I've been 'out' now for just over 6 months, and I have to say it's probably one of the best things I've ever done in my life. I just feel so comfortable and relaxed with myself these days that I've never really looked back.
I used to try and hide it all the time - especially during the school years! I even bought my weekly copy of 'Zoo' and always commented on how big some girls tits were..the proper straight boy!
There was only one main reason why I came out really - and it's kind of a strange/selfish one! Basically, at the time I was working on the production team of 'The Price Is Right', which was due to be filmed in Manchester. The crew was made up of about 95% gay boys and the rest were girls. So going through my head was 'If I keep this straight boy act up, I'm going to be left on my own when it comes to going out on the town! - The girls will have their own little group, the gay guys will totter down Canal Street and I'll be all on my own!'
So for that reason, and that reason alone I HAD to come out...and the first person I told - by text message - was a guy called Tim who worked on the production too. bit of a strange first person to tell, I know! The only reply I got from him - which made me feel totally comfortable with myself was 'Welcome to the fold...'
After that I started telling everyone - but I couldn't quite face up to speaking the words, so I did it all by text! Some of you will think I took the coward's way out, but it just made things alot easier for me.
My Mum's reply? 'I already knew, but thanks for having the guts to tell me. You're my son and I'll always love you no matter what'
My best mate's reply? 'Wow - I'm shocked, but that's cool! What would you rate me out of 10?!'
So to anyone who hasn't come out yet - I know how scary it is, but beleive me, it's SUCH a weight off your mind and to other people it's not that much of a shock at all - especially if they already had guessed anyway!