How to Support LGBTQ+ Rights: A Guide for Allies.

Hello, Jhana’s supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope everyone had a pleasant Valentine’s Day with their loved ones. I released my book on Valentine’s Day, so you can order it on draft2digital. Honestly, I had no idea being a self-published author would bring me so much joy. I finally feel great about a book that I published.

I also learned keeping my books in stock and then taking them down is unprofessional. So, I am working with my book editor to keep my books professional to avoid having to take them off the shelf. It’s a lot of work, but I am prepared for the challenge.

I also want to say that I haven’t found time to do my videos. Hopefully, I will find more time once my comic class is over. And I still don’t know when I will graduate; I should find out in the next few weeks. Now, let’s get into today’s blog. 

My friends and family gave me permission to write this blog because this needs to be talked about. On Facebook, I post memes about the LGTBQ+ community and my support for it. After my most recent post, someone told me I was sick and needed help because of mental illness. 

Mental illness does not involve standing up for the LGBTQ+ community or being a part of it. Mental illness and mental health revolve around depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, and many other conditions. That’s what mental illness and mental health encompasses. My friend Autumn and my cousin Mokihana are as much part of this world as anyone. Just because they are gay does not mean they aren’t humans, just like any straight person. Being gay, bisexual, or trans is not a choice; it’s an identity, something someone’s born with. And it’s not right to tell others who you think they should be. Remember that no one’s opinion matters but your own.

Understanding LGBTQ+ Terminology and Issues

Understanding LGBTQ+ rights is a journey that requires familiarizing yourself with the terminology. So, let’s break down all the essential terms together.

A lesbian describes a woman attracted to another woman.

Gay primarily means that a man is attracted to another man.

Bisexual defines someone attracted to both women and men. 

Transgender describes someone whose gender identity differs from the one they were assigned at birth. 

If you want to read more about the terminology, check out this website.

There’s also another term I’m sure most of you have heard.

Queer is a self-identifying term that defines someone who does not identify as strictly heterosexual or cisgender. It means their sexuality and/or gender identity falls outside the traditional binary norms.

I am still unsure what this term means and won’t pretend to do. So, I probably won’t talk about this part in the blog for now. I will discuss this specific identity later if I learn more about it. But, for now, I’ll just talk about the rest because I am familiar with them. 

I’m not going to lie: When I was in high school, hanging around gay or lesbian individuals used to bother me. It creeped me out. But I wasn’t someone who would say something because I didn’t want to be rude. Then, I started spending a lot of time around my cousin Moki and met her friend, Autumn, who is from Nevada. I knew my cousin was bisexual, but I did not think she would be with a woman. I’ve learned to accept it with time because it has nothing to do with me. I wouldn’t want them to treat me any differently if I were a part of the LGBTQ+ community. And this applies to everyone. My friends and family are nice people; they just want to be accepted like everyone else. So why treat them any differently? They are humans and have the right to live in society, just like anyone I know. 

Instead of judging members of the LGBTQ+ community, you should get to know them. They have feelings just like you and me and don’t deserve to be disrespected. Being told that I have a mental health problem just because I support this community is an outlandish thing to say. So here I am, standing up for what I believe in.

The Importance of Being an Ally

Being an ally is not just about standing in solidarity with LGBTQ+ individuals; it’s about being an integral part of the advocacy. Your role as an ally is crucial. I’ve spent years learning and understanding these definitions, both on my own and with the help of my family and friends. To be a great ally, you should learn, listen, and advocate for those in the LGBTQ+ community. 

As an ally, you can create a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals to express themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination. By actively supporting LGBTQ+ rights, allies help foster a more inclusive society for everyone. 

Ways to Advocate for LGBTQ+ Rights in Your Community

There are many ways to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights within your community. You can start by educating yourself and others about the prevailing issues, LGBTQ+ organizations, and available resources. Another way to familiarize yourself is by attending events like pride parades and workshops to show your support. Honestly, I haven’t gone to those types of places before. 

You can also volunteer or donate to the local LGBTQ+ organizations that provide resources, advocacy, and support. Advocating for inclusion is very important. 

Engaging in Conversations and Challenging Discrimination

Engaging in meaningful conversations about LGBTQ+ rights is essential for driving change. This can include discussing the topic with friends, family, and colleagues.

I’m the type of person who will support anyone and everyone. I refuse to let my friends and family be treated like shit because someone doesn’t agree with their ways. As I’ve mentioned at the beginning of the article, someone’s sexuality and gender identity have nothing to do with you, so you have no right to tell them what you think.

There is an old saying that I live by. I don’t know who originally said it, but it says, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” I went a bit further with this quote: “Don’t judge a book by its cover without knowing what the book is about.” In this instance, the book is the entire LGBTQ+ community. 

My great-grandpa taught the family another old saying: "If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything.” So, instead of bullying people, you should get to know them for who they are. I love all of my gay and lesbian friends and family members, and so should you.

Thank you for letting me talk about this, as it needed to be said. I have mental health struggles, but it has nothing to do with what I believe in. So anyone who has shit to say about my friends and family, keep your damn opinion to yourself. 

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True Love Vs Unconditional Love: Understanding the Differences

Hello, Jhana’s supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope you’re all doing well. I’m thrilled to share that my new book, “Finding Acceptance,” is now available on Draft2Digital. You can head over to my website to purchase it. This is a moment of immense joy and pride for me, and I couldn’t have done it without your patience and support. You are the greatest! Now, let’s get into today’s blog.

Valentine’s Day has passed, and I would like to reflect on the difference between unconditional and true love.

 

Defining True Love: Characteristics and Qualities 

True love involves a deep emotional connection, mutual respect, and a commitment to each other’s well-being. It’s about a genuine appreciation for one another, including their strengths and imperfections. 

When you find true love, you find your life partner. You both care about each other’s happiness and well-being. This balance is essential for a lasting relationship. When you love someone, you should express it through actions and words. 

Unconditional Love: What It Means and How It Manifests

Unconditional love is a type of love that is free of limitations or conditions. It means loving someone regardless of their circumstances. For example, my other half loves me regardless of disability, appearance, or fashion choices. He fell in love with who I am as a person, not because of anything superficial.

Unconditional love, while incredibly powerful, can also present challenges if one partner feels taken for granted or their needs are consistently overlooked. Understanding the nature of unconditional love is a crucial step toward leading a healthy and fulfilling life. 

Comparing True Love and Unconditional Love: Key Differences 

The difference between true and unconditional love lies in the presence of conditions. True love is based on mutual respect and requires both partners. Unconditional love, on the other hand, does not expect anything in return and remains steadfast regardless of circumstances. 

True love can evolve and change as the experiences and growth of both individuals shape it. However, unconditional love is often constant, irrespective of the relationship dynamics. 

The Role of Conditions in Love: Healthy Boundaries Vs Unconditionality

Healthy boundaries are essential in any relationship, including true love. True love still requires respect and support. However, unconditional love may sometimes lead to unhealthy relationships if one partner feels they must tolerate negative behaviors or situations. Understanding the importance of boundaries can help you avoid the pitfalls of unconditional love while still experiencing its strength. 

Finding Balance: Navigating True Love and Unconditional Love in Relationships

True love and unconditional love require self-awareness and open communication. A healthy relationship involves openly and fearlessly talking about one’s feelings and needs. Couples also need to understand their intentions and boundaries.

I’ve never had this in any of my previous relationships until I met the love of my life. I always thought I was in love, but it turned out that I just didn’t want to be alone. I was in love with the idea of love, not the person I was with. But everything changed when I first met my partner. 

I finally realized I was only fooling myself before. I’ve found that if you feel like you’re the only two people left on the planet when you look into each other’s eyes, you've found your perfect match. I know I have.

I will discuss this topic more next week but focus more on the LGBTQ+ community. 

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Why You Shouldn’t Compare Yourself to Others: Embracing Your Unique Journey

Hello, Jhana’s supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope you’re all doing well. I started my second attempt at the comics class on February 3rd. I am determined to pass this time around so I can graduate. Although I don’t know my new graduation date yet, I’m very excited.

I’m also learning to manage my time more effectively, and I have changed my schedule again. Even though I have assignments due on Fridays, I aim to start writing my blog for Jhana’s Writing Journey on Fridays as well. Then, I can finish it on Saturdays. I also plan to write articles for Unwritten on Saturdays, finishing them up on Sundays. Another thing I want to say before I get started with this blog is that I still haven’t found time to film my YouTube videos, but I’m working on it. For now, I’m focusing on the articles, my book, and other projects. There’s a lot going on in my life these days. 

Now, let’s get into today’s blog. Have you ever compared yourself to others because you feel they have more to offer than you? It’s human nature; we all do that. The problem is that comparison can hurt you in the long run. I’ve learned that lesson first-hand.

The Dangers of Comparison: Understanding the Impact on Mental Health

Comparison can lead to low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy. If you compare your worth to others’, you will likely end up depressed and dissatisfied. 

Furthermore, comparison breeds envy and resentment, both toward the other person and yourself. If you focus on someone else's success, you will feel bitter, which only detracts from your own happiness. It’s essential to recognize your own worth so you don’t trap yourself in a vicious cycle of comparison. 

Celebrating Your Unique Path: The Importance of Individuality

Every individual embarks on a unique journey filled with diverse experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Embracing this individuality is a catalyst for personal growth. It allows you to appreciate your own strengths and weaknesses without the pressure of other people’s standards, inspiring you to reach new heights. 

Understanding your self-worth is not just important; it’s imperative when following your own life path. Such self-acceptance fosters resilience and empowers you to pursue your passion with confidence and self-assurance. 

How Social Media Fosters Comparison and What You Can Do About It

Social media isn’t always a good idea. It can cause you unnecessary pain by making you feel inadequate. That’s why you have to learn how to approach social media. Everyone is unique and special in their own way, so comparing yourself to something you see on someone’s social media page isn’t going to help you. Most people only post the highlights of their lives. Constant exposure to these picture-perfect posts can intensify feelings of inadequacy and comparison.

To uplift yourself, try following accounts that inspire you and make you feel better instead of those that trigger negative comparisons. It’s also beneficial to take breaks from social media once in a while. That way, you can reconnect with your own life and values. 

Shifting Your Mindset: From Comparison to Inspiration 

Instead of viewing others’ achievements as a benchmark for your success, try to see them as sources of inspiration. Shifting your focus will allow you to see the journeys of others while remaining concentrated on your path.

If you are grateful, you will practice acknowledging your accomplishments, no matter how small. This will not only enhance your self-esteem but also foster a supportive community. 

Practical Tips for Embracing Your Journey and Finding Self-Contentment

To do this, you should set personal goals that align with your values and aspirations and focus on what really matters most in your life. Many techniques can help you maintain that focus. Journaling, for example, can be a great tool for tracking your progress and reflecting on your journey. 

To develop great self-esteem and self-acceptance, you should treat yourself with the kindness you would give your neighbors, friends, or family. Engaging in activities that boost your spirits gives you an excellent chance of having a great and happy life. If you prioritize your well-being and celebrate your unique journey, you can have a better life, which is always nice. 

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Understanding Hydrocephalus: Why It’s Not Classified as a Neurological Disease

Hello, Jhana’s supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope you’re all doing well. I’ve been busy with school and other stuff this week. After this class ends, I will start another one, a comic class, which I'm nervous about because it's a repeat. I still don’t know my new graduation date, but I’ll keep you all updated. 

In today’s blog, I want to talk about something that happened recently with my insurance coordinator. It really pissed me off, so I want to address it.

It all started last year. I speak with my insurance coordinator only about every 90 days. I told him that my hydrocephalus is not and never will be a disease. They ignored me and insisted on calling it a neurological disease. That’s not what it is.

That’s a misconception, and I’m here to set the record straight in today’s blog. I’ll try to be as calm as possible to enlighten uneducated people who think my disability is worse than it is. My goal is to educate and empower you with the right information about hydrocephalus.

Defining Hydrocephalus: An Overview of the Condition

What do you think of when you hear the word hydrocephalus? What do you think it means? Well, I’m here to explain what it means so you can better understand the disability.

Hydrocephalus is a medical condition affecting the brain. It’s the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain. This buildup can lead to increased pressure, causing damage to brain tissue. The condition can be congenital, meaning present at birth, but it can also be caused by injury, infection, or tumors. 

My hydrocephalus is congenital. I also have other issues connected to my hydrocephalus. For example, I have an Encephalocele caused by a failure in the neural tube. I have occipital encephalocele, which means my encephalocele was in the back. I think of it as a big balloon in the back of my head.

Just to remind you all, I weighed 2 pounds and 3 ounces at birth. A couple of hours after birth, the doctor removed my encephalocele. Then, seven months after that, they had to insert a shunt in my brain to control the cerebrospinal fluid. I had that shunt for 26 years before I had to have a shunt revision because it stopped working. I realized something was wrong when I kept having dizzy spells and headaches. So, I had my revision. It has been eight years since then. 

I had disabilities my entire life. It also meant I couldn’t do a lot of things due to my disability. For example, I couldn’t play sports with my classmates, so I needed a doctor's note to get me out of PE. I’ve lived through it. Do you think it was easy not being able to do things like other students? No, it was not. 

Understanding hydrocephalus requires acknowledging its various forms, such as communicating how every hydrocephalus flows and differs from others. 

The Mechanisms Behind Hydrocephalus: How It Affects the Brain

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulates through the brain and spinal cord, providing essential nutrients and cushioning.

Hydrocephalus involves an imbalance in the production and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid. CSF circulates through the brain and spinal cord, providing essential nutrients and cushioning the brain. When this balance is disrupted, excess fluid can build up, compressing the brain’s structure.

This increased pressure can result in a range of neurological problems, including cognitive impairment, motor difficulties, and behavioral changes. 

Differentiation Hydrocephalus from Neurological Diseases

Hydrocephalus affects the brain but fundamentally differs from neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. While neurological diseases typically involve progressive degeneration of nerve cells, hydrocephalus is primarily a fluid imbalance. 

This distinction is significant because it influences both the treatment approach and the expected prognosis. If hydrocephalus is diagnosed and managed appropriately, patients can lead great lives. 

Symptoms and Diagnosis: Recognizing the Signs of Hydrocephalus

Symptoms of hydrocephalus can vary widely depending on age and individual circumstances. The most common symptoms in infants include an unusually large head, irritability, and vomiting. In older children and adults, symptoms may present as headaches, blurred vision, cognitive decline, or walking difficulties. 

Hydrocephalus is typically diagnosed through MRI or CT scans, which can reveal the presence of excess fluid in the ventricles. Clinical evaluation is essential for differentiating hydrocephalus from other conditions with similar symptoms. 

Treatment options and Management Strategies for Hydrocephalus 

Treatment for hydrocephalus often involves surgically placing a shunt, a device that helps drain excess CSF from the brain to another body part where it can be absorbed. In my case, the excess fluid goes from my brain to my abdomen. This treatment is not a one-time fix but a lifelong management process that requires regular monitoring and adjustments to the shunt, as well as addressing any underlying causes.

The ongoing management of this condition may include regular monitoring and adjustments to the shunt, as well as addressing any underlying causes. 

Lastly, I want to say that hydrocephalus is not a disease. To me, a disease is something you can die from. Hydrocephalus affects my balance and eyes, and it can also cause headaches and learning difficulties. So, don’t confuse a disease with a condition or disability that one can live with.

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