One Small Step

[doitb4ugo]

Today I found the courage to "come out" to my brother - my only remaining family member. It went very smoothly and I shared what being "gay" means to me as a person, coming late in life to this realization. I also needed to divulge that I was HIV+, which caused more concern from him than my being gay. Having this behind me is a huge load off my mind...In many ways, this site has been a huge factor in accepting myself after a life of denial....I don;t know if this step will leed to further outings but it can only get easier.

[rvwnsd]

Good for you! For future coming out experiences, I suggest a technique called "bookending." It is very simple. Have a friend or friends available to talk. Before you come out to someone, talk to your buddy and share how you are feeling, what is going through your mind, etc. After you come out, call your friend (or the second friend) and relate how the experience went for you. If it went badly, you have a support person available. If it went well, you have someone to celebrate with. It works!

[bigvalboy]

This is amazing news Doit. I am so extremely happy for you. This is no one small step, it is huge. I commend you on your courage, and I know that there will be nothing but tremendous support from the members on here. Best to you always, BVB

[Bosguy]

You are truly a strong, remarkable MAN!!!!!!! My congratulations for what you did for you, but, more importantly, what you just did as an example to many Forum members.

 

My best to you always,

 

Boston Bill

[Samai139]

It's a cliche, but "The longest journey begins with a single step." I admire your courage and wish nothing but support and love from your family--whether it be "blood" or those of us here who have come to appreciate you and what you do for us.

Cherish each day and electronic hugs.

[adriano46]

Rich, I am in awe of what you have done and my prayers and best wishes are with you now as you move forward. Coming out to family - especially brothers and sisters - can be daunting, but in the end, often they become your best support and defenders.

[whipped guy]

Rich... I really feel for you and am very happy for you as well. You are one of the sweetest guys here... always good-natured, kind, and considerate... but you are also one of the most courageous and strongest... if not the strongest as you posses an inner fortitude where it really counts. You have done something that many here probably can never do. Yes, you are indeed one heck of an exceptional individual!

[seeker630]

Congratulations! I salute your courage and am happy for the successful outcome.

[doitb4ugo]

Thanks to all..As stated earlier this site has been such a godsend to me in this process and I LOVE YOU ALL.

[happyguy2]

I find it ironic that I feel closer to some people here, whom I have never met, than I do to people I see and work with each day. You are one of those people. Especially through the gallery, I have come to really appreciate you - and the news that you are dealing with HIV certainly increases my concern for you as well. I know of all the advances in medecine, still, it must be such a challenge for you .... Hugs to you buddy!

[ErieBear]

Congratulations on taking a major step forward.

[jgoo]

Allow me to add my admiration for your courage and taking this big step. Nothing but the best for you in the future.

[Juan Vancouver]

Well done, stud!

 

Sharing yourself fully with the ones you love is a true sign of love and respect. Even when they react poorly, worry or are unable to understand it makes the relationship so much more genuine and close. I wish you the continuation of this delicious blooming into yourself.

 

My best wishes and a tight hug!

 

Juan

[BostonPhil]

All I can say is *HUG*

[nate_sf]

Agreeing with the others, this is a BIG step! For a lot of people, coming out to their family is the toughest part. Add the HIV disclosure, it's a really big deal. There is still so much misunderstanding and misinformation around HIV, so tackling those together is a huge accomplishment. Kudos!

[+ sam.fitzpatrick]

Rich - Congratulations on your milestone.