Ana E.'s Guitar

When I was a senior in high school, I had the rare opportunity to build my own guitar. I’ve been playing music since I was thirteen and I love it. I grew up as an outsider and didn’t fit in. I kept my hair short and wore boy’s clothes.

When I realized I was gay, it made more sense, but I still felt like I didn’t belong. My family struggled to accept me, leaving me unsure of who to talk to. One day, I saw a car with a rainbow flag on it and met the owner who invited me to a monthly gay and lesbian potluck. I finally felt like I belonged.

I have since lived my life out and proud. I like to say, “It’s a great day to be gay!” This guitar allows me to write songs that share my feelings and experiences with others, so they don’t feel alone either.