Hello there. I'm new to this particular group, both the group and being gay. Actually, I'm thinking I'm Pansexual, but right now, I'm in a relationship with a woman (for the first time). She's openly gay, and is 5 yrs older than I. We met on a dating website for people with herpes. We both have it. And I've always been curious about being with a woman. I was totally honest with her about not being sure, but she assured me that she can handle it, and she has been great! I can't believe I'm in love with her. She's very supportive and wonderful, and has been very patient and understanding. I live in a small town (small size wise and small minded as well), and I work at a school, so she knows that I really can't openly come "out". She won't push me at all to do so either. I've been to a couple of gay bars with her, met some of her friends, some are gay, some aren't, but they all know about her, and some of my friends know, as well as one family member. They've all been really nice about it. But, again, many don't. I also have a 12 yr old daughter. She caught us kissing 6 mos ago, and wasn't happy about it at all. This woman is the first person my daughter has seen me with in a relationship since my divorce from her father, so it's a double-whammy there. I'm sure she's confused, but I am too in a way, so it's hard to really explain much to her, other than I wouldn't hurt her and my GF and I agreed not to show any affection in front of my daughter (for now). My ex husband does not know about this either. She does like my GF, but, in the public eye, for now, I tell people that she's my best friend. If anyone has any coming out stories, tips, advice, or words of encouragement, I'd greatly appreciate them!!! I'm enjoying reading the forum here, and some of the other ones in the groups I belong to.
There's just no right way to come out. Each person has their own unique trip out of the closet. You just have to believe in you and put your happiness above the opinions of others. Believe that you are worth it.