is it necessary to come out to the world

[GossamerMoon]

I totally understand people saying they're bi for years as a crutch of sorts until they get to the point where they can say they're gay. I did that since high school. I didn't want to be gay, and I figured if I was "just" bi, then there was hope I could avoid the issue all together. The result? An unhappy marriage (and more unhappy ex who either still thinks I'm bi (and he therefore missed out on some "possibilities") or has figured it out and is offended and pissed), and in a situation where I cannot afford to come out as bi *or* gay, not unless I want to work hard labor 50+ hours a week and hope that people don't try to make me give the kids to their dad. If I ever am "outed", I don't know what I'd do. Probably move away to a more friendly area and cross my fingers.

That said, I feel bad for looking at it as using a crutch. There are plenty of people out there who are truly bi, like it sounds for Hank. I can see how some people hear "bi" and think "Nah, s/he is really gay and just doesn't wanna admit it," and that is not fair to those who really are bi.

Pride should be in who you are, and you all are correct. Sexuality is only a small part of who you are. I am a mom, an artist, a writer, a book reviewer, a good friend, and many other things. Right now, I don't even know how I could fit dating into my life (of either gender, if I was so inclined).

Well, that's about it for me. Hang in there, all. In another twenty years, people will be WTF about the ignorance.