The “Queer Eye” grooming expert and memoirist embodies many of the tenets of better personhood: He overcame a difficult past (sexual abuse, drug addiction and an H.I.V. diagnosis) to become the gorgeous and inspiring person we know today. “I want people to realize you’re never too broken to be fixed,” he said.

And perhaps the most useful lesson in this profile: “Namaste” is a gracious yet effective way to end an unwanted conversation.

The article: Jonathan Van Ness of ‘Queer Eye’ Comes Out by Alex Hawgood