Curious to know better.

‘Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back.’ I have heard this saying so many times and I've never bothered to check where it originates from. 

In many parts of the world, discussions about LGBTQ+ identities can be diverse as the individuals themselves.
These conversations are a vibrant part of their daily lives, which contributes to shaping their world around them for the better.
For someone like me who has had the least experience of living within a society that is open to the understanding of LGBTQ+ people, it all seems very foreign.

Without exposure to gay events or supportive spaces, the internet does help but has its limitations. Online forums and social media become lifelines offering a glimpse into a world that seems distant, but translating this digital connection into real-life understanding has its own challenges.

A View from the Outside.

Over the past weekend I got to see a few snippets of the Manchester Gay Pride, and it got me reflecting about my own limited experiences as a gay man living in Africa, as much as I know what I know, it is that personal lived experience of a largely diverse LGBTQ+ community that is missing.
Looking at the Manchester Gay Pride events and the online pictures and videos, show crowds of people gathering together and celebrating openly who they are, individual and unique. As I watched this, I could confidently agree inside of me that one day soon I will get to experience being in such a community.

I can understand for those who live within these environments and have for many years become accustomed to such events, may find it annoying with large crowds everywhere and some usual points challenging to access, having a sense of knowing all that will take place and the flavours of the events all being too familiar.

Hidden Realities.

In many African societies where traditional norms and societal expectations often dominate, the life for a gay individual can be fraught with complexity. The very notion of being gay is shrouded in secrecy, stigma, and outright denial. For many gay individuals this means a life largely lived in isolation, without the comfort of shared experiences or community support.

This isolation is not necessarily due to a lack of desire or interest but rather due to the limited exposure to gay communities and events. In many African societies the cultural narrative surrounding homosexuality can be one of misunderstanding or intolerance.
The lack of exposure for many gay people can create a sense of disconnection and confusion about one’s identity and how to express it.

The Quest for Understanding.

Many individuals struggle to understand their own sexuality, and this can lead to a solitary journey. One could turn inward seeking answers through personal reflection or online resources. The internet can offer a window into a broader world, providing access to stories, support networks, and information that might not be available locally. However, online resources can only go so far.

Conclusion.

Navigating life as a gay man in a homophobic African society is undoubtedly difficult, but it is also a testament to the strength of those who face such adversity.  It’s about holding on to hope, seeking support, and striving for future where acceptance and understanding prevail.

All I know is that I am truly grateful and amazingly blessed to have a lover in my life, Akin is a pillar of strength and a source of great encouragement, he has shown me that miracles happen every day, if we just pause for a moment and take the time to look.