My name is Derek and this is my coming out story. Its a little different from some I've seen and I hope it will help someone else. Let me know what you think. Instagram: @dmock17
Derek Mock What did you do to end up in hospital? Did you take an overdose of pills? I personally think that not accepting yourself as gay is a result from a homophobic environment (school, "friends" and/or parents home). I am a few years older than you and I came to the conclusion that the biggest deep reason for homophobia is religion. People were brainwashed by the church for centuries. So I came to the next conclusion that people who believe in what the church preaches are rather stupid. I would never have people as my "friends" who have a "different opinion" on homosexuality and equal rights for gay people than me. One can't have an opinion about something which one cannot choose and to have the opinion that certain people should not be treated equally is not human, it even is against article 1 of human rights. You can't have an opinion about black people or lefthanded people because they simply are that way. And the same is true for gay people. So if one of you "friends" is not accepting your "lifestyle" or saying that gay people should not have the same rights, but telling you that he/she loves you anyways, he/she is not worth being your friend. Don't surround you with Christian conservatives who do not accept your homosexuality and/or who don't accept that you have sex with men. It's not good for your mental health to surround you with these people. I needed a lot of years to learn that. And I realized that after coming out to my "friends" which I thought were my friends and who were not accepting or thinking that gay people should not be allowed to get married, they were not my friends. At the moment of coming out, three of my "friends" said they were ok with it, but it turned out that they were not ok with it. So they were not my friends and they are no longer in my life. I realized that people have less friends than they think they have. Real friends who accept you no matter what and who care about you when you feel bad. That are your real friends. As gay man it's tough to live in a world of people where some people still have homophobia in their minds. It's not you who has a problem, it's not your homosexuality what is the problem, it is the homophobic people who have a problem. They have the problem of not accepting or even hating a group of people without having a rational reason for that. They want to deny this group equal rights, without having a rational reason for that. They want to treat them differently without having a rational reason for that. It's tough to live in a world where these people are still around. It will get better over time, slowly. As soon as I find out that a person in my social environment is homophobic, I decide that this person will not be my friend (anymore) and that this person is stupid. It's really simple. As gay man you know that you did not choose to be gay, but that you simply are gay. Maybe one cannot see it visually, but it would be the same as if you were black. You don't choose to be black, you simply are, if you are. Gay people have a slightly different brain structure, obviously, because being attracted to someone is because of your brain. Lefthanded people also have a sligthly different brain structure than righthanded people. And visually one can't see if they are lefthanded as long as they don't use their hands. And the same is true for gay people. One can't see if they are gay as long as they don't show that they love the same sex. I personally have not any problems anymore with being gay. There was a time, beginning at puberty, where I had the same problems as you, maybe not as strong, but the same problems with accepting myself. But once you realize that it is the way you are and that only other (homophobic) people make a problem out of it, you should be fine. And it's good that you made this video, to help other young gay people.
Stefan Kaiser Stefan, I'm a teacher and counselor of young people the age of Derek. Have been doing this since before he was born and have tons of experience and education. I agree with everything you say here. Stefan, I wish to give you and Derek so much support and encouragement to be who you are. There is no other way to be happy. I am a gay man and it took me much longer to come out than it did for you guys, that was a huge mistake on my part but society just would not allow coming out as an option. That was so bad. So, I am very proud of you, Stefan, and think you are absolutely correct in your comment here..............thanks, man................Ray
+Derek Mock I'm much older than you are, which doesn't make any difference except that I've been through many more experiences than you have. I learned long ago, (over 40 years) that you don't share your private information with people except your close friends and family. There are people out there just waiting to use any information that you tell them, against you. That why you should just go live your life, not telling strangers in particular that you are gay, and do your thing without making these types of announcements. One other reason to keep your private business to yourself is that there are crazy people out there who want to harm gays. It's not strangers business to know about your personal life and you owe them no explanation about your personal life. People have eyes and can figure out if you are gay or not. Whatever. They don't need to be told your private business, and it really is none of their business.
+George Harrison I strongly disagree. People need to know who we are, so that they can normalize it. If people have troubles with gays is just because we were hiding for years, so they don't know us, they imagine things, they have wrong prejudices. No more closets. We should be absolutely out and proud if we want to end discrimination. If straight people don't hide their love, we neither. Always out and proud!!!!
Go forward with being yourself. One day you will find your soulmate. I have been with my partner for 53 years, and now we are legally married here in UK. Best wishes for a happy future in a more tolerant world. Ron.
Its weird but I always have to say "thank you" to whoever makes videos like these. It takes guts and a die hard character to do something like this and I am honored you we willing to share your story with us!
Good for you Derek. When I came out 49 yrs ago, it was after my soldier bf died in Nam. So proud of you. Your life is special. Blessings each and every day. joe
I used to watch "My Coming Out Story" videos a lot, but stopped because they, more or less, cover the same ground and started to feel repetitive to me. However, today I stopped to watch your video--so heartfelt--and it is important to continue to tell our stories and be visible to the world. Visibility is the only reason progress has happened and continues to happen. The really positive thing about your story is that you're making this video at age 19 and that's still fairly young--you can move on with your life in a positive way at the beginning of your adulthood. The burden has been lifted. Congratulations and best wishes for your great success in all you do.
Derek thank you so much for your heartfelt coming out video, I cried, I have nothing but regrets for not having come out at a younger age. I am 56 and have never allowed myself to experience love, never had a boyfriend. I have existed all my life but have not lived, it's a shame, it didn't have to be that way. That's how much religion and society has damaged me. I am so happy for you, you will have a great life, you are beautiful and intelligent, if I was your age and knew you personally, you would be my best friend! Thank you Derek!
Oh Derek. My heart goes out to you. You are so beautiful inside and out. This is the problem I have with fundamentalist religions is that they don't preach unconditional love for their kids. Your life would have been so different. NO child should be afraid to tell their parents anything and NO child should ever have to worry about it. Derek, I am SO happy you were not successful in your attempt to take your own life. YOU are now changing the world and helping other kids from small towns and some with parents with conservative views to stay alive long enough to find out how wonderful life can be, I know this was extremely hard to share. But you DO make a difference and you ARE saving kids by the sharing. Thank you. And you are right, you deserve to be happy and you'll find that special someone to share your life with. Hugs from a very old gay guy who knows your hurt. Hugz. PS I'm sharing this on FB and twitter. It's just so moving and I know it will help.
So many of the comments reflect my own thoughts on seeing this wonderful video. I'm 72 and came out in the early 70s of last century - fortunately in Australia as the world around us began to change for the better. I'm so happy that you came through all this and have become a truly beautiful and honest man. The emphasis is on the last word of that sentence. Thank you. Stay Strong.
Hi Derek Firstly, I want to say dude, you are the most beautiful young (gay)man I have ever seen in recent years. One of my sisters told me I am a kind of 'waste of birth' because I didn't get married and I was handsome and my mother reiterated that. My name is Reuben and currently I live in Malaysia. Before that I lived in England as a student and later as a working permanent resident for many years. Going to London was one of the best decisions I took as here was where I was able to live freely as both straight and Gay. I am also a born-again Christian and went to church regularly. I never told anyone in church or at work that I was Gay as I was afraid of rejection. I am sure your wonderful story and powerful testimony is going to draw and attract many young gay men who are experiencing 'coming out' struggles, problems and difficulties (not to mention also the number of hearts you are going to break due to your good looks).
Isn't it funny that we all through the same experiences of coming out. Glad you are doing better and it does get better. I am with my partner for the past 18 years and have never been happier. Thanks of being a leader in the gay youTube community by putting your story out there to help other people. Good job.
+Derek Mock Hi Derek. I usually don't make comments here on youtube. I watched your coming out story and it touched me to see all those emotional struggles that you have had to endure. I hope things are settling down for you and that you will eventually be proud to be what you are. It took myself quite a while as I remember it. I came out to my parents when I was 22. It was some time after I had met my first real boyfriend, and it just felt like the right time to do it. My coming out story wasn't a fairytale story at first. My mother reacted with hysteria, saying a lot of bad words ... Whereas my father was cool with it in every way. Fortunately my mother had a change of heart a year later, and she met my boyfriend and his family and so on. Everything was fine after that and has been ever since. Today I am married to Erik and we have been together for almost 18 years now. I am fortunate to live in a country where gays and straight people have the same rights (Denmark). Civil partnership became legal here in 1989 as the first country in the world. Today we can get married in a church, we have the option to adopt children etc etc. I hope one day you will have the same rights everywhere in your country. I wish you only the best. You are an inspiration to many young people.
DEREK -- Your story is heart-breaking. Made me cry. But very wise too. "Why can't I just be ME," you said. Brilliant insight! Of course you're right, and you found that break-through when you desperately needed it. Thanks for sharing this great story and telling it with so much honesty and power. And you look like an easy person to love. I can see the light and love shining from inside you. You just don't know how to hide it, do you? I hope that now, 6 months later, you are feeling much better. But please don't ever stop healing your emotional pain -- because that is the true way Home for all of us. Accepting, loving and healing ourselves -- thereby growing spiritually, each of us in our own unique way as God created us to do. And as we improve ourselves, we improve the world we live in. How incredibly powerful and self-affirming is that!!! I am a 70-year-old gay American now living in Great Britain. I love you, beautiful man. Would love to get a reply from you. -- Donald in Great Britain
It saddens me and makes me so mad when our precious children who haven't even experienced life yet decide that suicide is the only option. I grew up gay when it was even less acceptable and though I felt alone, isolated, and filled with self-loathing, I never thought suicide was the answer. Derek, your pain resonates with me. My hope is that people will love all the people in their lives unconditionally despite their differences. Btw, I grew in a small town in ga as well.
Hi Derek, I just finished watching your heartfelt video and do I hope your life is only getting better and better since your made this video 5 months ago. I was 25 when I came out and that was way back in 1977. It was scary, but I was in NYC and no one knew this kid from California, anonymity is always a great way to go! Best of luck to you.
Thank you so much for this video. It really touched me. I cried a lot. I hope that one day I can have the courage to follow in your footsteps and come out. And to accept myself for who I am instead of hating myself or trying to change. Love you man.
Hi Mike. It's been 3 years since you posted this comment. I hope you found the courage, strength and self acceptance to come out. Would love to hear... Wishing you all the best... xo
BUT, HAVE NOT YOU JUST CAME OUT TO PUBLIC IF YOU PUBLISHED THIS COMMENT HERE WITH YOUR NAME AND PICTURE ATTACHED TO IT? UNLESS YOU ARE USING FAKE ACCOUNT, I WOULD SAY YOU JUST CAME OUT. ☺
Yu are not alone! If family, religion, or culture makes coming out difficult for someone, the following blog post about homosexuality may provide valuable help: “Homophobia: To the Community” homoeroticpoems.blogspot.com/2014/04/to-community.html
Thank you all. I am 20 years old now, and happy to say that I have found peace within myself. I’ve grown a lot. I am happy and living my truest self. I’m only improving from here. ❤️❤️❤️
Derek I am also very proud of you too. I came out a very long time ago (1969) to be precise. I did not have the same experience as you but I still feel it was worth it. You certainly helped me today. Listening to you and others like you helps me to feel that the price 'we' paid helped to make things a little easier and more supportive for you. I will tell you that today I feel that being who I am is one of the biggest gifts I could ever have been given. I believe that there is a God out there who loves me just the way that I am and that means he/she loves you too.
Sharing your story not only will help someone, it promotes change. Suicide too often is due to feeling alone, feeling like there is no one that will understand. By opening up to perfect strangers gives the possibility that someone going through that dark place might see this and realize they are not alone. It's a form of the best council, being broke, anger issues, alcohol problems, addiction (etc) sharing the secret we so fear, begets healing. There is life after opening up, we do survive. There will be bumps in the road, but much easier to hit a bump when you have less weight on your shoulders. Far more strength in the one confronting their fears than the ones who may not understand, yet far too often it's those who we give the power. Congratulations on your strength,
My heart was breaking to feel your pain. Too often being closeted leads to depression and suicide. The world is getting better but there are still those in need. Your video will help so many. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I see too many gay kids that have the inability to form lasting friendships or understand that being gay does not mean you are not a wonderful person. Every person who is out helps make the difference. I have been where you were and wish we had RUclips back then. Good luck and thank you.
A long time ago now lad but i feel your story was one of the saddest I have heard. However, you overcame all the problems and heartache. You were very brave putting this out for the world to see so congratulations Derek. I trust you are now a very happy 20 something and living life to the full. Paul, UK.
My coming out story was different, my parents hated it. I got crap at school, and being from a small town in Georgia, right in the bible belt, people liked to tell me I was going to hell. None of my friends cared, so that was great. I think people should just learn to accept us for who we are!
It was very clear how hard this video was for u and I just wanted to take the time to applaud you for it. It was very brave and courageous of you and by posting it I am confident that you will help many others! All my best to you!
I really appreciate your telling your story, it had me on the edge of tears, and expressing my emotions is not one of my strong suits. Thank you for being honest about your suicide attempt as well, I never tried as a kid but wanted to on many occasions. Thank you, you helped me a lot.
Well I was driven to tears because this is so emotional and I didn't know where it was headed, but I'm so glad it turned out well for you. You're very sweet and your story will help a lot kids. Thanks for sharing and all the best moving forward. Please consider posting updates. Peace!
My journey to being out to family and the friends I care about most is just beginning at 49 years old. Like you, I am from the south - Greenville, SC. I grew up in a different generation that made it completely impossible to come out. I get so excited hearing the coming out stories of young people because I know they won't have to live a 1/2 life like me. Yes, it's still difficult, but just think that doing so early will keep you from living with your true self all bottled up inside and the only one who knows your true self is you. I applaud you for having such courage. Now go live, love, laugh and have a great life.
Tim Watkins I am 56 Tim, there's are so many of us from the older generation that are inspired by this new generation like Derek. RUclips has been the only connection for me to the gay world, that's how invisible I had become. I have cried so much lately watching these videos, crying for the life I feel I've wasted, a life of loneliness. These videos have re-awakened a desire to live again! I am just now starting to reach out.
I understand completely. I have lived a half-life up to this point, but the remaining life I have left will be lived on my terms. Those who wish to share the journey are welcomed to come along, those who don't can get off at the next stop, but know that there will be no u turns.
iCEL55 Get out and party be yourself mate be proud of who you are, your never to old as I said to a 52 year old mate lets go party on the dance floor with the 20 year olds
“Learning to love yourself is the greatest gift of all”......you have learned that......wisdom is born of pain.......now go forward and be the best person you can be-and the happiest one too!........
I cried thinking of the misery you went though and I wish you all the best! I was outed to my parents in 1976 and their reaction was "OK", I never have gone through what a lot young people like you have or are going through. Makes me so sad to watch these stories.
Hi, Derek. You are a very brave and articulate young man. Sorry you had such a painful coming out. I am certain your story will help others. I wish you only the very best in the future. Hope college is going well for you. Proud of you!
Hi, Derek, thank you for your video. Im so sorry you had tomgo through the hell you went through. Number one, im so glad you are still with us! I know those feeling you experienced. I know them all too well, and I'm 57. None of us should have to go through any of it. We are who we are. Society needs to continue to change to the point where none of us would even want to change who we are. It is much better than it was when I was your age. That is one thing I am glad to see in my life. But we still have a long way to go and unfortunately there will always be an amount of people who won't accept us for whom we are. Those are people we don't need anywhere around us or in out lives at all. Stay strong and I hope you find that love of your life, and you can then spend the rest of your lidpfe as a happy couple, and then work on the things in life that really do need our attention and not just this small part of whom we are. But really, it is a big part of whom we are. And that is where the pride comes in. We should all be able to be proud of who we are without concern to any of the prejudices that currently exist. Maybe someday it will be like that, with no thought even given to whether someone is gay or not, is of color or not, or is "different" in some kind of way. We need to get rid of that mentality of different is a bad thing, and just accept and celebrate each of our individualities. Bless you, Derek. Have one stupendously happy and proud life!
This was one of the rawest and emotional coming out recounts i've ever seen. I'm so glad you're ok now, and that the people in your life love you for who you are. It's really hard at first, but it's true - It does get better. Even though now, after being out for 4 years, I still occasionally get mad and upset about being different. But that's ok, because people accept me for who I am. I was terrified of telling my parents too, but they cried and told me i was stupid for hiding for so long because they'll love me no matter what. It's a pleasant surprise when people are so accepting, unfortunately, that's not always the case. Thank you for sharing your experience. Much like yourself, I used these videos to help pluck up the courage to come out, and i'm sure you've helped a lot of people!
RUclips just put this across my feed. You hit the nail on the head, “You have a right to be happy!” So sorry for the struggles you went through. I hope you’ll let us know how you’re doing. 💛
Derick you put yourself through the mill you are loved by good people now you need to be happy your self god love you and keep you and you find someone to love all the hurt away god bless you chris xxx
I'm Proud of you man..haha no matter what always be proud of yourself because before you could even trust others you should always be confident and trust your soul because at the end of your life you are the only one who is going to determine which road you are going to walk on..we all deserve to be respected equally no matter who we are so look up and face the public with full of confidence with carrying the spirit of loving your life to the fullest.. :)
Dude...heart breaking and heart warming. Big up to your Dad, he sounds like an awesome guy! Thanks for sharing your story. Sending a virtual hug from the UK :-)
Thank you Derek. This has been of huge help to me in my struggle and I feel much better having listened to your story. I really admire your courage. You are a great guy. JJ (from Ireland)
Derek, just came across your video made over five years ago, so you probably won't see this now, but, the strength of character you possess is clearly evident in this video. I trust things have gone well for you during this period and you have found the partner you deserve.
Love your story and your courage. Living in the closet just destroys your soul - you spend so much time and effort hiding who you are. I was much older than you when I finally worked up the courage to be myself. Thanks for your story.
You can't possibly realize what an angel you have been to so many young men and girls. Your growing up experience sounds almost exactly like mine that even now your words are supportive. Thank you for your gift to all mankind: mothers, fathers, friends, neighbors, other boys and girls, and complete strangers like me. You have been such a blessing I cannot believe you will not be blessed by the Father of us all whose reasons for our state only He understands, but I intend to insist on an explanation if I ever get to see Him. What if He's the reason Himself?
What doesn't destroy you makes you stronger. You are strong and brave for sharing yourself with us. Keep moving forward in life. Please accept yourself, because a loving God would love everyone, not just these people or just those people. I hope you find your soulmate and best friend!
I really love your video... Even tho I'm already out to my parents two years ago. But if I had seen This video on that day. It would of been so much help too. Keep posting more video :)
Thanks for telling your story. It was obviously difficult but you did it eloquently and with grace. Congratulations for standing up and is so doing, offering hope and courage to others.
You are such a fine person. I hope things are going well for you.you deserve the very best life possible. Any good family would be proud to have you as their son. Any good person would be proud and lucky to have you as a friend.
I'm so sorry you felt that way. I can only imagine feeling that bad about myself. All the low times are nowhere as near as how you must have felt. I am so glad that your family accepted who you are. More importantly, that you are able to accept who you are. It is a long process to 'find' who you are, and all those parts. Like you, my sexuality is just a piece of my self. Though it is a piece that I share a lot to new people and to school children to help them learn and potentially discover a label for how they feel. Thank you for sharing your story.
I realize this post was made more than 4 years ago, but I still want you to know that you are 100% right. Every human being as a right to be happy. But you underestimate yourself. You came out of the small Georgia town more than OK. You came out awesome times infinity. You faced your demons and won the battle. You have a maturity and presence far beyond your years. It is be a privilege to know about you - to know you - even only through a RUclips post. I know in my gut that you are an inspiration to more guys than you will ever know. Be happy. Love yourself. Love others. Continue to make this world a better place simply by living your life.
Wow, you did suffer and I suffered with you watching that video. Yet it turns out to be very encouraging to Live a genuine life. Thank you. Regards Martin
Derek, it seems like yesterday I was your age. I hit 50 this year and realized I went from a chicken to a chicken hawk. lol. Thank you for sharing your coming out story. How easier it would have been for guys my age to have these stories as a frame of reference. I have been with my husband for 20 years. It does get easier. Again, thank you all the way from Texas.
huge respect that your parents have shown you support and unconditional love. It really sucks that you and so many of us have had to go through such agonizing fear and pain in the first place. All dealing with the worry of being rejected by those we love and who are supposed to love us. I think all parents should tell their children at a young age, I will love you and accept you no matter what .... if you are gay, straight, pregnant out of marriage ....whatever. we will grow and learn and change and bottom line, we will love, and love unconditionally. This was a great video Derek, thank you for sharing your story. hugs the part about praying the gay away pushed an emo button in me and I was crying to the end. its all good. hugs Ben
that was beautiful! u got me crying! im a gay dad and coming out to my 18 year old son was very hard. but he accepted me and still loves me to death. thanks for ur courage! peace and love to you!
Derek, I grew up in Georgia as well. Know that God loves you unconditionally, wants you to be your unique self, wants all of us to love Him as we understand him, grow, help and serve others, and live honest, transparent lives. You are a beautiful soul. There is nothing wrong with you. There are many of us who are "different." That's perfectly okay. Your story will help many others, and you will be just fine. All will be well. God love you.
I am glad you are still here ...you are a good person and you deserve to be happy . I'm 61 yrs old and am here for any body dealing with this .. I came out at age 14 ...if anyone need to talk moral support or anything other way I can help hit me up
I'm proud of you Derek, you have a pure open honest heart. Just take your time and love will find you. When you do meet your love of your life you both will feel the same about each other. Take care and thanks for sharing.
Derek, you brought tears to my eyes. I came out when I was 17-18. In my Junior yr of hs to a guy in my class. We had a touchy feely 1 time experience. He was , well pretty homely. Told my absent in my life mother at 24. That didn't go so well, talk about rejection. I to wound up in the HP. It got better, much better. I am in a very long and loving relationship. Tell people that you love them. Derek, love you Bro.
Loved your story of coming out I live in Australia and am quite a bit older than you I wish I had this kind of video when I was in school thank you for giving young guys the insurance they need that if you come out it won't be all doom and gloom. Thank you
I cried through this video. I am so happy that you are doing so well now. I fought being gay for 51 years before I accepted myself. I think my relationship with Jesus is closer now than it has ever been.
Times are changing, and some folks are realizing that being gay is actually a kind of gift....Once you think of that, you will face life with much more vigor and presence.
I know the feeling man. Coming out is tough. I got lucky mine turned around afterward. I'm married with my husband now and life has been great. 13 years still going strong
Andrew Crispell, I'm so sorry for your bad experience. The world is bigger than your small town in Georgia, you will find your place in it. Stay strong!
Thank you Derek. This is the BEST coming out story I've heard so far. Your honesty and sincerity is just so moving. (I see you're still going through a whole lot.) I wish I can tell you, and many others my story, (which unfortunately in NOT a coming out story___it is shear hell). I am almost 70 now, but things don't get any better. I am the loneliest person on this earth, not ONE true friend, except for JESUS; siblings don't know a thing, or so I think...they're all younger than me). I found out about masturbation and being gay when I was 20, That's a story in itself. I was constantly being called a faggot especially in High School...and even then (the late 60s, early 70s), I had no idea what that was or what it meant...I did know that it couldn't be anything good, because I felt constantly bullied, and made fun of. So I just decided to keep to myself from then on...and here I am sharing just a dust of the story with you, and whoever reads this...
Really sorry to know about what you had to go through. But am proud of you overcoming this little hurdle. Today u r proud to be who u are. 👏🏻 best wishes Stay safe and well.
Yes, it's true: you have a right to be happy. And yes, it's true: being gay is just one part of you. But it's not the 'bad' part or the 'weak' part. I wish you a long and happy life surrounded by people who love and support you. I'm right there with you. Love from Luxembourg. ❤
A very courageous, thought provoking and inspiring video Derek! The world is a vastly better and brighter place by having you in it and I have no doubt that your story will inspire and help others. It's coming up to three years nearly since I came out and it took me a while to accept and be myself but I can definitely say it does get better. I wish you all the luck and happiness in your bright future ahead and always remember,no matter what anyone says: "Don't try to be a copy or pretend to be something you're not; be original, be yourself, there is nothing better to be!" :-)
Derek, I came out in 1983 and was terrified to tell my family., At first my oldest brother NEVER accepted me, and still to this day we do not speak!!, His loss., My Mother on the other hand has always supported me through the rough years. She passed in 2015, Loved watching your story, and wish you the Best.
Knowing that I've helped one person makes this video worth it. Thank you for commenting and stay strong!
Derek Mock What did you do to end up in hospital? Did you take an overdose of pills? I personally think that not accepting yourself as gay is a result from a homophobic environment (school, "friends" and/or parents home). I am a few years older than you and I came to the conclusion that the biggest deep reason for homophobia is religion. People were brainwashed by the church for centuries. So I came to the next conclusion that people who believe in what the church preaches are rather stupid. I would never have people as my "friends" who have a "different opinion" on homosexuality and equal rights for gay people than me. One can't have an opinion about something which one cannot choose and to have the opinion that certain people should not be treated equally is not human, it even is against article 1 of human rights. You can't have an opinion about black people or lefthanded people because they simply are that way. And the same is true for gay people. So if one of you "friends" is not accepting your "lifestyle" or saying that gay people should not have the same rights, but telling you that he/she loves you anyways, he/she is not worth being your friend. Don't surround you with Christian conservatives who do not accept your homosexuality and/or who don't accept that you have sex with men. It's not good for your mental health to surround you with these people. I needed a lot of years to learn that. And I realized that after coming out to my "friends" which I thought were my friends and who were not accepting or thinking that gay people should not be allowed to get married, they were not my friends. At the moment of coming out, three of my "friends" said they were ok with it, but it turned out that they were not ok with it. So they were not my friends and they are no longer in my life. I realized that people have less friends than they think they have. Real friends who accept you no matter what and who care about you when you feel bad. That are your real friends. As gay man it's tough to live in a world of people where some people still have homophobia in their minds. It's not you who has a problem, it's not your homosexuality what is the problem, it is the homophobic people who have a problem. They have the problem of not accepting or even hating a group of people without having a rational reason for that. They want to deny this group equal rights, without having a rational reason for that. They want to treat them differently without having a rational reason for that. It's tough to live in a world where these people are still around. It will get better over time, slowly. As soon as I find out that a person in my social environment is homophobic, I decide that this person will not be my friend (anymore) and that this person is stupid. It's really simple. As gay man you know that you did not choose to be gay, but that you simply are gay. Maybe one cannot see it visually, but it would be the same as if you were black. You don't choose to be black, you simply are, if you are. Gay people have a slightly different brain structure, obviously, because being attracted to someone is because of your brain. Lefthanded people also have a sligthly different brain structure than righthanded people. And visually one can't see if they are lefthanded as long as they don't use their hands. And the same is true for gay people. One can't see if they are gay as long as they don't show that they love the same sex. I personally have not any problems anymore with being gay. There was a time, beginning at puberty, where I had the same problems as you, maybe not as strong, but the same problems with accepting myself. But once you realize that it is the way you are and that only other (homophobic) people make a problem out of it, you should be fine. And it's good that you made this video, to help other young gay people.
Stefan Kaiser Stefan, I'm a teacher and counselor of young people the age of Derek. Have been doing this since before he was born and have tons of experience and education. I agree with everything you say here. Stefan, I wish to give you and Derek so much support and encouragement to be who you are. There is no other way to be happy. I am a gay man and it took me much longer to come out than it did for you guys, that was a huge mistake on my part but society just would not allow coming out as an option. That was so bad. So, I am very proud of you, Stefan, and think you are absolutely correct in your comment here..............thanks, man................Ray
+Derek Mock
I'm much older than you are, which doesn't make any
difference except that I've been through many more
experiences than you have. I learned long ago, (over
40 years) that you don't share your private information
with people except your close friends and family. There
are people out there just waiting to use any information
that you tell them, against you. That why you should just go live your life, not telling strangers in particular
that you are gay, and do your thing without making
these types of announcements. One other reason to
keep your private business to yourself is that there are
crazy people out there who want to harm gays. It's not
strangers business to know about your personal life
and you owe them no explanation about your personal
life. People have eyes and can figure out if you are gay
or not. Whatever. They don't need to be told your private business, and it really is none of their business.
+George Harrison Very wise words....coming from experience. I hope Derek (and others) get a chance to read and appreciate your sage advice. Thanks.
+George Harrison I strongly disagree. People need to know who we are, so that they can normalize it. If people have troubles with gays is just because we were hiding for years, so they don't know us, they imagine things, they have wrong prejudices. No more closets. We should be absolutely out and proud if we want to end discrimination. If straight people don't hide their love, we neither. Always out and proud!!!!
Go forward with being yourself. One day you will find your soulmate. I have been with my partner for 53 years, and now we are legally married here in UK. Best wishes for a happy future in a more tolerant world. Ron.
Ronald Williams love from Canada and my loving husband. Great message!
Its weird but I always have to say "thank you" to whoever makes videos like these. It takes guts and a die hard character to do something like this and I am honored you we willing to share your story with us!
Good for you Derek. When I came out 49 yrs ago, it was after my soldier bf died in Nam. So proud of you. Your life is special. Blessings each and every day. joe
I used to watch "My Coming Out Story" videos a lot, but stopped because they, more or less, cover the same ground and started to feel repetitive to me. However, today I stopped to watch your video--so heartfelt--and it is important to continue to tell our stories and be visible to the world. Visibility is the only reason progress has happened and continues to happen. The really positive thing about your story is that you're making this video at age 19 and that's still fairly young--you can move on with your life in a positive way at the beginning of your adulthood. The burden has been lifted. Congratulations and best wishes for your great success in all you do.
Derek thank you so much for your heartfelt coming out video, I cried, I have nothing but regrets for not having come out at a younger age. I am 56 and have never allowed myself to experience love, never had a boyfriend. I have existed all my life but have not lived, it's a shame, it didn't have to be that way. That's how much religion and society has damaged me. I am so happy for you, you will have a great life, you are beautiful and intelligent, if I was your age and knew you personally, you would be my best friend! Thank you Derek!
i'm 48 and same thing iCEL55
I am gay and I am looking for a boyfriend
What a wonderful story. Thank you so much for sharing. You have no idea how much this helps me.❤
Beautifully articulated. You have a right to be 100% the human you are.
Oh Derek. My heart goes out to you. You are so beautiful inside and out. This is the problem I have with fundamentalist religions is that they don't preach unconditional love for their kids. Your life would have been so different. NO child should be afraid to tell their parents anything and NO child should ever have to worry about it. Derek, I am SO happy you were not successful in your attempt to take your own life. YOU are now changing the world and helping other kids from small towns and some with parents with conservative views to stay alive long enough to find out how wonderful life can be, I know this was extremely hard to share. But you DO make a difference and you ARE saving kids by the sharing. Thank you. And you are right, you deserve to be happy and you'll find that special someone to share your life with. Hugs from a very old gay guy who knows your hurt. Hugz.
PS I'm sharing this on FB and twitter. It's just so moving and I know it will help.
One of the most compelling coming out videos I've seen.
why is it compelling to you? Your comment makes every persons story seem like peanuts.
So many of the comments reflect my own thoughts on seeing this wonderful video. I'm 72 and came out in the early 70s of last century - fortunately in Australia as the world around us began to change for the better. I'm so happy that you came through all this and have become a truly beautiful and honest man. The emphasis is on the last word of that sentence. Thank you. Stay Strong.
Hi Derek
Firstly, I want to say dude, you are the most beautiful young (gay)man I have ever seen in recent years. One of my sisters told me I am a kind of 'waste of birth' because I didn't get married and I was handsome and my mother reiterated that.
My name is Reuben and currently I live in Malaysia. Before that I lived in England as a student and later as a working permanent resident for many years. Going to London was one of the best decisions I took as here was where I was able to live freely as both straight and Gay.
I am also a born-again Christian and went to church regularly. I never told anyone in church or at work that I was Gay as I was afraid of rejection.
I am sure your wonderful story and powerful testimony is going to draw and attract many young gay men who are experiencing 'coming out' struggles, problems and difficulties (not to mention also the number of hearts you are going to break due to your good looks).
Isn't it funny that we all through the same experiences of coming out. Glad you are doing better and it does get better. I am with my partner for the past 18 years and have never been happier. Thanks of being a leader in the gay youTube community by putting your story out there to help other people. Good job.
Wow 18 years is amazing! I want to find someone to have a relationship like that with one day. You guys are an inspiration!
+Derek Mock Hi Derek. I usually don't make comments here on youtube. I watched your coming out story and it touched me to see all those emotional struggles that you have had to endure. I hope things are settling down for you and that you will eventually be proud to be what you are. It took myself quite a while as I remember it. I came out to my parents when I was 22. It was some time after I had met my first real boyfriend, and it just felt like the right time to do it. My coming out story wasn't a fairytale story at first. My mother reacted with hysteria, saying a lot of bad words ... Whereas my father was cool with it in every way. Fortunately my mother had a change of heart a year later, and she met my boyfriend and his family and so on. Everything was fine after that and has been ever since. Today I am married to Erik and we have been together for almost 18 years now. I am fortunate to live in a country where gays and straight people have the same rights (Denmark). Civil partnership became legal here in 1989 as the first country in the world. Today we can get married in a church, we have the option to adopt children etc etc. I hope one day you will have the same rights everywhere in your country.
I wish you only the best. You are an inspiration to many young people.
@@derekmock5994 I wish you and I could meet, you are my inspiration babe. ❤️
You have made a difference. I am so sorry for what you went thru but your sharing could save other people's lives.
DEREK -- Your story is heart-breaking. Made me cry. But very wise too. "Why can't I just be ME," you said. Brilliant insight! Of course you're right, and you found that break-through when you desperately needed it. Thanks for sharing this great story and telling it with so much honesty and power. And you look like an easy person to love. I can see the light and love shining from inside you. You just don't know how to hide it, do you? I hope that now, 6 months later, you are feeling much better. But please don't ever stop healing your emotional pain -- because that is the true way Home for all of us. Accepting, loving and healing ourselves -- thereby growing spiritually, each of us in our own unique way as God created us to do. And as we improve ourselves, we improve the world we live in. How incredibly powerful and self-affirming is that!!! I am a 70-year-old gay American now living in Great Britain. I love you, beautiful man. Would love to get a reply from you. -- Donald in Great Britain
It saddens me and makes me so mad when our precious children who haven't even experienced life yet decide that suicide is the only option. I grew up gay when it was even less acceptable and though I felt alone, isolated, and filled with self-loathing, I never thought suicide was the answer. Derek, your pain resonates with me. My hope is that people will love all the people in their lives unconditionally despite their differences. Btw, I grew in a small town in ga as well.
Hi Derek,
I just finished watching your heartfelt video and do I hope your life is only getting better and better since your made this video 5 months ago. I was 25 when I came out and that was way back in 1977. It was scary, but I was in NYC and no one knew this kid from California, anonymity is always a great way to go! Best of luck to you.
Thank you so much for this video. It really touched me. I cried a lot. I hope that one day I can have the courage to follow in your footsteps and come out. And to accept myself for who I am instead of hating myself or trying to change. Love you man.
Hi Mike. It's been 3 years since you posted this comment. I hope you found the courage, strength and self acceptance to come out. Would love to hear... Wishing you all the best... xo
BUT, HAVE NOT YOU JUST CAME OUT TO PUBLIC IF YOU PUBLISHED THIS COMMENT HERE WITH YOUR NAME AND PICTURE ATTACHED TO IT? UNLESS YOU ARE USING FAKE ACCOUNT, I WOULD SAY YOU JUST CAME OUT. ☺
Yu are not alone! If family, religion, or culture makes coming out difficult for someone, the following blog post about homosexuality may provide valuable help: “Homophobia: To the Community” homoeroticpoems.blogspot.com/2014/04/to-community.html
Thank you all. I am 20 years old now, and happy to say that I have found peace within myself. I’ve grown a lot. I am happy and living my truest self. I’m only improving from here. ❤️❤️❤️
Great job Derek! You are quite the strong man. You can do anything now!
Derek I am also very proud of you too. I came out a very long time ago (1969) to be precise. I did not have the same experience as you but I still feel it was worth it. You certainly helped me today. Listening to you and others like you helps me to feel that the price 'we' paid helped to make things a little easier and more supportive for you. I will tell you that today I feel that being who I am is one of the biggest gifts I could ever have been given. I believe that there is a God out there who loves me just the way that I am and that means he/she loves you too.
Sharing your story not only will help someone, it promotes change. Suicide too often is due to feeling alone, feeling like there is no one that will understand. By opening up to perfect strangers gives the possibility that someone going through that dark place might see this and realize they are not alone. It's a form of the best council, being broke, anger issues, alcohol problems, addiction (etc) sharing the secret we so fear, begets healing. There is life after opening up, we do survive. There will be bumps in the road, but much easier to hit a bump when you have less weight on your shoulders. Far more strength in the one confronting their fears than the ones who may not understand, yet far too often it's those who we give the power. Congratulations on your strength,
My heart was breaking to feel your pain. Too often being closeted leads to depression and suicide. The world is getting better but there are still those in need. Your video will help so many. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I see too many gay kids that have the inability to form lasting friendships or understand that being gay does not mean you are not a wonderful person. Every person who is out helps make the difference. I have been where you were and wish we had RUclips back then. Good luck and thank you.
A long time ago now lad but i feel your story was one of the saddest I have heard. However, you overcame all the problems and heartache. You were very brave putting this out for the world to see so congratulations Derek. I trust you are now a very happy 20 something and living life to the full. Paul, UK.
My coming out story was different, my parents hated it. I got crap at school, and being from a small town in Georgia, right in the bible belt, people liked to tell me I was going to hell. None of my friends cared, so that was great. I think people should just learn to accept us for who we are!
Lovely story - hope all is better with you now.
It was very clear how hard this video was for u and I just wanted to take the time to applaud you for it. It was very brave and courageous of you and by posting it I am confident that you will help many others! All my best to you!
I really appreciate your telling your story, it had me on the edge of tears, and expressing my emotions is not one of my strong suits. Thank you for being honest about your suicide attempt as well, I never tried as a kid but wanted to on many occasions. Thank you, you helped me a lot.
Well I was driven to tears because this is so emotional and I didn't know where it was headed, but I'm so glad it turned out well for you. You're very sweet and your story will help a lot kids. Thanks for sharing and all the best moving forward. Please consider posting updates. Peace!
Another brave guy. Thank you for putting this out there. It matters...as do you.
My journey to being out to family and the friends I care about most is just beginning at 49 years old. Like you, I am from the south - Greenville, SC. I grew up in a different generation that made it completely impossible to come out. I get so excited hearing the coming out stories of young people because I know they won't have to live a 1/2 life like me. Yes, it's still difficult, but just think that doing so early will keep you from living with your true self all bottled up inside and the only one who knows your true self is you. I applaud you for having such courage. Now go live, love, laugh and have a great life.
Tim Watkins I am 56 Tim, there's are so many of us from the older generation that are inspired by this new generation like Derek. RUclips has been the only connection for me to the gay world, that's how invisible I had become. I have cried so much lately watching these videos, crying for the life I feel I've wasted, a life of loneliness. These videos have re-awakened a desire to live again! I am just now starting to reach out.
I understand completely. I have lived a half-life up to this point, but the remaining life I have left will be lived on my terms. Those who wish to share the journey are welcomed to come along, those who don't can get off at the next stop, but know that there will be no u turns.
iCEL55 Get out and party be yourself mate be proud of who you are, your never to old as I said to a 52 year old mate lets go party on the dance floor with the 20 year olds
“Learning to love yourself is the greatest gift of all”......you have learned that......wisdom is born of pain.......now go forward and be the best person you can be-and the happiest one too!........
This was so emotional, I had tears in my eyes the whole time. I loved your video, thanks for sharing your story! :)
I cried thinking of the misery you went though and I wish you all the best! I was outed to my parents in 1976 and their reaction was "OK", I never have gone through what a lot young people like you have or are going through. Makes me so sad to watch these stories.
I almost did the same thing!!! Glad you are still here
Hi, Derek. You are a very brave and articulate young man. Sorry you had such a painful coming out. I am certain your story will help others. I wish you only the very best in the future. Hope college is going well for you. Proud of you!
I'm glad you're here to share this road with us.
Thank you.
Hi, Derek, thank you for your video. Im so sorry you had tomgo through the hell you went through. Number one, im so glad you are still with us! I know those feeling you experienced. I know them all too well, and I'm 57. None of us should have to go through any of it. We are who we are. Society needs to continue to change to the point where none of us would even want to change who we are. It is much better than it was when I was your age. That is one thing I am glad to see in my life. But we still have a long way to go and unfortunately there will always be an amount of people who won't accept us for whom we are. Those are people we don't need anywhere around us or in out lives at all. Stay strong and I hope you find that love of your life, and you can then spend the rest of your lidpfe as a happy couple, and then work on the things in life that really do need our attention and not just this small part of whom we are. But really, it is a big part of whom we are. And that is where the pride comes in. We should all be able to be proud of who we are without concern to any of the prejudices that currently exist. Maybe someday it will be like that, with no thought even given to whether someone is gay or not, is of color or not, or is "different" in some kind of way. We need to get rid of that mentality of different is a bad thing, and just accept and celebrate each of our individualities. Bless you, Derek. Have one stupendously happy and proud life!
This was one of the rawest and emotional coming out recounts i've ever seen. I'm so glad you're ok now, and that the people in your life love you for who you are. It's really hard at first, but it's true - It does get better. Even though now, after being out for 4 years, I still occasionally get mad and upset about being different. But that's ok, because people accept me for who I am. I was terrified of telling my parents too, but they cried and told me i was stupid for hiding for so long because they'll love me no matter what. It's a pleasant surprise when people are so accepting, unfortunately, that's not always the case. Thank you for sharing your experience. Much like yourself, I used these videos to help pluck up the courage to come out, and i'm sure you've helped a lot of people!
RUclips just put this across my feed. You hit the nail on the head, “You have a right to be happy!” So sorry for the struggles you went through. I hope you’ll let us know how you’re doing. 💛
Bless you, Derek!
Derick you put yourself through the mill you are loved by good people now you need to be happy your self god love you and keep you and you find someone to love all the hurt away god bless you chris xxx
Thanks for sharing your story. It really moved me and it made me think that happy endings do exist.
I'm Proud of you man..haha no matter what always be proud of yourself because before you could even trust others you should always be confident and trust your soul because at the end of your life you are the only one who is going to determine which road you are going to walk on..we all deserve to be respected equally no matter who we are so look up and face the public with full of confidence with carrying the spirit of loving your life to the fullest.. :)
Be strong. You will have a great life filled with love and joy.
Dude...heart breaking and heart warming. Big up to your Dad, he sounds like an awesome guy! Thanks for sharing your story. Sending a virtual hug from the UK :-)
Very very very nice story !!! Great that you are who you are !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you Derek. This has been of huge help to me in my struggle and I feel much better having listened to your story. I really admire your courage. You are a great guy. JJ (from Ireland)
Thank you so much for sharing. I recently came out aged 55. You give me strength On this journey.
Derek, just came across your video made over five years ago, so you probably won't see this now, but, the strength of character you possess is clearly evident in this video. I trust things have gone well for you during this period and you have found the partner you deserve.
No matter what you still have a friend, very emotional story, Derek, be you always.
So happy for you, and I wish you the best of luck!!
Love your story and your courage. Living in the closet just destroys your soul - you spend so much time and effort hiding who you are. I was much older than you when I finally worked up the courage to be myself. Thanks for your story.
You can't possibly realize what an angel you have been to so many young men and girls. Your growing up experience sounds almost exactly like mine that even now your words are supportive. Thank you for your gift to all mankind: mothers, fathers, friends, neighbors, other boys and girls, and complete strangers like me. You have been such a blessing I cannot believe you will not be blessed by the Father of us all whose reasons for our state only He understands, but I intend to insist on an explanation if I ever get to see Him. What if He's the reason Himself?
What doesn't destroy you makes you stronger. You are strong and brave for sharing yourself with us. Keep moving forward in life. Please accept yourself, because a loving God would love everyone, not just these people or just those people. I hope you find your soulmate and best friend!
I really love your video... Even tho I'm already out to my parents two years ago. But if I had seen This video on that day. It would of been so much help too. Keep posting more video :)
Hope life is still going well for you Luis
A wonderful, compelling coming out story - beautiful young man
You are so huggable.
I wish you all the best.
Thanks for telling your story. It was obviously difficult but you did it eloquently and with grace. Congratulations for standing up and is so doing, offering hope and courage to others.
Its one of the few stories that I can relate to that closely. Thank you so much bro you give me hope for my own journey. May God bless you.
You are such a fine person. I hope things are going well for you.you deserve the very best life possible. Any good family would be proud to have you as their son. Any good person would be proud and lucky to have you as a friend.
we all deserve happiness, thanks for the awesome video!
I'm so sorry you felt that way. I can only imagine feeling that bad about myself.
All the low times are nowhere as near as how you must have felt.
I am so glad that your family accepted who you are. More importantly, that you are able to accept who you are. It is a long process to 'find' who you are, and all those parts. Like you, my sexuality is just a piece of my self. Though it is a piece that I share a lot to new people and to school children to help them learn and potentially discover a label for how they feel.
Thank you for sharing your story.
I realize this post was made more than 4 years ago, but I still want you to know that you are 100% right. Every human being as a right to be happy.
But you underestimate yourself. You came out of the small Georgia town more than OK. You came out awesome times infinity. You faced your demons and won the battle. You have a maturity and presence far beyond your years. It is be a privilege to know about you - to know you - even only through a RUclips post.
I know in my gut that you are an inspiration to more guys than you will ever know.
Be happy. Love yourself. Love others. Continue to make this world a better place simply by living your life.
Wow, you did suffer and I suffered with you watching that video. Yet it turns out to be very encouraging to Live a genuine life. Thank you. Regards Martin
Well impressed by your story and please stay happy. You are wonderful.
Derek, it seems like yesterday I was your age. I hit 50 this year and realized I went from a chicken to a chicken hawk. lol. Thank you for sharing your coming out story. How easier it would have been for guys my age to have these stories as a frame of reference. I have been with my husband for 20 years. It does get easier. Again, thank you all the way from Texas.
Thank you for sharing your rough road with us!
huge respect that your parents have shown you support and unconditional love. It really sucks that you and so many of us have had to go through such agonizing fear and pain in the first place. All dealing with the worry of being rejected by those we love and who are supposed to love us.
I think all parents should tell their children at a young age, I will love you and accept you no matter what .... if you are gay, straight, pregnant out of marriage ....whatever. we will grow and learn and change and bottom line, we will love, and love unconditionally.
This was a great video Derek, thank you for sharing your story. hugs
the part about praying the gay away pushed an emo button in me and I was crying to the end. its all good.
hugs
Ben
Respect. That’s quite a journey. Thanks for sharing it.
that was beautiful! u got me crying! im a gay dad and coming out to my 18 year old son was very hard. but he accepted me and still loves me to death. thanks for ur courage! peace and love to you!
I can't imagine how hard it is to tell your son that is some real courage and you are an insiration.
Derek Mock thanks Derek!
Derek, I grew up in Georgia as well. Know that God loves you unconditionally, wants you to be your unique self, wants all of us to love Him as we understand him, grow, help and serve others, and live honest, transparent lives. You are a beautiful soul. There is nothing wrong with you. There are many of us who are "different." That's perfectly okay. Your story will help many others, and you will be just fine. All will be well. God love you.
I am glad you are still here ...you are a good person and you deserve to be happy . I'm 61 yrs old and am here for any body dealing with this .. I came out at age 14 ...if anyone need to talk moral support or anything other way I can help hit me up
Our experiences are very similar. You are a very brave and courageous person and people love you for you.
It was so great to hear your story and to hear how you overcame your struggles :)
I'm proud of you Derek, you have a pure open honest heart. Just take your time and love will find you. When you do meet your love of your life you both will feel the same about each other. Take care and thanks for sharing.
Andrew Crispell, I'm so sorry for your experience. The world is bigger than your small town in Georgia, you will find your place in it. Stay strong!
Derek, you brought tears to my eyes. I came out when I was 17-18. In my Junior yr of hs to a guy in my class. We had a touchy feely 1 time experience. He was , well pretty homely. Told my absent in my life mother at 24. That didn't go so well, talk about rejection. I to wound up in the HP. It got better, much better. I am in a very long and loving relationship. Tell people that you love them. Derek, love you Bro.
I'm so glad you came through OK. The world is a better place with you in it, son.
You are amazing! you deserve LOVE!
Thank you for your story you have really helped me build confidence in coming out. Knowing I'm not the only one really helps
There are so many people out there like us. I used to think I was alone but RUclips really shows you that we have a huge family in the gay community!
@@derekmock5994 That we are and I'm glad you are part of it. Hope all is still going well for you
Loved your story of coming out I live in Australia and am quite a bit older than you I wish I had this kind of video when I was in school thank you for giving young guys the insurance they need that if you come out it won't be all doom and gloom. Thank you
You are a very courageous young man. Thanks for sharing this with us!
I cried through this video. I am so happy that you are doing so well now. I fought being gay for 51 years before I accepted myself. I think my relationship with Jesus is closer now than it has ever been.
Times are changing, and some folks are realizing that being gay is actually a kind of gift....Once you think of that, you will face life with much more vigor and presence.
Dear Derek, Don't beat yourself up! Things will work out--they just do.
A very extremely heart felt and beautiful story with strength, honesty, love and reality. Phil Would love to meet you!
Love you and I am proud of your courage. Always be yourself. It took me a little longer and I regret it. Be yourself and always love yourself.
I know the feeling man. Coming out is tough. I got lucky mine turned around afterward. I'm married with my husband now and life has been great. 13 years still going strong
I'm beyond proud of you! I love you so much❤️
Andrew Crispell, I'm so sorry for your bad experience. The world is bigger than your small town in Georgia, you will find your place in it. Stay strong!
Thank you Derek. This is the BEST coming out story I've heard so far. Your honesty and sincerity is just so moving. (I see you're still going through a whole lot.) I wish I can tell you, and many others my story, (which unfortunately in NOT a coming out story___it is shear hell). I am almost 70 now, but things don't get any better. I am the loneliest person on this earth, not ONE true friend, except for JESUS; siblings don't know a thing, or so I think...they're all younger than me). I found out about masturbation and being gay when I was 20, That's a story in itself. I was constantly being called a faggot especially in High School...and even then (the late 60s, early 70s), I had no idea what that was or what it meant...I did know that it couldn't be anything good, because I felt constantly bullied, and made fun of. So I just decided to keep to myself from then on...and here I am sharing just a dust of the story with you, and whoever reads this...
Great video! Inspiring story! I'm sure you will be a great help to others! Keep up the good work, BE HAPPY & looking forward to more videos!
Really sorry to know about what you had to go through. But am proud of you overcoming this little hurdle. Today u r proud to be who u are. 👏🏻 best wishes
Stay safe and well.
Yes, it's true: you have a right to be happy. And yes, it's true: being gay is just one part of you. But it's not the 'bad' part or the 'weak' part. I wish you a long and happy life surrounded by people who love and support you. I'm right there with you. Love from Luxembourg. ❤
Your an amazing person, such courage.
Derek ....... awesome!!!! wish you all the best! just be yourself ....no matter what!! hugs!
Derek, I have to say you did a GREAT job on your video!!!!! I pray you only find happiness!
A very courageous, thought provoking and inspiring video Derek! The world is a vastly better and brighter place by having you in it and I have no doubt that your story will inspire and help others. It's coming up to three years nearly since I came out and it took me a while to accept and be myself but I can definitely say it does get better.
I wish you all the luck and happiness in your bright future ahead and always remember,no matter what anyone says: "Don't try to be a copy or pretend to be something you're not; be original, be yourself, there is nothing better to be!" :-)
Derek, I came out in 1983 and was terrified to tell my family., At first my oldest brother NEVER accepted me, and still to this day we do not speak!!, His loss., My Mother on the other hand has always supported me through the rough years. She passed in 2015, Loved watching your story, and wish you the Best.
thanks for sharing a very personal story....Hope that you are finding yourself happier everday!!!
Your so strong, and powerful for coming out!
I totally agree 😄