"In general, families react in character when you come out. If your family is basically understanding, supportive, and respectful, they're likely to be that way now, too. Even though there may be some difficult feelings to work through, deeply nurturing families aren't likely to reject their children.

But in families where there is little tolerance for differences and few skills for working through conflict, coming out can be a time of crisis. When there is a history of poor communication, neglect, or abuse, a parent may even reject a gay or lesbian child outright.

Because every family is different, coming out in your family won't be exactly like coming out for anyone else. It is important that you think through your own family situation to assess whether it's in your best interests to tell your family that you're gay.

If you decide to share this part of your life, put some time and effort into preparing and planning. If, on the other hand, you decide it's not right for you to come out to your family, it's important that you know why you've made that choice. And if you decide not to come out now, you may, of course, change your mind at a later time as circumstances change.

Remember, this is your decision to make. Friends, support groups, or even counselors may have strong opinions about whether you should or should not come out to your parents. But don't allow yourself to be pressured one way or the other.

You know your family -- usually much better than the person who's giving you advice. There are no absolute rules about coming out. Trust your own reasoning."

Read a beautiful coming out letter

Click on this GREAT link to PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) if you want a great discussion on coming out and other issues that sexual minorities face.