Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Hey Shannon i'm from the UK and just discovered i am gay. I guess i've known for a while but i've been struggling to come to terms with it. How can i get over the fear of people "hating" me. Also i love speedos, how can i start to wear them in public?

Hey thanks for your question.

It's never an easy thing to fear what others may think of you when you come out and it's perfectly ok to feel this way. Nobody wants to imagine that they may lose friends or family because of their sexuality.

You cannot control how other people will react. Their feelings will be based on their own bias and prejudices but, always remember that there are people out there who love you. You may feel isolated or lonely sometimes. I have felt these things myself but I have met some amazing people and made some wonderful friends. There is a whole community out there ready to support you.

Who you tell is a personal choice and only you can decide when the time is right.

Whatever happens you must never let the haters stop you from valuing yourself. You are a strong and amazing person and the fact you have come this far is proof of that.

As for the speedos... go for it I say. Start with a modest pair and go for a swim. Do some laps and the local pool and go from there.

Whatever happens, enjoy yourself.