Coming Out!

I have a nephew who has been trying to 'come out' for quite some time now. I admire his bravery in this respect, knowing that there are many people who would rather spout the pre-programmed slurs, jokes, religious programming and homophobia than come up with their own opinion.

I have quite a few opinions of my own, which I found after I let go of the pre-programmed ones I grew up with. Liberating, at the very least, I'd say.

And my one question through it all is, why do people have to explain their sexuality? And why is it only the minority who have to explain? Why is it that we have to teach people to withhold who they are?

Can you imagine saying to Beethoven, "Don't play/write music, and we'll guarantee you a spot in heaven." Or to Bill Gates, "Don't go near computers, and we'll like you as one of us." In other words, "Don't be who you are."

People are better when they don't have to hide. The world is better when people don't hide. And chances are, someone in your life is hiding a secret from you because they have heard your opinions on a matter that concerns them, and they would rather not have to deal with the drama. Statistics estimate that one in ten people have a secret of major proportions.

I have a friend with nine children and harsh opinions. With 11 people in her immediate family, (nine children, two parents) she is due for a major shift when someone tells her a secret in the future. I hope she is ready for that time.

I support coming out! I support who you want to be, do or have. I support the way you want to live your life.

Bless us all.