The ABCs of Coming Out

Well it's finally done. I have completed my first book. This has been a work in progress for a couple of years now and the process is now complete. I'm pretty active in community and I have met many wonderful individuals on my journey. Unfortunately I have heard far too many coming out horror stories along the way. My friend Raymond shared with me how his family kicked him out of the house and refused to have any communication with him after his church [he was Jehovah's Witness] excommunicated him. My friend Paul told me how his father beat him mercilessly after learning he had a crush on another boy. I've heard countless tales of people that have lost their jobs because they were gay.

I wrote this book because of those stories. I don't want another individual to have to endure the pain and suffering that can result from coming out. Coming out should not yield isolation and depression. Coming out should not make you want to take your life because of the shame or guilt. On the contrary, it should bring you closer to friends and family; and it should give you a sense of freedom and pride. Coming out should be a personal revelation that allows you to walk in truth knowing that you are being honest with who you are.

For those that have doubts or fears about diclosing your sexual orientation, The ABCs of Coming Out offers advice on how to prepare for the conversation, things you need to know prior to disclosure, and possible consequences (and ways to avoid them) following disclosure.

Coming out was one of the greatest things I have ever done. It is only because of coming out that I have been able to enjoy fifteen years with my wonderful partner. I have a terrific relationship with my friends and family based on trust and mutual respect. And I am able to navigate through this world (at work, in church, and through the community) with the knowledge that I don't have to lie about or hide who I am.

I want my LGBT brothers and sisters to experience the same joy that coming out has done for me. My hope is that this book could be used as a vessel to get to that place where you are comfortable enough and strong enough to speak your truth. Coming out is freedom and I want everyone within the same-gender loving community to experience this freedom.

To purchase the ABCs of Coming Out please go here. The ABCs is also is available at Changing Hands Bookstore (6428 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe AZ 85283) and at Off Chute Too (4115 N. 7th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85013).