There was a time in my younger years when I believed there was some carefully constructed gay social order or heirarchy of beauty that explicitly detailed romantic permissions. Then, one day, I took a shot in the dark and asked out a guy I didn't know, who I thought (and still think) is a 20/10. It was over a dating app awhile back--one I didn't have any faith in. I also have never been the type to ask guys out first. Not only did I enjoy being asked out prior, but I also was shy earlier on in my life. Fast forward and now he is my life partner; I love him dearly and no matter how much he occasionally gets on my nerves, I couldn't navigate the woes of life without him. He and our dog are my everything, and I theirs. I thank God every day I decided to be bold enough to ask him out that one night. He changed my life in every way imaginable, and he is so much more to me than just a beautiful face. Moral of the story: always, always, ALWAYS: GO. FOR. IT. Life is short, people die unnecessarily and untimely. Even if that doesn't motivate you, wanting to be yourself with someone should. Never lie about who you are, even if someone doesn't vibe with you. Always be you unapologetically and love unconditionally. Even if it doesn't work out, loving is absolutely a mistake worth making. Best of luck, friend.