In this world of constant judgment and insults, it can be very hard for anyone to live just a “normal” life. Saying you are gay, lesbian, or even bisexual, can change a person’s whole perspective on the way others look at you. Esteban Ochoa announced his sexuality just a while back and has faced major bullying episodes.

“… People have been bullying me even way before I came out. Saying I was gay, which I was, but I didn’t want anyone to know,” said Ochoa with a little chuckle.

Being gay may take a toll on a person’s life just because of what society has to say about them.

Ochoa is a 15-year-old freshman at Fairfax High School. He has been intimidated practically every day because of who he chooses to love.

“Yeah, I mean it was hard at first but there are those people who always brighten and make your day better. Just the words, ‘It’s okay. I accept you. I’m here for you,’ always makes my day better, because I know there are people out there who do accept me and my decision,” said Ochoa.

Ochoa has told his family and his friends with the help of a close friend.

“Almost everyone that I told accepted me and made me feel comfortable in my own skin,” said Ochoa.

Going through all the torment and the cruel words that people say about him has been hard for Ochoa to get through. He doesn’t feel as if he has lived a much different life than the other kids in school.

“I mean, I feel the same. It’s not hard for me to look past what people say to me now. I mean, I like who I like and I think it shouldn’t change a thing about the way people think of me, honestly,” said Ochoa.

Letting nothing bring him down, Ochoa still stands strong while others try to break him because of his sexuality. Standing tall and sturdy, he strives to finish school and become someone meaningful in this world.