Thank you, Krishen, for this very heartfelt and insightful comment.

I particularly relate when you say:

“Something that I have really stuggled with as I aim to be a more authentic gay man is not only avoiding the inauthenticity you speak about in myself but also not being attracted to it in other gay men.”

I think this statement is true for many gay/queer men. Too often, we see our attractions and “preferences” as mere fact without recognizing those desires exist within, and are impacted by, a larger social context. That context, furthermore, is one designed to oppress and divide us. It is built upon patriarchy, racism, homophobia, cissexism, and ableism.

But, if more of us “bring our authenticity to the world,” as you say, then we can begin to make change. It’s already happening.