Just wanted to say thanks to the people who have helped me over some posts awhile back. I am now fully out to myself as a gay man! It was a long road of looking back and taking a lot of time for self reflection. It feels like a weight has been lifted and I can now go on and live as myself, the way I was always supposed to. I am excited for my future. So thanks again!
It definitely does. First I think I will tell my uncle or cousin or both so they can help me a little so I do not have to feel alone. Do not know when I will tell my parents yet. Maybe get involved in the community. I am very introverted, so that might take some time. I donated to an LGBT group not too long ago.
I was shaking the first time I called an LGBT center and said I am gay...but once I said I felt so normal. I then scheduled a zoom call with them and it felt so normal -because I knew they were all LGBT friendly and I wasn't 'changing' my identity I was simply presenting myself as gay. I realized I had no self shame about being gay, it was fear of what others might think. I think this is a lot easier first step. You could try a small meet up or coming out group. I first want to build an LGBT community first before I start redefining myself with family and friends - though I did come out to friends who I knew would be open to it - and really it feels less normal to be in the closet with people around the friends I have told I feel like the real me.
The whole shaking thing will probably happen when I mention it to my uncle so I feel you on that. And like you, I feel no shame in being gay. I actually feel really good. I will be ready to put myself out there soon enough. I kind if wish I figured it out awhile back when a couple cute guys were hitting on me haha.