Until I wasn’t. The amazing thing about Traverse City was that once I knew what I was gay, I found an amazing community, an amazing mentor, and truly found out just how cool our little city is.
I came out my Senior year of high school, which included “outing myself” at a City Commission meeting that ended up being rebroadcast on the news. One church then kicked me out, while another embraced me. And yet the students at my school, well, I have to say I am extremely proud of how they all dealt with it. Everyone knew, but almost nothing had changed. Whether out of apathy or acceptance, life went on, pretty much as normal. I have actually wanted to thank all those people recently; they could have definitely made my life harder.
For all those out there: just come out. I know it seems impossible, daunting, extreme…but in the end it is FAR easier than the dramatic tragedy you have created in your head. You will find a community, you will find friends.
Dont be scared. Dont be scared. Dont be scared.
You can do it.
Good for you!! It really is a testament to the changing times…I wasn’t quite as fortunate, but it’s amazing that we’ve come so far…
Thank you so much for posting this.
I need to send this story to some people…
Oh God, thank you.