On a Tuesday in MarchDan found themselves at the beach to fulfill a deeply personal ritual. The day was carefully planned, with the scattering of their father’s ashes timed to coincide with low tide and sunrise. Dan sought both the quiet solitude of the early morning and the beauty of a new day dawning.
The private moment of saying goodbye was tender and meaningful. As Dan walked along the sand, they carried the weight of grief but also a sense of peace. The morning light reflected off the water, and Dan expected the day to be solemn. What they didn’t anticipate was the queer hope that would soon find them.
An unexpected encounter
While filming the sunrise on their phone, Dan noticed a couple approaching the beach with their child. The couple, both mums, stopped at the edge of the dry sand before stripping down to their bathing suits and joyfully skipping into the sea for a swim. This simple act of queer joy was both powerful and profound.
The family’s laughter and uninhibited movement in the water were a stark contrast to the day’s initial solemnity. Dan watched, feeling a warmth they hadn’t expected. In the middle of loss, here was life. In the quiet after goodbye, here was joy. This small scene stayed with Dan, reminding them that queer joy often appears in quiet, unexpected moments.
The significance of the moment
The encounter on the beach was significant for Dan. It reminded them that queer joy doesn’t always arrive loudly or dramatically. Sometimes, it appears in the gentle light of dawn, through a family simply being themselves. On one of the most significant days of Dan’s life, this moment of hope became a cherished memory.
Dan’s story highlights the importance of finding joy and hope even in the most challenging times. It’s a reminder that moments of connection and happiness can bring light to the darkest days. As Dan reflects on that morning, they are grateful for the unexpected encounter that brought a sense of peace and hope.
Sharing hope and joy
The @lgbtfdn encourages others to share their moments of hope and joy. By donating, individuals can ensure that LGBTQ+ people across the UK feel seen, safe, and valued every day. The foundation’s life-saving services provide connection, wellbeing, and hope to thousands who rely on them.
Want to share your moment of hope and joy? Send a selfie and a short story about what gives you hope and joy to hope@or share using #LGBTHopeStartsHere and #hopeandjoy and tag @lgbtfdn.
