Rainbows & Butterflies
- Mar 5, 2016
- 3 min read
Location:
Gay Pride, Sydney, NSW, Australia
Whatever your belief is, the path we take on our journey of life is not something we choose. Yes, it isn't all predetermined. We can decide to deviate from the original route slightly by the decisions that we make. However, we will still find our way following 'The Yellow Brick Road' that was originally destined for us. And while some of us may want to wear sparkly red shoes others choose a more subtle alternative. While some of us follow similar paths, each one is unique and that's what makes us all the more interesting. While society teaches us all to act a certain way and for 'Others' to be Stereotypically' flamboyantly different, one should be allowed to be themselves, not just what society imagined them to be. We are who we are, but Judge me, judge yourself!
Are we more accepting as our grasp on religion diminishes and our passion to go beyond what were thought as right and wrong as we look for answers rather than just accepting that it simply is a 'Yes' or a 'No.' Don't just give me one of those words, tell me why it is the case. One might not agree with that persons opinion, but if you tell me why, then I will respect it. While religions bring communities together and teach us to 'Love thy neighbour' not all what they preach is so 'Welcoming' especially those that have been labelled 'Different.' While the institutions at be might not be able to move into the world of 'Modern Society,' they have been left behind with their 'Archaic views.' However, their grip is still tight in many parts of the world, especially where the balance between religion and education is top heavy. While one might know the difference between right and wrong, their belief can be heavily influenced by what is 'Preached' to them!
We are who we are! Being yourself should be celebrated not hidden away! Be proud of who you are! Don't just sit there and judge, be more welcoming to those that have previously been refused entry! Don't just make your world a better place, make it a more interesting one!
For all of us, our path has been uneven with many potholes on the way. But thankfully we live in a society that welcomes diversity. Gone are the days where one was forced to stay in a darkened closet, simply because of who they are. Today, we celebrate not just those that associate themselves as being a part of 'The LGBTI Community' but those that don't fall into the parameters of what society classifies as being 'Normal.' Thankfully, we celebrate being 'Me' with the walls around us pulled down at long last! Which is why if you want to join me on a celebratory cruise around the Sydney Harbour, come not only as an acquaintance, but as my special guest! You may have judged me in the past, but I welcome you, no matter what. And if you want to come to our celebration as we spend an evening embracing our uniqueness marvelling at a parade that welcomes all, then follow me. But remember, dark clouds still lie overhead!
While Irelands journey of accepting those that associate themselves as being part of the LGBTI community has been long and hard. It wasn't until 1993 that laws against homosexuality were finally forced to change. And in the years following, our little island has gone through so much change. One can argue that this is simply down to a more educated society that no longer allows institutions that have dominated previously, to do so anymore! I don't think that those who fought for equal rights in 'The War of Freedom' could have even imagined that Ireland, our precious 'Emerald Isle' would be at the fore front of equal rights by having a referendum asking the people if they approve of changing our constitution to update the meaning of marriage to cover those that have previously been excluded! From only legalising homosexuality in 1993 to being the first country in the world to bring in gay marriage by popular vote only 22 years later. The story of our journey has been remarkable!
While the sun has been allowed to shine through a colourful rainbow, dark clouds continue to linger. Our fight for full freedom continues. At least now we have those that choose to cross the line to support something they see as someone's basic human right! Let's not let those that have not only fought but suffered too, to be in vain! For a glorious summer is on its way!
By Andrew,
A Proud Member of LGBTI!
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