When I Came Out

When I came out I was 14 and my mom was all dramatic and severe about it (though she was fine with it and only worried for me). But after a while it seems we only got closer. Now when I talk to her about my coming out, I’m halfway angry and tickled about her reaction.

When I came out to my dad and step mom, I was worried about ruining a great relationship I had with them. After a nervous buildup, I said, “What I’m saying is, I like girls.” My dad and step mom shot each other a look, then my dad said, “You know, I think you get that from me. I’ve liked girls my whole life!” Then they cracked up. You never know which way “the talk” is going to go. I was stressed and worried for nothing.

When I came out, my older sister only said “Duh.” My brother the Marine said he was happy for me and glad I was being true to myself. I waited to tell my little sister last because I was afraid her red-necked husband might keep their kids from me. He was hurt that I thought that might happen and told me, “You’re still you, why would I do that?” We have all gotten a lot closer.

When I came out, I told my mom first. Being Roman Catholic, I knew she loved me but I had no idea how she’d react. She said, “Did you think you were telling me something I didn’t already know?” even though I’d only brought home boys! She said she was glad we were moving into an adult mother-daughter relationship because she never got the chance to have that with her mom.

When I came out to my parents my mom said there was no salvation for homosexuals. A few days later I got back from my friend’s house to find all my belongings packed by the stairs. I didn’t ask why or argue; I took my bags and left. I spent a few days sleeping in my car during the winter.

When I came out, it wasn’t like I planned. My parents found a picture of me and my boyfriend kissing. They were so confused and asked themselves what they did wrong, what did they do to deserve this. Then my dad started to rough me up a little while yelling, “Why, son, why.” Since then my parents act like it never happened, that they never saw that picture.

When I came out I was 12, in 7th grade. My mother found out because of my 7-year-old sister. She wasn’t mad because she’s a lesbian too. But she said she loves me and to be careful.

When I came out, my mother and father hugged me, and told me that I could talk to them about it whenever I want.

When I came out, I was with my mom in a mental hospital after I attempted suicide. She didn’t seem surprised.

When I came out for the first time, it wasn’t a big deal anymore. There wasn’t anxiety, or grief, or a flood of any emotion at all, it just felt fine. That was perfect.