Quote:
Originally Posted by IrisBloom
For someone who doesn't want to be "labeled" or "stereotyped" you really, really want to be known as "gay". Isn't that a label? I know you're going to say it's who you really are, tired of hiding, etc, but why is it important to you for others to know you identify as gay? Do you have to have identification proving you are gay to participate in gay events? IMO no announcement is necessary. Just go participate! Celebrate! You don't have to tell anyone anything.
My main concern would be your kids. IMO even tho they probably don't understand sexuality yet, surely they have opinions, either good or bad about homosexuality. It would be a subtle change in their world and probably disturbing to them, even though you are the same person. I wouldn't discuss it with the kids. Under normal circumstances parents don't discuss their sex life with their kids either.
You do have a right to be happy in your own skin, but please consider your kids happiness and security first.  |
I appreciate your comments. My kids are almost 17 and 23, and my youngest identifies as bisexual. The reality is I'm sure that they will be more accepting and understanding than you think. I don't need to protect them at their ages. Also being gay is not all about sex....I don't talk about my current sex life and it won't change after I come out.
I agree with the label stuff....it's not easy and it's complicated. At my age and situation I need to remove the anxiety related to my sexuality. Hiding it more will either mean reliance on medication or I will suffer mentally and emotionally. But somehow I must release the trigger....I have to find acceptance of,my sexuality and that is not just internal, or with my immediate family. That will not be enough. I need the freedom to be able to identify as gay when needed....and for that I have to be out to the people who would be impacted.
Does that help?