I always discover National Coming Out Day either at the last minute or a day late. Yesterday was no exception. But I guess I did my part anyway. A couple I've known for years sold their house last spring and have been traveling in an Airstream trailer they restored before the sale. After several thousand miles they were passing through this area and needed a place to park while they caught up with other friends, family, doctors and business interests and I had the space. I'd come out to them via email and an old photo a few months ago, so they were aware I'm trans but it was still a bit more theory than reality.
I had a support group meeting to attend last night and before I left I invited them in to visit and get a look at "Sarah" up close and personal. I've hiked hundreds of miles in wild places with the husband and spent many hours visiting with the wife. So his image of me was a dirty, sweaty, cursing,joking, backpack-wearing, drinking guy. Hers was a bit more domesticated, but still based a lot around various campsites, and she reacted with praise and a hug. He was supportive and I think he's trying to piece it all together and I'll help where I can.
My key observation is they were the first of that part of my life to actually see me in person as a woman and I wondered what my response was going to be. Evidently I'm a lot closer to being ready than I thought. I was comfortable, my mouth didn't get dry, palms didn't sweat, I didn't want to run away and hide. I may not be out to everyone, but I don't think everyone needs to know. However, I just discovered I'm ready to be out more openly to those that do matter.
How was your "Coming out day"? Even if it wasn't yesterday.
