No other group of gay men in my experience has guided and mentored me as the bear community has. Personally, as someone who fits more into a ‘cub’ category, the term is definitely a characteristic I see myself transforming into as I move into my 30s. The first thing that comes to mind when I think of the word ‘bear’ is strength, power, and masculinity. I have learned to love my body by embracing and celebrating my biggest ass-ets, the parts of me that I am most proud of, my unique qualities, and what makes me feel sexy.