Today, October 11, is National Coming Out Day — the internationally observed day to celebrate coming out and to raise awareness of the LGBT community and LGBT civil rights movement.
National Coming Out Day was founded in 1988 by Robert Eichberg, a psychologist from New Mexico, and Jean O’Leary, an openly gay political leader from Los Angeles, on behalf of the personal growth workshop, “The Experience and National Gay Rights Advocates.”
The date of October 11 coincides with the anniversary of the 1987 National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights.
In addition to the United States, National Coming Out Day is also observed in many countries, including Australia, Switzerland, Germany, Canada, New Zealand, The Netherlands, Croatia, and Poland. In the United Kingdom, National Coming Out Day is celebrated on October 12.
What’s your coming out story?
Filed under: Living
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I hope everything is better now though!
My mom hacked my Facebook lol
All my friends know and are supportive :D still havnt told the fam tho :0
I came out when I was 11 (I love how NCOD is on Oct 11, lol). I was attending an evangelical Christian school at the time and I was bullied by classmates and teachers for not being, according to them, “manly” enough. One day, I decided I was going to take my own life because I couldn’t handle the emotional torture anymore. Fortunately, I never went through with it, thanks to the music of Tori Amos and the words of Augusten Burroughs. This day always brings up a lot of emotions in me because I can’t help but think about the kids that currently battling the same fight I did and I want to hug each and every one of them and let them know that it does, indeed, get better.
I came out to my vocal group colleagues, who were totally supportive. it was in south korea. I came home to a father, who I told. he didn’t say anything, and I was at first greeted kinda nice. but then, a week or so later, I hear after a heated discussion about religion, “lock your doors (name), Joe is a pagan and gay!”. I moved out shortly after. my father didn’t do anything in my defense. to this day, I don’t talk to either, but am happier because I don’t have to deal with homophobia and discrimination from either.
That is the gist of it, really.
I came out being bi to my mom over the phone when I was 27 still scared to face her didn’t go well she still judges she is old fashioned Baptist and still not accepted at 38 by any of my family!!! All my friends know and accpet me and love me the way I am at least I have them all <3
But my mother was completely supportive, and knew before I knew what it was.
I was in 6th grade! I was soooo scared. I told a person who I thought was my best friend who told everyone at school. It took me a year to come out to my mom and I didn’t go up to her and tell her that I was gay, I texted it to her. She didn’t believe me, I was miserable for a long time till my first physical boyfriend came into my life and met my family. My mom fell in love with him. Unfortunately we are not together anymore but my mom loves me and I feel our relationship has grown stronger. My dad and I didn’t see eye to eye for a long time but we get along a lot better. I dropped out of high school in the 9th grade due to being bullied and nothing was every solved. I came close to ending it… But instead I was mature and did what was best for me. I am a very happy person today and I could have been happier if it were for my family and friends.
Mitchell, Augusten helped me come out… No matter how bad I felf my life was, I used im for comparison and was relieved! His Memoirsare wonderful, but I love his novel Sellivision.
:)
my mom guessed it and told everyone else in the family
I kept alotta secrets from my mom. And one night when we were arguing she told me to just tell her one thing. And I told her I was a lesbian. What a great night that was.
Came out to my family with a letter explaining how I am gay, and still the same person they have known. I was super scared to come home, and when I did, they all said, “We still love you.” I am so incredibly lucky! Then the year after, I came out publicly on Facebook with a note and a status. Didn’t shock too many people, got a lot of “You are incredibly strong for doing this.”
My bf is being a douche and might break up with me because I’m bi… but fuck him, I am who I am. I know there’s nothing wrong with me.
I came out when I was 16. I was religious all my life. Went to church every Sunday and Wednesday, and I’d pray and beg God to take it away from me so I’d be normal. I finally realized that this wasn’t something I couldn’t sleep off so I told my close friend crying not to hate me. She said she already knew and loved me for who I am and not for something I was born into. Ever since then if anyone asked I’d be like, yes I am, got a problem with it? I don’t flaunt it, running around screaming I’m gay. Haha I’m happy the way I am and i’d never want to change it.
And btw Mitchell I LOVE Running with Scissors!
I came out 3 years ago today, I’ve never been happier! <3
I came out as a transgender 6 years ago now i actually came out to my family and came out at work the same day it was kind of liberating for me.
I came out in 7th grade and then once I hit high school I met my boyfriend of 4 years and then after we left for college we met other people. And I am with a loving guy of 3 years and my parents love him. They knew from day one and loved me with no boundaries.
I came out as gay to my Father in November of Last year after seeing a Show in LA. He told me he already figured, and was supportive of me. I came out to my mother in Feb of this year. She was Far Less supportive. Told me I was doing it to hurt her, told me I didn’t know who I was, and it was a choice. I’ve come to realize now it doesn’t matter. I’m gay, and it doesn’t matter what she thinks. I just wish I had done it sooner.
I came out when I was 13, I made out with my best friend and knew I was gay so I told my mom I was bi when she was running out the door for work. She’s supported me rite away. Told my sisters when they was old enuff to understand and I have a great support system.
i came out to my mom about two years ago. I practically made her guess cause I was so scared. She’s been soooo supportive. My friends have known for about three years. I never really tried to hide from them. And I told my dad about 4 months ago. He didn’t agree with it. So I no longer talk to him. I wasn’t gonna stand there and let him tell me that I was wrong, disgusting, and that I was going to hell for something that I cant change. Stupid homophobes. >.<
I came out to my mom and dad last year in October. I told my mom I went to the Pride Center at university one day while driving back home. She proceeded to ask me: “Have you decided (yes I know, bad word choice) if you are gay?”. I told her I didn’t know, and from that she assumed that I was gay. Even though her question about me being gay wasn’t the best, she did fully accept me afterwards. I can talk to her about my romantic interests and everything now, it’s great. My dad on the other hand is a work in progress. I am proud to be a gay man and I am enjoying every moment of it!
I came out last year on my birthday after my parrents already passd away jus letin peepz know dat iz scared tu come out it does indeed get better ( WE ARE BORN THIS WAY ) BE WHO U ARE : )
my sister asked if i was a lesbian after some one told her I said yes and then you stopped talking to me a few years now she will only talk to me in text online ..not a great coming out story but it is mine
Told my mom i had a gf, and she said “finally”
I am Assexual! does that count lol
I came out before committing suicide at age 18… My accepting me as gay saved my life forever… Now recognized as transgender has helped me want to educate & inspire others on Sex vs. Gender
Family*** accepting me (oops, typo)
Im openly bisexual and proud!! Everyoone who knows me knows!! To those who are scared,just be yourself and be happy. You all deserve some happiness,so why not take the first step and admit who you are? And if your straight and have a friend who you think may be in the closet let them know that your there for them,be supportive. I didnt get support from my family but I dont let that bring me down for a moment. Live your life for yourself all of you wonderful people:)
I am 20 and just started coming out in June i told my bio. mom first because she is gay to so i know for sure she would be ok and she already knew(mothers always know) she has told her entire side of the family even though i asked her not to but glad she did :)…love her. I am not ready to tell my dad or step mom just yet because my dad is a lil bit homophobic still and my step mom is very homophobic :( (thinks its still the 70s lol).but my sister knows and my friends know they understand and support me and thats all i need :D
My parents were divorced, so after a Halloween Wedding we went to I told my mom on the drive home. Evidentally it’s not a good idea to drop that bomb while your parent is driving… But I did it again a month later before I left for Basic Training to my dad! He was the one I was most worried about being ex-special forces over 10 years way back when.
Since I’m not one to throw my sexuality in peoples faces I let my friends find out on their own, those one or two that weren’t okay with it I let go, no questions asked. I’m still waiting to tell my distant family (grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.) though, dunno when that’s gonna happen.
Not sure how it happened. I was maybe 15 but i know im completely opened with my sexuality and im bisexual. Super into women. Id tell anyone that would ask [:
my coming out story was not how i wanted it to go. the 1st time i went to gay pride. these girls wore signs saying ” free kisses” so i went for all of them. and i guess the news camera caught me kissing one of the girls, and when i went home, my whole family was watching the news, and as soon as i went through the front door, their was me on the news kissing the girls. i tried my best to book it out of their, but my uncle is secretly ninja, and thats how everyone in my family found out.
it was hard to come out and is still hard an issue in my family. I came out around christmas time last year and told my mom first she was shocked my dad already knew. Since then life has been great for me.
On my moms birthday we were having a party and everyone was in the back yard and i told my aister and cousin that i would hide in my closet and just to go get my mom. soon she came in my bedroom and i jumped out of the closet (ya know, i came out of the closet haha) and just yelled TA-DAH!!!!!!! she looked at me at first and i was scared, but then she started crying, gave me a huge hug, then pusshed me away amd said “ots about fuckin time, ive been waiting for this scince u were like two!”
I came out when I was about 19…told my mom and sis 1st…they were very supportive….most of my family has been supportive…my grandparents even told me they knew already (probably b4 me lol)..I’m very blessed to have the family that I do…there are a few family members who I believe have a problem with it but it’s cool because those who matter don’t mind and those who mind DO NOT MATTER….
Well my family kind of went on a witch hunt for me to come out.
Im out and happy and proud (=
Everyone just knew, but my mom still don’t except it!
I been out a looooooong time.
I’m 21 & came out to my parents about 2 years ago. Coming from a family with religious values & traditional beliefs, it went pretty horribly. However, things are gradually getting “better”. Though my parents aren’t as accepting, my siblings & friends are very supportive. I’ve been with my girlfriend for 2 years as of today, Oct 11, so not only are we celebrating our love but also National Coming Out Day.♥
I’m straight, but I really support this community. I believe in being who you are. For those who haven’t come out yet, you will always have a friend, an advocate, in me. The best to you all!
I knew when I was 15, but it took me until age 29 to really accept myself and come out. Now I am 44 and very happy and very out. If only I could have done it sooner, I could have spared myself a lot of pain. It is soooo important to honor yourself and be who you are! It is the only road to happiness!
I was outed at high school by a guy I liked and wrote a letter to (knowing he was gay) and after people I didn’t know and did know started asking if it was true and I said yes and apparently I must of kicked off a trend cuz after that youlld see way more gay couples walking around holding hands and what not .. So I’m kind of grateful it happened.
Kk so i came out like a few weeks ago like completely. All of my close friends knew since middle school. Then my bro found out. Then i told my oldest sis and her kids. Then my youngest sis. Then my middle sis told me she knew. Then i told my second oldest sis. So all my siblings know and they love me(im secretly everyones favorite.lol) then on a monday morning my mom went outside to warm up the car and i left a note on her bedroom door. I went to school and when i got back she was like “im glad you told me. And us mothers dont care we just want you to be happy and safe” yay that all :) i love ya’ll.
I am only just coming out bisexual well pansexual actually and gender queer. Its taken some time to expand my conception of sexuality and gender identity but its finally happening after many years of dissatisfaction and frustration and I’m incredibly happy for it. Slowing letting friends and family in on the changes……..
I came out at my high school graduation ceremony. That morning i had moved out of my fathers house and was fully ready to do it! I had my still very close pal/GSA advisor standing by my side and my best friend on the other side. I also had about 6 good friends standing around in the crowd behind me. I stood in front of my father and his family, as well as my mother and her family. I told them that morning while my father was at work I had moved out. That I would be moving away for a different college that summer, and that I was gay. My legs were shaking, tears were streaming down my face, and my mouth was bone dry. But I said it. I did it in a public setting more for my safety due to my fathers strong hatred of gays and hit anger issues. It worked out well, not as i had planned but I did it. The reaction was mixed, but what I had suspected. i turned around and walked away, that was June 18th 2009. To this day I am free and happy. No longer living in fear, the road was hard and terrifying, but very much worth the happiness that came from it all. So happy I finally came out when I was 18.
all my friends knew when i was 14 i was scared to tell my family because jamaicans are crzy they disowned me when i put red in my hair for a few days lol but i told my mom dec 30,2008 & all she said was i already kno just waiting for you to tell me nd i got mad because i didnt understand her saying she already knew…she said becase of my friends BUT all my friends are str8 but im 23 now & its no big deal to anyone who knows me even my grandma ask about my girlfriend to see how she’s doing #blessed to have my family&friends
His*, *Expected
Oh happy day!!! Good luck to all the courageous folks who come out today!! We are all with you in mind and spirit!!!!!
I didn’t know i liked, no, loved women until the love of my life asked me to be her girlfriend. Almost 5 years later she is the woman i call my wife, though we are not technically married. She will always be the only woman in my life. She helped me find a missing piece of myself, a piece i feel as though i couldn’t live without and a piece that i love almost more than any other. It is the piece of me that is open and accepting to all forms of love and beauty of the human form. I wouldn’t have came out had it not been for that beautiful woman. I couldn’t have handled losing friends and family members because of my sexual orientation had it not been for her either.
Well I was 16 ( I’m 32 now) and missing my best friend who moved to Iowa so my mother taught me how to use email and she told me the only way it would work was if I put her email address in the CC box. A naive child I was. I wrote my best friend some detailed emails that were all going straight to my mothers in box and that’s my coming out story.
Ok well i really have to but told my neice an sis first but one day my sum of my fam was all n da livin room an i was on da phone wit my girlfriend an i jus yelled out to everybody IM GAY an my mama jus look at me like i was crazy she didnt support me at first but she got ovea it…an one day i was walkin around my hood wit my gurl an my bro was like y u got dat gay gurl wit u an yelled at his ass cuz im fuckin gay an he said u gay an i said yup an he called me stupid but he could care less i guess dats his way of excepting it cuz we still have a very good relashionship. An i was 18 wen i came out…but it will b anotha one cuz my dad side still dont no except my sis on my dad side but wish me luck=)
I came out not to long ago i always knew and never really tried to keep it from my friend’s i just told my sister’s and they are really great about it and said that they love me no matter what i wish i would of come out a long time ago i am very happy and have an amazing girlfriend i was very scared to come out but i did it and it was the best thing i ever did i have very amazing people in my life and i would be nothing without them all <3
I came out to two of my older nieces that wear 13 and 14 , the went around told everyone I had a boyfriend like they knew I was gay. My sister message me if I was gay and I said yes an the called my niece and told her why did she tell everyone her answer was so amazing she said because no matter what your my uncle and nothing will change that and I love you for you. So I came out and got outed lol oh well I am glad my family accepts me and still loves me.
I came out to my grandparents about two years ago….my grandma said “well no shit! ” then we all laughed! Lol.
I came out 2 my parents years ago and years ago im still without parents
I was bisexual almost my whole life. I came out when I was 16. My mom told me to stay straight back then. I acted straight at home. Now I’m 18 and lesbian. My friend called me to talk to my mom about this gay club. Mom asked me about this friend of mine. Then she asked me if I’m gay too. I admitted it. She didn’t look happy. Then the next day, she woke me up and wanted to talk to me about being gay. I explained it to her then she decided to accept me no matter what I am. I also told my aunt about it to see what she felt. Surprising thing was she said she’s cool with it, her older daughter and my Granny all were cool with it. I was shocked because I thought they’d reject me since they’re country folks as well as I am. I told my aunt to keep it secret until I finally visit them again and come out to my dad and see what he might react. My dad don’t know me very well. And he doesn’t even know I’m gay. Other than that, I’m so happy my friends and family accept me
i came out to my mother and her reaction was “how come you always broke and ur a lesbian” dats because in Jamaica hey think that ppl are gay for money. i no its sad but u have to understand that ppl in my country doesnt socilize weill
Coming Out _ Best decision I ever made!
I came out to my mom when I was 16, I was so nervous. I said mom I got something to tell you, she got scared. I told her im gay, she sighed and said is that all honey I thought it was something bad.
i came out to my mom on Christmas day
I over-think things a lot and how my parents would react to me telling them I was gay was one of them. At the time, I was in this really bad depression. I didn’t come home for 2 days, I was out plotting ways to commit suicide. Everything at the time seemed to be going sh!tty for me. I finally came home, and my parents were absolutely infuriated with me (because they were worried, obviously). My mother and I had gotten into an argument and she said “you was probably out with some guy” I said “Maybe I was!” (though I was by myself the whole time) and she, being the tactical genius she is, said “what’s that supposed to mean?” then I said it “OK MOM, I’M GAY!”. Mom said “I already knew” and the weird part is, she got angrier with me for not telling her sooner! lol. My sister was in the room at the same time and was talking to her boyfriend, so they knew and my dad was there too. Now everyone is VERY supportive of me, and they really like my boyfriend. The feeling of relieve you get after coming out is AMAZING. and almost all the time YOUR PARENTS ALREADY KNOW. (Especially if they catch you looking at gay porn like mine did LOL)
Came out to my mother in a joint therapy session. I said: “So, yeah, I’m, like, super gay.” Her response? “Okay. I’ve known since you were twelve.” That was about two years ago, when I was twenty-nine. It was pretty anti-climactic, lol. But I’m kinda glad it was, and that she waited for me to tell her in my own time.
was like 14 mom supported the life style my pops didnt..my story is to long….living te sweet life…..
When i was 14 my mother was washing my clothes and found a wallet in my pants, she came in my room asking me why i had not used the purse that she had gotton me for my birthday. Being caught off guard i couldnt come up with anything good. She finally asked me if i had something to tell and that if i was gay then she wanted me to be out and happy. That me being gay would make her proud! My dad took it really hard but now he has warmed up to the idea. I love my folks with all me heart, im so blessed.
glad to add my voice
I came out at 15 and I have always known and im 25 now its the best thing I have ever done because there isnt anyway I would be able to grow comfortably without being comfortable with my self
I came out when I was 12 to my mom first, she though it was a phase and didn’t believe me till i introduced her to my girlfriend. I didnt like hiding who i was back then or now. When i told my dad he said he didnt care. Well lets jus say gettin’ put out (several) times only made me a better person… More proud then ever, of everythin’ =)
I was driving around in a car with my mom, and we were talking about a lot of things so she pretended to be lost, so the talk wouldn’t end because she lives 3 hours away and I don’t see her often. Then the subject came up about me liking another female, and yeah that’s pretty much how mine happened. OH, and happy birthday mom . <3 Love you.
5 years ago,,, and it was a suprise as much TO ME then arround me !!! lol ,,, i guess beeing raised by an homophobic mother kind of closed my eyes completly on the truth !!!! but now i’m saved lol and sooooo very happy to finally know who I AM ,, and will never change for no one,,, NOT EVEN MY MOM
I came out to my mom in college, she told me wished she’d never had me. 10 years later, she’s no longer a homophobe and has changed her ways and thinks I’m the best thing that ever happened to her. I never gave up on her.
I remember as a young child having crushes on a couple girls at school & church. I told my best friend in 4th grade that I liked her. My father was a Pentecostal preacher so I’d never HEARD the term “gay”. I didn’t kno there was a name for what I felt. Then when I found out I was even more confused because I liked boys too. At 14, and 2 yrs after i moved out of my dads house I told my mother I was gay. She sat there for a minute & calmly said, “probably not. You’re probably bi.” I’ll never forget how calm she was. I had expected violence. My father, however, still won’t acknowledge it. When I became pregnant at 15 w my now 13 yr old son, he wouldn’t speak to me throughout the entire pregnancy. I teach my children love & acceptance by giving it to them
The resonances, the refrains, the common stories and stories that overlap – at the end we are all just plain human beings – give or take a few extra bits or not! YES!
I was about 16. My mom and I were in the car when I told her I was gay and she almost wrecked. She said she was more shocked and disappointed then anything. When I told my dad he said as long as I’m happy that’s all that mattered. My mom is now really supportive though.
I tried coming out as trans to my mother last year, but it didn’t really go over well with her. I also came out to my friends, though, and they’ve been nothing but kind and accepting about it.
My sister told my mom. Mom was devastated, slapped me and made me go to school early. Middle school haha
I havent had it yet
I came out to my friends and sister first and they were all cool about it. A couple of years later I was getting ready to move out of province to be with my girlfriend (now my wife) and she told me that before she came to pick me up, she wanted me to come out to my parents. My father never seemed to have anything nice to say about gays, but they both accepted me. Then mom told me I’d have to be the one to break the news to my religious grandmother. Expecting the worst I did. Her reply? “I thought so” LOL! I was lucky!!
I didn’t come completely out till I was in my 30s, but I knew in high school. In a way I wish I hadn’t waited so long, but at the same time I’m glad I did. My family is important to me and I didn’t want to hurt them. I moved away young and was out , but when I came back to ‘small town usa’ I kept it to myself. Now that I am ‘Out and Loud’ I am very happy with who I am.
I endured some troubled times during my teenage years. At the age of 12, my mother simply decided that she could “no longer put up with me,” & sent me away to a facility, better known as a behavioral rehabilitation center for teens & adults. I’m assuming her intention was to keep me away from ‘thinking about boys,’ since my grades had greatly suffered due to my infatuation with having a ‘boyfriend’ at the time, but instead my focus turned to females. The guys & girls were on separate floors, so everyday we spent our time with our female roommates, & female councilors. Needless to say after a good few weeks of “getting to know” my roommate, I came to the conclusion that I was bisexual; because I was still attracted to men as well. After telling my mom on my 13th birthday, she basically ignored the fact that I had even said anything at all. She just assumed it was a ‘phase.’
So, here I am almost 7 years later, & still no one in my family believes that I am bisexual nor wants to talk to me about it.
This is perfectly fine with me, because I have never been happier to freely be myself. The fact that they close their eyes & ears to something they do not understand does not bother me whatsoever. I am living my life the way I please; I am proud of who I have become, & no one can take that away from me.
So if there’s anything I can say, it’s, “Thank-you, Mom, for sending me away to different facilities for all those years. Because of you, I was able to discover my true self, who I really am inside. And in being open & proud about who I am, I feel that I have the upmost respect for myself. And I will always have you, to thank for that :)”
So at the end of everyday, before I close my eyes & begin to pray, I smile to myself :) because I now KNOW that I AM beautiful, in every single way<3
I told my parents under less than desirable circumstances. My girlfriend had just broken up with me, and it was a bit messy, so I was spending the night at a friend’s house. My dad wanted me to stay home for the night, and I ended up breaking down on the phone and telling him exactly what happened. He was in denial (“No, you guys aren’t dating, you’re just friends. I don’t date my male friends.”), and it’s pretty much like it went in one ear and out the other. My friends are extremely supportive though, so they’ve made it wonderful anyways :)
I was 15 when my parents found out, they freaked out! I was forced into therapy for 2 years to try to ‘fix’ me, it didn’t work. I am now 25 and have been with my man for almost 4 years now. I still struggle with acceptance from my parents, but all of my siblings are very supportive. I would rather be who I am and suffer sometimes with acceptance, than live a lie and possibly ruin a ‘fake’ family down the road. I hope kids today have an easier time dealing with this.
Mitchell Kissack, I am SO glad you realized your worth in this world!!! God bless you!
I’ve been out for 14 years, and from what I see and have experienced…..I wanna go back in
13 years ol. Always knew I didn’t like the other boys…one night i told My mom “Can we talk?” , and she knew
I called my mother and told her…. She said “didnt you tell me before?… Well idk but we’ve always known, I love you…” And now none of them talk to me… My grandparents the same. But my family are the ones who accepted me for who I was. I will regret nothing.
My mom would always ask me if I was gay but I always said no because I didn’t know so I waited for her to ask me again after I found out and told her. And I made it my status on AIM for my friends haha. And then my mom jsut told everyone else.
I came out to my parents more than 20 years ago because my son from a straight relationship asked if he could tell people I was gay. I said yes. He was the first person I came out to.
I told my mom I was a lesbian in 6th grade, she walked away I instanty started crying but I had my bestfriend at the time to comfort me..then my mom asked me about it and I confirmed my gayness now we talk about all my sexual escapades and such haha
I was 18 yrs old and my mom freaked on me badly. We didnt talk for over nine yrs because of it. But now we have one of thee best relationships ever………
I came out 2 my mum 4 years ago, when i was 17. she always said bisexual people were ‘dirty little sheep, following the crowd 2 get attention.’ so i sat her down n said, ‘mum, u knw how u say bi people are dirty little sheep? …well, i guess i’m a sheep.’ luckily she came round 2 the idea n hasn’t said a homophobic thing once :) x
Nobody should have to hide who they are, nobody should have to live in fear….please, let us all be the persons we we meant to be.
I was 12 and I told my grandma I was pretty sure I liked girls. She told me it was just a phase and she went through it. At the age of 15 I got my first Serious girlfriend, I had others before but this one was different, my grandma and mom still think I’m going through a phase and I’m 21 but their still supportive.
it feels weird to think it but with me, i feel like bisexuality was just always known, like i never had to say it because of how i acted and who i wanted to spend time with, but when i casually said something about bringing home a girl, a relative seemed surprised… im pretty sure she still thinks i was joking
I’ve yet to actually come out about my sexuality. I’m not fully gay, at best I’m bi or pansexual. But I’ve always been afraid of what my parents would think if they found out that I’ve kissed or had relations with a girl, or the fact I’ve had strong feelings for a girl before, and continue to feel attraction to females.
Me: “Mom, I’m gay.”
Mom: “I know.”
And that’s how that was :)
I came out freshman year of college as bisexual, and that was 6 years ago. Today, my parents always ask “Who are you dating?” That seems to work!
I am 39…I knew I was a lesbian from a very young age.I was tormented and abused in school and living in a close minded community…it was horrible.To the point where my life was threatened and at school I hid in the guidance counselors office to avoid being followed,spit on and beaten.I already was different being gothic and artistic as well.My mother approached me in my early 20′s and told me that she knew and that it was ok.I cried because I thought for sure shed hate me.I am fortunate to have loving parents and to be a very strong hard headed bad ass woman who has always been true to myself.Alot of people are not so strong and my heart gos out to them.Being who you are is more important than anything….be proud…be strong..it DOES get better<3
I was 4 years old wen I found out…lbs…my mom came in her room and found me and one of her friends daughter (who was also 4)….grinding and youching on each other….she told us to stop and but ddnt thynk nun of it…but I always knew…
IM SO PROUD TO BE GAY!!!
I told almost everyone 8 years ago that I was bisexual. For awhile my parents were a little disgusted with me, but now they’re content to ignore it. That doesn’t bother me at all. I’m just glad I was comfortable enough with myself to admit it.
Because in my opinion, it’s not letting others know that was tough for me, it was admitting it to myself
i was ripped from my closet when my parents found out when i was 16. they yelled at me & hit me with a meter stick & told me i was sick & wrong. later they compared me to a child molester. i was sent to therapy to be cured & my mom refused to speak to me for weeks. after a while they just gave up but they get pissed if i mention anything of gay rights. my friends know & dont care. even my super homophobe friend came back to me & told me she didnt care. some of my family know, the rest can wait. i dont regret anything & i look forward to a future with a wife :3
yay for gay!
I came out at the age of 30…16 years ago. I was in a bad marriage, one that was pretty much used to protect me while I was both in the military and in deep denial. A lot of things were going badly in my life at that time. I finally had an epiphany that revealed to me the only way out was to start being true to myself. I threw the closet door open and started living my life the way I should…with integrity. I’ve actually had very little rejection along the way; most folks said they figured I was. The most humorous ‘fessing up came when I told my eldest brother, who was the first family member I came out to. After spewing beer across the table because he was laughing (he was laughing at my bluntness and seriousness), he smiled at me and told me the family already knew, that they wondered why I had been living my life the way I was. I commenced to gently laying into him that it sure would have been nice if someone would have sat down and talked to me about it. I don’t count the many times Mom asked me if I was as having a dialogue about it. It hasn’t been all cupcakes and roses, but it hasn’t been a bad journey, either.
Just out as bi to my fiancee, my best friend, and a coworker… don’t think I’ll ever be able to tell my family.
Coming out as bi is difficult. It’s like you get looked at weird from both ends. If I say I’m bi while in a relationship with a man, it gets blown off as “curious” or “experimenting”. If I say I’m bi while with a woman, I get accused of just not accepting the fact that I’m gay. Well, dammit. I’m bi! It’s not that I’m confused or don’t want to admit one way or the other. I just am what I am. Today I just came out to my friends for the first time… But I’m still trying to get the courage to come out to family…..
I just told everyone they lost a son in law and got a daughter. I also made sure everyone knew I was finally happy, and didnt care if anyone didnt like it. Havent looked back since.
my mom walked in on me and my girlfriend at the time making out…twice. then she actually asked me what was up, and i told her im bi. no issues since :)
Me: “Mom, I’m… gay.” Mom: “Finally!” <3
I’ve decided not to participate in Coming Out Day.
Soo, my girlfriend and I had a huge fight. I came home crying, and my mom wouldn’t leave me alone. She kept bugging me about what’s wrong. I was so frusturated and mad, she finally asked me what’s wrong and I screamed “I’M GAY” i was like shiittt. Soo I waited for her reaction and she laughed and said “No you’re not, now go to your room”
I came out 12yrs ago to my parents and my older brother after I had just graduated from high school. I came out to a few friends right around the time we were ready to graduate. Ive been out and proud and wouldn’t change it. My parents, mostly my moms still don’t understand my choice or why I choose to be the way I am. Sometimes she asks me when i say im hanging out with one person then the next with someone else. Even if i tired to explain it she may not still understand. I love her either way. Shes my moms. We had our debates n fallouts but ill always love her. “I was born this way.”
I came out in high school
when i told my grandmother she said “well duh” and my lil sister said “that explains alot” and nothing really froom my parents
i’ve been out for almost a year now, but not with my parents. hard times in love land. XDD
Today is Coming Out Day, 2011. I was encouraged by an 18-year old friend who publicly shared his coming out story, so I thought I would share mine.
I grew up in a small farming community in Montana. When I was about 6 years old, at a time when I was in Head Start, I became aware that my interactions with other kids was a little different. I had only one sibling, a brother who was a bit younger than me. Well, I figured out that I was more comfortable playing with the girls than the boys. I had always played with my brother, but this was different somehow. In First Grade, I was friends with the daughter of our landlord, and she liked me and we got along great. When her older sister made the two of us a picnic lunch one day I got the distinct feeling that my friend thought differently about our association than I did. It was awkward, but again I didn’t fully understand why. We moved away to another town before the next school year. My family lived with our grandmother until I was in the 5th grade. During that time I came to realize that Grandma knew more about me than I did. During that time, I still had a better association with girls than I did with boys – for some reason. My parents never played a role in pushing me in any particular direction either socially, religiously or otherwise. But Grandma made it a hobby to encourage me to “ask a girl out”, etc. and I would always blush and say that I wasn’t interested. And then she would ask “or do you like the other kind? wink wink” Now how strange is that? The same girls who I viewed as my friends, but I did not feel comfortable asking any one of them to dance, or to single out any one of them for a close relationship during school. One time, when I was 11 I think, my Grandma and Mom had the idea to dress me up as a young lady and enter me in the town parade. Yes, I about died when I knew they were serious about it. Maybe it was because of the many times that I would stand on top of the ceptic tank in the yard in my shorts and cowboy boots, singing like I was Petula Clark on my own stage for the whole world to hear “Downtown…” while my mother hung the laundry out to dry on the clothesline. “Not so loud” she would say.
Well, I never went to a school dance – ever. And in High School it wasn’t any different. I was busy with many outside school activities like music, theatre, etc. – but sports, not so much. I look back and wonder if I was actually avoiding making any close male relationships because I knew that it would cause me to face reality. I truly thought that I was the only kid in school who was like me. I have more recently come to know that I truly was not alone the entire time. Times were different then though, but sometimes I think that if I could have been brave enough to live authentically back then, how much better it could be for todays kids right now. Okay, I am getting to the coming out part. My mother died when I was a Junior in High School, and although I had not come to the realization that I was Gay by then, I am sure that she knew. I don’t think she would have liked me to tell her that fact, but everything about me told her who I was, and it was ok. I am sure my Dad knew as well. When I was a Senior in High School, and after a couple of years of having a crush on a couple of my male teachers I finally had enough knowledge to face the fact that I was Gay. Not confused – GAY. Wow, I am the ONLY Gay person in town, maybe the whole State. How did this happen? haha. Anyhow, my family being so small, the town so small, etc. I said to myself I would postpone my “relationship” interests until I got to College. And I did. But I ended up living with my Aunt and Uncle the whole time out of necessity, in Memphis, Tennessee….that was awkward; so I put it off even longer. It wasn’t until I was a Junior in College that I had met someone that made me feel like – hey this Gay thing is real. He really likes me and I like him — but in the end the reality of the attraction was too much for him to deal with and it ended awkwardly. I regret that happening, and hope that he has had a wonderful life since then, wherever he may be. When I was finally living on my own in Salt Lake City, at age 25, I then realized that I had a duty to myelf to not hide so much. So I reached out to explore the new technological age of computer dating, which in a way made it feel safer to interact without people knowing who I was. From that point on I was OUT to myself, but not so OUT to my employer except maybe some close coworkers. I introduced one of my “buddies” to my Dad at one point, but that relationship didn’t last because I was rebounding from another relationship of 5 years. Then one day, when my brother was visiting for Thanksgiving at my place, we were driving in the city and stopped at a light. And he was asking about a very young roomate that I had living at my house. He asked “Are you gay?” He asked not in a threatening way, but I felt safe to answer and I said :”yes I am”. Then my face flushed and my ears started to ring and the light had changed green and I just sat there. And then he said, “huh, I just wondered. I still love you cuz you are my brother”. And then — I burst out laughing because all of a sudden I realized that he thought my roommate was my boyfriend. LOL, and I let him know that wasn’t the case. It wasn’t long after that when I confided in close relatives, etc. and not all of them are okay with it, but at least I am who I am. Long story, I know, but it was a long journey of self realization and then to eventually feel comfortable enough to connect with other people like me. It has made all the difference in my life. I was never sad or depressed growing up, but I just felt incomplete. And it has led to the most wonderful man in my life, who has been by my side for the last 11 years.
i came out at the age of 12 and i’m 21 now i didn’t tell my family until i was 18 and my mom nor dad talked to me for 2 weeks now 3 years later i’m married to my wife and my mom dad and brother except me but i have no other family but them
I came out as transgender when I was 24, I told my mom there was a secret I was keeping. I told her that I was afraid I shouldn’t ever tell anyone but that it was something that was really hurting me to deal with on my own. She told me I could tell her anything, so I did. I told her I was transgender and was hoping to begin transition and she just said she was relieved because she knew for so many years something was really bothering me. I guess in hindsight there was no surprise for most people. Lol, I also told her how when I was 13 I really almost came out but one of my “therapists” was really discouraging. Basically he tried to keep me from being myself. Anyway, that’s my story. And technically I was out as trans to my boyfriend when I was 10.
I was outed by an uncle at 16.
I thought it was tomorrow.
When I told my mom she said, “I will NOT have my 13 year old daughter tell me she is a lesbian.” and then I got ignored till my little sister was born. Guess she finally got a real daughter.
the next thing my parents did was sit me down in front of the Rev James Dobson where I outed the assistant pastor. That was 1978. You put it together
i’ve always known i was different to everyone else and i thought i might have been bi, then i got a boyfriend at the age of 16, now im almost 18 and i’ve been out as gay since =P
Also…. dont give a damn what people think…. u are who u are =)
i am now 16 years old and i accepted my sexuality as a bisexual teenager about one year ago and i am very proud of my sexuality!!!
One day, I think I was 15 or 16 at the time, I phoned my elder sister that I was gay.
She said: “No you’re not.”
Me: “Yes, I am.”
My sister: “Then who’s your botfriend?”
Me: “I don’t have a boyfriend but I am gay.”
My sister: “Okay.”
She didn’t believe me for 7 years – when I told my parents.
My parents did believe me either and suggested that I seek psychological help.
I suppose that they assumed that because I’m not effeminate or flamboyant I couldn’t possibly be gay. Even my boyfriend didn’t believe I was gay when we first met!
I first came out as bi. I thought I was bi cause I felt some kind of attraction to this girl when I was in high school. But when I soon realized that it was just a friendship type attraction, I also realized that I was sexually attracted to guys. So that’s when I figured out I was “gay”. That was about 2 years ago. But, about 11 years ago, I started noticing that I felt I should have been born a girl. Those feelings still follow to this very day. So I’m constantly asking myself, am I a “gay man” or a straight girl? So honestly, I don’t even know if I’m considered “gay” or not. I feel like a heterosexual female…..but I honestly don’t know. I did come out to my parents as a self identifying female on January 1st this year. It was a new year’s resolution to come out to my parents with this. :)
I knew from an early age (13) that I was bisexual, and I was terrified to tell my mother. So much so that I was losing sleep over it. The night I told her was one of those nights. It was 1am and I couldn’t sleep. So I went downstairs and said to her, as bluntly as possible: “Ma, I like girls AND boys.” She just stared at me owlishly and said, “…yeah, I know.” And then went back to watching TV. There was no reason for me to be concerned. Turned out my mom dated girls at one point too.
When I came out I told a friend of mine that I was gay and said I know
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I came home from Kindergarten & told my Mother: “God made a mistake; I was supposed to have been born a girl.” I have since come to realize that God doesn’t make mistakes. God makes each person unique & special in many ways so that all life may be honored & celebrated. I am neither fully male or female but a mixture of both that can not be defined merely by genitals and hormones. At the age of 19 I started “Coming Out” to the rest of the world, a little bit at a time, as I realized that my sexual & romantic attractions are usually toward people who appear “male” by traditional standards. But that is just one aspect of who I am as a person who is able to Love everyone.
I was outed to my mom by my Aunt when I was 19. Things went to hell for awhile, I moved out. My mom had a rough time accepting things she condsidered, “different.” I am bisexual and very proud to be. I was with my ex girlfriend for a few years and after we broke up, I met and dated a guy. When my mom heard I was dating a guy, Her eyes lit up and she asked, “Are you in love with a boy?” I had to laugh and tell her, “I am in love with a person.” Fast foward five years later, and I am seeing a wonderful person. She now hints for more grandchildren, even as going as far to say out in a conservative resturant, “Even with alternative insemination, you can still have babies!” I have been out now for over 6 years and I would not change a thing.
I came out more then 18yrs ago. My mom didn’t care she was ok with it. In fact we all ended up living together…… My dad was a completely diff story, he said homosexuality was an abomination he wouldn’t condone it if he did he would be in hell right along with us……it took him a few years but he came around……
I had told my mom when I was 22 n she had a nerves break down n said I was going 2 hell… we didn’t talk 4 a long time. So I got back with my boyfriend at the time 2 make her happy. She was. I wasn’t! Over the course of 12 yrs I had a child n married that boyfriend. Was miserable. @ 33 got happily divorced! Finally said I’m ganna make myself happy n ended up finding this amazing woman! I told my mom I’M GAY N HAPPIER THEN I’VE EVER BEEN SO U NEED TO EXCEPT ME OR DON’T HAVE ME IN UR LIFE… she said she’s not comfortable with it but except me n my girl. Life is good now!
I told my mom’s best friend time before so when the moment of the true came I ask her t be there. We were all in the living room and I start cryin and my mom’s best friend told her tha I was gay lol my mom didn’t talk to her or like months ahahahahah
I came out at 35 after a rough 12 year hetero marriage. I have known since 4th grade but suppressed my feelings for fear of how my family would react. My marriage fell apart and I just knew I had to do this if I ever wanted to be truly happy. I started dating a woman and about six months into it I changed my Facebook status to in a relationship with (insert gf’s name) and that was it. My mom called and said well it’s about time! Now maybe you can really be happy! Everyone else just “liked” my new Facebook status and friend requested my partner.
Happy Coming Out Day everyone! We’re hoping you can all check out Transgressions, a new site dedicated to trans sex and sexuality and a safe environment for you to come out and explore! Site launching soon. Keep in touch with us on our FB page and let us know what topics you’d like for us to explore! You can also follow us on Twitter! @MyTransgression
It has been really refreshing to read everyone’s comments. I’m in my mid 30s and in a relationship with a woman for the first time– I’ve had crushes on women since I was in high school, but finally acted on it this year. The relationship has been life changing. I love her more deeply than I’ve loved anyone.
I’ve told my siblings and my close friends and, oddly, my co-workers. Everyone has been so incredibly supportive. Was gearing up to tell my parents this month, but am starting to panic since I don’t think I can answer their questions about identity quite yet. (Am I a lesbian? Am I bisexual? Do I really need to label it?) It doesn’t help that another family member came out to them a decade ago, with pretty disastrous consequences.
As I sort through more turmoil than I feel like I can bear, I am really buoyed by the stories of those around me and the stories of courage of those who have come out. Special props to those of you in middle school and high school. Your courage inspires me deeply.
To the continued journey that we are all on….
I accepted myself on my 18th birthday and then the rest was happiness from joy from ALL family members and close friends. I’m very fortunate
I told my boyfriend of three years that we couldnt be together anymore cause well I like women, and he was like well that explains a lot. All my family and friends were shocked it took me that long. Though my guy friends still think it because I havent met their penis yet, so then you have to wonder if the only reason they are straight is because they havent met a penis yet. hehe
I want to coming out the closet, but it’s’ hard!! I’m from Paraguay. and people here still don’t accept homosexual lifestyle, i have no boyfriend yet koz everyone thinks I’m straight, i’m the president of my school, and i have to keep a fuckin’ status…. it sucks!!!!
Up until my sophomore year of college I was totally oblivious to my potential to like girls. I liked guys here and there in high school, and even had a boyfriend at one point. But especially in my freshman year of college, I kept becoming super-frustrated. I met all these great, good-looking guys, but why didn’t I like any of them? So many guys at my college. Did not one even catch my eye through his looks? Nope. I even tried to make myself like a guy at one point, without even considering that I might not be as into guys as I thought. Sophomore year rolled around. My best friend-girl and I were as close as I could be. One day, I wanted to kiss her. I freaked out. Around this time she came out to me as gay, and that statement led me into a realm of possibilities. I explored my feelings with her, and realized, I was into girls. It’s been a little over two years since I realized my attraction for girls. And I am happy to say that even though it is a confusing struggle at times- I am proud to be gay :)
Before I begin, let me reveal that when growing up, I heard a lot of bigotry and discriminate language from my grandfather and my father – a rather hostile environment(when Measure 36 was up for vote in Oregon, I wrote out on a poster board “It was Adam & Eve, not Adam & Steve” to try and feel like I was a peer in my family). I was in the 8th grade when, in math, myself and my queer friend were writing notes to each other. We had stated that I needed a man and she needed a lady – it sounded like an amazing plan. After class, I folded the note and released this secret into my pocket, which later once home had layed it out. The next day when I came home from school my room was spotless. SPOTLESS. The note lay on my bed, neatly placed and unfolded. My mother had read the note and I was outed. My father had seen it on Myspace(<– oldschool ^_^ ). Both were tore up from the floor up about it but now, 5 and a half years later, they still love me with all they’re heart and I was able to let them witness what a homosexual was. Absolutely normal. Sometimes, it isn’t that bad
Ill make this quick, friends knew, then family knew, then everything is history :)
Some people are still trapped in that closet with denial….even to their familes
i came out 7+yrs ago after my divorce…i married my wife 4 yrs ago!!
I first identified as bisexual at around the age of 12. I told my parents about it, but my father said it was a phase while my mother was downright disturbed. In all honesty, I did not expect that reaction from my mother.
I did not bring up my sexual orientation again until far later. I began to date a long-time friend of mine, the above-mentioned transgender male. To this day we are still together (it’s now been close to five years!). My father is…eh… indifferent about the issue, I suppose. I don’t think he has a problem with it; it’s more so I don’t think he expected the outcome. My mother, though, was at first extremely angry about it and insisted that my life would always be miserable unless I found a “normal man”. We argued about this for about two years. Then one day, my openly gay uncle confronted my mother about it and said very flatly, “Accept your daughter or lose her.” From then on my mother grew more supportive.
My brother has always fully accepted my bisexuality, I’m lucky to say. He’s awesome.
At this point, I still face different reactions in concern to my relationship and bisexuality. But I am not ashamed of who I am.
I had a very public “coming out” nine years ago after trying to tell my family in our home over Thanksgiving. My mom and I were in Wendy’s in my college town, and I was trying to explain to her that my boyfriend was more than a friend. She wasn’t getting it, so I yelled “Mom, I’m fucking gay!” and stormed out. Not exactly ideal. But my family loves and supports me, and I’m glad that I did, I just wish that I did it differently.
been out for 5 years…love conquers hate.
I knew. I kinda always knew. But I came out 4 years ago. My parents didn’t talk about it after and it was akward for the longest time, but now that I’m almost in college it doesn’t seem like that big of a deal. Its who I am and who I will always be! :-)
I came out to my friends a while ago, there all fine with it. i was struggling to be comfortable enough for myself to be able to do that. i am now fine with everything. But i still haven’t came out to parents and family.
I came out to my dad when I was 16 at a 7eleven in front of his gf at the time. He was not ok with it for a little while but with the support i had from my siblings and family he began to understand who i am he is cool with it now:] good times haha
it was pretty much a wrap for me.. i was 13 and my mom found my gay porn.. i told her i was bi at the time.. which i was.. until i had sex with a man for the first time when i was 16.. and then i told her nevermind.. that i was gay. then what do you know?? 2 years later my baby brother comes out of the closet.. but he was very “in her face” and you accept me for who i am or im not in your life anymore kind of thing. i wasnt that way with her.. i let her comes to terms with it on her own time. it took therapy, and 10 years of struggles for her to really come around the bend. but she made it and now she is nothing but more loving and supporting than she has ever been. i am so proud of her.
as for my dad… he still thinks i am “going thru a phase” and that i am really str8… whatever though thats his opinion.. and i hardly ever see him because of our conflicting work schedules.. but whatever i dont think he really even cares anyway.
My coming out was two years ago to a boy named Brandon. He was gay so I thought it was perfect, and a few months later I told my family and they were cool.
burst into tears when I tried to come out to my dad…he was totally cool with it and just said “So…why are you crying?” my mom wasn’t, and we went through a really rough time, but its getting better. my friends were all really supportive; some were surprized, one just looked at me and said “No shit!”, but most were really happy for me; te most common reaction was “Congrats!”
Come out of that dark closet into the sunshine. There are people out here waiting to give you a hand.
I came out to my friends and parents at 16. I wrote a letter to my mom telling her everything. She denied it and hated the thought of it at first. She swore it was a ‘phase’. Then a few min. later she was okay (after she found out that my dad was okay with it) but she still said she didn’t agree but she promised she wouldn’t tell the rest of my family because she knew they wouldn’t understand. But the messed up thing about it is my girlfriend at the time got mad at me because I didn’t tell my mom about her and I. But she didn’t understand that my mom said she didn’t want any of my ‘so called girlfriends’ to come over no matter what, so I had to keep her a secret.
Mom: “Your friend is a whore”
Me: “I know, she doesn’t even tell her mom who she dates”
Mom: “Well if start dating a guy or a girl just tell me”
Me: “Ohkay.”
She doesn’t really mind, I’ve always been…odd and interested in lgbt stuff so she never really had a problem.
I’m, still not sure what I am..
not really out yet…..actually the other day a guy in my class, he is openly gay and another one of our classmates came in and said, “fag!” with a disgusted look on his face. i know i want to be out and proud, but it is very scary on what people may do to yu just because yu want to be yurself and who yu are. i know its bad not coming out, but maybe when there are less people who want to beat up on gays, ill think about it later…..and besides…..who knows what my family will think…..they are major christians who have said that being gay is an abonitation……O_O
I was 15 years old laying on my bed watching t.v when my mother and 2 sisters waltz in….stare at me and say “we have something to tell you………you’re gay.It’s nothing to be ashamed of and we will always love you no matter what!!” that was MY coming out
I tried to tell my family but they didn’t believe me or want to believe me. I have a wonderful gf she’s amazing:)
i read some of the stories and i hate how some family members reacted, but im so grateful i have an amazing mom who understood and after a while got my father to be okay with it, after a 3 hour lecture from both. even my Godfather supports me :) oh the irony.
Let’s see sophomore year in high school my ex-girlfriend asked me out, but since I grew up in a sheltered religious home, I didn’t knew what happen. Went out with her and I accepted the fact that maybe I was a lez though I was still attracted to guys. Then I realize I like both men and women, told my brother and now I have to tell my mom… after I graduate college…hopefully
My friend Kal introduced me to someone at a rally and then quickly added …”she’s straight.” I laughed out loud but then realized it didn’t really matter to me and I wondered why it would matter to anyone else! Be who you are and if people don’t like it, drop them like a hot potato and surround yourself with others!
well my mother knows (hacked my facebook) and freaked out but shes better about it. i plan on seeing my brother and telling him (i look up to him more than anything)
Good luck Darling… I am bi & proud of it. I came out my sophmore year; to my friends, fianci, and mama. I just came out to my dad last year. My fianci did not like it at first, but now he is comfortable with my sexuality (becuz he knows I’m his). He even jokes about my sexuality now-a-days. The only people I haven’t come out to is my grandparents, but I think they mite know without my saying so.
Mom: “Mark, I want you to meet this nice Jewish girl.” … Me: “Mom, I’m gay!” … Mom: “Mark, I want you to meet this nice Jewish boy – AND HE’S A DOCTOR!!!” Oy.
I’d love to be somewhere else, where people where more open. D:
In a mexican food place. Dipped my chip in salsa. Then said .. “hey mom, umm I’m gay.” then ate my chip(: haha
I came out years ago, I don’t need a ‘special’ day to be truthful to myself.
When I cam out to my mom, I was terrified, BUT her simple responce was, “Oh, I already knew that! I was just waiting for you to tell me!” I was floored! xD
I have loved Keith Harrings artwork for many years.
It took me a long time to be fully out. I’d told a few people here and there over the years. I’ve been out and proud for three years and am finally happy :)
I didn’t really “come out” as much as being “lead out.” I was sitting in my grandmother’s living room one afternoon helping her sort out quilt squares. She leaned over and said, “So, dear, how long have you been a homosexual?” I looked wide-eyed at her, and said, “As long as I can remember.” She said, “OK. I love you. Hand me that blue plaid square.”
Oh, and it was a surprise to almost nobody ;)
was at a party years ago , dancing with a friend when I said “when did you come out” and she replied, about 8:30…
I just told my parents the girl I had been talking to was my girlfriend, it was basically the same as telling them about previous boyfriends.
open pansexual. and im coming out bigender too.
@Marisa move to Australia then ;)
Perfect story mark!! I wish I waz jewish because I would love to settle down with a nice jewish girl. But anyway, I didn’t really come out. My mom just knows and I know she knows, as does both,of my sisters but I have never confirmed it to anyone but my friends and my other sister. My dad is just dumb and ignorant and doesn’t understand so when he will really never know. I do not, plan to visit,my dad after I leave for college and im deleting him off my fb so really I don’t care if he ever finds out. Eventually I will tell my mom once i find the love of my life but she won’t be surprised, she already said I might as well come out lol. Oh and also he found my seasons of the l word so I think he is in denial. I lied to him about it but I know he can tell when im lying. My dad is probably just waiting on me to get a Boyfriend so he can stop worrying and wondering, but that will never happen lol. So yeah. That’s my situation. ps mothers always know!!!
i knew from a very young ago that i liked girls. i didn’t put a word to it until high school though. i dated a few boys, and things just never felt right. i came out when i was 14 as bi, not to hurt my mom too much. she cried a lot, but she accepts me for who i am now. my dad said he already knew when i told him. i consider myself one of the lucky ones that’s never really came into contact with people who hate me for who i am, well, except for the protesters that show up at gay related events.
well im 20 and when first liked a girl i was in 3rd grade…… coming out is hard… but easy afterwards
Oh btw, my other sister is gay too and my das and her mom figured it out when they saw her fb pics. We both knew we were gay at a young age.
Came out as bisexual. So far, so good.
Me and my mom sitting watching C.S.I Miami…
Mom: “That girl is weird”
Me: “Who my girlfriend?”
Mom: “What Do u mean?”
Me: “I’m bi, ugh gotta pee” that’s how it happen, we dated for 2 years n 9 months, now best friends and I’m madly in love with a guy, shout out to George, baby I love u! Lol <3
I was forced out by my boss at the time…but it was actually a favor to me because it got me to open up to my friends who hated him and their love and support was awesome…most were like we already knew we were just waiting for you to tell us….if I had known I would have had that support I wouldn’t have waited 38 years to come out…but now I am out and proud and not one solitary soul in a town of only 6500 has said a cross word to me…most are very supportive and my family never batted an eye as my at the time 76 yr old grandma said when I told her I was gay “O hell I knew that a long time ago don’t matter to me I love you for you” at that point the world lifted off my shoulders and I never looked back at the closet
Um… I already did.. Wish I hadn’t.. FML.
came out. and friends ignored me for months and refused me hugs. mum guessed due to the may i was apparently sucking on an ice lolly…
I told my best friend by saying that from “Will and Grace” that i was Will and she was my Grace and she was cool with it : ) my brother saw me reading rainbow boys and was like whatever about it. My sister just knew, and my mother was another thing.
I really didn’t come out it came out before i could tell anyone my aunt found out by myspace lol she’s still not cool i have been going through alot becuz of the fact that im gay i dont kno how to make my family happy and be happy im still in the point where idk what to do i just want everyone to love me and be happy so idk but i’m proud to be gay
I have 8 kids; 3 natural, 2 step kids, and 3 adopted. All my sons are straight and all my daughters Are gay. Since I always believed being gay was biological, and not a choice it never bothered me…or my husband for a second. For me the hardest thing was what society does to gays or ANYONE who is different. We’ve got great kids that we’re very proud of.
Via text to my mom last November Me: “Mommy, I like girls and I am leaving my husband for one.” My mom: “About time.” Coming out to my now ex husband… Me: “So, I think we should seperate. I’ve met someone else.” Him: “It’s that woman you met a month ago isn’t it? I saw how you two kept looking at eachother from across the room.” Me: “Um yeah. I think I’m bi.” Him: “I want a divorce.” Me: “Um yeah, already got an appointment with a lawyer Monday…” (It seriously went down like that. I rather leave than cheat. He and I are best friends, and still raising our son together.)
How come Amy? Didnt go well?
I’m still waiting to come out…. From the time I was my little sisters age(8) I had had little “crushes” on boys, but I felt myself looking at the girls, too. But I’ve gotten older, and I’m no longer questioning it. I’m a somewhat closeted pansexual, but I’m slowly, but surely coming out.
I’m too afraid. I don’t think I should, at least not now. Sadly I live with people who hate because of religion.
Coming out is never easy. Props to those who did today. Even admitting it is coming out. If you just accepted the fact you you are LGBT than congrats. =)
I confided in my brother’s friend, who then told my brother, who I then asked to tell our mom, who I then asked to tell my dad. No big deal, if they hadn’t accepted me for I am I would’ve gladly walked out the door and died of hunger and thirst. But that wasn’t necessary, my parents are very open minded.
Oh no Amy! I hope you find someone who can stand by your side. Friends always help.
Joseph Don’t let other peoples magical beliefs prevent you from being you and living your life as you want to.
Nope. Not at all. It was last year. I was 17. Got forced out of my soccer team, work(a vet hospital), and no socializing. Had to go to college with my mom tracking what i was doing.. Tried to commit suicide. Failed. Turned into an alchoholicalcoholic Got sent to a mental hospital. And im 18 bout to b 19 and still the same shit. So yes. Went bad as fuck.
That is amazing!!! I am proud of you and respect your honesty towards the world. :-)
I came out in the mid-60′s.I had older friends & we all lived together in a dorm. It was a fun experience! With the same people,I would it over again !
kind of im having trouble coming out to family. their kind of against it :/ any tips? I came out to my friends last year as bisexual never hearing of pansexual and i knew bi never really fit either. i just always knew it never mattered to me if they male female trans, bi gendered or color or religion what they are i falll in love with a person nothing else<3
@Amy just buckle down and finish Uni then you will have a lot more choices open to you.
I told my mom and dad for years i was gay, and they always told me i wasnt. 4 years later and living with my girlfriend i have been with for a year is great and they love her :)
came out in middle school during p.e as bisexual no chick wanted to dress by me in high school icame out as pansexual cause ifeel in love with jeni (aka james) ilove everyone men women m2w or w2m ^_^
I came out to my whole neighborhood in a screaming match with my mom. It was tacky and unrefined, but it took off a huge burden off my shoulders. This was 6 years ago. Now, I am happily settled down with my girlfriend of 3 yrs and my father loves her. My mom and other family will always have their issues, but that is not what’s important to us as a couple. We just hope for equality! :-) I love my life with her and wouldn’t trade it for anything. I hope everyone is having a “lesbionic” day. :-) :-) :-)
Amy, Im sorry hun for what happened. You can add me if you want. I understand that and i can listen if you wanna talk about it more. *hugs* <3
When I told my daddy he just said that he knew. Lol. I tried telling my mom before and she didn’t respect it. But now me and my dad can bond by checking out girls downtown (:
Not really a coming out story but here it is. I watched a 60 minutes program about Jazz Jennings ( 7 yo Transgender girl ) and started researching Transgender. Most sites deal with LGBTQ issues so I ended up researching all of it. I came to the conclusion that there is no real difference between you and me. I am a LGBTQ supporter and an admin of a Transgender group. Happy coming out day everyone.
i told my grandma while we were eating pancakes at cracker barrel. he reply was “well we have all been around the block a time or two” AMAZING!!
I came out aprox a yr ago. I told my dad i was gay, he was in his room watching tv.& asked him if i could talk to him. He had been acting odd & had been asking me questions about my friends one in particular, he had seen a txt from her that said ” i love you babe” he’s odl school so he tought it was weird lol afer that i thought if he had he’s suspicons i might as well come clean about it, so i told him & he re acted exactly the way i thought he would. He told me i was stupid that i didnt know what i was, that he would never accept it, he even wanted me to go to a diff school. One thing i would never forget what he told me about my mother, my mom died when i was a bby, he said that he shouldve died instead of her that she wouldve done a better jb raising me & i told him that it wouldve been better if i hadnt been born since it was such a big deal for him. & i hate that he brings my mom everytime i try to talk about it. We havent touched that subject in a while & we probably wont anytime soon.
@derek.. Buckle down?.. I walk out my room straight into BS about me being lesbian. My day already started out bad. The only “good times” I have is from 12:00am- 7:00am. Cus everyone is asleep… And btw not going to college anymore. Been doing nutin… Cus im gay and I deserve it.
Amy, there is support out there for you. The community is a loving and spring family for those of us who need it. Be strong.
I came out to myself when I was 10years old as a lesbian or liking women, at the age of 12 I came out to my mom and my family as bi. And slowly came to realize I love the woman more than the man and slowly brought to them that I was a full on lesbian so atv13 realized I was a lesbian. And now I’m known as the “lesbian” and am proud as ever. Do add me fellow comrades.
i came out that i was bi in middle school…my brother and i were fighting in the kitchen while my mom was cooking dinner…bro-…you’re gay… me-actually, i’m bi… mom-say whaaa…? me-yes mother…i like men&women… mom-…huh, whatever floats your boat i guess… i love my mom… :)
Came out to my family when I was 35 after I separated, then divorced my then husband after 13 years of doing the supposed right thing. I had to be true to myself. I met my now 10 year partner online and haven’t looked back. Alot of my high school friends said they already knew but were just waiting for me to tell them. I love them.
So there is a rule to adding me you have to be at least 17 years of age!!!!!! So I could possibly have intelligent conversations with you!
I posted this a few hours ago on my status….- Join me in donating your status and come out for LGBT equality, regardless of if you are straight, bi, gay, etc… many need your support. :) While I’ve always thought it was fairly late in the game… I’m married, kids… I feel like It’s somewhat wrong to not voice who I am, (like I don’t do that enough? lol) I’ve always thought, well it doesn’t matter now to say anything, I married a man! But I belong to the LGBT community, I’m not ashamed of who I am, and just a very few know- That I am bisexual. I’ve just never said it officially. Well… there ya go. I don’t know if a weights been lifted yet…? I just know that I felt compelled to do so, in hopes that no one else has to feel like it’s something to hide or be afraid of. ♥” :)
Mine Is accutually short jaja I Just told my Mother that I’m gay and I was not shy or scared cause I’m Happy I have a mother who supports me I was 17 when I came out Gay<3 And I came out to everyone when I was 17 so kids that are reading this Its Okay to share what’s on your mind don’t keep the secret Let It Out tell your parent that your gay or at Least your friends don’t Be afraid to Be who you are!!You are Beautiful!!<3
I never really got to come out to my parents. My gfs mom did that for me. But still to this day. We don’t talk about it. Unless its my dad telling me I’m going to hell if I don’t change and stuff. :( I can’t talk to them about my relationships. and I can only have my ‘friends’ over
My mom said I was going through a phase. And my dad didn’t talk to me for a week. My mom always told me she loved me. But the way I can never talk about it. Shows that they will never accept me:( but all my friends love me for who I am. And idk where I wld be without them
At a harvey’s with my mom – I told her I was queer, kinky and poly all at once! She took it surprisingly well!
I realized I was different when I was 8yrs old and proceided to tell my mom that I liked both girls and boys. She was supportive because she is also bisexual. Which up until this year when I started college i’d always identified as bi, but then I learned the term pansexual and realized it fit so much better. None of my friends really care about sexuality because I tend to want to be around people who don’t view sexuality as a big deal. We’re all just people. That is my coming out story, for I was never in the closet. But I know that I am one of the lucky ones.
I came out at age 13. I fought it for years before i finally deep down in my heart accepted. My mothet was the first one to find out even though she already knew but it wasnt always an easy coming out time for me cuz there were a few family members who.disowned me
I cannot for the life of me remember how I came out. According to my best friend, I wrote her a letter confessing that I was bi, but I don’t remember that either. When I look back on it, the only thing I can figure is that it was too stressful for me to want to remember, so I blocked it out. But my parents are generally supportive, so long as there’s no kissing/handholding of the opposite gender around them.
Amy, Derek is right, just buckle down cause ‘it gets better’ :)
Well, an old friend of mine and I chatted for the longest of time and he convinced me to lose my inhibitions and be free. So, I did and a year later, I must say that its been great to be bisexual. :)
It was hell around the family, so I convinced them I was straight, and I could care less what they think now. They’re racists and morons who can’t accept anything besides the fact that I’m not a bigot like they are.
So, screw them. :D
I told my mother when I was 15. Even though I was pretty nervous, I knew deep down she’d be ok with it. And thankfully, she was. :)
i realized what i was just before middle school, i kept it quite through there accept in my journals, which my father found and freaked out (he was hard core homophobe for some reason) but even after that it was ignored until i came out in HS (first to my best friend)and a few close friends, but never came out all the way, which i regret because i don’t think i had the full experince of being me in HS, anyway i’ve only fully come out to all my family this year, through online letters and…facebook, kind of the cheep way to go, especially since im now 27, but i’ve got a great boyfriend so it was well worth it. Dads divorced from my mother, dunno if he really knows, mom is dealing with it, i think it still weirds her out, most of the family is ignoring it, but whatever
sorry i’m late..but have been out since 04′ after a divorce, etc. etc. and the self acceptance, experiences that go along with realizing the truth after so many years in denial, self guilt, & cultural forces. Hope everyone got to celebrate or do something constructive for others yesterday.
I was at a family gatherin and I mooned everyone to show off my new rainbow tattoo.. Said I have a fruity booty!
@amy you don’t deserve to be treated like crap…noone does. and yes the ‘suck it up or buckle down’ talk usually does more bad then good….i do agree that it does get better tho
Amy… Dont let your family do those things to you… cuz they should love you regardless…. You have to just keep saying this is me and im not changing…. Cuz in the end, changing to make someone else happy will end up desroying you on the inside…. Just be strong for yourself and keep putting your best foot forward… Be strong! We all have faith in you <3
Once upon a time, in a far-away land, I was born…..
I came out 2 years ago today! I’m 32. I remember being very anxious just days before I can out. I called my life coach but she couldn’t see me til Friday. I thought I needed her help coming out. I thought I needed her help in saying ” I am gay “. I couldn’t say it out loud. I was so overcome with emotion to the point my jaw hurt from trying not to cry… I just couldn’t hold it in! That’s when I started making phone calls and one by one either calling or visiting everyone I loved. Ah I’m a lil emotional now. BUT IM HAPPIER!
Sometimes its hard coming out others I came out by singing eminem cleaning out the closet to my moms she first thought I was playing then I looked dead in her eyes told her I wasn’t … I’m bisexual known since I wad 13 n never denied or hid it from anyone I get frowned upon time to time by my gma or my father but I remind them god loves me just the way I am n if they don’t that is something they need to figure out because I’m fine with who I am n how I am …. I don’t need thier approval or acceptance but it would b nice
For those that have come out already or are planning to do it, you can get some free resources from the PFLAG organization (Parents, Friends/Family of Lesbians And Gays). They also have transgender information. PFLAG not only offers support for parents and family, but also LGBT persons that need some support. Here’s the website to locate a chapter in your area: http://community.pflag.org/page.aspx?pid=803 and you DO NOT have to join to get any support from PFLAG! It’s FREE! But, if you can join, then it helps keep PFLAG going!
Also, PFLAG has some free publications available for download for Parents/Family as well as for those that are LGBT: http://community.pflag.org/page.aspx?pid=594
well im a 40 year old lesbien.i have been with my patner for 13 years.when i came out i was really scared and i said that i was bi-sexual.after about 6 months i realized that this was not working and i came out fully.its been hard at times but i have never been happier.
I discovered Gay when I were 14 years old and OFC, I struggled between wrong or right way… When I become 25 years old, I finally come out as Gay Life.. I am 52 years old now and love My Gay Life… I am Happy now…
I just discovered the term Pansexual. The english language keeps getting better. I have always hated the term Bi.
I was probley about fifteen when i walked up to my mom and said i was Bi. She turned aroung and said “i knew that already and I’ll love you no matter what”. I was so happy i was supported by my friend and mom that i was completely open…til I moved to Nebraska. I’ve tried to act “straight” because of the horror storys you hear about. I still havent come out to any one here and it drives me crazy being fake.
If you have any advice could you put @Michael plz =) and good luck everyone on coming out!!
I came out 6 yrs. ago right after my 50th birthday, my mom and brother didn’t take it well and they still haven’t fully come to terms with it. I kept it a secret from everyone for years, i lost a lot of friends {who i realized after they stopped talking to me that they were’nt really my friends}, i lost a lot of family members, i lost my best friend of 40+ years after i came out. But i’m much happier now!
You Can Do It!!!
Here I am world! :)
Proud !!! I am real gay!! So what!! :))
Out, proud and very happy
kind of came out as bi in a big way with my family.. oopsy. Good to know I am loved and supported for who I am. Not who I sleep with! Also proud of my daughter and her girlfriend. Now if the laws can just catch up with the times and allow people the freedom to marry whom they choose!
i’m proud to come out a say that i’m a supporter!!!
Take me as I am, or step aside.
I am a straight ally, I am out in support of all of the beautiful LGBTQ people!!! Happy Coming Out Day everyone!!
I came out to the world at 18 :) it’s been 2 years. Proud of myself for that milestone as part of my life
out, and well just out.
Out and proud of the person God created. No more hiding!
I have a question not trying to sound offense. but, why is it necessary to encourage people. to come out? I mean, I never came out to people. said “I’m straight” I mean I totally support gay rights I just don’t understand why you have to throw it in people’s faces. I don’t do that. if people are gay that’s fine. I’m cool with that. by all means. do that. but, why must people come out and tell people? does it matter? I mean respect people for who they are. I have gay friends and they never came to me and said “I’m gay” it doesn’t matter. we’re all people. we all need to be accepted for who we are. but, do we need to push in everyones way?
To help educate the ignorant and reduce hatred of those around us that may be different then what we were taught in our society. Every situation is different and that’s great that you are cool with it but not all are and that is why we need to raise awareness that its ok to be gay because growing up most children are taught otherwise.
Clay most have had to hide to keep from losing family, jobs and other things in life, it would be a much happier place if all are accepted but some people like to judge and hold annimosity to others ,,, Hate crimes are still out.
You never had to come out because you were assumed to be straight. When you acted as you were assumed, no one questioned. LGBT are different. People assume something we’re not. We’re not throwing it in people’s faces. We’re correcting what they thought to be true. It’s our identity. If someone kept calling you by the wrong name, you’d correct them, yes? Afterall, that’s who you are. The same is true for LGBT. I don’t want to be called the wrong thing or assumed that I am something that I am not. I’m not pushing it on people, nor am I throwing it in their face. I’m simply letting them know who I am. And, for every time they comment or say something like the wrong name example, I correct them as to my correct identity. I think straight people rarely have to identify themselves so much that they forget being straight is who they are. It’s their identity. There’s also the reason that we’re tired of hiding who we are. We just want to be free to use pronouns the way we want. Instead of saying partner, perhaps we want to identify she or he without shock. Best way to do that is to make sure they already know our identity.
It was actually meant as a time for people who want to be loved for who they are to come out to their family & friends because some are afraid that they won’t be loved if the knew… It’s a day of encourage. Not a day of exploitation… Don’t find an offense or make one to something that doesn’t truly affect u… Just encourage everyone to be themselves & love themselves. :-)
Closets are for Clothes.
Ollie, Ollie oxen free!
Here is me coming out…I AM BISEXUAL!!! <3
I’m out 15 years strong!
Best day ever!!! :0
out barely three months ha ha but am the happiest I have EVER been in my life.. it’s so wonderful when you don’t lie to yourself anymore :D
This is observed in Canada too ? Well, if it were not for LGBTQNation, I had not known !