Our Coming Out Stories - Chris and Clay

[@Dukonious]

I JUST came out this week to everyone...though most figured it already.

[@ChrisAndClay]

CONGRATS! And here is an official welcome to the fam!! How did it go?

[@Dukonious]

Ummm...dad was good, mom not so much. And my siblings aren't communicating with me now. I was born in an extremely religious/conservative home...so I knew this would be hard. Feeling pretty alone actually...kind of emotional roller coaster. But honestly...even with all that I feel free to be...me now.

[@siddhkankaria1029]

@@Dukonious That was a brave step.... Best wishes to you 😃😃 ....... And congrats

[@benkallsen7593]

@@Dukonious You are so brave! I went through a similar situation when I came out. If you need any advice we are all here for you!!

[@Dukonious]

@@benkallsen7593 thank you so much!! It's all still kind of surreal...knowing everyone I know now knows my secret. But definitely freeing. But now its just...trying to figure it all out ya know? I honestly still can't believe I did it...I never thought I would. But I just couldn't keep living the lie...and doing so created so much self hatred. A few years ago I had numerous suicide attempts and my mental health went downhill fast. But even so I never thought I'd tell a soul. ...Well...other than a few guys who obviously knew. Hahaha😉 But yea...hardest decision of my life...but yet I think one of the best for me.

[@markdamiani3454]

I don't know what to say I'm in tears. I can relate to both stories. Coming out stories are very personal. The fact that you guys got in front of a camera is amazing. You've helped so many people by sharing this. Thank you so much Chris and Clay.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Our community has a lot in common, right? Good and the harder stuff. Thanks for the support and for watching!

[@FINEDIAMOND]

Thank you for sharing your stories and highlighting the fact that being gay is NOT ONLY ABOUT SEX!!! I wish the world would wrap its thick head around that. You guys are so beautiful and lovely! Much love from me! ♥️

[@nerdygal6133]

I came out to my extended family during a zoom call in May and it went really well!❤️🏳️‍🌈

[@ChrisAndClay]

I am so happy to hear it went well. I know that is a HUGE step. So proud of you!!

[@nerdygal6133]

Christopher Rice thank you! I’m really relieved that my family excepted me☺️ I never doubted that they’d love me any less but it was still really challenging haha

[@jjprentiss]

Clay’s dad is so sweet oh my god ❤️

[@ChrisAndClay]

He is truly a wonderful man!

[@lehn93]

My heart is breaking, Chris. Both you and your relationship with Clays warms my heart more than you can know. It makes me so happy to hear you talk about this so openly.

[@ariaimmanuel]

Hi, I am so grateful to watch this video. Thank you for sharing your experiences. It is inspiring.

[@RajVerma-ng1xo]

I never miss a single video of your vlog, though this one was the most awaited one, so liberating at the same time. Look at you guys, both of you have achieved reality, didn't embrace fake showcasing. Life is given to us just once......once! Keep smiling Chris and Clay and remember to care and support each other as strong husbands.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks for the support on this video and all of the others too. We appreciate it a lot. Thanks for helping us feel loved!!

[@livgv9791]

"people often associate like homosexual with a sexual aspect and not like the love aspect"

[@jgurney316]

This video is incredibly inspiring to me! I came out 2 years ago at age 58 after being married (to a woman) for 26 years and, raising 2 kids to adulthood. It hasn’t always been easy, but I haven’t felt this free in a while, being my authentic self. Thank you!

[@ChrisAndClay]

Wow! What a journey you have been on. I applaud you for owning your truth and being who you are. I can't image how tough that must have been to come out, but you did it! And as you said, now you feel free! That's huge. Congrats! Honored to be in the LGBTQIA fam with you!

[@rparrishtn19]

Chris & Clay - I'm so happy you found each other and so happy you've found happiness. I relate to Chris' story as I grew up in the South and in a very conservative religious environment. After I was outed (and left my church job), I struggled for many, many years to reconcile my faith with who I am. Know that God loves you both more than you can ever imagine! He is for you, not against you. He is with you. Thank you for sharing your stories. I hope your mesage makes it easier for many others who feel trapped and alone. They are not. Blessings to you both!

[@bckiester]

Next year will be 10 years since I came out, hard to believe...thank so much for sharing your stories!!

[@ChrisAndClay]

That's incredible. CONGRATS!!

[@Michael-sq3ei]

Thank you for sharing your stories and opening a part of your lives with us. You may never know but I am 100% sure you have touch someone's life and given them strength and courage to face whatever comes they're way. I wish I had role models as yourselves to show me that I didn't have to hide who I really was all those years.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Oh gosh. That is so humbling and uplifting. Thank you.

[@Michael-sq3ei]

@@ChrisAndClay A well deserved you're welcome.

[@CookingUpAStorm45]

Thank you for sharing your stories and the journey that led you to where you are today. You are an inspiration, more than you know.

[@cathygallagher6618]

Beautifully done. Your vlog will help so many young people. I’m a proud Mom of a gay son who is amazing young man. I am hopeful if he was asked to tell his story it would be a positive one. Thanks again for sharing.

[@ChrisAndClay]

You are a wonderful mother. I hope every mother of a gay child can be as supportive as you!

[@katiewilliams5643]

@@ChrisAndClay you guys are so amazing my cousin has had his parter for a little over 17 years now and we have a very close relationship because his father is my grandmothers last living sibling. You guys are amazing and I absolutely love you guys theres no shame ill have to send you guy my address i just moved to my own place and i just love your adventures and your videos your amazing just be you are the best sending you both love thanks for your smiles I might be straight but I don’t hate love is love and not only that my good friend is gay but I love her to death your amazing sending love hope to see ya on broadway soon because I wanna meet you guys because I love Whitney Houston too -katie

[@lehn93]

Just hearing that you went through conversion therapy because you thought you were broken makes me so heartbroken. Thanks for sharing, wonderful Chris

[@ChrisAndClay]

And I even had it better than some who go through that conversion therapy for years and years. Hoping this inspires others to embrace themselves fully.

[@were-all-human9427]

same for Adam, still suffering, their stories are so similar (Adam&Bernardo) instagram.com/p/CE2XPoqFTOW/ religion has so much to answer for...

[@nicky3367]

19:00 i’m just gonna put this here so that if i’m ever feeling down or doubting things i can come look back on this

[@MEZweig822]

This video is so important, impactful, and full of emotions. Thank you both for you honesty and also education. Coming out is different for every person and hearing stories like both of yours can help others, well beyond our understanding. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness!

[@ChrisAndClay]

100%! Coming out is extremely unique for each individual. Hope one day it won't have to be as tough for some!

[@teresaleiser9581]

This video will help so many people. Thank you so much for sharing your story.

[@ChrisAndClay]

We hope so! :)

[@finiteionews]

“ ...you both seem like very good guys, and happy together too!” 👍🏻 - Anthony Aaron

[@morganvanderleest2762]

Both of your stories were so helpful to hear. As someone who is trying to figure out who they are their place in the community, it is great to hear different stories and just to know that people are out there who care and love you just the way you are.

[@ChrisAndClay]

I love that. Also know there is no rush. Things will make sense in time! There is no deadline to figure out who you are! :)

[@robertbottorff763]

I'm crying watching this video, I know I've watched it several times before. Clay you are such a kind loving person no wonder Chris loves you so much. As you said Chris, when people say things like when you decided to be gay. No one decides, you are born that way! Thank you both for sharing your story and showing us what true love really is. ❤

[@arrishbara]

Hi there , I feel so connected to Chris because my family is against gays they read the Bible 24/7 and watch videos on KZbin of preaching around the world , and literally I used to pray to God that please ,when I wake up tomorrow let me be straight but it never happened and I felt ashamed being who I am😭😭 till watching thank u Chris so much you changed my life, now I believe I will tell my parents someday when I am big enough that my parents will take me seriously, cuz I am 15😜😜 thank u so much Chris and Clay . I love you both. Lots of love😘😘

[@ChrisAndClay]

I relate for sure. I am so happy to hear that things are shifting towards the positive with you. That is HUGE. Proud of you for trusting who you are!

[@arrishbara]

@@ChrisAndClay 😁😁😁 thank u so much 🥰🥰🥰

[@ykaylow1803]

Thank you so much for this important video.

[@tommyandpeter]

Thank you guys for sharing your stories ❤️ Clay, your family is so amazingly supportive! You're really lucky. We've never seen a happier coming out story ❤️ Chris, we're sorry for what you had to go through because of religion. We're happy your family eventually came to terms with things and supported you at your wedding ❤️

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks boys! Yes, Clay is super lucky. That should be the norm! Hopefully by people sharing their stories openly, we can create a world where acceptance is the norm for everyone!

[@diegorobinson854]

Can we be friends

[@ATLcentury334]

Listening to your stories brought a tear to my eye. Everyone’s story is unique, but feeling unsure and scared is almost always how it begins. Instead of my coming out story, I’ve thought many times when I knew something was “different”. I grew up in the 60’s and 70’s. The first time I acted out on my feelings I was about 4 years old. My folks and I went on vacation, driving to Atlantic City from our home in Michigan. I have no siblings, so I was riding solo on the backseat. What I did on the backseat for some reason, I knew my folks wouldn’t like too much. I don’t know why, but using a brown crayon, I carefully drew chest hair on my G.I. Joe. After I realized what I’d done, I quickly dressed Joe in his fatigues again. Don’t laugh too hard, because the next event left my mother with a shocked look on her face I’ll always remember. My family was Catholic, so when I was in the 2nd grade, I attended catechism classes after school. One after noon, the class was sent home with an envelope to give our parents. In it was a questionnaire I was supposed to give answers to. Since my dad worked evenings, my mom and I sat down for the “Catholic Interview”. I can’t recall what the other questions were until we got to “the one”. “What kind of family do you want when you grow up?”. I started squirming around, and giggling. My mom asked the question again. I told her she wasn’t going to like my answer. She said there was only one answer, and it was mine to give. I told her she was going to be mad, “how can I be mad?”. Then the answer came out of my mouth. I said I wanted a family just like on the t.v. show “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father”. For those who don’t remember it, Google it. I told her, I wanted an apartment, a son, and a maid............ just like on the show. She looked at me and asked “Well, where’s your wife?”. I told her, she’s dead, just like on the show. That went over well. She scribbled something on the paper, I still don’t know what. And that was that. Until in 1982 when my folks forced me to come out, and told me i had 30 minutes to pack what I wanted, leave my house and car keys on the table, and GET OUT! Dramatic huh? What happened after was even more dramatic, but my folks finally came around, and took my partner and I on a cruise for our 10th anniversary. My folks are both gone now. When we sold their house, I used a portion of the selling price to give a donation to “Lost and Found Youth”. A shelter for gay teens who have been thrown out of their homes. My husband and I are still together, next month we celebrate our 32nd anniversary. I never got the apartment, the son, or the maid, but that’s o.k. I did pretty well.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Wow! John! Thank you for sharing part of your story with us. I am so thankful that your parents eventually came around and showed support. I can't imagine how hard that was for you. I feel like our parents just have not been equipped with the knowledge of how to process the information and how to love through it. It's such a shame. And hey, you may not have the son, the apartment, or the maid, but I am glad you are doing so well. Congrats to you and your husband on 32 years! Such an inspiration!!

[@MichaelScottGordon]

Hi Chris! I just want to say that I love you, I see you, and I support you. Having been a leader (show director) during your church years, I want to say that I hope I never made you feel anything but loved. I always saw and believed in your talent, I suspected your orientation even waaaay back then. I'm proud of the person who you have become. Please know that I love you and support you.

[@jacobscott6331]

Loved this!❤️ I came out to my family last year when I was 16 and can relate to you, Chris! I just hope that one day my family will be more accepting. Thank you for both opening up and sharing and inspiring so many people!🏳️‍🌈❤️

[@ChrisAndClay]

Jacob, I really hope they begin to accept you for the wonderful person you are!

[@andreasw.linden9339]

Thanks a lot Chris and Clay for testimony... so great to hear your stories. I am very close to Chris, because I had the same trouble with my faith and all the brothers and sisters helping me not to go to hell. So happy to see you with the joy of life without loosing your faith. Me too and thank you so much for talking about it in public! God bless you both and gives you a lot of possibilities to be a good example for more young people, especially Christians. Hugs and kisses 😘 from Germany 🇩🇪 Andy

[@ChrisAndClay]

Proud of you Andy!!

[@andreasw.linden9339]

Christopher Rice Thanks a lot 🥰😘

[@sampreetkishan4492]

Thanks for sharing this! Chris and Tom, you’re both very loved :)

[@bethandrews9308]

Even though I’m not apart of the LGBTQ+ community, I care so much about people like you and it is so inspiring that you are able to tell people how you came out and being in a religious community is not easy and I feel on behalf of everyone be apart of this struggle or not we all thank you for your bravery and enthusiasm to inspire those like yourself in such a true way x

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks a million, Beth! That means a lot. Thanks for being an ally!

[@JarodThompson]

This is fantastic because of how authentic both of you are. I can't wait to see both of you back on stage (hopefully sooner rather than later!) My wife's first Broadway stage door experience was with Chris at Book of Mormon and she still talks about how kind and awesome you were.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Jarod, I love that so much! Tell her I say hey! Can't wait for next time.

[@frodogacor]

Thanks for sharing! ❤

[@joewa2902]

Having grown up in the Catholic Church, and being quite involved in music ministry, I relate to your story quite a bit, Chris. There was so much questioning, a lot of guilt, and “what is wrong with me.” Thank you for being your authentic self, for sharing your story, and inspiring others. I hope others can see just how happy you are, and how there is nothing wrong with being gay. Thank you for all of your videos!

[@excxmoody]

Forgive me to keep coming back but I love your channel, can actually feel myself. Last night after so many years for peace of mind to work through the healing process in hopes a guy I've been talking to could date...finally replied to who bullied me in high school when I wanted to live openly. Even if they don't read the message nor watching the video I sent them...least I finally stood up for myself.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Edd we are so proud of you for standing up for yourself. We hope you find peace and acceptance. You deserve both!!

[@marciedichiara6787]

Love you guys- thank you for sharing these intimate stories- this is such important work. Chris, you made me cry! I am so grateful that my children revere and look up to you both as role models. I could not have hand picked 2 better people for them to admire

[@ChrisAndClay]

This means so much, Marcie! Thank you!!!

[@diannebernau3293]

G’day from Down Under. I am still working my way through your videos and have just watched this one in awe. The difference between your stories couldn’t be more opposite. Clay’s family’s reaction is how it should be and Chris’s story was so upsetting that I couldn’t hold back my tears. I am not gay but have really good friends who are and they are a big part of my life, who are there for me and who I love. It is harder for me to accept that I have family members who I am estranged from. There is a saying “Friends are the family you choose” which says it all. Thank you for sharing your very personal stories with us and keep spreading the joy. Lots of love 😘💕🥰🇦🇺.

[@dannyhowcroft6591]

love you two and your honesty thanks.

[@ChrisAndClay]

you bet, Daniel. If everyone was more honest, this world would be a more empathetic place. :)

[@aaronkennard8955]

Thank y’all for this! So inspiring to hear an easy coming out story, and a messy story. Wherever you are on your coming out journey, welcome.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks so much for your support Aaron! -Clay (and Chris)

[@vwestlife]

I just have to say that those shirts are awesome.

[@duberfranco7239]

I really enjoyed watching your coming out stories, thank you so much for sharing it. I came out to my family last year on my 30th birthday, it took years to tell them I was gay since forever and I felt I couldn't hide it anymore and I just did, I expressed my feelings and who I really am. And I'm really grateful they accepted me as who I am. Family is family, maybe some won't be able to understand at first, but eventually they will be. Being gay doesn't change anything, I'm still being the same person and always will be.

[@TheFlamingTuba]

You guys are the best! Thank you for this. :)

[@TheFlamingTuba]

And thank you also for posting this article. It has literally blown my mind how a tiny mistake can cause such a huge misunderstanding.

[@GiGs5150]

So appreciate your stories!! Love you guys!!

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks for the support Gigi!

[@siddhkankaria1029]

Love your smiles❤😊..... Keep smiling and glowing🌟

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks for all of the love and comments!! It means a lot!

[@chanceweller3233]

yall are amazing !! and very brave for sharing your stories . its not easy to be vulnerable in front of everyone lol but yall did amazing!! one thing i have learned is i am not obligated to come out to anyone unless i choose to or it comes up in a conversation lol other than that i just keep to myself and live my life not worrying about having to come out to anyone! and i think everyone should be free to love who they love cause we only get to live life once !! and this world really does need more love

[@ChrisAndClay]

I love that mindset. It is so true. You are not obligated to. Proud of you for being you!

[@marlenemacfarlane6199]

Great video very emotional in parts I enjoy all your videos take care ❤️❤️

[@halleyklemm9821]

Thank you for sharing your stories, clay I’m happy that your experience was one of acceptance & love, Chris I’m so sorry you had to go through what you did, but I’m happy that your parents were open enough to learn & were at your wedding. Continue smiling boys 😊 much love & support from MN ❤️❤️

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thank you so much Halley!

[@jhendrickson1311]

You and I went to church together back in the day. When I came out im 2003 it went almost exactly the way you described, down to the same details like mom commenting that her own dad dying wasn't as painful. For many years after that, I would occasionally worry about you and hoped things had turned out okay. I'm proud of you for making it to the other side and for having such obvious care and compassion for your family. That shows a lot of character.

[@ChrisAndClay]

I am sorry your mother responded the same way mine did. It was heartbreaking to deal with. I know my sister probably didn't handle it well with you either, and for that I am sorry. She was the only family member who didn't come to my wedding and that was heartbreaking, but you can't make people love you more than they love an idea that was taught to them. I am proud of you for leading the way in Oklahoma. You were a trailblazer. Thanks for the encouragement.

[@jhendrickson1311]

@@ChrisAndClay You're every bit the trailblazer yourself. When you're born into that kind of culture, the only way out is to blaze a new trail. I sent you a sappy Facebook message a few years ago after your flash mob video popped up in my Twitter feed (probably in msg requests). I'm a pretty cynical bitch, but that shit hit me right in the feels. Would love to catch up sometime. Be well!

[@AJF710]

This was beautiful, thank you both for sharing your stories and the “welcome to the family” made me cry just a bit but like this was beautiful ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

[@ChrisAndClay]

I meant it!! :)

[@pratimabasnet7998]

Thank you so much for sharing your story ..really inspiring Love you guys as always💕💕💕

[@ChrisAndClay]

Of course! Thanks for listening!

[@stevenscholze8196]

Wonderful video and message. My husband and I met in 1994. I had come out to my mother shortly before that. It seemed okay until I called to let her know that we'd moved in together and I had a new phone #. I had no contact with any of my family for many years after that. When my parents died, I found that my siblings were wonderful. In the meantime, I found another family, my husband's father, mother, step-mother, siblings and spouses, and our friends . All, including my siblings and spouses, were at our wedding in 2015, after it became legal here. Again, you guys are wonderful...Thanks for the shout out to the Trevor Project!

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thank you for sharing Steven. I am sorry to hear your parents have passed but am thrilled to hear that your siblings have come around. Congrats on your marriage. Both Clay and I know you are inspiring many just by loving each other openly!

[@stevehofmaster7489]

I am so very proud of you both I appreciate your stories so much👍💙💙💙🙂

[@benjaminchan1590]

Thank you both for sharing each's coming out stories. It is the stories through the power of the internet and social media that truly create such a connectedness. Coming out 8 months ago, it is one less secret I am holding within me and don't have to be bogged down. I came out to my best friend, before coming out to all my friends on social media, in telling him I am attracted to guys. He said he always knew, which surprised me. But also the secret I was holding for a while immediately went out of the window. So some things just worked out.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Welcome to the out and proud fam! So excited you are well on your journey. It's such a freeing feeling, right? And you are right! Social media can help us see that there are others out there going through what we are going through. It can help you not feel alone!

[@scotty3kable]

Thank you for sharing something so personal. I know it must have been so difficult.

[@ChrisAndClay]

It was, but it felt necessary as well! Hoping it helps others out there!

[@lehn93]

To feel that your parents' feel like who you are is being wrong because of their faith is shattering my heart in a thousand pieces because it was what I was the most scared of when I came out. Your strength is immense

[@ChrisAndClay]

It is devastating... and sadly the norm for so many!

[@lorena6629]

I had not seen this video. Your stories are very different...but i'm so glad that you guys have a happy ending...and that you have each other. I have an 11-year-old daughter who told me that it was possible that she liked girls and she asked me if I was going to continue loving her and I said yes, that for me the most important thing is that she be happy. And I think that's what love is,about for a person to be happy, it doesn't matter who we love if we are happy. Thanks for sharing your story. Kisses from Uruguay.❤❤❤

[@ChrisAndClay]

HI Lorena, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for telling your daughter that you love her no matter what! I really love your outlook on love and i wish more parents were as understanding and loving! Thank you so much for watching! -Clay (&Chris)

[@voltairehortizuela4112]

I was outed over a tweet post. You guys are an inspiration ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@ChrisAndClay]

Gosh, that sounds like a lot to deal with. Hope everything worked out okay!!!

[@voltairehortizuela4112]

Christopher Rice Aww thank you so much for the reply. Everythings cool I guess but when “Family” is the one behind it. It makes you trust them less 🤷🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️. You guys are Amazing 💋❤️

[@mikemonthei9759]

You two are such strong young men! Thanks so much for sharing! Admire you both!

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks Mike! It helps feeling the support from people like you!

[@prinoni6033]

Yay clay!!! I loved watching this!! Im so proud and happy for you!! -Dimitra

[@JaiIgnacio]

Thank you.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks for listening!

[@frankmahovlich5099]

Clay and Chris, thank you both for sharing your personal accounts about "coming out". And remember Chris, when God answers a prayer it isn't always what you ask for or what you want but He gives you what you need. He gave you Clay.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Frank, that made me tear up! Thank you!! I am so blessed to have Clay!

[@frankmahovlich5099]

@@ChrisAndClay Yes, you're both very blessed. I hope this doesn't sound creepy coming from an old gay man, but I'm proud of you and Clay for persevering as youngsters through bullies and social/religious anxieties to achieve the success as Broadway performers, actors and dancers that you both have achieved. I admire and applaud your success and salute your relationship, sweetness and self-deprecating manners.

[@shubrochakrobroty8155]

Clay!! I appreciate your family who easily accept you as a gay. You are so lucky and you are sooooo lucky that you have get your beautiful partner Chris. God bless you.🙏🙏

[@mgc1022]

Not sure how I knew, but I had a gut feeling even before hitting "Play" that Clay would have the loving, supportive experience and Chris did not. I never knew this was his only same-sex relationship. So glad it's worked out for you both, and so glad you found one another at the time you did (as if I didn't have any more reason to love your relationship 😊💖). What amazing journeys you've had, both in terms of navigating your family dynamics and learning to embrace your authentic selves. As an LGBTQIA+ ally, I hope those who are struggling in silence can, much as Chris did, find the strength to love themselves and know they're not a disappointment or anything lesser just because of how they identify and what feels right to them. Thank you both for putting your story out there, hopefully this will impact someone who needs it. #loveisloveislove ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

[@were-all-human9427]

what a wonderful comment = 100% agree. Also 'assumed' Chris would have been the 'experienced' guy, my bad. Initially I was thinking... "Chris man shut up, let Clay tell his story".... then after Chris told us his story I knew he was just so keen to be involved in the video and their stories.... I did laugh tho at Clays dads commitment to learn "ALL" things gay to help his son.... not many dads I suspect would be open to learn our stuff, and then discuss it in detail..... not sure I would have wanted that ! - great video, these boys are an inspiration. Also follow Aaron&Jon, Tyler&Todd and UK London mixed race boys Alex & Mikey, both have some real 'life' stories.... oh Adam&Bernardo (Adams story similar to Chris) and Kim&Petur at NordicDelights (basically for the Speedos - I'm bad!)

[@ChrisAndClay]

I can tell your heart is so open and loving just from reading your comment. Thank you for being an ally and for making this world a more loving and accepting place!

[@genyacarey8971]

This video has touched me and so many other people. Really great video. So happy you guys are educating us in your story and journey. This was definitely a highlight in my day!!😊

[@matthieuvandewyngaert5898]

Thank you for both of your stories, both very inspiring. And for the interesting, eye opening article ! 😊

[@ChrisAndClay]

That article was a game changer for me. Thanks for the support!

[@briananderson5701]

Thanks for your stories spreading the love and just being the wonderful people you are love and blessings always

[@bonds3rv4nt]

You guys are so beautiful. Chris, I love your heart and your compassionate view for those who grew up believing such a black and white view of homosexuality. I was one of those people. I am married to a trans man and my family has not quite accepted it yet… your story gives me hope. I love you both. 😊

[@dudleyhall5217]

Wow! What powerful & inspirational stories. I’m so happy you both have each other. You’re such an adorable couple. You can definitely see the love you have for each other, especially the hugs at the end. So cute.

[@paulineatkinson9009]

A great vid on coming out, you brave, awesome couple 😍

[@AzBear]

Thank you so much for sharing your stories! I think we all can relate in one way or another to both of you... Y'all are such an encouragement and inspiration to so many people, especially GLBTQ folk

[@ChrisAndClay]

We hope we can help make this world more loving and accepting by sharing our stories!

[@aimanmahboub2104]

Thanks for being so INSPIRATIONAL & ADORABLE 💞💞💕😉🙏♥️

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thank you! Sending love your way!

[@aimanmahboub2104]

@@ChrisAndClay hope I could live with my real identity 😭as you sweetiees 💕💕

[@treadautomotive4372]

Thank you for sharing you fabulous souls

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks for taking the time to watch and listen!

[@richdodenhoff6846]

Bravo, gentlemen! Thank you for sharing your stories. If you want a church home, there are denominations and congregations that welcome and embrace us as we are. I've been an openly gay member and ordained deacon in a United Church of Christ congregation for many years.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Love that! Thank you!

[@southwegianofazanochine6114]

Love this story, I had such a similar experience to Chris, but the South African deep south. Wonderful story guys

[@sejalb725]

You guys are awesome!!

[@RitaBerk]

I think you guys are great. You are awesome.

[@binkyboy9]

I knew I liked guys from my mid teens, but I didn't come out until university when I started dating one of my lecturers (not as creepy as it sounds, I didn't go to uni until long after H.S so he wasn't that much older than me). I worked with a lot of people who attended the same campus so I knew they would figure it out pretty quickly they'd tell people including my family so I had to do it pretty soon. I had a feeling they'd be ok because my whole family accepted a cousin who came out years earlier, but there's always the year "They (immediate family" will react different because it's 'you' not a cousin we never see). Most already knew, mum was blindsided. She cried, I cried, next few days we didn't speak - because we didn't know what to say. But eventually we had a talk, and since then it's been fantastic. Our talk was like the "exhale" scene from "Love, Simon" which is why I can't watch that scene without crying. Sorry about the essay long comment.

[@were-all-human9427]

that movie was so good on so many levels for us...

[@ChrisAndClay]

I think many can relate to your story. And Love Simon... gosh! I love that movie so much. "You can exhale now" really just hits it home!

[@were-all-human9427]

@@ChrisAndClay his dads... "lets join Grindr together...." made me laugh.. another great movie is Mario (2018), two scenes sit with me, the mums reaction when the dad reads that obscene 'outing' note, and her "SO, he has good taste", and the bedroom PG scene, Mario is naked with his bf, who has his arm around Mario, who flitches with night terrors, and Leon simply strokes Marios arm, and the terrors are gone.... just beautiful.

[@danahoward8234]

Thank you for sharing your story very inspiring. . I am catholic and know how difficult religiin can be. I don't agree with alot and kind of walked away but I do believe in praying. I am straight but I do believe in what you said be who you are and believe in yourself. It has taken me a long time to get to a place where I feel good. Was not in the best marriage, and very sad when he passed away when my daughter was 6 and I do miss him, but a day never goes buy how thankful I am for my daughter. Thanks for being a great couple with lots of happiness and enerfy.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Your daughter is so lucky to have such a strong mother!! We can tell how loving you are from your comments and we know you love her a lot! We are also happy to hear that you feeling good! You deserve that.

[@rishirajesh182]

This was one of the best videos I've seen this year. There's something about your stories that's kinda relatable to me, who started coming out quite recently to some of my friends and fewer members of my family. Like Clay says, there's a thrill and happiness I associate to proudly saying that I'm gay. Also, I really need to thank the inclusive environment I've been surrounded by (my friends in India and Canada) which has surely made it easy. Also, you guys are an inspiration. Loads of love😘😘

[@ChrisAndClay]

Rishi, congrats! Those are big steps and we are so glad you found this video! We are a part of the same big family! :)

[@rishirajesh182]

@@ChrisAndClay Happy to be a part of the family!❤️

[@dylanelliott9764]

I actually came out a few months ago but because of COVID I wasnt able to see my friends. So about 3 days ago I decided to come out as Bisexual to my friends and I was so overwhelmed with the amount of love I was given and it's all owed to you guys. You guys gave me the courage to tell my parents and my friends simply because how happy you make each other and I wanted to be happy like that so it made me feel better about telling my family

[@ChrisAndClay]

Wow! That is huge. Congrats on coming out. You did it. I hope you feel the weight has lifted off of your shoulders. I am so thrilled to hear you were met with love and acceptance. That is inspiring. Hope your parents took it well too. Proud of you!

[@dylanelliott9764]

@@ChrisAndClay thank you so much! I hope you and Clay have a great rest of your day. Also yes it really does feel good being out to my family and friends

[@sndlp1]

This was BEAUTIFUL!!! xox

[@juliannavarro1134]

I came out to my parents earlier this year and it went really well. My mom of course cried, I didn’t, I thought I was going to because I cried when I told my college friends, but I didn’t and she accepted me. As for my dad, my mom told him and he didn’t question anything, he just told me “I love you” and that’s it, nothing more. I took me years and years to finally tell myself and then have the courage to come out. It wasn’t an easy journey, I’ve always known I was different at a very young age and I grew going to a catholic school for 10 or 11 years, however, they never said that homosexuality was wrong because they’ve never mentioned it, all they taught us was to love and spread kindness, that’s it. But the thing is, I grew up feeling insecure, anxious and not courageous, so it was tough, but of course I took some time and I’m very happy with who I am and I wouldn’t change it for anything or anyone. I’m very grateful to have such a loving family and I always sang and listened to music because music is what can heal anyone when going through hard times. I would constantly listen to Born this way, Firework, Break Free or any other lgbt anthems that could help me be strong and years later, I finally came out. Just remember that you were born that way and god made you who you are and that’s it. I’m a strong believer and I pray for better days and thankfully there are better days. When you spread kindness and love, good things happen because that’s all what god wants. He wants you to love yourself and spread love. Also, it’s important to find balance within yourself before you go out and help others, because if you want to be a positive influence towards others, you need to love yourself, be kind to yourself, be honest to yourself and surrender those insecurities. It’s not easy, but it’s always possible. Love both you so much, thank you for this video, hope you’re doing well and keep spreading positivity and kindness ❤️

[@ChrisAndClay]

thanks for sharing your story with us! That means a lot that you opened up and told us all of this. We love when you said "When you spread kindness and love, good things happen because that’s all what god wants. He wants you to love yourself and spread love." CAN I GET AN AMEN?!

[@juliannavarro1134]

Christopher Rice AMEN!!!

[@zmeskal123]

Thank you for telling your story. And dammit y’all had me in tears. But good ones. Love is love is love.

[@ChrisAndClay]

[@jacobmotta2810]

Thank you both for all of your wonderful and uplifting content. You two are amazing. Btw loved your hair cut videos always laugh at those!

[@ChrisAndClay]

We like to balance things out... deep and emotional videos then haircut videos! ha

[@kevinmickelsen3733]

OUTSTANDING.

[@lu8201]

Ya so cute together. 💓 ❤🧡💛💚💙💜 Love is love!

[@michaelrawlinson9931]

OMG....Loved this~! You guys are the greatest. Big Hugs guys~!

[@ChrisAndClay]

Big hugs heading back your way!

[@BillFarrell]

I came out at Christmas Time and all of my family were so awesome about and some had suspected it already. It is indeed a scary journey coming out. Guy's Your stories are so moving and beautiful and I love how you both feel proud of who you are. Being who you want to be is so important in this crazy world 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈

[@ChrisAndClay]

Bill, we are both so happy you had a great experience coming out. We want more stories like this in the world!

[@saraoviyach4839]

Thank you so much for being so confident and vulnerable to share your stories. I was the first person one of my foster kid clients came out to and the only person other than her friends that accepted her and encouraged her to be strong and confident in who she is and who she loves. It’s so hard to find someone in the world that we love so it should be celebrated. Since I work with foster youth who already have difficulties attaching and building trusting relationships, is there any advice you would give us as providers to help them to feel loved and supported? I would love to share your advice with my teams. In the words of the book The Help...You are beautiful, you are kind, you are smart.

[@ChrisAndClay]

I love that part in The Help! :) We all could use encouragement like that! I am so glad they came out to you! You are demonstrating your support for them by trying to learn more. I think you are 100% on the right track by accepting them as they are! Remind them they are brave for being themselves in a world that doesn't always accept things that are considered different from the norm... and remind them that they aren't alone. There are millions of LGBTQIA+ people on the planet and they are part of a huge group of people who are champions for love!

[@terence9923]

I love this video. ❤️ I'd already come to terms with being gay when I was maybe 17. Now I'm 23. I came out to my parents back when I was 19, and like Chris said, you kinda know how your parents will react when you've been with them almost all your life then. They didn't take it well, it was agonising, and they believed that after a couple years I'd be "normal" again. It's been almost 4 years, but this is the part that sucks: They seemed to have forgotten that conversation I had them, and I'm apparently their "normal" son who never came out. I don't know if I'll ever find the guts to bring it up again.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Gosh. That is so tough. You already had to work up the courage and talk to them about it... and now they are acting like it didn't happen? That isn't fair to you and sounds like it is a tactic to pressure you to change. I am sorry you are dealing with that. Sometimes people we love, even our parents, don't handle things well. Sometimes you have to say "We have talked about this and when you act like that never happens it is hurtful to me because it makes me feel you don't value what I have to say." When certain people in my life try to ignore something important that we have discussed or NEED to talk about, I have had to say "We are adults. We can have a conversation about this, even if it is uncomfortable. We don't get to sweep this under the rug and ignore it." When the time comes to talk to them again, know that you are a total rockstar and have so much support. You are brave and strong too!

[@terence9923]

@@ChrisAndClay I do think I will have to talk about this again as well. Though I suppose that will happen when I'm at least financially independent. But I will definitely keep what you said to heart, it really resonates with me very much! Thank you for reading and replying! Love you guys ❤😊

[@stevec404]

Yes. It is really about connection, and love...for me, anyway.

[@ChrisAndClay]

Absolutely!!

[@pastorjdgilmore]

Wonderful. I think you’ll appreciate the poem Love After Love by Derek Walcott. Btw it was in 1946 that the word homosexual was first used in a Bible translation.

[@jamesking6404]

Such a great story about you guys we have so many different stories about coming out or never coming out all love stories are different but the majority of our stories are so hard to do congratulations on your story we have so to keep making this possible

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks James!

[@genevievelabieniec8218]

Thank you so much for the video, guys. Chris, you know Broadway star Kristen Chenoweth is a staunch Christian gay ally from Broken Arrrow, OK, right? Chris, what a great family. Long live sportsball! 🙂

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks for watching Genevieve! :) Yes she is!! hahaha yes sports ball!!

[@bobseeger342]

Thanks for sharing this you guys are so sweet and adorable ♥️ you are such an inspiration to so many people 💙 Thanks for sharing your lives with us ❤️🤠

[@georgehoran1854]

Thanks for sharing your stories!

[@ChrisAndClay]

Thanks for listening!

[@georgehoran1854]

Christopher Rice - we love watching your vlog and hope to some day see you on stage again. We so miss live theater. Even though we live in South Jersey we would normally see about 20 shows a year. We are also both Disney freaks!!

[@omarebrahem5864]

Sadly i was born in the most Homophobic place on earth "the Middle East” so i kinda have to live all my life pretending to be someone else .. I’m very happy for u guys that u get to be happy as u deserve and to have a supporting community around u . Best of luck

[@Carson_Blu]

Hi Clay & Chris, I came across your channel because I was looking for ideas and inspiration to propose to my girlfriend (Now my fiancee). Not too long after that, I was browsing on KZbin and saw, "If you like this channel, check out Christopher Rice-Thompson." To make a long story short I recognized the proposal video and I was going to subscribed to your channel, and I found out that I had already subscribed to your channel. I'll be honest, I don't usually comment on videos because I just like to watch them, but when I do it's because something relatable inspired me to do so. Hence this video.... I teared up when you guys told your story. I firmly believe that there's nothing more powerful than telling your story. Hearing both of your story I heard bits of mine. My coming out experience with my family was similar to Chris'. My mom was in a state of shock and my dad thought I was going through a "Phase." Years later I learned that my parents had no issues with me being gay, they had an issue of how I did it. Long story short, it was 16th Birthday party and with a bit of liquid courage I came out in the blackout and the next morning I found out what Too make a long story short, that liquid courage became a coping mechanism and many years of destructive behaviors. I learned to accept and am proud to be an openly gay human being and try to do the best I can to show up for my family and those important to me, So, thank you for being willing to share your coming out story because it is powerful and continue to spread hope to young kids who are still writing their coming out story. I appreciate you both and I look forward to watching more of your videos.

[@dubon9999]

No matter where we are, we Gay men will always take care of each other 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🧿🧿🧿🧿🧿🧿🧿✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️

[@martinmarino9700]

Hi. Guys. Loved it. Very nice. Guys. Thanks. For. Sharing. Your special coming out. Moments.. Both of you are a very lovely couple 😍😍😍😍😍