Hey everyone, we are back with a tale.

Aparna: I came across your community a few days ago and I noticed that you advice and guide teenagers with their problems, I was wondering if you could help me as well.

Teenfixer: Hi Aparna, of course will try our best to help you out :)

Aparna: Actually there is something that has been troubling me for the past few days but I am not sure how to tell it to you

Teenfixer: You can talk to me freely, don't worry what happens here stays here, you have my word.

Aparna: Umm... I think I am not straight..

Teenfixer: Can you please explain your situation more

Aparna: I don't know for sure but I think I might have a crush on one of my female friends. I can't stop thinking about her, she is constantly there in my thoughts whether I am sleeping or studying or eating, I just can't get her out of my head. Just taking her name brings a smile on my face but this is not normal. I know it isn't, how can a girl like another girl.

Teenfixer: What exactly is the definition of normal for you Aparna? Is normality defined by society's acceptance or by one's heart? Being homosexual does not make you abnormal, you are as normal as you can be in this crazy world.

Aparna: I know that being homosexual is not wrong but who will accept me? I know my parents won't, I am afraid of what they will do if they get to know the truth.

Teenfixer: I understand what you are implying but you can't let the fear of what will happen in the future ruin your present. You have your whole life in front of you and just the fear of what might happen cannot rule your life. I know it won't be easy, this is going to be a very bumpy ride but you have to walk on it someday. You don't have to do it alone though, any cousin, uncle, aunt, grandparent who you think will understand you, talk to them and try to get them on your side. Don't be afraid of this conversation. Our parents cannot stay away from us for long, they might be angry at first but in the longer run they will have to come to terms with it. You can't change yourself but they can change their thinking.

Aparna: But how?

Teenfixer: Don't throw it on them out of nowhere, drop hints and see their reaction. Take it step by step and we will be here with you at every moment guiding and supporting you through it all. If you stay silent now then no one will find out but for how long will you be able to pretend and lie to yourself. Others will say things but this is your life not others so stop worrying about what others will say or think and live your life your way.

Aparna: Alright, thank you so much I will think about this!

Teenfixer: Sure take your time, there is no need to hurry, figure yourself out, be honest with yourself and once you are confident about yourself then take the next step, i.e, coming out of the closet and remember we are always just a message away.

Aparna: Yup Thanks, Bye

Teenfixer: All the best, Bye

Aparna: :)

*THE END*

Hello Teens

With this tale we wanted to tell you that you are not alone, no matter how tall a mountain is or how rocky a path is with strong will and determination you can conquer everything. We are the new generation, we will soon become the society that we talk about. Let us make this society, our society a better one. The expectations that we have from our elders, our children will have the same from us so let us try our best to not disappoint them. If we start standing up for ourselves now then our children will not have to face these situations. If we accept our sexuality, our gender, race, color, social status and be proud of it then no one can bring us down. The struggle will not be easy but if we fight now then we will be bringing our kids into a world free of homophobia, transphobia, racism, sexism. Don't force your opinions on anyone but at the same time don't let others make your decision for you.

- TEEN TALES TEAM