Why "coming out" ?

[Zelane]

I have been wondering why this phrase is being used, what it does mean for you and in a political correctness; What are the differences between the uses of this term for LGB and T persons.

[BCL]

I have been wondering why this phrase is being used, what it does mean for you and in a political correctness; What are the differences between the uses of this term for LGB and T persons.

I "came out" to 450 people at work during a planned meeting.

It really is an expression that is used to proclaim to people your status and intentions.

And yes 450 people was the scariest thing I EVER did.

Rebecca

[LostInTime]

At least they had a meeting. I even offered to pay for my therapist to come in and answer questions and it was denied. A written letter went out to all of the employees and then i showed up again less than a week later.

[Lisbeth]

Speaking of "coming out of the closet..."  There was this one time before I was out where I was dressed and my wife came home.  I tried to do a quick change, but my zipper was stuck.  So I literally hid in the closet until she went to bed.

[Kate]

Speaking of "coming out of the closet..."  There was this one time before I was out where I was dressed and my wife came home.  I tried to do a quick change, but my zipper was stuck.  So I literally hid in the closet until she went to bed.

LOL, oh my...

I'm the computer girl in a small office, and I often have to go work in the utilities closet (where the equipment is) which is right out in the main office.

*Before* transitioning, you can't imagine how many times I had to hear, "Hey, K's in the closet again!" and "Come out of the closet already!" All the time I'm CRINGING, fearing they "knew" somehow. They didn't of course, but geez... of all the things to tease me about.

Be careful what you wish for, lol.

~Kate~

[Suzy]

Speaking of "coming out of the closet..."  There was this one time before I was out where I was dressed and my wife came home.  I tried to do a quick change, but my zipper was stuck.  So I literally hid in the closet until she went to bed.

OMG, that's funny Lisbeth!


Kristi

[Suzie]

I have been wondering why this phrase is being used, what it does mean for you and in a political correctness; What are the differences between the uses of this term for LGB and T persons.

Wikipedia can be your friend:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coming_out

[tinkerbell]

To me "coming out" implies self-acceptance.  Although I always knew I was female, like most of you, I also tried to deny my identity for various reasons.  However, there comes a time when "not coming out" equals death, and I really didn't want to die, so I HAD to accept myself and transition.

tink

[NickSister]

For me 'coming out' is about recognition. I think it also echoes the Victorian tradition where a young woman would 'come out' signifying that she had completed her education and was on the marriage market i.e. coming of age.

I loved hearing how the Victorian woman flirted with their fans:

Fan fast--I am independent
Fan slow--I am engaged
Fan with right hand in front of face--Come on
Fan with left hand in front of face--Leave me
Fan open and shut--Kiss me
Fan open wide--Love
Fan half open--Friendship
Fan shut--Hate
Fan swinging--Can I see you home?

[Pica Pica]

blimey, i'd hate to see what they did with their faces.