Obstacle number 1: i live in a close community. My outing would cause my siblings a much harder time finding a spouse who's willing to get "mixed up in that." Obstacle number 2: I love working with kids. Coming out would take away all my opportunities to do so. Is the closet locked?
No, the closet isn't locked at all. Could you explain your thinking for obstacle #2...i can't wrap my head around it and I don't see how that's an obstacle
It can be dangerous to come out if you're working around kids. Even if the bosses aren't homophobic or anything, they might be scared that parents would be upset that their children are in contact with such 'pervertedness'. Also, there's a stereotype that all gay men are pedophiles, which is untrue, and is harmful, but... it exists. It could, depending on where he works, get him fired, perhaps.
I work in an elementary school. It would greatly affect their reputation if i came out. ---------- Post added 13th Jul 2013 at 10:41 PM ---------- Precisely what you said ^^^^
Working with kids definitely poses a problem. If you were an elementary school teacher, it would only take 1 of the 30 kids parents being a homophobe to kick up a fuss, so I see your dilemna. Where there is a will, there is a way, and although it might be hard to see right now, the closet is not locked, it is just sorta stuck at the current moment, just be strong! ^)^
This is what stopped me years ago, before I started the coming out process 1. Super religious family and friends 2. Somewhat seemingly homophobic father 3. Being the only son, only one to carry on the family name 4. Homophobic employer 5. Having no where to go if things went bad with coming out
Unfortunately a situation like that makes it fairly tough to come out. Finding some distance from that community might help you though.
There are some reasonable ones listed, and they are: - potentially losing the roof over one's head (for those living with parents) so it can be postponed until emancipated - having a knuckle-dragger of an employer, though there are fewer of them as time goes on - living in a rural or very conservative area where they will make life very difficult for you I do not believe the following are as much of a problem: - working with kids, since so many male teachers do; the important thing to do is be aware of the surroundings and document anything that looks like a problem - religious congregation - either find another one or stop practicing that faith - reaction of friends - if a person today rejects you based on this, it's time for new friends, and they can be made, though not always easily
