Hi,
You don't know me and I don't know you, but I have to say is still important and you need to listen. You may or may not have a closeted son or daughter in your home. First off, don't panic! I promise you it's not the end of the world. It's going to be a shock at first and I understand that, but don't push them away, give them awkward silence, or try to change them. You didn't do anything to cause it. It's a mental illness or a disease. Yes, there will be challenges in their life. Yes, your child may face bullying. Remember using anti-gay speech around your son or daughter can send the message that you won't love them when you find out or that you don't love them period. Don't be one of those parents who toss away the relationship you have with your child just because they come out to you. Educate yourself and your family, because then you'll be empowered. Be ready to fight for your child, be ready to stand by your child, they may need you. Do be involved in their lives. There will be people who will walk away from your teen because they refuse to stand by them. I encourage you to learn the signs of depression and suicide. Be diligent! Do seek out professional help if your child needs it. Keep an open mind when your child comes to you. There are groups ready to take your hand. PFLAG is one of those groups. Something you may not realize is that GLBT youth often feel alone and isolated amongst their peers, their family, church, and community. You have the power to stand by them, to love them or the power to add to the voices that are hammering them. Coming out to you will be one of the scariest moments in their lives. It is something that they will always remember.
Sincerely,
Chuck

Recent Comments