Two years ago, exiting the movie theatre after watching Doctor Strange: Multiverse of Madness, I opened my phone while my fiancée was in the theatre bathroom, and I saw this image. For every step I'd taken towards coming out, that fiancée bullied me 3-4 steps further back into the closet. I was more repressed and insecure than I'd even been. An amazing friend to me,  SlitherEden could see (Some of) how much hate I was receiving at home and how badly it was affecting me, and he wanted to be a positive and supportive friend. He drew this as a gift for me, a gesture that he see's me and celebrates me for who I am.

I opened my phone and saw this, and immediately was filled with anxiety. The only thing that Accalia seemed to hate more than me being trans, was witnessing my friends be supportive of me. She constantly pushed a narrative that anytime anyone expressed any support for me, it was always just a ploy to shame her and make her look bad for not being supportive as well.

So, I panicked, and closed out the picture. I said nothing about it to Accalia about it when she came back from the bathroom. Later I thanked  SlitherEden, while secretly hoping Accalia wouldn't ever see it.

That was nearly two years ago. This picture, a lovely show of care and understanding from an amazing friend, was once something I felt I needed to be ashamed of and keep hidden away.

For this years Trans Day of Visibility, I've decided to, for the first time ever, publicly upload this image and let it be visible.

 SlitherEden you showed me so much care and support as a friend, and I'm so grateful that this past year has given me the opportunity to date someone as genuine and caring as you.

Happy Trans Day of Visibility

Character: Amaiya
Owner:  Amaiya
Artist:  SlitherEden