
Carl
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Carl reacted to ICTJOCK in In The Closet? A Topic For Discussion
Interesting conversation. My own situation maybe wasn't that atypical. While in college and law school, I basically chose to ignore it. Maybe "not accept" the reality with some sort of inner explanation. We all do that it seems with this or that. As I got into work I certain event came up that made me realize I wanted to address this part of my life and so I did. I don't think I ever have really been one to "worry about others finding out" kind of thing. But I also don't feel the need to make everybody around me aware of my sexual orientation. I do my thing and I live my life with confidence.
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Carl reacted to MaybeMaybeNot in In The Closet? A Topic For Discussion
I am, for the most part, still in the closet. I grew up in a conservative environment. If pressed, I know my parents would say they knew I was gay. Unfortunately, that was not acceptable. I was in denial until after they died. I moved across the country for work, and then alone and struggling to make friends, I had to come to terms with the reality of my sexuality or face loneliness. I was 40.
My two closest friends know and a few gay friends. When I told one of my closest friends whom I knew would be accepting, I cried. I have not told my brother., my nieces, my nephew. I suspect my closest friend in my new city is gay, but we have a similar background and I don't want to tell him. He may be in denial as well. I have not told the longtime female friend who has been pining for me for 10 years and can't seem to understand that she can't negotiate a relationship with someone who is not interested. That's traumatic in its own way.
I think about fully coming out, but my biggest concern is my brother's ex-wife, who probably knows I am gay and has tried to prevent me from spending time with my nephew a few times because of it. Oddly enough, I suspect her brother is gay.
But, I also struggle with disappointing people from my past. Most of my close friends would be 100% supportive.
I have been with my partner for 7 years, and most of my core support have no idea. It is very weird.
Part of it is, sexuality is very personal. By coming out, I feel like it is revealing something very personal. The moment you tell someone you are gay, you are revealing something about your sex life. To me, that is private. I save that for anonymous message boards.
I really need to see a counselor.
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Carl reacted to ShortCutie7 in In The Closet? A Topic For Discussion
I wouldn’t say I’m “out” or “in”- I don’t come across as obviously gay to the vast majority of people, but some people definitely know. If anything, I probably come across as asexual (think Sheldon Cooper), but I frankly don’t presume anyone to be thinking of my sexuality at all. It actually mostly depends on context- there are only a handful of people I have told outright, so they are the only ones that know for sure. Otherwise, the majority of my family/family friends and my coworkers from my day job assume I’m straight, while my coworkers from my side jobs (in largely gay fields) and acquaintances from these fields assume I’m gay, although there have been instances during which certain cohorts assumed I was straight (which was hilarious given the context).
Philosophically, I don’t like the idea of “coming out” because it places an emphasis on an aspect of my life that is very minor and doesn’t impact anyone I am not pursuing a romantic/sexual relationship with. Beyond that, coming out to my mother was extraordinarily difficult and painful, and I don’t wish to have to go through that again, nor do I believe I should have to with anyone else.
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Carl reacted to + ApexNomad in Gay late starters
There’s no set timeline for love or sexual discovery—51 is as good a time as any to explore who you are and what you want.
Your journey is uniquely yours, and it’s fine if it doesn’t fit neatly into a box or timeline. Truly.
Please be gentle with yourself. The idea of a “biological clock” can feel oppressive. Your value isn’t determined by past experiences—or the lack thereof. Every step you take toward understanding yourself is progress, even if it feels small.
Lastly, if you ever feel overwhelmed by these thoughts, perhaps talking to a therapist who specializes in relationships or sexuality might help. They can provide guidance and tools to manage overthinking and help you navigate these feelings with more clarity.
Keep being open to the possibilities—sometimes, taking that initial small step can reveal that the unknown isn’t as overwhelming as it first appears.
Wishing you all the best on your journey.
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Carl reacted to BSR in Roger Federer Retiring From Competitive Tennis
As much as Roger wanted to come back (multiple surgeries, endless rehab), I pretty much knew this was coming when the news came out that fluid was accumulating in his knee, always a horrible sign. I wanted Roger to have a proper farewell, whether it was in his hometown tournament Basel or Wimbledon next year like Serena did this year. He'll compete in Laver Cup, but I don't take that event seriously.
No one sells tickets or boosts ratings like Roger Federer. Outside of Spain and Serbia, Roger plays with home court advantage at every tournament around the globe. The sport will sorely miss him.
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Carl reacted to Medin in Providers moving appointment times
It sounds like I'm likely in the minority, but I won't wait more than 10 minutes for an escort if they hadn't notified me well in advance they are running late. Nowadays it only takes a quick text or email to notify someone. They either learn some basic business etiquette or they don't need my business. I usually have to adjust my schedule to meet them and sometimes have a long drive as well. I expect them to be on time. Sorry if the provider overbooked, was at the gym, wanted to eat breakfast first, etc. They are essentially telling us our time has no value. My own clients don't accept the excuses so why should I accept them when the tables are turned and I'm paying $300+/hour?
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Carl got a reaction from Wanderoz in 411 on Educatedjocksf
Anyone? Looked like he was active in 2019 based on reviews
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Carl got a reaction from + WilliamM in 2022 US Open (tennis)
😀 Coric`s IG posts are thirst traps. If he`s selecting which pics make it to his feed, he knows which ones will get him more lusted after.
I miss Federer! Hope he comes back soon!
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Carl reacted to Bucky in Off the clock time. How best to handle?
While it's prudent to be cautious, sometimes we over analyze stuff. Go out and have a nice time with him and just go with the flow. Pay for what you wish and don't pay if you don't wish. It appears you can afford it.
Speculating and anticipating what 'might' happen ruins it. Managing expectations is a rabbit hole. You'll likely learn everything you need to know by simply being 'in the moment'.
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