My Coming Out Story

[@Shaneodell35]

A standing ovation for you for having the courage to stand up and be you!! Being upset with someone's sexuality is like being a diabetic while furious at your neighbor for eating cake. It is the ultimate lunacy. The world needs more 'Michaels'.

[@oceansideartist]

You are a strong, courageous young man and I am so happy you are living your life authentically ! My husband and I have been a couple since 1974. We have had and are still having a beautiful life. May you, as well.

[@ryanshank1835]

lady is a pure Virgin. Are your parents brother and sister?

[@ryanshank1835]

lady is a pure Virgin. Leave Michael alone. He’s more important than you will ever be. Proud of you man!!

[@kiranroopsharma3684]

Dirty old man.

[@Loverboy19691]

@@kiranroopsharma3684 Please just pray for them, not judgement, God loves the sinner, not the sin.

[@Loverboy19691]

@@kiranroopsharma3684 Amen that you have a faith but please do not pass judgement as this will not bring them to the lord. I came across this video by accident, I didn't go looking for it to pass negative comments as you have, you calling them ''Dirty old man'' there are also things wrong in our life as nobody is perfect. Please, just pray for them. God bless you and your family.

[@gregorybeaton4470]

I'm 75 and a vergin and I'm happy for you that you were born in a more excepting generation. I know you can't help how you feel just like me . Your the first person I've come out to . Deep in the closet next in a casket . You are a very kind person thanks . 😊

[@amberboy2949]

I am 52. And me too... 🙄

[@austintidwell5493]

I am gay and I am looking a boyfriend

[@Mabeylater293]

May the rest of your life be the BEST of your life. ❤️

[@austintidwell5493]

I am gay and I am looking for a boyfriend

[@braddahg]

Wow, at the time, I thought I was the only 41 year old virgin. It can take some time. Sex is a social thing.

[@jeancolapierrearmande3326]

This impressive story, mostly sad but with a happy ending, made me crying for most of the 26:19 minutes. I adore you, Michael and I feel you are one of the mentally strongest guys I encountered here on UTube. Live long with your beloved Jem and may God bless you and everybody who supported you!

[@stevenfrederickbaljkas3946]

Michael -- In binge watching coming out stories today, I just came across your video tonight. Years late, I know, but I just had to leave a note to tell you how impressed I am with the sweet and sensitive but strong and centred young *man* you were already at the tender age of 18. You are inspirational! My only concern in watching was observing how sad and weighted down you still seemed despite the positive ending of your tale. I do hope that the succeeding years have indeed seen you find that it does get better so that you will have had many occasions to let loose with that darling smile that only peeked through in this video. May your life be filled with love and joy. Thank you for being so brave and for sharing your experience.

[@MichaelSmith-hs5iu]

I totally agree with Steven, I think you are a very together young man with a great head on your shoulders. More courage than I have to make a great video, It's bound to help other young guys.

[@nicholasroby8936]

Stephen Frederick, I felt the same way and was glad someone else picked up the heavy weight sadness that I was in tune with throughout and pray that the sadness has not become depression ?

[@teslavate]

check out : kzbin.info/www/bejne/hnW7p56VnMerqpo

[@johnandrick64]

Beautiful, but heart wrenching story, Michael. So very proud of your strength and so happy that you got the support from outside, that you should have had at home....when it really was needed. Yes, it does get better, and I am now caring for my partner after 52 wonderful years of love. When you find him (as you will, because YOU are a treasure) everything in your life will have the meaning of “OURS”, and that’s unbeatable !! Have a wonderful and happy life and know how deeply your story touched me. Big HUGS from your Canadian neighbour ❤️

[@mkilp63]

Congrats! The hard part is over. This video will help so many young people realize that it does get better. You don't sugarcoat your story. You talk about the positives and the struggles in your journey. Your bravery is to be commended.

[@beachesboy1994]

I expect you don’t look at these responses anymore, but I’m so relieved when I went to your Instagram site and found out today you’re really doing great. Your story and your sincere, unrehearsed presentation, SO moved me I wondered (after FIVE years) how on earth you were doing. Myself, and I believe all who saw this, came to like you a lot and were concerned about you. Our reactions were, 'Oh, I wonder how he’s doing, such a likable guy. Is he OKAY now?’ Really upsetting there were no follow-ups. Thank heaven for your Instagram posts. You are really going places and having a real impact on our society. Liked how you went after that carpetbagger from MD. Hurrah for you!!

[@weda0604]

Hey buddy, you're worlds ahead of people like me. I denied my homosexuality for about ten years and didn't come out until I was 25 but speaking from the experience of having been out for almost a year now, I am so happy to finally be myself! Best of luck to you and congrats for leaping over such a big hurtle at a young age. Things will get way better for you as they should have been for me at that age!

[@austintidwell5493]

I am gay and I am looking for a boyfriend

[@lorenmark]

You'll go very, very far in life. Keep following your heart and don't be afraid to stand out. It's the people who stand out who change the world.

[@patrickblaney1675]

This was difficult to watch. Most "coming out" YT videos tell a story of a much easier (if not less terrifying) experience. But thank you for making this video and publishing your story. Your honest retelling of your experience was very moving. You have been remarkably courageous and I am sure your story will be an encouragement to others who are undergoing a less-than-easy experience coming out.

[@andrewbraun4582]

Your courage and kind personality are inspiring. I hope all is well with you, Michael.

[@robertm.8608]

Son you are so sincere and hyper sensitive it's heartbreaking. You will be and do just fine....the world and life will open up to you and give you all you ask. Much love, luck and all good wishes to you .

[@hectorandjohntwomarriedmen8035]

I saw this video for the first time today. You are such a brave and inspiring person. Be proud! You deserve happiness!

[@joanmh5241]

I'm so happy that you found the courage to stand up for yourself and be YOU. It paid off. I'm also glad that your family and friends support you now.

[@jasonkeithpolk]

Thank you for sharing your story. You are a trail blazer. Because of your courage you are making it easier for the ones who come after you. You are an inspiration.

[@garyg6000]

Beautiful, kind, soft-spoken guy. Hope things are going well for you.

[@beachesboy3168]

This was for me the most heartfelt of all coming out stories I have watched. Your silences were helpful. It let the things you talked about sink in. Oh I do wish you would make another video just to let all of us who commented below know how your doing. I read your inspiring article and noticed a picture of the Elkins high school. I thought of moving there once. I used to camp near Marlinton. Oh, I do hope things are now super for you. I'll probably never know. 'S ok. Watching this was so worthwhile. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

[@CCGR-2024]

It was heartbreaking to hear your story, but I am glad things are better for you now. You made a touching, bittersweet video, well done.

[@stacyholt6529]

I am so proud of you and the strength you had through this process. Each of us have a different story, but we all share the same internal struggle with accepting us, who we are. I was fortunate in that I had accepting parents. But then I didn't come out until 33 years of age... They pretty much pieced it together by then. Thank you for the video and many hugs to you.

[@MrEvanston]

You are a true inspiration bouncing back during circumstances you faced. I wish you and Logan, the very best. Thanks for telling your story.

[@davidholiday4494]

My dearest Michael Thank you so much for posting your story. You are a very brave young man. I have never seen any of these coming out stories on You Tube and just came across your story by chance. I live in London, England but grew up in the San Francisco area in the 60's. I graduated from high school in 1973 and always knew that I was gay. It was hard for me to accept it and I knew various periods of depression and confusion but SF being what it was/is I was able to join the gay groups on the Vietnam anti-war marches and so met other gay guys. I met a student at Berkeley University and we became lovers when I was 16 years old. I was not able to come out to my family (although my sister knew) and I moved to Germany with my lover in 1973. I finally came out to my parents a couple of years later when I had moved to London and started a different relationship. They wrote back saying they thought so, anyway. But my mother was a very strong Catholic and had a lot of trouble accepting it. My dad didn't seem to care one way or the other. I am sorry for the trouble you had with your mother but was very happy when you spoke about the change in her attitude following the story and the prom, etc. Sometimes we have to shock people into looking at what is real and what they really feel about things. Your story really moved me - and I sincerely hope that you are feeling better now and enjoying your relationship. Things may change - as they did for me - but always believe in yourself and don't be afraid to follow your true feelings that you feel inside. You already know how difficult it is to live a lie please keep going in that direction. If you get a chance I would love to hear from you - I don't do Facebook or any of the other stuff my email is: [e-mail](don't know if we are allowed to give that out on you tube) but if you do feel like writing please do. You are a brave and beautiful young man (I wish I was 40 years younger!!!) Sorry to bring that in to it but you ARE very handsome!!! Be strong and believe in yourself - I sincerely hope you are happier now and wish you all the very best in your life. David

[@merlycantos7938]

David Holiday

[@Navalator]

You have provided help for countless other guys in similar circumstances. Thank you so much.

[@robertbarnier45]

Congratulations. You handled a very difficult situation really well. You’ll go from strength to strength now.

[@johnp.mccartney2556]

It's been 4 years since you posted this video, and take my word for it, you have more courage the day you made this video than I will ever have in my whole life. You're then I hope one day to become. Peace out. Be happy. You deserve all things good.

[@d.j.7069]

Gotcha, John P.! "The times, they are changin". Thanks be to Buddha!

[@davidwm]

Good for you, Michael, you've done the hardest part. That took a lot of courage, and you did it !!! I hope life continues to get better for you. I'm so happy that your parents are supportive.

[@tmicheletti100]

Very inspiring. I can tell that you,are still hurting from what happened. Remember, the best is yet to come.

[@andrewjackson5805]

Love it Michael, I am 63 it's 2019 and I just came out. I lied to myself for.fifty years and became a good addict to his the feelings deep inside. I was never in denial. When I realized my sexuality in my twenties I just kept eating. I almost killed myself with food. But today I am gay and OK. Andy

[@frankdeboer1347]

that's pretty well my story, except I"m not out to everyone at age 55.

[@rollydoucet8909]

@@frankdeboer1347 Same, and I'm now 78. I wish I could start over, but then it was not the same world when I was in my teens.

[@eternalgemini]

​@@rollydoucet8909 it's never too late to come out. Never.

[@eternalgemini]

I've come out several times. At age 23, age 26, age 32, to different sets of people. It's all happened within the past 23 years.

[@CharlyBach-lb9nz]

Ihre Geschichte, lieber Michael, ist ergreifend und nicht schnell zu vergessen! Ich habe großen Respect, dass Du Deinen Weg gefunden hast und Dir treu bleibst. Niemand sucht sich aus, ob er Frauen oder Männer oder nur sich selbst liebt. Man muss damit klarkommen. Ich wünsche Dir, Deiner Familie und den Menschen die Du liebst alles Gute und viel Freude am Leben. Ich denke Deine Worte geben vielen Menschen Mut, zu sich selbst zu stehen. Danke!

[@KathrynCeleste51]

This is the first time I’ve come across this video…. As a Step Aunt of a niece and nephew who are both Gay and damn proud of it, I could never say anything hurtful towards them or ever dream of turning my back on them or my friends, my mama taught me love, hate/rudeness has never been in my heart and watching your video had me in tears😭🌈❤️🌈🤗

[@revbenf6870]

My heart goes out to you Michael, thank you for your courage in making your video, just keep going and never look back, there are thousands and thousands of people out there wishing you a happy and fulfilling life.

[@MARK23048]

I never had the courage to come out to my family , and they are all gone now. But I know I wouldn’t have been accepted. Living your whole life in the closet, is no fun. I’m so proud of you for doing what you had to. Your story made me cry, but I’m glad I watched it. You are a beautiful young man. Thank you for sharing

[@ddallaghan]

Michael, your a good and kind person. Hold on the that, forever! I had a military father who NEVER said a word to me. I like you knew I liked boys when I was young. It's hard and makes your life hell. But, I found the man for me and we have just celebrated 29 years together. Just know that we (Me and my other half Gary) love you.

[@MrGotsGots]

I really enjoyed your video man. It was heartbreaking in the beginning, and the bravery you had to come out is really special. I haven't come out yet because I know I would be disowned and out of college almost immediately, but it's video's like yours that give me hope and joy. I'm glad it all worked out.

[@hotrod9199]

Hi Michael my name is Albert Dodson I'm from Berlin Maryland ocean city Maryland it's hard for me to express myself and my sexually

[@NewG101]

Thanks Michael for your touching story. Yep, it's a long long way to struggle with before being accepted as what you are... Hope you're fine now. Wish you all the best!

[@rickythewriter4042]

Michael, I know that was so hard for you and I am so sorry it didn't go smoother for you. But you are fiercely strong and you're going to be alright now. Hopefully you have been in touch with your past and have told them what happened. You need that for healing inside you. You are beautiful inside and out. You are perfect just the way you are. Your sharing is an inspiration and I have no doubts will save lives. You are courageous and I am so grateful that you are. I have no doubts that more than once you wanted to end it all. I am so glad you didn't. It shows that given time even the most unaccepting parent can come around. I'm proud of you for your courage and hope that you find that special someone to be with for life. If Logan is that boy then wonderful for you both. If not then just hang tough and try to remain friends. The point is that you "deserve" to be happy. You may have to work at it though. Thank you for sharing your story this far, your courage will save lives. Of that I have no doubt. Hugs.

[@darwinshaver5692]

YOU ARE ONE BRAVE YOUNG MAN!!!!! I’m 72 now!!! What courage you have!!!!!!!

[@chriscervarich8832]

Let me just say that you are an inspiration. As a fellow gay soccer player I know how hard it can be to come out to your team, especially when you don't have your family's support. I wish you the best at Wilson College.

[@michaelmartin5670]

Chris Cervarich Thank you Chris!

[@friday1218]

Michael Martin you still at Wilson College?

[@robertbrolo486]

@@michaelmartin5670 My Whats App Chat Number is [phone]

[@chetanvinayak6799]

@@michaelmartin5670 hi my name is chetan from England 🏴 what an amazing story I can certainly understand how hard it is coming out I have been through a very difficult time when I came out to be gay two years ago nice to meet you where are you from please I support you all the way

[@baronlipschutz-perry5089]

Michael, you have made an amazing contribution to my life and to the many honest kids like yourself. Your bravery is inspirational.

[@RogerTThomes]

Hoi, Michael Martin: .....You just made an old man cry. For for me, that is a new experience. Strange, there is nothing about your experience that is much different than most of the others I read about, but there you are. I think it has to do with resonance, and empathy; Cheers. R.T. Thomes (Amsterdam, The Netherlands0

[@ricardom3118]

Wow, you went through all this and came out a role model. You have my highest respects. :)

[@b4804514]

Michael You are such an inspiration, well done, your parents should be proud of you as you went the distance without hesitaton. Once people understand it is not a choice attitudes should change. Nicely done it gets better. You guys seem like a great match.

[@normancross1515]

Michael, I realize it has been a year and I'm just seeing this, but I hope you realize how many people this has probably helped along the way. Thank you so much for sharing your story. ☺

[@tnchaptnchap]

Michael, I just wanted to say that even thou this video was posted several years ago, that my heart melted for you in telling this story, with all the struggles you faced. I just wish I had the strength & courage as you have, in telling and posting your story. Even today as a 41yr. old guy, I have only told my parents and sister about myself. But no body else knows, do to the fear of judgement and backlash. Though I knew I was different even in the third grade growing up. Just want to say how proud I am that you could share your story with everybody. I just want to say that you sure have my whole hearted support!! Best Wishes -Jason

[@tb3416]

I came across this video and have to just say you are an inspiration and brave for doing and going through what you did. I came out at age 35 and it was the hardest thing I ever did. I find in most stories that have bad reactions by our family, it's because THEY are embarrassed or how it affects THEM. My story was horrible as well as I was married to a woman and had 3 children at the time. I should have never gotten married but I thought it would help "change" me. Hard lesson to learn--it doesn't. But like you said, it does get better if we can weather the storm in the beginning and get through it. You have to surround yourself with some kind of support like you did. Thanks for sharing your story. Each one is so unique and special and very brave. How people think we CHOOSE this hard path is beyond me. Who would be ridiculed like that and choose to go through that? Best wishes!!!

[@DanielBarnes-i1e]

Hey Michael , I came across your video and I just wanted to reach out and say THANK YOU .. making your video will probably help out another young person struggling to live there true story.. I’m a bit older and unfortunately didn’t have any of the choices or support your generation has pushing through is all any of us can do I’m happy you had the will and want to push yourself to live free and I hope you feel better .. I see you and appreciate you and I hope your life and your heart get bigger everyday .. thank you 🫶

[@trisshandy]

Michael - 1. Congrats, you have your first troll - best just to block it and any others and move on with your life; 2. I hope your mom comes to realize how truly fortunate she is to have you as a son - your parents should both be proud of their two wonderful sons; 3. Through Outsports and all the other media and social media stuff you've done, publicly and privately, you are making it better for many other kids (and guys who aren't kids any more but still take joy and inspiration from your courage);4. all best wishes to you and Logan. #CherishEachDay

[@johnl7914]

This is one example why gay pride weekends and parades should never get old.

[@itsjustme4848]

He’s just telling his story. Listen or don’t listen.... no throat ramming here. BTW, you might want to ask yourself why you chose to watch this video.

[@airmanma]

@1800nunyabiz why are you here, Little Cupcake?? Curious?? Or Closeted????

[@alienphreaker7714]

@1800nunyabiz Seriously, you need to get a reality check.

[@wildzac]

@1800nunyabiz You are a sick kid.

[@wildzac]

@1800nunyabiz Straight people shove their sexuality down everyone's throat a lot more than do gays. You're just too bigoted to see the truth.

[@bddale6529]

I would be more pissed off that my parent was rummaging in my drawers

[@kiranroopsharma3684]

If you were my young brother I would have taken a cane to sort you out. You are a spoilt brat.

[@josephs5827]

lady is a pure Virgin. I hope you don't have children. If you do, God help them.

[@Leonion6]

Well, she probably just opened it to put away washed clothes or smth like that and saw the letter. The moment I heard the word "drawer", my instant reaction was "bad idea". That said, nothing justifies everything she did after that.

[@Redeemed26]

I can’t believe you guys are having to make these kind of coming out stories in 2019. I am actually much older and I came out in Canton Ohio back in the 70s when it was much more dangerous to come out. I’m so sorry that you are having to go through this even in this day and age. I wish you every success!!

[@donaldsimons2429]

I feel your pain, Michael, and so admire your courage. I am glad that you weathered your storm and are now on a positive track. Have a good life.

[@MANMARTRE]

Damn, your mother is selfish, it isn't all about her...What courage you have and a bright future awaits you!!!!!

[@devonguy02]

Well said she,s just appalling !

[@Grampsrn]

WAS selfish.... Remember, "She did a complete 180". So she has learned to love and accept also.

[@bertybertface1914]

@@Grampsrn eventually, yes. But the initial reaction was horrible and selfish. If people don't think they would be able to accept their children for who or whatever they will become, they should not have any. We are raising the future, not a fxxking accessory to a shallow life.

[@kiranroopsharma3684]

His mother was doing her duty by bringing him up with moral values.If he was my brother i would have sorted him out with a cane he is a spoilt brat.

[@daveburzminski7072]

Lady is a pure virgin. Glad you think violence is the answer. Hopefully, you get to experience it first hand.

[@TJinPgh]

Thank you for making this video. As I have said on a few of these that are sort of like yours, as happy as I am that many of the vloggers on youtube have had such positive experiences in coming out, we have to recognize that not everybody is so lucky. It can be a very painful experience for some and it's always best to understand that. But, the "it gets better" message is important to as many of those people in our lives that are the most hurtful can sometimes come back around and be our biggest supporters. Keep up the good work and prayers for a happy future for you and Logan moving forward.

[@paulvaughn2002]

Keep your head up and be strong. I left home when I was in 11th grade that was the best thing I ever did my mom sounded like your mom life’s too short to be sad keep smiling love ❤️ paul

[@ersonthemesa]

I was so moved by your story Michael. I'm glad things worked out in a positive direction ! Best of luck to you in the future.

[@scottrider641]

You did an absolutely fantastic job with this video. I know that you will help people of your age who are struggling with this thing thoughts and feelings. Bless you for paving the way and motivating others

[@DynapubsA]

Thank you for sharing your story. It was very moving, and a lot like my own. I'm very happy today and I'm glad you are, too. Life gets better! Much happiness and success for you in the future.

[@tjlewis1415]

I love that you had the courage to come out. You are a lovely sweet guy!! Thanks for sharing your story! Hugs!

[@ronaldmcdevitt7227]

Simply the best and most heartfelt coming out story. Congratulations. You are an inspiration. Ron.

[@NicholasBarry-m3e]

I truly appreciate your feeling how you don't want anyone interfering with your life you have a choice in life who you are ok

[@tahfaa66]

What a strong man! I’m so proud of you, for being who are. It’s so difficult, but you show everyone. Way to go!!!

[@markfarmer5580]

You are clearly a sensitive, lovely person.

[@eternalgemini]

I was like that at his age too. ❤️

[@oldwestguy]

Such a personal, heartfelt story. You are an amazing young man... sharing the trials and tribulations of coming out with others so that they may not have to feel the same degree of fear of rejection that you experienced. A very brave and kind gesture... one that exemplifies the level of integrity and compassion EVERY man... gay or straight... strives for. Thank-you... hope you are doing well.

[@jeffwolfe5264]

Michael, I see a very bright future for you. You’re an amazing young man. I read your articles you were quite the articulate man I would not be surprised if you become a journalist even if you don’t I hope you don’t stop writing you reach so many people through your articles that were posted and reposted and you help so many kids, your age accept who they are and realize that who you sleep with does not define you was defined you is your personality, your kindness, your gentleness, your unconditional love hang onto that and you’ll succeed in life. Blessings.

[@speecher1959]

Outstandingly from the heart! Thank you for sharing your story. Others to follow will benefit from the telling. I'm glad your family got onboard. When I was going through that process, I had to remind myself that it took me many years (40!) to come out in the evangelical Christian tradition in which I was raised, so I guess it's not surprising others might need some time.

[@Mikey-jl5ny]

What an amazing and articulate young man you are! I wish I'd gone to school with you!

[@ted1091]

You are absolutely awesome. I've been on the front lines since 1973. It's been 46 years of fighting. But those of us who fought did it for one reason: so that future generations of Gay people would have it easier. I wish you only the best in life. You speak so clearly, I have no doubt that you will go far.

[@josephschlupf3163]

I went to Jr. High with a Michael Martin! I really had eyes for him, but I was very closeted at that age. He vanished before getting to Sr. High... I still think of what could have happened to him to this day! Also a Scott Petrowski from 4th grade vanished as well.... liked him a lot Too! I hope it is as simple as they moved away, Thank you for sharing your story Michael, that's what keeps us sane * )

[@barrybiggins8145]

I know this is a really old post ,you are the most truly genuine person I've ever listened to .From Mr. BB

[@frenchy3446]

I was 8 in southern France on vacation when I saw this beautiful french guy. Never though too much about it, I was too busy to play. Years later I figured who I was and realize that before coming out, it was my problem to deal with. In term with myself, I came out and realize that it wasn't my problem anymore. People around you need to deal with it, not me, you, us 😁

[@were-all-human9427]

Michael, may I ask how are you today? - Sept 2019 (just found this vid) - total kudos to you... handshake Sir from the UK

[@clintfarmer1]

I really hope you're doing well! Beautiful and thoughtful video.

[@mcmanpa]

Very touching, brave and inspiring. Michael's quiet and deliberate manner belie both the seriousness of what it means to come out as a gay youth and his steely resolve to be true to himself. For Michael, there was to be no barrier between himself and the fulfillment of his identity.

[@d.gazinelli8785]

What a touching story. I am glad everything turned out OK, after what your mother made you go through. My best wishes for a fulfilling and happy life.

[@DannyLTerry]

A VERY MOVING VID! U R SO STRONG, THIS WILL HELP OTHER'S MANY OTHER'S.AND YES IT ALWAY'S GET'S BETTER!!! MUCH LOVE*

[@nicholassweazey987]

you are so lucky to have Logan in your life. may BOTH of you have awesome lives thank you for sharing your story

[@rayrothermel4861]

Your mother abused you. She doesn't even deserve being called a mom. Her main interest is herself. There's NOTHING wrong with you. You are as normal as any other person. Stand up for yourself and shed people who don't add to your personal happiness. I hope things have turned around for you. I can see the pain you are suffering at the hands of others. You WILL overcome.

[@williamm8240]

I just seen your outsports coming out video. It does get better. Good job and thanks for sharing.

[@ElectricSpokes]

I came out at 15-16. My family is religious. Unfortunately, my coming out was a bad experience. My family disowned me. My church excommunicated me. Life was so difficult. I can relate to some of your experiences. I wish I had a better experience. That said, I’m glad I came out though. Was a painful experience but worth it.

[@stefan0ni]

Wonderful, Wonderful, Wonderful! Courage is everything and you have it, quietly, in spades. Well done. Hope life is treating you well. 😊

[@claytoneblackburn]

Your story was told beautifully.

[@mr.wonderful4307]

Thank you Michael for telling your story. Your a good person and an honest one. I want to give you a big hug sir.

[@jaguarantony]

You are a beautiful person. Sending positive energy your way

[@jaguarantony]

@Dan Shay Stay blessed. It will happen when you least expect it.

[@keithmedina1932]

Your an amazing young man, of whom your parents can be very proud of.. You faced a deeply personal battle - alone -, and you showed courage and integrity, in that you refused to live a lie. In the words of a famous American - John Wayne - that is TRUE GRIT. I experienced a similar situation, myself being gay, and I am also a parent. A word about your mom; parents sometimes react the way they do, because it is not even so much that they are upset and shocked by finding out that their child is gay, but rather they have envisioned for years, and worked towards having a certain kind of family, life, etc.. all that American Dream stuff. Then it is seemingly shattered, but then in time they come to realize that it is more important that their children are happy. So in the end, they still have that life they envisioned - with some "contemporary adjustments".. So they too are able to find happiness. I am so happy for you and your family. I see healing that has happened.. Living a lie, and trying to contain who you are, locked up inside yourself, and trying to be another person on the outside at the same time, is a terrible existence.. It literally eats you from the inside out! At the same time, may I encourage you, to continue to shine your light for others to see, who are lost and fighting that same battle alone! One last word...I also experienced for yrs, those people that will berate and call names like the "F" word, behind your back, from a distance.. or take pleasure in your misery, they are the true definition of pathetic & cowardice.

[@Lolo-qw9vy]

You're Very Brave and Amazing! It's Sad what you had to go through. I'm so Happy for you that you found someone who is Loving and Caring. I just came across this video today, so I'm sure there are more updates. Thanks for Sharing. Much Love and Blessings Sent your way.

[@Lando_P1]

I hope you’re doing well my friend. Thanks for sharing your story and capturing this moment in time.

[@lucasflanders8557]

Here it is five years later. But your video is still just as moving. I hope more than anything that your experience will help other parents deal with their kids coming out better than your mom did. What an ordeal you went through.

[@jamillikan]

There is and never was anything wrong with you and you should never be ashamed of being your authentic self. Loving parents will love you unconditionally. You are a kind thoughtful young man. Be proud of yourself.

[@whoisitfor]

Hi Michael I remember reading that article when it first came out I was so happy for both of you seeing your coming out story I was sadden to here that it was not as pleasant as most others have been, hearing you talk about your situation with your mom I was heart broken for you I’m so glad you stayed strong and true to yourself and life has change for the better and glad your mom has come around to accept you for who you are and loving her son (children) as all parents should be. Many blessing to you and your family take care and enjoy life always.

[@bobbond6365]

The first step is always the hardest. Thanks for the great video. Just do what makes you happy & you will always find support. Best of luck buddy .

[@alexandergrosvenor1043]

How dare any parent decide what is right or wrong for their child sexually? How could your mother control your life to the point of causing you depression? It beggars belief. Your a brave and beautiful soul. I listened to your story driving to London on the motorway and found your voice so soothing. I hope that your parents are incredibly proud of you and that your mother has been humbled by her criminal behaviour. Any parent would be so blessed to have you as their son.

[@MichaelAndersxq28guy]

You're a very brave, and strong young man. Good for you. Please let us know how you're doing four years later.

[@tjtroy762]

WOW WOW WOW What an amazing young man. Such a heartbreaking story. One of the best coming out stories I have heard. Best of luck young man. I am confident you will have an amazing life.

[@antique378]

You are a beautiful, wonderful, strong young man. Love you, now love yourself.

[@billmckenney4960]

You're one heck of a brave guy to come out when you did, especially in the face of your mother's initial disapproval. It's never an easy process, but I think it is even more difficult when you are still financially dependent on your parents. Fortunately, your father understood the wisdom of supporting you, and ultimately, your mother came around as well. All the best to you as you move forward!

[@Bortnoone]

Read your article. Well done. What’s more interesting is how unsure you are in this video and how confident and successful you are now. Impressed!

[@reubentomkee4703]

Hey Michael... kudos.. like your warm voice and sincerity.... understood all the nuances and heartaches for a high school student. bravo .. although as far back as i could remember, but didn't really know it as such, it took me my whole lifetime before I came out to my sons... who were both accepting including one of their own best friends. that was a blessing to me... not all are so lucky!

[@Sammytheman]

Love you man keep up the great work ❤❤❤

[@gdouglas999]

"Be who you are, do what you feel. Those who matter won't care, those who care don't matter."---Dr. Seuss. That includes family members.

[@jeancolapierrearmande3326]

Another boy who had come out said here on UTube: “I’d rather have them hate me for what I am than love me for what I’m not”.

[@echo3347]

Thanks for posting your story. It will help many.