainly be a better place!
Your honesty is even more beautiful than your physicality. I admire you, young man, for your vulnerability and bravery. Always choose the truth and you will have a happy life! With love and respect, Pops.
Even though I’m completely gay, there is absolutely a spectrum and it’s harmful to try to label people in a specific place. Im so glad you’re able to speak about this! X 💖
@@user-zs9rs9iv6w that’s fine. But maybe just go read up about the science around this area and come back (and look at how many likes your comment has got compared to mine just saying)
You can never be perfect enough just like how you can never be gay enough. The best you can do is try your best. I believe in you... btw, other people's opinions about you is just that. Other peoples opinions. 🌈👬🏳️🌈
I’m completely gay, but people literally never know unless I tell them. I don’t have any feminine mannerisms, I have a deep voice, and I am very tall. But I’ve had people tell me in my life that I was lying about being gay. One person was a lesbian who literally thought I made the whole thing up. Or she thought I didn’t really know myself. But I’ve been getting huge crushes on boys since I was like 6 years old. So many people question our validity as queer people. Thanks for saying you don’t owe anyone an explanation of your sexuality. It’s a nice reminder.
You do not need to apologize…I’ve been following you since I was a freshman in HS. Your story back then gave me that confidence to come out. It is really unfortunate that some people feel entitled to such personal information just because someone is a public figure. Keep on keeping on, and enjoy your journey across the country!
Hi Dylan. This video appeared to me out of the blue. As many do each day. I have absolutely, positively no idea who the hell you are. But, I love everything you said, and the way you expressed yourself. Such a complicated issue about something that really shouldn't be so complicated. So many more important issues and problems in this world that need fixing and solving... but still...here we are. Anyway dude, I truly enjoyed watching and listening to you in this video. You are a sincere, well-spoken, thoughtful and kind person. All the best to you in 2024. I will Google you now to better educate myself as to who you are and where you're from.
Thank you for opening up in that video! You’ve also been really inspiring to me. I also struggle about putting a label on my sexuality (not just because of other people but also because I feel so stressed that I don’t know it for myself) so yeah idk I feel like life would be so much easier if you were just 100% straight…. . That’s why I also feel like I will never be really “happy” about not being straight… . But whatever. It was really facilitating to see that you also weren’t always sure about your exact sexuality. Again, thank you for opening up about lgbt topics! Greeting from Germany
Storms are in your area, stay safe and dry Dylan! Crazy weather while you're walking. Oh, and I can't wait to see what you do with your channel and what new things you have to bring to the table. Good to see you.
Well said, Dylan - thank you for addressing this. I most appreciated the idea you shared, that a person is valid just by existing. It's so true. You don't have to find someone else who's like you to feel validated. Each person has worth inherent in their own existence, regardless of what anyone else thinks or whether or not there's another person with whom to "lump them together." That's absolutely unnecessary. And anyone who's not straight, cis-gender belongs to the LGBTQIA+ community & should be accepted as such.
I have never heard of this guy and stumbled across this post. I really appreciate his candor and like the way he presents these labels. Dylan, good luck to you.
Same here. This video just came to me this morning out of the blue. I have no idea who he is, but watched and listened all the way to the end. And I got a lot out of it... even made me like and care about a complete stranger. I will Google him now to better educate myself.
I appreciate you for you. The man you are, son, boyfriend, wrestler, poet, influencer, military man. You are all this and so much more. Being queer is the topping, flair, your "je ne sais quoi". Take care my friend.
Your sexuality is but a single facet on the diamond that is your being. It is an important part of who you are, but it is still just one part of your complex nature. People need to respect that, including members of our own community. Gay, straight, bi, etc it shouldn't be considered a big deal. What should be considered a big deal is your happiness and contentment in yourself and that part of who you are as a person. Sending some love and positive vibes from Texas ❤✌🏻
Thank you for sharing your experience openly and honestly. Sexuality is a very complex topic especially sexual identity. You do you, if anyone doesn’t accept it they aren’t worth your time! Be safe out there .
I was calling myself queer in the 1980's. Same reactions. Own yourself just like you're doing. Be you, love who you want to love. I respect you and thank you for your honesty.
If there’s anything being in the “lgbt” community has taught me it’s that we’re on our own, we always have been, as individuals, We might be grouped into the “Straight community” or “gay community”…. But we’re all individuals not a hive mind.
All that matters is you be 100% you! Who you love, how you love, that you love is 100% your own business and no one else’s! Thank you for sharing your truth brother.
Dylan, i happened on this video. Thank you so much for sharing your challenges and your ways of handling them. I am an older man and not out. Perhaps listening to your story will guve the courage to take that first step. Much appreciative. Hugs and love
We may not owe anybody anything but we owe God something, and since we wanna address everything else it would be good to address what we owe to God above what we owe to ourselves, because without God we couldn’t put one foot in front of the other. WE want to tell everyone else how to live when we can’t even run our own lives and people wonder why they need God, and God is not the problem, it’s the devil, the devil and OUR BAD CHOICES. Like everything else it’s a fight of Good vs Evil. Read your bible
I have so much respect for you Dylan with everything you've done. You were my inspiration to come out to my family and be proud of my sexuality. Thank you for this video and continue to do what inspires you!
All queer people are queer some just express it more and some less ,those that express it can each express it in their own way and ain't nobody gonna tell you that your way is not valid . Be you it's the only thing you can be.
It sucks that people feel the need to label everything and everyone. Not everyone is the same yet they can share some characteristics such as sharing sexual interests. When you make one label you create a stereotype but a lot of people will not relate to that label because not everyone is the same. Thats why a lot of people relate more to the queer title as it's not as limiting to a stereotype. Our community is very loving but it's also a very toxic place and we need to work on that.
Dylan, been aware of your journey since it’s beginning. Your sharing yourself and talents has added to my experience this life. It’s good to know you’re doing well…still challenging, exploring and growing.🙏
Dude, take you’re own advice and know that you have value just because you exist. I’ve never seen you before but you’re clearly young, strong, well-spoken, good looking, apparently healthy and with resources so just relax about your sexuality. No one else’s opinion but yours really matters in this instance. It’s all you, Boo.
I didn’t figure out I was Pan until I was 50. I have been attracted to all types of people my whole life but didn’t know what to say besides Queer until I heard the Pan term. You’re lucky to be so educated and aware of what You are is ever changing.
Im glad someone is speaking the truth. No one owes an explanation for who they are attracted to. There's more people like you than would post online. You're brave. And that is remarkable
Congratulations! I think those reflections are so important to point out, 'cause it's all about embracing who we are individually, without having to account for it to anyone. It shouldn't be about breaking with a stipulated norm and fall into another one that is just as exclusive and dictating, which makes it simply the only side of the same coin. The "community" has good things, but it's only sensible addressing the fanatical identity banner-like toxicity and paradoxical "mandatory" or adequate way of revealing your liberty and demeanor. "Queer", yes, such a beautiful word. I always loved it, it's special for me: it embodies the out of norm difference, respect, ambiguity, freedom to be not straight or gay, not trans, not bi or pan, but to be just you. Those are labels that one can relate with in minor or major degree, that can help in a certain point of your life to find out who you are and that are okay to use, but those shouldn't become closed identity categories, nor any other label in the world . Queer, oh yeah.
Awesome video! Thank you for sharing these heartfelt thoughts. I hope you will have a wonderful life, and I hope everyone who watches this video will absorb what you've said and be more understanding of others.
This really resonated with me because I have never denied my feelings towards other genders, however I exclusively date men in this time of my life. I constantly have to remind my straight friends that I am not technically gay, but I am definitely not straight. Queer was the only label I felt fit my situation better. This was immensely validating to hear.
Hi Dylan, I'm a 17 year old guy and I identify as bisexual. Obviously not set in stone but it's what I'm comfortable with for now and have been for awhile. Hearing what you said about biphobia and erasure is so validating. It's definitely rough out here but your understanding and acceptance is amazing. You seem so genuine and unapologetically you, which is what I aspire to be someday. You're valid however you identify. Be well ❤️
Dylan… Thank you for posting this. I totally understand exactly what you’re saying, and how you feel. You know inside your heart how you feel, and what you feel. I feel similar, and know how it feels to have people try to place labels on you. We need to all get away from labels, we need to just accept people and allow themselves to just live their authentic lives.
I've had people tell me the very same things because I'm masculine in my manner & not effeminate, but that's just not me to be effeminate, I've had some people even in my own family try to shame me back into the closet, I explained that there may have been a time when I first came out (age 41) but that those days are long gone & I'd burned the closet down when I came out, but I'm very proud of you for being you, Saying it loud, I'm Gay & I'm Proud. 🌈 ❤️😊.
Excellent video! Thank you for sharing your story. 🥰 I grew up in Texas having to suffer the tiny minds of the late '70s, always being bullied until I learned to fight, then they learned this queer packs a punch. All my hope your message reaches those who benefit from knowing they're not alone. 🤗
Watched your first coming out video and now this… you’ve beautifully executed what’s wrong with the community but I’m so proud of how far you’ve come keep being you Dylan
You think it's tough now?!! I had to come out in the middle of the 80's at 15 yo. The 80's were BRUTAL. THAT was a TOUGH TIME. Best for you - live your best life... you only get one.
Wow, wow , wow! Clearly I've been living under a rock for not knowing about you but you're incredible! Not only are you crazy hot but what you had to say and the way you said it...lets just say my mind is blown. Don't sell yourself short, that was fucking eloquent and so well said.. IT NEEDED TO BE SAID! Good for you saying how you feel and how what our community has done has clearly made you feel unwelcome .You NEED to be yourself and live your reality. Life is a fucking journey of experience and growth. No one stays the same, ever! Don't let anyome.try to put you into their bottle. Celebrate yourself and those people who encourage you to be happy, being whomever you want to be, loving whomever you want to love. Much love and support for you!
I think the most significant part of what you shared was towards the end when you made the point that others (particularly in the community) are struggling with their own *need* to view you or others as a perfect fit for themselves. BTW: Didn't really know of you until today when I happened upon this page. I did look at older content post this one. I think that you are on target. You simply have grown to be a person with a voice that I will continue to check in on.
Hey Dylan, I have to be honest that I don't know you that well. I have been checking on you from time to time during the past few years but I honestly believe that you are genuinely good person and you deserve to be happy and loved and I wish you all the best in your journey in life.
I don't think you should waste your time and energy to find a label that exactly describes your sexuality. If someone asks you about it, just say you swing wherever you like. I'm gay but I don't always seek solace in my community because I don't feel like I fit in and our lgbtq community can be very unwelcoming sometimes. But it depends, because sometimes you meet the right people and sometimes you don't. Its no surprise that even ignorant people can be inside the community. I realised that what I need is not necessarily the lgbtq community but a group of people that will accept, understand and love you unconditionally. I feel really bad for you that you went through all of that, keep being strong.❤
Don't listen to anyone, listen to your own heart. In this political climate, people are ignorant, people are stupid, people are brainwashed and people will only choose to listen and accept popular opinions. And this applies to both leftists and rightists. They don't know the hell they're talking about because they only know what they've been told so but never actually put thought into what they belief. I'm so furious about the comments. Take care of yourself and stay safe.❤❤❤
Hi Dylan, I just Watched your coming out video and now I’m watching this one. First of all I wanted to thank you for sharing your coming out experience. It was very motivating for me to hear that you don't have to be afraid of what others think, if they are really my friends and they care about me, then they will accept me as I am and if they don’t, that's okay. Then, my advice for you is to be away of those people who try to make you fix in any stereotype that they think “you really are”. You don’t need to fix with any person or group, you just have to be happy with yourself and the people who you care and love. A huge from Perú my friend :)
i’ve identified as lesbian for a few years now and recently i’ve started questioning that again. i’ve felt so much pressure about labels and answering peoples questions etc, the way you speak about being queer resonates a lot, thank you xx
Identities/labels are both fascinating and incredibly frustrating from a human psychology standpoint. We all need to label ourselves to some extent as that is just how our brains work and it helps us make sense of the world, but the downside is so often those labels become embedded in our psyche and that primal/judgmental/defensive mentality comes out of people as a result. I get why we need/use labels so much, hopefully one day the link between a label an ones identity can be separated and people can just live and let live.
People will judge you no matter what. So most importantly just be true to yourself and be happy. We love who we love and the hell with labels......Let your love flow wherever it takes you. Life is to short to worry about other peoples insecurities......@ DylanGeick let love and peace surround you heart...
You’re a beautiful person Dylan. You are correct no one owes an explanation of their sexuality to anyone. It’s how we are born! Please look at The Kinsey Scale and see that along with so many human factors, eye color, hair color etc. sexuality is on a spectrum. Peace my friend.
Dang, I loved this. You are an awesome guy, you should be proud of your internal self-reflection and growth. You have overcome the influence of others and found yourself. Powerful stuff here makes me so excited for your generation to take over!
I've seen Dylan react to some comments saying he's not gay enough or if he's turned straight cause of a picture. Honestly ppl should just leave them alone
honestly slay. people need to stop forcing others to define themselves, your sexuality is none's business. you shouldn't even try to define yourself if you don't feel the need to. I'm really sorry for everything you've been through because of those people. I wish you to live your life to the fullest
