When students at an unidentified high school were asked to write about a "weight that [they] carry daily," one teen took the opportunity to make a big step forward: He came out of the closet.
"The knowledge of my sexuality has been with me for about 6 years now, and it was a burden for a great deal of time," wrote the author, who posted his advanced placement English paper on Reddit. "It wasn't until recently that I started to slowly lift this off of my shoulders. I've carried this for so long because of fear."
He goes on and elaborates on his thoughts of rejection, being hated and looked at differently, but bravely notes: "I care not for those who detest the knowledge. They can go off into their sad little world full of bigoted hate. I couldn't care less for them."
See the full letter below:
His teacher returned the paper with a supportive response, telling the student:
"I am honored to be a witness to this weight being lifted off. You are an amazing, dynamic, compassionate, 'with-it' young man who will give the world a gift just by you being you, offering your love and spirit. If people choose not to be comfortable with your honesty -- their loss, my friend -- their loss."
The courageous student revealed that his teacher's comments made him tear up.
As for his grade? He scored a perfect 100.
(h/t Advocate)
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