It took me more then 10 years(Me 27) years to do that. I was so afraid. But I had luck, it went well.
With 17 I started to accept what I am, but I was just to afraid. I did come out many years ago to a select group of a few, one of them died, two slowly left my life which really hurt me, and one was left, no one else was left who knew.
But I saw that it eventually just really destroyed my mental health and I thought now or it will kill me.
I just hope that the next generations will not have to have this painful experience, because yet it truly was painful.
That takes a lot of courage to do and it’s something to be proud of.
I hope that in the future it becomes easier for anyone else who is in the same situation. In some places it is, but in others it’s still very close minded.
I'm sorry that you had to endure so many years of pain and secrecy, but congratulations on taking that step and opening up a new chapter for yourself. Sometimes we all need to be reminded that it's never too late to start being yourself and living your best life.
I'm glad it went well! It takes a lot of guts to do, especially if you're not sure how it will be received. I decided to come out a long time ago and cut out the people who didn't accept me - life is too short to spend it hiding yourself from people. My mental health rebounded a lot after coming out, and I'm generally a much happier person now.
Be unapologetically queer! You'll be a beacon for those who are still in the closet!
I'm happy you found the courage to openly be yourself. I have two boys and it would kill me to know they couldn't tell me who they really were. I just hope if it came down to it that they could tell me knowing that no matter what sexuality they are I would always love and support them.