Chente’s Courage to Trust Family and Friends

When I began to outline The Valiente Series, one of the most important elements that I wanted to include in Chente’s journey was the importance of family and friends.  While everyone’s “coming out” process is unique to the individual, I wanted my books to encourage open communication and trust. I wanted to demonstrate that even though Chente’s journey would hit a few bumps, self-acceptance, and honesty with the people closest to his heart would always outweigh secrecy and self-doubt.

In the series, Chente’s siblings and friends all have different reactions to his “coming out” news.  I wanted the story to be positive, but I wanted it to be realistic as well.  I wanted to show that Chente’s ability to accept himself and live his truth was the most important step in “coming out” as a proud gay young man.  I wanted the story to mirror real life and give the reader a view of authentic reactions.

When the Jimenez siblings discover that Chente is gay and has been outed to the entire high school, Vanessa and Victor are quick to be supportive and understanding.  They are protective and immediately make Chente aware that they love him unconditionally.  Valentin’s and Violeta’s perspectives are a little different.  As the oldest brother, Valentin takes more time to process Chente’s unexpected news.  He supports and loves Chente, but is concerned that his little brother will get hurt.

However, Violeta’s reaction to her gay brother is harsh.  Her initial attitude is of anger and disbelief.  As the oldest sibling, she is most concerned with how Chente’s “coming out” will affect her and the Jimenez Family’s reputation within the community.  In her careless reaction, she makes some stereotypical and insensitive comments about Chente that creates dissention and a division in the family.

Chente’s friends’ reactions are similar.  While the majority of Chente’s friends take the news in stride and are encouraging, Felipe and Christina are a bit irritated and feel that Chente has been dishonest.  They feel betrayed and are upset with Chente for lying to them.  How can a lifelong friend keep this secret from them?

Once Chente overcomes his insecurities and is able to have candid conversations with his family and circle of friends, a new level of understanding is reached and the hurt feelings disappear.  It is the honest communication and the trust that binds Chente’s family and friends together.  As the story moves forward, Violeta, Christina and Felipe become some of Chente’s fiercest allies.

As a gay man, I certainly understand the apprehension of looking in a mirror and not fully understanding the reflection you see.  I can identify with the fear that comes with sharing your true identity with family and friends for the first time. Will they understand?  Will they still love you? The anxiety a gay teenager can face when seeking unconditional love from his inner circle can be paralyzing.

I am unable to write the ending to everyone’s narrative, however, I can tell you that letting go of the fear and trusting yourself enough to live your truth is never wrong.  Never.  Walking away from the shadows of doubt and letting the sun hit your face is medicine for your soul.

The Valiente Series explores the complexities a gay teenager faces when communicating to family and friends.  I believe Chente’s journey to self-discovery provides the readers with an authentic glimpse of the distress that “coming out” can place on an individual, while advocating for the importance of open communication and trust.      #TheValienteSeries