First Stop: Best Friends, Next Stop: Parents

[Guest Kid A]

Hey, I'm not really sure how to start one of these things so I guess I'll just start typing away...

I really really really want to come out to my parents, I'm almost sixteen and I never plucked up the courage to tell them before. I don't think they would re-act badly as they are quite liberal, I'm just scared. I feel ready for the aftermaths, having to tell them about it and all that, it's just the initial Mam, Dad I want to be a girl. Is quite scary.... I have already came out to my two best friends eight months ago, and they have been really supportive, there both female and I have been called a "Sweetie" on more than one occasion for not going out with either of them yet, and I don't want to, we are just friends. They seem to think I should come out, that it would be good if I do. I also think that I'm just scared of the initial reaction.

[Charlize]

I'm glad your parents are liberal dear as that may help. It might help to approach to read how others have been able to come out in the forum of that name. You might simply want to ask if they could help you get some therapy. That alone should allow some conversation with an end they might suggest on their own. Seeing a therapist is important anyway and something you probably should do before you go to far. I'm glad your girlfriends are supportive, that helps as you have someone to talk to.

I must also note that 16 isn't really all that old. I had similar feelings at your age but didn't act on them until i was 63. I'm not recommending waiting too long but am hoping that you try to enjoy your life today as much as you can as you begin to confront the gender issues. Acceptance now will help with acceptance later.

Let us know how it goes and best of luck.

Hugs,

Charlie