"The Truth About Who We Are..."

Lemuel, Student, New York City by thegaymenproject

photos by Kevin Truong

Lemuel, in his own words: "(Being gay) means that I'm happy and don't feel bad that I am a man that likes men.

It used to be a challenge to socialize in gay scenes because I was not 21 yet. Now that I'm 21 that challenge is over!

I first came out through a very close friend at the time, during my senior year of high school. She made me feel comfortable to explore my sexuality.

I don't have much expertise in the gay culture of NYC. I'm just now beginning to live in it as a 21 year old. What I can say though is everyone wants to feel free and comfortable living their lives socially, just as any straight person.

(Advice I'd give my younger self is to) Take chances, be safe, and don't be so defensive."

******

"Fear Eats the Soul"