Hey everyone , I am an 18y/o male university student in Canada, and I'm really happy to join EC! I am gay and this is the first time I've ever acknowledged it to anyone (even though this is a forum it's still a big step for me haha). I have recently moved away from my friends and family, and even though I have made new friends, I am having a really hard time adjusting. I just feel really alone everyday and need to talk to people who understand. I believe I will come out soon to family + friends... just not sure how yet... or when the right time will be. I have many days where I think to myself "Hey, life is short, just tell everyone! If they don't understand then they're not worth it" but then I also have days where I think "Is it worth it to change my relationship with everyone I know? Will I embarrass my friends and family?" Thanks for reading my long intro hahahaha! Anyway hope to chat with some people here soon. Peace :eusa_danc
Hi there, and welcome to Empty Closets! It's fantastic that you signed up and decided to admit that you are gay. The hard part is done. Joining EC will give you an opportunity to find others to talk to, and share experiences. This might help you to become more confident and gain the courage to come out to your friends and family. Take your time in coming out. When you feel ready to let the first person know, give it a go, and see how it feels. Being at university, might also give you an opportunity to join a support group on campus, which could provide you with support and a sense of belonging in real life. If you feel comfortable with the idea, maybe have a look if your university has a LGBT support or social group. Welcome to EC! Enjoy your visits, and I hope you will find the site helpful to you.
Hey andrewb, welcome to EC! As Mirko stated, the most difficult coming out, your own to yourself, is done. Seek companions at the university and elsewhere, from whom you can learn and with whom you can grow; your task is to learn what being gay is all about and it is so much more than you think! This site is also a great place to learn!
Hello and welcome to the site! Congratulations on coming out. That is a big mile stone. I understand your worries about how your friends and family might react. We're here for you and will support you no matter how they might react. Besides, some people really surprise you and already "figured it out".
Heyo! Welcome! I think everybody is right when they say that the hardest part is coming out to yourself. It took me years to accept that I am gay/lesbian. You should feel proud. (*hug*) EC is a great place to take the first steps toward coming out or just getting comfortable with who you are. Enjoy yourself and good luck! :smilewave
Hi and Welcome to EC, You are in great hands here, we are all a wonderful bunch of people and we are all here for each other, so if you have questions, need advice or support, we got your back. Hope you enjoy being here.
Welcome to EC! As you can see we support each other (&&&) I know you will find this place very helpful and in no time you will have the enough courage to let your friends and family now , don't rush things, take your time and enjoy!