Reply #45: Family is a mixed bag of tricks

[Behind the Aegis]

I am gay. Most people can tell, which doesn't bother me in the least. When I was outed to my mother, she didn't want me to tell anyone in her family because they are very "back-woodsy" people. I told her sister, who was upset because I didn't tell her when I lived with her for a summer taking care of her when she broke her back. She told me she could have shown me all the gay bars. My step-grandmother and I were having drinks at a casino in the Bahamas and leaned over and said, "I don't want to offend you but baby, I love you." I said, "OOOOOhhh, I am so offended...haha!" To which she added: "And, I don't care who you love." After my jaw hit the table, I just stared at her. She said she knew I was gay. I told her I loved her but don't tell my grandfather. She said OK, but about 5 minutes later said...."I already told him! Last night, I told him I knew you were gay and I didn't care what he thought and that I still loved you." She said my grandfather looked over at her and said, "He is my grandson, and I will always love him!" He is gone now, but I am glad he knew me. Recently my cousins find out indirectly, we never have mentioned the word "gay" but they ask about my partner and when we are planning to visit.

So, family can be tricky. I have heard many a scary story, but my family was changed. Many stopped voting for ANY candidate that said anything anti-gay. :) I know that I am beyond lucky! Perhaps, the same will happen with your family.

Brightest Blessings!