Dear Coleen,
I’m a 19-year-old guy and recently came out to my family as gay. They took it well, particularly my mum and dad who both said it wasn’t a surprise and they were glad I’d confided in them.
But I’m still worried about fully living my life as a gay man, as I am still at home. I’ve been seeing someone a couple of years older and I feel I should be able to bring him home and introduce him to family, but I worry it might be a step too far at the moment.
He’s not putting me under any pressure at all, but I want to be open from now on.
I’d love your opinion.
Coleen says
Congrats on your coming out – it’s a big thing to do – and it’s fabulous that your family have taken it in their stride. However, I wouldn’t put yourself under any pressure to bring your boyfriend home if you don’t feel ready to take that step.
You don’t say how long you’ve been dating, but most people don’t meet the parents until a relationship is serious. It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t tell your parents you’re dating someone special, though. You’ve made the big move of coming out and I’m sure things will naturally fall into step and you’ll know when it feels right to invite your boyfriend over.
Maybe you’re still a bit worried about your family seeing you with another guy, but if they handle it as well as you coming out, it will all be fine.