Coming out, like… Online?
What was once a difficult one on one conversations filled with angst and tears is now as easy as changing your online status from straight to gay. The “Facebook Generation” is living up to its name. More and more teens are now clicking their way out of the closet before telling their family or even their B-F-Fs, but at what price? Itay Hod takes a look.
Coming out is a decision made after much thought about who you are. When you come out to family and friends you have to allow them some time (not nearly as much as you gave yourself) to let it sink in and come to terms with the new you. Everyone has preconcieved ideas about who you are. Some already know you’re gay and wonder why you haven’t told them, others haven’t got a clue and wanted to have your children (or grandchildren). So, give them a little time to think about who they are and how their love for you will help them to see you as a whole person. Don’t be afraid to tell them that you’ve thought about it for a long time, that you are telling them because you love them, and that now you’ll give them some time to think about it, too. This will help you to be in control of the situation and help them to formulate a response rather than a reaction. Good luck.