I don’t care who you are. This is such a necessary read. If you’re sure you’re an ally, if you’re not out, if you are out, if you’re homophobic or queerphobic, if you’re in denial about being anything (like the “I don’t see color” people). You need to read this book. You need to understand the biases we all have at some level or point in our lives, intentional or not, and how to do better for ourselves and those around us. I teared up and outright cried a few times while reading this, but I still kept going. Why? Because learning isn’t always easy. I’m 100% an ally and I would like to think that I’m doing the right thing by everyone I encounter, and yet this book made me stop and wonder many times. Am I hurting someone else by making casual remarks that carry assumptions to cause shame? Am I actively showing another that I truly am the person I think I am? Most importantly, am I showing that person that they are safe and loved and can be free of shame around me? These are all so important to acknowledge and work to recognize or change, especially if we truly believe that all souls are worthy.

This author did such a fabulous job in reminding me of the importance of words and actions, thought and deed, that I would thank him personally if ever given the chance. Because some of the people he mentions in this book are people I’ve known. Not these specific people, but friends or family or acquaintances with their exact story or worries or fears. And to put all of these fears out there for the world to share in shows a bravery and authenticity that so many people, young and old alike, need in the world and in their lives. And people need to examine themselves. Not all change is easy, but many times it is necessary. And this book can help guide you in your journey to be truly accepting and loving and worthy of the stories and trust of those around you.