COMING OUT
TIPS
- Never come out in an argument or to intentionally hurt someone.
- One
person is more intelligent than a group of people. Come out to people privately,
one at a time.
- People who are ignorant and unknowledgeable may initially say things they don't
realize are painful to hear. Simply remember that they are unaware and in
a state of surprise.
- People have to deal with the issue of gay stuff, you as a person, and the
combination of the two, since you probably don't fit the stereotype they have in
their mind.
- Be
Sober.
- Don't have your lover or boyfriend with you. This is not "Let's Make a
Deal." One surprise is enough. More surprises are not good.
- Be
ready for them to need time and space to think about things before any decision
is made or takes place.
- Be
ready for them to drill you with questions that may offend you.
- Sometimes it's easier to read about an issue than to admit that you are
uneducated. Have a book, pamphlet, phone number, or other resources that can be
called upon when you're not around.
- It
is your life to live, you only have one, and the simple bottom line is that
you're going to continue to live as a gay person no matter what the reaction is.
- There are people who will never be supportive, no matter what is said.
- If
your audience is shocked, don't make any quick moves or decisions. Be patient.
- Breathe.
- Don't try to answer questions about Richard Simmons, Tom Cruise, Nick Carter,
Rosie O'Donnell, or Keanu Reeves.
- No
two coming-out experiences are ever the same.
- Have resources you can call. You will need support too!
- Always have an escape plan. You may not need it, but if you do, you won't be
surprised. Have a place to crash for the night, and money you can get to, in
case a worst-case scenario does occur.
- Just because you have come out to someone once, does not mean you won't have to
do it again, and again, and again.
- If
you're coming out to your mother, you can remind her of the perk that she will
always be the most important woman in your life!
- They may already know.
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