QUESTION

How were you able to come out to your parents? Most of my friends and teammates know, but I’m most scared to come out to them. Thank you 🤍

Answer

Hey Hey,

My story sounds similar to yours. My best friend and teammate was the first person I came out to, and hopefully, but for me, that gave me more confidence to continue to come out to people who loved me. 

I don’t know your relationship with your parents, but I can only assume that they love you as much as, if not more than, your teammates and friends. If your teammates can love and accept you, your parents will do the same. Often, the fear of coming out is scarier than reality, and being from a different generation than your parents can feel like being from a different planet, but love is universal. 

PS. Use the method that’s most comfortable for you. I called my mom on the phone. You can write a letter. You can have some fun with it. You just have to get the ball rolling.

Good luck.

R.K. RUSSELL
he / him

is a social justice advocate, published poet & former NFL player. He made history by becoming the first out active NFL player to identify as bisexual. His latest project, "Huddle Men's Journal," is a guided journal for men that helps them explore their personal depths and discover treasures of strength, willpower, and more.