When I came out, it was to two of my best friends and I felt like a weight was lifted off my shoulders. I’ve come out to more friends since I went to college but am afraid to come out to my parents because I live in a small town and people aren’t very open-minded. (M/20/Gay)
Story #1579
When I came out to my best mom, she was confused and we cried together on the floor of my room. She said she was torn because of our religion. Eight months later, she brought it up again for the first time and was super accepting. She even found an accepting church for us to go to. (M/14/Gay)
Story #1577
“When I came out” doesn’t seem like the right term to use about my experience with my parents. I honestly don’t remember ever coming out with them. I think I was just very honest about my feelings towards love and men as they developed, and we went through the process of figuring it all out together. (M/22/Gay)
Story #1574
When I came out to my family, I asked my mom if we could talk, and that’s how it started. I asked my mom what she would do if one of her kids were gay. She told me, “Honey, I would be supportive.” Then that’s when it hit me. She loves us no matter the situation.
Story #1573
When I came out to my cousin it went something like this. He hit my chin and started counting and I hit my chin again and he said, “You’re 11% gay.” I said I was a lot more than 11%.
Story #1569
When I came out I was 15 and my parents cried and insulted me. Next day was weird, they don’t accept it and they are always trying to make me “normal” because they want grandbabies from me. I am now 17, without any love life and friends. Sometimes you wish you were born straight. (M/17/Gay)
Story #1563
When I came out, I did it sophomore year of high school. I was always the friendly guy reaching out to any and everyone. Once I had made myself known, everyone was totally okay with it. The only person that wasn’t was my best friend at the time. But I’m happy now that I’m surrounded by people that truly care about me. (M/24/Gay)
Story #1560
When I came out today I had been trying to tell my mom for days. I’m a 27-year-old female and have been denying my feelings for a long time. I was on a bike ride when she called and heard me crying and asked what’s wrong. I kept saying how I didn’t want her to hate me or resent me and finally I told her while I sobbed. She told me she kind of figured and was incredibly supportive. (F/27/Gay)
Story #1559
When I came out to my best friend, I was quite afraid of telling him because we are very close and we have something like a bromance even though he has a girlfriend, so I thought that he would be scared if he knew that I’m gay because of our relationship. He was the first person I told, and he finally was very supportive and nice to me. He said that it would not change anything and that he loves me and is happy for me if I am happy. I love him. (M/18/Gay)
Story #1555
When I came out to one of my best friends she got really quiet. I ended up apologizing for making her uncomfortable. I wish I didn’t do that. (M/19/Gay)