Come out – and live !

Our family and friends mean the world to us and sometimes are our world. When we’re in the closet, those relationships can seem so fragile, especially when we’re not sure what their reaction will be to our sexual identity. The fear of rejection is very real. No one wants to lose loved ones, so coming out may not seem worth the risk.

Oftentimes, we focus so much on what we may lose by coming out that we forget about what we may gain: Openness and freedom to finally express ourselves openly. Many out gay men can attest that coming out was worth the risk and have gone on to lead healthy, happy and affirmative lives.

First part of our feature about “Coming out”: What does it mean to come out ?

Coming out is the process of personally accepting your homosexuality and disclosing it to family, co-workers and friends. Coming out is different for every gay or bisexual man. Some experience a lot of pain and anguish while for others acceptance is simple. You may experience fear, doubt, loneliness, anger and even depression. That’s why it is good to surround yourself with others that may be going through the same transition or who have already come out. They can be a great support network. If you don’t have any gay friends or don’t know anyone else coming out, there are discussion forums and chat rooms that have plenty of positive influences. Be careful though, some may only be interested in sex or may seek to take advantage of you. Always use your best judgement.

How do I know if I´m gay ?

Coming out is the process of personally accepting your homosexuality and disclosing it to family, co-workers and friends. Coming out is different for every gay or bisexual man. Some experience a lot of pain and anguish while for others acceptance is simple. You may experience fear, doubt, loneliness, anger and even depression. That’s why it is good to surround yourself with others that may be going through the same transition or who have already come out. They can be a great support network. If you don’t have any gay friends or don’t know anyone else coming out, there are discussion forums and chat rooms that have plenty of positive influences. Be careful though, some may only be interested in sex or may seek to take advantage of you. Always use your best judgement.

Are Gay People Normal?

Of course you are! Being gay does not define who you are or make you any less of a person. At times it is not easy being gay, especially around those that are not supportive. Nonetheless, try to surround yourself by people who do support you and your lifestyle. You will soon see that gay and bisexual men interact with each other and the world as any other person would.

Am I the Only Person That Has Gay Feelings?

You’re not alone! There are many gay and bisexual men who are in the process of coming out. The Internet is a great resource to find someone you can talk to or share experiences with. Search for chat rooms specific to coming out or post an ad looking for friends. You’ll be amazed how many people are looking for someone to relate to just like you are. You’ll see that others may have had the same questions you have.

…to be continued…

Related to this and interesting:

• Come out ! Part II

1. 

   Jason Steele says:

   October 18, 2009 at 11:21 pm

   Volks – at the moment we research about true filipino-coming-out-stories. You can send yours to us: info@gaylife.ph and we will publish it !