As I rode the subway home on a day recognized for its significance to the LGBTQ+ community, I noticed posters from PFLAG (Parents, Families, Friends, and Allies of Toronto’s LGBTQ community) plastered on the walls. Their messages resonated deeply with me, reminding me of my own coming-out journey.
One poster struck a chord: it echoed words I once shared with my own parents during a pivotal moment in my life. Coming out was daunting; I was overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty about how my family would respond. I remember the dinner table where I mustered the courage to say, “Mom, I need to tell you something. Before anything happens to you or Dad, I want you to know the real me. I’m gay.” Tears flowed freely as I waited for her response.
To my relief, she enveloped me in her arms and reassured me, “You are my child, and my love for you is unconditional.” That moment marked a turning point; stepping out of the shadows into the light of acceptance was liberating.
While my parents embraced my identity, they also faced their own challenges. They sought guidance to better understand and cope with their feelings, demonstrating that acceptance can be a journey for everyone involved.
As a parent now, I often reflect on the kind of support I want to provide for my son. The thought of any parent rejecting their child is unfathomable to me. When our son, Max, was born, we held him close and shared our hopes and dreams in a heartfelt letter we’d like to share: