Coming Out Day



Yesterday was National Coming Out Day.

I cannot fathom ever forgetting the day Brady came out to me. If for no other reason than the importance of the event to my son's life. He was on his way home and called me, "When I get home can we talk?" His voice was heavy with apprehension and fear. 

When he arrived home, he requested we go to my bedroom to discuss what was on his mind. I knew then this was serious. I braced myself for the worst. "Mom, I am gay." Not hesitating, I breathed a sigh of relief, "Ok." His eyes widened. He was in utter shock, "What? That's it?" "Yes. You are still the same sweet boy I gave birth to nineteen years ago. I loved you then, and I will love you until the day I die and even afterward. This does not change anything."




The worst never came. Brady had lifted his anchor. I could see and feel this heavy burden drift away and disappear like a boat out to sea.

Though looking back at those last words, his coming out changed everything. Brady lost his relationship with his father. He fears job security because of who he is. He fears for his safety. There are many places he cannot even hold hands with Mario. Speaking of Mario, to be in their presence is to feel love. Shouldn't every parent want that for their child?

How sad is our world that even one individual should live in fear of being their true self?

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