Hi. When I was 15 years old, I realized for the first time that I was attracted to males. I hated myself for years, and tried hard to keep it a secret. Lately I have been suffering from depression, and I just couldn't hold it anymore. Six years was long enough. I told myself when I was at work yesterday that I would tell my parents. I worked up the courage (Kind of) and mentally practiced what I was going to say. Now my parents (And myself) are Christians, so I knew they would not be supportive of my lifestyle. But I underestimated their love for their son. I thought I would have the courage to tell them, but I broke down. I cried for a long time before I finally told them. I told my mom first, and her reaction was not what I expected. She said that she has known for a while now, and while she can't support my sexual preference, she will always love me, and that she will always be there for me. I told my dad later that night. His response was about the same, and he knew about it as well. They want me to get some counseling, and while I don't agree with that, I understand that they want the best for me. I will go, because I respect my parents and I want them to know that. However, I am not ashamed to say that I can't be converted to straight. I haven't told anyone else, and am too nervous to let anyone find out. I still can't believe I told them. I told myself I would NEVER let anyone know about it.
Wow congrats on coming out!! I too had the same reaction, but my dad suggested I get a counselor. Which I will not go. Conversion therapy does more harm and self shame than good, nor does it work. Goodluck while going to counseling. Don't let them being you down! (*hug*)
I'm glad that it went better than you had expected. SnowWhite is right - make sure that you don't let counseling get to you. I think it's very respectful of you to go though. Very admirable. Congrats!
I wouldn't go to counseling. It's really damaging-trust me, I went a couple of times to the now defunct Exodus.