In spite of it all, who have I become? 

This past year has put me through some unbelievable shit.

I came out to my family and friends because of my amazing girlfriend,

Only to meet disappointment such as,"How could you do this to our family?" and, "You'll grow out of this, right?"

I struggled with anxiety and depression, some days contemplating if life is worth all this,

Only to meet words of ignorance like: "Get over it, it can't be that bad," and "It's not a big deal!"

I realized that a friendship I thought was just a bit rocky was actually an abusive friendship,

Only to meet manipulation in the form of: "How could you do this to me? I love you more than all your other friends!"

I sat through a disgusting election that promoted rape culture, bigotry, and hatred,

Only to meet words of abomination like: "Muslims are terrorists!" "Gays should be fixed!" "Black lives matter? No! All lives matter!!!!!!!!"

Although this year has put me through some unbelievable shit,

I have been through some pretty great experiences. 

Five days ago I celebrated my one year anniversary with the same girlfriend everyone said was a "phase",

I was accepted into the first college of my choice, 

I have made some amazing friends, who have stood by me the whole time,

And I have figured out something I never thought I would understand:

I am who I am, and fuck those who can't or choose to not accept me. 

A year ago, I was concerned about what others thought.

Today, I am myself in every way, shape, and form.

I never thought I would be here. 

So, in spite of it all, who have I become?

Myslef.