Sexuality: Gay, Straight & Bisexual / Question
Published: May 14, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I really need your help for you to post your reply as soon as you get this I'm begging you. Last summer I was away with my cousin and my friend staying with each other. We stayed up all night telling some of our most personal secrets. I told them that I have been questioning my sexuality then. At first everyone seemed cool and during the last few days my cousin acted all weird and started acting all self centered, she said it was because she broke up with her boyfriend. Last night my mam and family were at a get together and my cousin's mother said it to my aunt who my mum and she are very close and she had to tell her. My mam asked me today and everything was cool. But the only problem is that, that aunt will tell everyone and I'm really scared of the outcome??? Please, please reply as soon as you can I am waiting eagerly.
Signed: Scared - Questioning Sexuality And Everyone Will know
Dear Scared - Questioning Sexuality And Everyone Will know,
Exploring your sexuality can often be a confusing undertaking and it is something very private. Often times we do not know how to react to our own feelings and cues from others create a very muddled picture.
You are in a tough situation, but one that can be be navigated with communication. You mentioned that you and your mother have discussed the issue and that "everything was cool." It may be best for you to talk with your aunt and let her know that you would prefer that she keep this knowledge to herself. Explain that you chose to share your thoughts and feelings with your cousin because you trusted her and understood that your discussion would be kept in confidence. Tell her that you are exploring feelings and are experiencing many emotions that are hard to understand. Stress that it is a situation that you wish to keep to yourself for right now.
Your sexuality is something that is private and personal. Only those who you choose to share this information should know. Your aunt and cousin may not realize what you are feeling and how spreading this information will make you feel.
You may want to talk with your mom or a trusted friend to help sort out your feelings about the situation and how best to approach your aunt. Remember that questioning and exploring your sexuality can be a very confusing and overwhelming situation, but one that you can get through with support and understanding.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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