I want to come out this June hopefully for pride month on social media. I have relatives who follow me on Instagram and I want to post something to my story that indicates that I’m bisexual. I was planning on posting something that reads, “Never apologize for who you love. Love without compromise.” Underneath the text there will be an image of a bisexual flag and the background of the entire post is going to be the bisexual colors and the hashtag #loveislove will be at the bottom. Will someone see that and know that I’m not just being supportive though or an ally? I want them to connect the dots that I’m bi but without literally saying “I’m bi” but is that enough? Feedback is appreciated.
Hey I think it all depends on the mindset of the people reading it. There are definitely lots of people who would read that and think that most likely you are bisexual. I do however think there is a chance that someone could not quite connect the dots as you put it. I don’t think that necessarily means you shouldn’t post it, I guess it just depends how you feel about some people maybe not entirely getting it.
Thank you for the feedback. I can see how some people might not get it, and because they’re not super knowledgeable about all things lgbt I also wonder if they’ll know what the bisexual colors even are? Like will they know that’s what they are, or would they think to look it up or something?
Anxious I hear your concern for everyone, but truth is some will get it and some won’t. It’s okay. You can’t connect the dots for them. I wonder if saying in your notice that if folks have questions, contact you.
There are definitely people who wouldn’t know and within the people that don’t some of them would probably look it up and others wouldn’t.
Wording this coming out expose' so to say, would be interesting. I like the idea of doing it in such a "light" manner, for those who get it .. great ... for those that don't ... they will catch on soon enough... its frightening to see how quick the word of mount wild fire can spread. Being proud of who you are is quite freeing in a sense and flying under the bi banner ( yes I am bi-est ;-) ) is great. A suggestion may be.. just a suggestion... is to let someone in on your ruse... and let them slightly spill the beans so to say... it could add a bit more drama.. and bring the others.. in the dark... to see the light.. that aha.. if you are comfortable with it..
I agree with @silverhalo: there will be those who catch on, and others who won't. Some of the latter group might eventually get there, but it might involve more than one post of that nature to get the message across. If you post about it enough, someone is bound to ask you a question--maybe the question--which will allow you to be more direct. And I agree that this isn't something that can be done wrong: coming out is an intensely personal thing. There's no right or wrong way to do it, as long as you do it in a way that feels right to you. You can also use this post as a stepping stone, if you like. Sometimes, the subtle hints help us become braver for the main event.
That's pretty much what I did! Let one of my close friends know I was going to come out on Instagram and she supported me with a beautiful comment straight away. I was a bit more direct with my wording though! But yes there's really no wrong way to do it. And if your message IS too subtle, you could make more comments later - like a sort of slow coming out! And people will (probably!) join the dots eventually!
I think that if I was to come out more openly, this would also be the way I would go.. .ease people into it, let them question, and then confirm. Probably not for my immediate family, but definitely for the rest. So I like the idea a lot.
I believe the replies are all good. The way a person comes out is the right way for them simple because that’s the way they chose to do it. What works for A might not work so well for B and the way C does it might only work for C. The way you do will be the right way.
Great minds, as they say. Let us know how it goes, @AnxiousReader. We're here for you, whatever happens.
Sage advice, this is your coming out and you need to do what your comfortable with. It’s should be a joyous occasion and should be handled as fits your needs. Wishing you a happy coming out!