Story Time: Jess's Coming Out Story

[@HeyKayli]

I love you so much Jess!! I'm so grateful for you and I'm so happy that you're a part of our family!! Thank you for sharing your story, you are amazing!!💕

[@landslave8367]

Kayli, that post represents TRUE family values. I commend you.

[@KaleandJess]

I love you too! Thank you for being someone that has always had our backs, I am forever grateful for that. AND I absolutely love being a part of your family!

[@eijaj5997]

This is what family is

[@shannondresslerrrr]

Asha Kayli is Markale’s sister, which is Jessica’s girlfriend

[@hbd1106]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@valn16]

It's so crazy what some lgbt kids have to go through because of religion. Thinking about a 14 year old child sobbing because she thinks she's a bad person and going to hell for something you can't control is so painful to me, my heart breaks for all the kids that are in that situation right now. The statistics of teen lgbt suicides living in strict religious communities are so alarmingly high and I feel nothing gets done about it, it's still legal to teach your kid they should be ashamed of themselves for something they can't control when that could lead them to a tragic death or so much self hate and pain. To me this is child abuse and something needs to be done about it. No kid should have to suffer for not being straight.

[@shannonmac3867]

I'm so proud that you're both comfortable with sharing your stories with us❣️

[@eijaj5997]

Oh. This was so honest and beautiful and down to earth. Your journey together is beautiful, but my heart aches for how much you felt you had to hide.

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you! I was hard, but it gets better and easier!

[@VirtualSunshine]

I'm so glad you found Kale! It's interesting to hear your story because my friend recently came out to his parents. His dad is trying to be accepting but his mum isn't. It's crazy because we are from London which is one of the most vibrant, accepting cities in the world with tons of gay bars and we go to pride every year so I found it astonishing that she is unsupportive of him. It just shows that these attitudes can happen in Mormon communities or even non religious ones.

[@sarahsevers1]

Your story made me so sad. I am so so sorry that you were so ashamed to be yourself that you were literally devastated into the point of depression over a dream. That shows, to me, a huge issue within the community that you were raised. I just want to hug you. That makes me so sad that you didn't feel ok to be yourself, that your privacy was invaded by friends/family and that they tried to make you anything other than what you are. So sad. I am so happy to see where you are today. It is wonderful to be loved be loved by someone and you are so lucky to have Kale. I hope that your family loves and accepts you now :)

[@caryldineen9051]

I applaud you Jess for your raw honesty. #it'snotachoice #loveislove. Happy National Coming Out Day (a day later!) to all those brave enough to do so.

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you!

[@caryldineen9051]

No, thank you Kale and Jess!

[@Onbeeeee]

Your story is going to help so many people, I first started watching your videos a few months ago after my younger brother came out to me he said above all he was more scared to tell me above my parents in fear that i will completely cut him out of my life. KZbin is a great venue to help people with realizing how you to accept people for who they are. You both have opened my eyes to how insensitive I have been by saying certain things aloud that pushed him away from me. But I can happily say that my brother and I relationship is better than ever I owe it all to you ladies THANK YOU. Thank you for sharing.

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you for sharing this! That means a lot. I am so happy your relationship is so much better! That makes my heart happy!

[@haleywalther1210]

You’re love for markale is so evident and I love it! Proud of you guys and I think you guys have such a strong relationship that is amazing!

[@katievalentine6725]

You’re not just a good person, I think you’re pretty awesome. LOVE YOU BOTH!

[@heidijo166]

Thank you so much for sharing your story, Jess. I don't really think I can iterate how much it means to me. I was raised in a very, very conservative christian community and that was pretty much all I knew. I just recently started my coming out process and it is scary as hell. A lot of the reason I waited so long, (I'm 25, late bloomer haha) was because I afraid of rejection from people I loved in this christian community, and my family especially. You and Markale have helped me so much & have helped me believe in myself and believe that who I am is okay. That who I love is okay and I truly cannot thank you enough for that. Thank you. Thank you. Love you!! :)

[@nicoleduckery4067]

I thought I would chime in and say, "If you think you are a late bloomer, try coming out at 47 yrs". I just came out to my immediate family and friends last year. Like you, my family is very religious-Christian. And, my mom is a Minister. It was super scary for me as well...and, at the same time so FREEing. I definitely expected the worse. However, my mom's response was way better than what I expected. And, my brothers were super supportive & not phased at all. Like, it really wasn't a big deal to them which I totally didn't expect. Anyway, that's my truth. I hope it made you feel a little bit better about coming out at 25 yrs. :o)

[@KaleandJess]

I'm so proud of you for believing in yourself! Who you are isn't just okay, it's freakin awesome and never forget that!

[@nicoleduckery4067]

Congratulations to you too! Life is so much better when you love yourself for sure. Wow! You're the 2nd person to share a little bit of their past involving marriage to a man.

[@meganwilson188]

Thank you Jess. You are inspiring to not only me but countless others struggling with coming out. I recently have found your channel and have loved everything about it. I am currently a college sophomore who is open and out here at school but still unfortunately in the closet to most of my family. No one has ever come out as anything close to LGBT in my family and I honestly have no idea how it would go over. I am gaining confidence though and it's because I have people like Markale and you to look up to through KZbin. I think what you are doing is helping so many people and you have certainly helped me. Thank you for sharing your story and I look forward to seeing more videos from you in the future.

[@adelinelee2423]

Thank you. You are so brave, so very brave. You have made such a difference in so many people's life, you cannot imagine.

[@huangmirror8688]

I really hope your parents and kale’s parents can find peace in heart and share parents stories as well!

[@jill1223]

Oh my goodness Jess, big hugs to you! I’m so glad to hear that you’ve come far enough to feel comfortable for sharing your story with others. I relate to your story on a deep level-my family is not okay with me being gay, but things get better every day, and I know I can look forward to a time when they can accept me for me. Keep making awesome vids, we love watching! Xx

[@Leslieluvsscooby]

Jess, you wanted to do this the right way, and I can honestly say, you did. You were so well spoken and very brave. Don’t never think that you’re not. I think you said it best when you said “what does get better is you”. That’s so true. I think you have a amazing family who love you and stands behind you no matter what. ❤️loves from N.C.

[@overhoot]

Thanks for sharing Jess.

[@rebelkattslbc646]

Thank you for your honesty you are truly brave to share your story. We love you!

[@orion4476]

Powerful 💖💖💖 So happy that you found the strength to be yourself and live your truth! Thank you for sharing this and your love 💖 You are changing lives 💖🌈

[@katiejean011]

Thank you for sharing your story with us! I know how hard it can be to vocalize even after years of it happening. While I related to a lot of the feelings you had, I realized that my family was really supportive and I’m so very lucky that they reacted how they did. Gonna go hug my mama :)

[@TheMaggiemcgrath22]

Yay thank you so much for sharing! I'm sorry you had to go thru these hardships but they made you what you are today and there is nothing wrong with you! Don't ever forget how loved you are and we all appreciate you so much! Cant wait for kales story :)

[@robertbarnett3409]

Thank you for the coming out story I know that it is hard to talk about but I promise you the more that you tell it the easier it gets. As far as the haters they have their own issues and their way of dealing with them is by hating every thing and every one around them I have learned no matter how hard it is just don't let them in your life their not worth the energy. Lots of love and I am so glad that you make these videos they mean a lot to a lot of people

[@eijaj5997]

I-HAVE-NEVER-BEEN-SO-EXCITED-FOR-A-VIDEO.... ever!

[@micheleanne1405]

awe bless your soul jess. thank you for sharing your story with us no matter how difficult that may have been for you. you and kale are so sweet

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you!

[@imashortminimidget]

"I'm not a parent, I mean..I do have a dog." Aww bless you, Jess. Thank you for sharing your story, but please remember it's not a "choice." I understand that maybe that's a way for people to try and accept it, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with you :)

[@KnightofGascogne]

I think she meant that she chose to be out and in a relationship with her GF. That must be a hard choice if you live in a certain religious culture. The choice is about fighting for it, not about being gay, ofc.

[@KaleandJess]

+Tk Uk I know that being gay is not a choice, I don’t recall saying that it was a choice. However there were choices I made a long the way. As I said in the video, when I decided to accept myself for who I am everything go better. Accepting myself was a choice.

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you! Perfectly put!

[@imashortminimidget]

Sorry for the confusion, I was referring to you saying your family don't necessarily agree with your "choices" near the end of the video. I'm sorry if it came across as insensitive, I'm not a religious person, nor was I fully engrossed in this video at the time..my comment was meant not as anything other than supportive, again, sorry for any confusion. Thanks for clearing it up!

[@judyperrodin1245]

Tk Uk q

[@kaylaoconnor7050]

Thank you so much for sharing your story! I’m so grateful that the two of you can share your stories.

[@carbonbeing2369]

Get video. Proud that you can stand up and speak out in such a way. I think you are helping alot of folks with your courage. Continue to believe in yourself and Kale. Though you might not believe it, you are doing alot more than folks twice your age.

[@preppypinkcrocodile3400]

So well said! I love that everything started to get better once you fully accepted yourself. That's amazing! XOKK

[@meryanconsorte6685]

Thank you for your honesty you are truly brave we love you Jess

[@Emmmmmlay]

Jess, you are remarkable, and so well spoken. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing such an important dot on your timeline with us!

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you Emily! You are always so sweet!

[@kathleencorcoran2035]

you are so cool! and your outfit rocks! I am sure you sharing your experience will help others so much. I hope your company recognizes your public speaking talent, it was a great story, put together perfectly. I wish you and Markale a lifetime of happiness.....TOGETHER!

[@haleysichting6757]

Thank you for sharing your story I'm sure you help many people with sharing just so someone doesn't have to feel alone. If anything you helped/help me. I can relate So much to Your guys story, of what I've seen, and it just puts me at ease a little. They also make me cry 😭 it's so nice to know someone understands. You guys are amazing and beautiful and never stop being you!

[@KaleandJess]

I'm so happy that it has helped. You're never alone. You have an entire community who loves and accepts you.

[@obartel]

I’m so happy you are comfortable sharing your stories❣️

[@krisnorman6484]

Jessica, I watched you grow up all those years in the good ol' HV 3rd ward. I've never seen you look happier or more beautiful. I'm so happy for you. Your family are all such wonderful people and they gave you your strong back bone and integrity. You are one brave woman!

[@KaleandJess]

Hi Kris! Thank you so much, I can't even begin to tell you how much that means to me.

[@kk33613]

Dayum girl ! This is one hellava brave leap into the unknown. I don't think I've seen a coming out video with more courage, sincerity, and honesty. I get the not really being able to have this revelation on your own terms, I was also outed and it turned into a pretty big shit show. What you said about some people being shitty about it is so true. They will never accept the fact that we are just "wired" differently and cannot love like they do. To quote Lady Gaga we were "born this way" and are incapable of changing it. Thank you for sharing, I'm sure there are plenty of gabies out here that will hear your story, take it to heart and have the courage to live their lives openly and honestly. All my best to you and Markale on your journey through life together.

[@Hooklineandsinker145]

I love you girls so much! You’re both so nice and down to earth, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a couple more in love, you support each other, you’re both first in each others lives. You are both so stunning on your wedding day! Omg. You both had the perfect dress for your personality, it was beautiful.

[@dozersmom22]

Thank you for sharing your incredibly personal coming out experience. I applaud you for having the courage and strength to make this video. I am sorry that your coming out wasn't on your own terms, that would make the whole situation even more stressful than it already is. I am so glad that you have Markale and that you've stuck by each other through all the challenges and roadblocks that have been put in front of you. Your journey hasn't been easy, but I hope it makes your current life with Markale even more precious and meaningful. Making your story public and allowing yourself to be vulnerable like that is going to make a difference in other people's lives. I truly hope that you have found the happiness, acceptance and inner peace with yourself that you deserve. Take care, Krista.

[@sarah956madge]

Jess your sharing story was so well done be proud of yourself always ❤️

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you!

[@rosadenooijer]

It is so refreshing that you just sit down and share your story so sincerely. I think this will help many people!!! Hail queen Jess :)

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you! You are the sweetest!

[@slpmather]

Brilliantly and lovingly explained, well done Jess, you should be proud of yourself.

[@9010jenni]

Thank you! it helps so much to hear that I am not the only one.

[@annabellemontgomery4964]

Wow! its crazy how much this video helps. Even though I was raised in a non religious family, my family are very against the lgbt community. Growing up all I heard from my parents were negative comments and how its a choice. Little did they know that I myself am gay. Currently I am out to everyone except my family, its been hard recently as I have had to move home from flatting for financial reasons- so basically had to relive in the closet. This video has given me hope that one day I can be strong and come out to them, and they may still love me even if they do not agree.

[@KaleandJess]

You are stronger than you think! I'm proud of you!

[@Katrina13Rodrigues]

You are making a difference for everyone who grew up around a religion that made us believe that we were wrong for existing. How fitting this comes right after national coming out day ❤ I've said it time and time again. This is the content KZbin needs.

[@smelleck10]

This is honestly such an amazing video. Im so thankful there are people like you to share their story. I love you and Kale so much!!!!!!!

[@sheelazadegan3210]

Jess, thanks so much for sharing your story! You are so brave, I admire your strength to be who you are! You are such an inspiration for me!, love you ❤️

[@KaleandJess]

Thank so much! That truly means a lot to me!

[@vanessah8714]

Thanks for sharing! Out there are so many people who will benefit from your honesty!

[@girlhappy6442]

Jess you look great with this style of hair and cap 🧢 👌🏻 👏

[@haley4407]

Thank you for sharing your story Jess. I love both you and Markale so much, you've helped me a lot in the past year and a half or so. Im currently in the process of coming out to myself and it has been difficult to say the least. Im not in any position to come out to my family at the moment but Im hoping within the next year or so that may change. I go to school out of state and unfortunately I've recently become aware that my roommates (who are also my friends there) are quite homophobic. I don't feel that I could come out to them and still be safe mentally and physically in my apartment so Im waiting to finish up school this year before I even think about telling any of them, if I ever do. My best friend in the entire world recently came out to me as bi, and I so badly wanted to come out to her then, but I just wasn't ready. Ive had opportunities since, but it would have had to happen over the phone so I'm waiting until I can see her in person.

[@KaleandJess]

You're incredibly strong, never forget that. You will get through the tough times and become better and stronger!

[@courtney2323]

Being outed is so hard. Thank you for sharing your story ❤️

[@Tee.NZ.07]

Good on you Jess! that would have been so hard to talk about publically but you did it and you are helping so much more other people who are going though the same thing as you! You are awesome and I'm glad you guys came out on top!! :) x

[@MrDrumGarden]

Glad to see a video of you again. Emotional and inspiring story. I hope you two have a fantastic happy and healthy life. Greetings from the Netherlands (little country in Europe!)

[@mcelliotdawson7700]

Oh Jess , so sorry you have had such a struggle to get to where you are now. I am happy you met Markale when you did, she is an wonderful person and girlfriend. You are both amazing people and the love you share is what has got you to where you are now. You two beautiful girls have a love that has endured and been strengthened by the obstacles placed in its path. The passion in your voice Jess when you speak of you love for Markale is so sweet. I just know the rest of your journey together will be one of sweet anticipation, ever deepening love and amazing adventures. You are the Jalebirds after all 😀 Sending you both love and hugs from the land of Oz 😎🇦🇺

[@janebrown7721]

Thank you for taking the time and telling us your story of coming out. I am sure it will help a lot of young people who are debating what to do Have a great day

[@geegnosis8888]

You're a brave woman to share this story. Well done Sister.

[@marlene8663]

You are so brave ... thank you for sharing your coming out story!!!!

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you!

[@jessicadasilva6160]

This touched my heart! Thank you so much for that Jess , you are an inspiration and you might not know this but stories like this helps more people than you think, me included. Thank you so much 💕

[@unclel5769]

That was beautiful. Thank you for sharing it with us; I know it couldn't have been the easiest video to record. I'm sorry that your journey hasn't been easier but I'm inspired/thankful that you shared. We love and support you guys!

[@unclel5769]

And 11:07 made me cry. I love your love for her, that's how it should be!

[@laura_xx4546]

I listened to every word! I love you and kale so so much!! Always be your true self, anyone who doesn’t accept you for who you are isn’t worth your time ❤️❤️

[@sweetkiki16]

You are both great people! You both deserve to be happy! Thank you for sharing your life with us!

[@emilymoore9797]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I am also an avid church goer and this used to be a fear for me too but I am happy to know who I truly am now and you and kale's relationship inspires me ❤

[@DemiLynn]

Aww I'm glad to have finally heard your story! Love you guys!!

[@hellobubu4594]

This is so amazing.. I don't think al ever come out but it's good to see y'all flourishing

[@brittxo2359]

Once we got past the...HATE.. LMAO! YOU ARE SUCH AN AMAZING PERSON YOU ARE GOING TO HELP SO MANY PEOPLE. YOU GUYS ARE TRULY AWESOME THANKS FOR BRIGHTENING MY DAY!

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you so much! You are so sweet!

[@LittleMissy1234]

I just want to give you a huge hug. You're an amazing person and I accept you!

[@mandimoos]

Coming out is not always an easy thing, telling the story is also not an easy thing, so glad you two have found each other and love each other so much, long may you forever be together, thank you for sharing your story x x x x hugs from sunny Australia x

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you!

[@StitchyDaze]

Y'alll are awesome. Bringing another level of understanding to people requires sharing your story!

[@special5106]

Love you guys and please continue to love and cherish each other!!

[@СнежанаКанева-х1ь]

That's strong and you are strong ,you such amaizing person!!!I love you both guys!!!

[@KaleandJess]

You are so sweet! Thank you!

[@paolagongora2285]

Can you guys do a video talking about religion and your sexuality!? I think a lot of people will be able to relate to those social pressures and fears

[@charris272]

Jess that was great and listening to third really helps me I just hope that one day my parents will accept my life ❤💙💛💚💜

[@davistayjah4287]

Ohhh shittttt AN UPDATE 😍😍

[@lisalittle5850]

Happy Coming Out Day! You’re awesome. Thanks for sharing and I’m happy you and Markale found love in a crazy place, Utah!❤️😎

[@Muttsrus-bk7yd]

Thank you for sharing your story Jess I know it couldn't have been easy for yourself or your family.

[@minn.1]

Thank you for sharing your story. It is so inspiring and will be so helpful to many people from around the world who are struggling to come out. Life is short and I’m so happy for you to reach this stage of your life where you and Kale can be together and live the life you want. What matters most is that you two are happy and how other people think is their problem. 👍👍👍

[@janitap1184]

Love this! Thank you for spreading your story! :) love that even though there were things that stopped you from being with Markale, you worked through it.. and that says a lot about you as a strong couple 💕 Love you guys 💕

[@estherkoolhaas]

Thank you so much for sharing your story!! It me olso a quiet same time for myself to oke with myself. I always knew I would fall love with a person and that I couldn't choose who. But I thought that everyone wanted to put a label on everything/everyone. In the last four years I know and I feel ready to share it with the world, I only fall in love with women! I loved listing to your story and knowing that you always had Markel (I'm if I write your wrong 🙈🙈) in your corner and always had/has your back to love you no matter what!! Love watching your videos!! Much Love😘😘 From the Netherlands!

[@crystalcutler8411]

Well worth the wait ! Glad you took the time you needed and waited til you were ready. I can definitely see the confidence & happiness. The love you share for each other is so amazing. This will surely help those who are still struggling. Thank you for sharing. Your turn Markale. ❤ ❤ love you jess

[@stacieweitzel4418]

I love this. I always look forward to your videos. Thank you so much for sharing your side of your coming out story. It's always reassuring that you know you have family who will always love you.

[@googles1515]

Thanks for sharing your story with us. I respect your honesty and I'm sure this vlog will help others. Both of you ladies are beautiful inside and out! Have a great weekend!

[@KaleandJess]

Thank you!

[@elinhansen5570]

Thank you so much for sharing this with us! It means so much for so many people here, including me as bisexual. Thank you, I can't say that enough ❤

[@lestudio76]

I can see and hear how much you love her. I’m glad it worked out.

[@brantfrans8595]

It's very brave of you to tell your story. You two are such a wonderful and beautiful couple. Wish you both for all the happiness in the world and to your future together. Good luck.

[@jenniferramsay624]

This was such an inspiring story. I'm still working on the "coming out to myself" part, but thank you for sharing!

[@macaylabrooks8220]

Jess your a amazing person, you and kale are my inspiration. I. I came out to my family and it wasn't easy at first and I'm still dealing with it. I'm still living with my family. But I'm working on things to better my life. Thanks so much for being you love you always

[@rrenia]

Thank you so much for sharing your story Jess. It really means a lot to me..I wish and hope one day ill be at the place you are now.. Love you

[@amyf7977]

I finally found some time to watch this. It really sucks that this was so difficult for you. You should have been able to be with who you loved as much as you wanted and with support. I really didn't like hearing how doctors told you you had a "chemical imbalance", a label they use when someone really has personal/emotional issues, but they want to prescribe something anyway. You didn't have a chemical imbalance, you were growing up and having an identity crisis and there was so much going on for you emotionally. You didn't need a prescription, you needed to work through your feelings. They took credit when things started to get better for you, by saying you had "balanced out" because of your prescriptions. I'm guessing that actually, things got better because some time had passed, the issues weren't so new anymore and you had thrown yourself into other things, like sports. I say all of this because I think for everyone's wellbeing, we need to give support, such as time off, a retreat, or counselling, whatever someone prefers, when that's what's really needed. Not prescriptions which don't do anything and just make you tired. I so hope that things do change in the world so younger people who are starting to realise they might be gay and are very vulnerable, can be given the right support and space to work out who they are, and also get total love and support from family and friends regardless.

[@JenChristiansmommy]

Wow your anxiety story is like mine, although mine wasn’t for the same reasons. Thanks for sharing.

[@spongeybum1]

Love youuu 💜💙💚

[@carleepalmer2714]

Thank you Jess

[@naturenut7695]

Always love your videos. This was a great one!! Keep them coming

[@rae8457]

It's so fascinating to hear your story evolve...so much respect for you both. I'm at 9:52 in the video and paused to ask (out of curiosity, and if you wanna answer), why was your number blocked from Markale's phone at this time? Did her family already know about your relationship?

[@nyc2xtc]

Thank you for sharing your story. You are brave and beautiful.

[@janesays1]

Yay! Thanks for this. You two are great. So much love

[@awkwardavlogs]

Thank you for sharing! This was beautiful and raw. I know this is going to help so many people! 💗💗

[@eileenbenninger2644]

You are one of God’s children. You are the way you are because God has a mission for you. You are a Angel send for a specific reason on this earth. He picked you because he loves you and needs your help to spread the word that Gods love ALL people. Only he will judge in the end.

[@7397monica]

Love this.

[@Hello-1814]

This was tough, thanks for sharing!

[@kobeunknown]

Wow Jess, that was an emotional video to watch & for you to make. As I've said before coming out is the bravest thing anyone can do. Although. It took a long time, it made you grow as a person & I believe made your relationship with your family grow too as well as your relationship with Markale. The advice you can now give others who are coming out or just came out is not as powerful without the experience you have gained from your experience. Take care & can't wait to hear Kale's story. #Jalebirdforlife

[@patriciacorrales4703]

Good job.....I could tell that this was hard for u but u did awesome!,,,,👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@0loz0]

Thank you for sharing your story Jess! Love you both 💕