After several Pride flags were stolen from my yard I experienced a myriad of emotions. First discouragement. Then a bit of anger. I started to feel alone and in total transparency I think the feeling I struggled most with was fear.
I could only guess what would motivate someone to repeatedly come into our yard and rip down our flag. If someone was brazen enough to do that…
What else might they be capable of?
More importantly. Was continuing to hang yet another Pride Flag worth the risk of finding out?
In hopes that I’d solve the mystery of the missing flags I mustered all the Queer courage in me and started talking to neighbors. I nervously walked one door to the next receiving surprise and neighborly apologies but I uncovered not a shred of evidence to quell my fear.
What I discovered is the reason I’ll continue to replace my Pride Flag, despite the fear, no matter the number of times it may disappear. A teen I’d never even seen in the neighborhood joined their father as we chatted.
“I know your house! I love seeing your Pride Flag… Thank you for not giving up.”
Those words were a gift. Simple yet so deeply meaningful. They meant I was in fact not alone in my community and Visibility Makes a Difference. Two ideas I may have questioned without having received such a message.
This inspired me to do the same.
So, when I see a home sharing messages of hope and support (be it in their yard or their windows) I send them a little note in the mail.
I want them to know they’re seen and appreciated. I want them to know that they’re not alone.