One more thought I'd like to add on "validating" aspect of being out. Its not the mere presence of other people that I enjoy - it is actually interacting on a personal level. If in that interaction, I get a positive, friendly response, then the experience is definately validating. Its not that I've pased, but rather that I've been able to connect on a person-to-person basis. I definately feel more "real" after such an experience.
