It was pretty close to my birthday and it was one of the scariest things ever... (and I have anxiety so that's saying something hahaha) And it actually turned out okay! My parents are pretty religious but they have always emphasized that they will love us kids regardless of who we are or what we do.

I ended up handing my mom my phone where i just typed, "Mom, I'm gay" on it because I cannot make myself talk when it's about me or my problems. It worked out fine though and she said that she and my dad have been wondering for a while. That made me kind of mad because why didn't she ask when I clearly was agonizing for months? But I understand that she wanted me to tell her when I was ready.... I never went to her with all my emotional problems so of course she thought I just wasn't ready... Gah, it was a mess but now I am trying to be more open about myself.

The reason I built myself up to being so terrified was that their religion is pretty damn homophobic... and I know this because I grew up going to church and continued going for almost 24 years before I just couldn't stand pretending I believed anymore. It's exhausting suppressing yourself for that long and I know that it definitely contributed to my fun mental breakdown last year and the fallout since. I definitely have other problems but the stress of pretending everything is okay kind of accelerates your condition.

But anyway... I just wanted to share my story of coming out in case you are in a similar situation and feel it is safe to come out. Just don't overthink it if you are confident your parents will be okay with it. I tortured myself for no reason x_x;;; And if you aren't in a place to come out, stay safe and just know that it will get better and you can find your family in friends who support and love you.

Thanks for reading if you still are and have a great day <3

~Froot