It happened when I was a boy – grade school or junior high – I don’t remember. I was in bed trying to sleep and my father popped in to say goodnight, as was his custom. Sleep usually came easier after we chatted a bit.
Dad sensed my uneasiness and asked me if something was wrong. “I think I’m a homosexual,” I whispered. He looked at me, then out the window toward the junior high school across the street. I felt awkward. He looked back at me and said “Oh, don’t worry about that. Lots of young boys go through a phase like that.” He shut the light and left. My tension did not leave. He must have known, and the light came on. He came back in the room and said, “You know, if that feeling doesn’t go away, that’s ok too.” He shut the light again. Sleep came. I will always be grateful for that night.
Sometimes I just love happy endings to stories. Thanks for sharing, Scott.
That one put a lump in my throat - This is the way it should be for everyone>
JD
Brought me to tears. It really should be this way for everyone - thanks, Scott!
It’s always nice to hear about parents who understand that it really is ok.
You are very lucky to have such a wonderful father.
Beautiful. And very sweet.
Wow, I think this one is my favorite. So glad to know that you and your father have such a great relationship.
All parents should read this. Your father deserves a medal or something.
What a lucky, lucky boy. I came out after my father died. In fact it was his death that caused me to reevaluate my own life and face my sexuality with honesty. One of my deepest regrets is that I will never know how my father would have reacted. I sincerely believe he would have handled it like Scott’s dad, but I will never know for sure.
Your story brought me to tears. It is so simple and so natural. What an inspiration tothose of us trying to be the best parents we can.
I am glad that you reached this understanding with your father at an early age. I would have wished that you could have been more comfortable telling others you were close with.
i love this story.
so simple, honest and moving. i wish it was this easy for everyone.
yay for your dad.
Thanks for sharing. Wonderful father.
OK, that made my eyes tear up. Thank you for sharing that.
That was beautiful. You made me smile, but also cry at the same time Oh, were it that easy with my father or mother.
What a sweet, sweet story! Thank you for sharing it. And thanks to your dad for being so understanding!
Hug your Dad for me.
Short and sweet.
How lucky you are that your dad turned on the light a second time…