So I came out to my parents today. I was super nervous of what they would think, even though I know they have no problem with the LGBTQ+ community.
Since middle school, I knew I wasn't straight. In seventh grade, I knew I felt different then most of my friends, but I didn't say anything. In eighth grade, I came out to a small group of friends as bisexual.
In highschool, I grew more confident. In ninth grade, I came out to more friends as bi., But then I realized the word "bisexual" didn't really work for me. So I stopped labeling myself and just went by "queer." In tenth grade, I found a word that worked wonders for me. "Pansexual." I loved it, and started telling my friends what I'd rather they call me.
At the start of my Junior year in 2019, I became very open about my sexuality in school. If anyone asked, I had no problem telling them who I was, as long as my parents didn't know. I even told teachers that I trusted, my aunt, and one of my cousins. But never my immediate family.
In 2020, I finally came out to my parents. Their response? "I know."
I was shocked, I had thought I had hidden my sexuality very well. And so, I asked them how long. "Freshman year" was their answer.
I was relieved that they didn't really mind. While my family is christian, religion was never a factor in love. And while I knew they believed that people can love whoever they want, I was still terrified.
I made this post to say this. Come out at your own pace. It's okay to be scared. It's okay if you want to wait however long you want. It's okay not to tell some people because you are afraid they won't love you anymore. Coming out is so hard (and for some, impossible because of the environment they live in). But just know, there are people in this world who WILL accept and love you. It WILL get better. Nobody should force you to come out. Anyone who loves you will let you come out on your own time.
Just believe in yourself and know that even while it may seem unlikely, happiness is out there. And it's waiting for you to find it. Because one day, the people who hated you for being you, won't matter. Because you will have people in your life who make it worth living. Because you will have people in your life who will love you. Because one day, you will be accepted and cherished and loved and appreciated. Because you are amazing and brave and beautiful in every way.