After that, it took me 4 years to become confident enough to 'come out' to my mother. I already knew that she has gay friends anyway, but I was very anxious. When I came out to her in September 2017 (a month before my 18th birthday), she said I don’t know who I am. That upset me, but I was not in the mood to argue. So, I left her with that thought. However, that did not put me off. Over the past 3 years, I have been throwing hints at her and trying to become more confident to be more feminine in front of her. Now she fully accepts me and supports me as much as she possibly can. She even wants me to find a boyfriend who is safe, positive and caring. To be honest, I feel more confident with my sexuality in College than I do at home.
I hope my story is helpful enough for you to feel better about yourself, and that you do not have any regrets with your sexual orientation. If you need help in any way, I am here for you to talk to. There is also a professional available to learners who usually sits on the 1st floor on Wednesdays at the Ellesmere Port Campus and at Crewe in the Wellbeing Centre from Body Positive..
Those who are homophobic either have parents who are totally against the idea of homosexuality, or hang out in a group of individuals who are against it too. Psychology research studies suggest that when homophobic men and straight men are put in front of gay porn. Less than half of the straight men were aroused and more than half of the homophobic men were aroused. Given this study, I can safely say that homophobic men are scared of themselves. I suggest whenever you meet someone who is homophobic or you are friends with someone who is homophobic, try to encourage them to be more confident in themselves. Try to help them accept themselves and to love themselves, then try to help them accept others and love others.
Finally, I would like to say something very personal. I have been bullied for the 5 years of high school. This was homophobic bullying, so I know how it feels to be homophobically-bullied. If you are being bullied, as I have already mentioned, ignore them or show them just how strong you are. I am also with you every step of the way.
Owen Finn shares his story........
I am gay. My journey began in primary school, in Year Four. I took 5 years to explore my sexuality. On the 27th April 2013, when I was 13 years old, I realised that I am gay after noticing a few signs.
However, I did not stop there. I researched for more signs and realised I noticed them but did not know they are to do with being gay. I also researched everything to do with Homosexuality – this includes Homophobic Bullying.
Owen :)