Glad to be a Gay Teen

This Thanksgiving, as many begin playing football, roasting turkey, and preparing stuffing for the family meal, Americans are encouraged to reflect on what they are thankful for.  This Thanksgiving is going to be unlike any other.  I am finally at a point in my life where I can be grateful for the many people who have shaped my life and helped me in a time when I was struggling with my newly-discovered sexuality.

So much has happened in my life that wouldn't have influenced me to be who I am today had I never struggled with my sexuality.  If I weren't gay, I wouldn't be me, and I wouldn't have met so many amazing people.  This Thanksgiving, I would like to thank the many people who have helped me accept who I am.  Thank you to...

1) My amazing best friend in the entire world who has helped me every step of the way with coming out.  She has accepted me for who I am from the start, and she was trustworthy enough to be my first friend to come out to.

2) My other amazing friends, both from school and work, who listened carefully through my rough times and were always willing to share advice.

3) Those few girls who so kindly tried setting me up with their gay best friends.  Haha!

4) My close girl, close enough to be my "wife," who actually brought me on a man-watching mission.

5) My best guy friend, who, initially uncomfortable, became accepting and now whole-heartedly jokes with me about my sexuality and has no problem with it.  (I think he's gay.)

6) My role model since the sixth grade, "that typical gay kid," who approached me on Facebook chat and insisted that I be true to myself.  That meant a lot.

7) My mother, who, although most shocked and worried at first, quickly came around and is always willing to share her advice, guidance, and time for me.  She's the best!

8) My dad.  I thought that he would be the most difficult one to come out to, but he ended up being 100% accepting.  Not to mention that he just adores my new boyfriend!

9) Which brings me to my boy, who has been part of the emotional support that I need.  He makes me feel loved, and it is now (finally!) clear why so many people want a relationship.

10) My sister, who knew I was gay for years and was there for me since the day I came out!  Not to mention her telling my dad for me.  Love her!

11) My cousin, who messaged me on Facebook when she saw my changed relationship status.  I'm assuming that she knew prior to my Facebook outing, but regardless, she says she loves me and that I'm a good kid!

12) My homeroom teacher, who doesn't really know I'm gay, but has been such an advocate for me for all those days I came to school bawling when I just needed help figuring life out.

13) My guidance counselor at school, who completely knew from day one and has sat with me in her office many of times just talking about life's difficulties.

14) My step-mom, who told me that any boy that I ever bring home to her will be warmly welcomed with freshly-baked cookies and a home-cooked dinner.