9781422275283

but the good news is that you are not alone by any means. There are undoubtedly other LGBTQ youth or teachers at your school—even if you do not know them or are unaware of their identity, just as they may be of yours. In addition, there are other LGBTQ people in your community—and thousands within your state, and millions across the nation. With today’s technology, you have a variety of means to connect to these people through online communities or via instant messaging and phones calls to share your similar experiences and to seek advice, encouragement, or even just a listening ear. Building up a solid support system around you—whether virtually or physically, or perhaps both—will be key to helping you feel cared about and supported if a friend or family takes the news the wrong way or if you are discriminated against at school or church. These people, your unofficial clan, will come alongside you to remind you that you are fine the way you are and that things will get better, bit by bit. Combining a mixture of first-person stories, research from reputable agencies, and insight from national agencies that educate, support, and advocate for the LGBTQ community, this book will help you better understand what to expect as you come out, and how to navigate the process. You are who you are, and sharing that information with others gives them the opportunity to authentically love and support you as well.

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When You’re Ready • Coming Out