To Some, Coming Out Isn't Just A One-Time Thing

[w8liftinglady]

http://www.npr.org/2011/06/21/137319965/to-one-journalist-coming-out-doesnt-occur-once

-snip
I came out to much of my extended family, friends and the rest of the free world in a story I wrote as a columnist for ESPN.com. A basketball player had said he wouldn't want a gay teammate because he hates gay people. I had to take a stand. My story prompted some 500-plus emails from strangers, most warmly detailing support for me and their gay loved ones.

I never did come out to my dad before he passed away suddenly when I was 22 years old. I adored my father. I lived for his approval. I often wonder if I would have ever told him. I just don't know how my father would have taken the news.

But I am able to rest easy knowing how Father Dan took the news. He was the priest who was tasked with hearing confessions the day I nervously knelt down in the Siena College chapel. "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned," I began, as usual. I started with a few minor transgressions: "I lied to a friend. I broke my teammates' earbuds. I cheated on a calculus exam. And I'm gay."

(and listen to the accompanying audio if you get a chance. That would be my life they are describing)

[tavalon]

1. Magnificent story

Thank you.

[w8liftinglady]

2. It made me cry when I read it. It could have been me.

When my dad was dying,we talked as he stayed pretty high...he pretty well knew I was bisexual before I did. He said he could see it when I was a kid,but never said anything.
Coming out is tough love.