Jane
My name is Jane, and I am a Pansexual Paragirl Konkokyo Follower
For all my life I’ve been sensitive and very in touch with my feelings. Throughout elementary and middle school, school was very tough for me.
Pronouns: she/her
Photo credit: Jane archives
Not many people shared my interests, and I appeared unapproachable because I never really put myself out there. Around age 11, I somewhat realized that the “social standard” didn’t fit me. Despite this, my best friend in middle school supported me in embracing my identity.
Even if I don’t think about it a lot, I am grateful to Kami-Sama for giving me such blessings during a phase of my life that felt desolating. Around 2-3 years ago, I came across a Konkokyo priestess’ blog. I was intrigued and something in my heart clicked. The teachings about being open minded and accepting of other people appealed to me.
Despite its Japanese origins, Konkokyo has a diverse following, including queer individuals and ministers. We are also taught to be accepting and tolerant of other religions too.
Although Konkokyo is rooted in Shinbutsu Shugo, we are taught to be unprejudiced towards all faiths. One of the most important teachings in Konkokyo is that we are all Kami-Sama’s children and there is nobody who does not belong.
Words cannot describe my love for Konkokyo, a place where I feel accepted regardless of my identity.
Photo credit: Jane archives
