Page 184 of The Black Flamingo

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Come out to yourself.

Shout, sing it.

Softly stutter.

Correct those who say they knew

before you did.

That’s not how sexuality works,

it’s yours to define.

Being effeminate doesn’t make you gay.

Being sensitive doesn’t make you gay.

Being gay makes you gay.

Be a bit gay, be very gay.

Be the glitter that shows up

in unexpected places.

Be Typing . . . on WhatsApp

but leave them waiting.

Throw a party for yourself

but don’t invite anyone else.

Invite everyone to your party

but show up late or not at all.

If you’re unhappy in the closet

but afraid of what’s outside,

leave the door ajar and call out.

If you’re happy in the closet

for the time being,

play dress-up until

you find the right outfit.

Don’t worry, it’s okay

to say you’re gay and later exchange it

for something else that suits you,

fits, feels better.

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