My Mom's Parting Gift to Me Was the Courage to Come Out

Remember, when we were young, how we felt intended for something important? All our lives are filled with stories we attempt to make sense of. Mine is about growing up gay when it was taboo and consequently seeking invisibility in marriage, children and career until finally coming out and eventual acceptance late in life. I didn't do anything great enough to make it into anyone's history book. I just did average. But coming out does feel like an important accomplishment to me, albeit not one I ever imagined when younger.I came out 23 years ago, formally declaring my sexuality to my most intimate partner, my wife of nearly 25 years, my three children, and all the rest of my family and friends. Strange, but it seems eons ago. As those sobering up say, nothing changed afterward but my entire life.  Continue reading...