No Gay person ever needs to apologize for whatever they feel about straight people. We are made Gay, and if we feel negatively about straight people for the things they put us through, it is what it is. They earned it. They earned it.
Appreciate your story. My dad could tell I was gay and he raised me. He loved me.I didn't care what anyone else thought of me. I remember when I was 19. I overheard my grandma laughing at me on the phone to a person she hated. That still bothers me 25 years later. Trucking saved my life. When I was 21 I got to see very masculine men who were gay that I didn't see in Mississippi. I went buckwild while I was traveling from state to state. What's funny about my family now. I make a very good living but because I'm gay they look at me like I'm less than. I have a cousin in prison for murder. They think more of him than me. Pensacola is kinda like the Jackson,MS area. Not much to do but church, work and gossip. I think your family probably hates that you are good looking, successful and you made it out of that area. They are probably miserable and want you stuck there. That part of Florida is like Alabama or Mississippi.
This resonates with me so much my dad and mom accepted me when I told them but it took me to move out because I said you can disown me but you can’t kick me to the curb.. but I want to get my cdl and begin building with someone one day.
It's so CRAZY to me that the BLK community is down for pokie, raay ray, single moms and everything in between but AUTOMATICALLY give the side eye to those of us who are in the LGB experience. YES - we have a lot of mess in the community in regards to promiscuity, substance abuse and the like that can give a stigma to "the lifestyle". BUT - I imagine that if folks were not getting ostracized by family to the extent that they often are, we would not be as inclined to run those behaviors.
It’s sad really cause it’s not our business who people choose to love that’s Gods business and that’s our problem in the black culture….WE judge too much and too hard ! 🙏❤️
I totally understand bud. I’ve been through similar situations most of my life. I’m close to being 50yrs old and alone. The only things I have is my career, faith and friends. Please hang in there. 😊❤
I came out as gay to my family my freshman year of high school. Told my dad my junior year. 26, and it's been a roller coaster for me. I'm inspired by your story, sir. Thank you for taking time to tell it how it really is.
I have never commented on anything like this virtually. I am not on any social media. I came across this clip by happenstance. I choose to comment for the first time ever and speak something into your life - please receive it - You are enough ! You are loved ! You are special ! You are an example! You are a demonstration to hundreds of thousands of gay men of what it looks like to be different! Being different is ok . God is different . What he does is different ! What he creates is different! I could say so much more but I will digress . We / I love you . ❤ Many are called but few are chosen . You have been chosen to lead the way and be the difference in the world ! God is Love and LOVE IS YOU
I definitely feel where you are coming from. I am also a gay black male and was raised by a single narcissistic mother. While my mother brought alot of good to my life, she was very abusive, controlling and did not react well to me coming out. She often referred to my sexuality as "that gay stuff" and it was not to be talked about. I removed her from my life when I was 29 back in 2015 and it was the best decision I ever made. My life got so much better. You are a beautiful man and I know you will find the love and acceptance you long for. Thank you for sharing your story and I wish you well!
My heart goes out to you! Religion and our culture as black people have a lot to do with how we perceive sexuality. There are parents who will not accept their son or daughter’s homosexuality, but it’s so important to accept your self and love yourself despite this. Sometimes going through a parent rejecting you is a way to learn how to love yourself, as painful as it is. Once you no longer seek validation, acceptance, and love and find it in yourself, the way others see you becomes transformed. People can only do better when they know better. 🙏🏿❤️
Wow very well said.. U only need validation from self love❤..If U live your life for others approval U will never be happy. U never give up the truth of who U R in search of something or for someone else. Your sexual preference doesn't define who U R. You have to live within your integrity...There attitudes about the subject matter rather positiive or negative defines who they R. If they oppose and object then U love❤ them from a distance ..move on don't worry be happy. We only have one life and it's yours to live the way U see fit.. U R a child of God to spites others opinions.. And he loves U unconditionally...
I've always said it feels like a double whammy being black and gay smh. We get it from all angles and it take a lot of strength, courage and resilience to be black gay man. I was only worried how my mom and brother would take it. They both were very accepting but there are other family members who try to be slick and say hurtful things sometimes but. We chose who we want to share our energy with, fam or not. If someone doesn't accept you for something small as sexuality then f it
ADULTS are the ones that put the thoughts in young children’s heads. I never thought about being gay until my dad started taking toys away from us because he didn’t like us calling them “our baby”. Adults need to understand that children aren’t thinking about sexuality until it is INTRODUCED to them. I started wondering if I was gay because I liked to do certain things and adults told me that those things were for girls and sissy’s. I suggest that parents just let their child be true to themselves and go through the phases of self development without adults interfering and putting thoughts into their heads.
Wow this was very emotional, I couldn't imagine my mother not accepting me , I'm sorry that you had to experience that from your mother. I hope one day your mother can truly accept you for all that you are.
I feel you. I grew up in the 50s and 60s. Homosexuality was illegal. It's so hard for people to not be their true selves. I'm masculine not sure if it's from necessity or is it me. But I can surely emphasize. Hugs and love my brother
Trey, it saddens me because it's so obvious that your fam means the world to you, however, as a grown man, you must find your strength in who you are boo!! If your fam can't accept you, move on babe, family or not, you gotta live life for Trey!!💯💝🥰
@ronaldmedley3827 How did you guys find your partners back then? Did hookup culture exist back then? How did you guys find out about each other back then? Or was it mostly closeted heterosexual men secretly hooking up whenever/wherever they could?
man u got me teary eyes when your family puts you down for being gay, especially your mom if you are a momma 's boy it does something to you on the inside. my mom cried when i told her and she gave me her religious stance on the matter, she did hug and kiss me, but i was sad the whole day i felt like i let her down
I hear all the hurt in your voice. I had to distance myself from my “very religious” family when I came out. God is love, unconditional love. Let them live in their hypocrisy. I have an amazing chosen family, or as Uncle Clifford would say, framily. People who deserve to be in your life will love you the way you deserve to be loved and leave the job of judgment to god. Sending hugs, light and love your way!
@@dequanrick2209 I love and accept different ideology. Speak to what feels true for you and I sincerely wish you a good life with whatever form of higher power that speaks to you including the higher power of self. Have a beautiful day!
Sometimes you don't have to say anything. My grandmother knew when I was young and loved me regardless, along with the rest of my family. I am now 61 and believe it or not it was only 6 years ago that I accepted the fact that I was gay. To the young people, embrace and accept who you are with no apologies to anyone. Love and blessings Trey.
I'm a 18 years old Gay Man that my mom , my grandma ( my mom MOM ) knew I was Gay without saying anything!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I will support any LGBTQ+++ People but if a lgbtq+ person start getting disrespectful then I will do it back . I mean What I Say !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My grandmother knew that I was gay too. But it wasn't due to her having any kinda gaydar. It was likely the compromising position she caught me in with a very long handled broomstick that convinced her of it!
I think it would be a good idea if a gay BM would write a book that will help more people understand what being gay actually is. There are a lot of things that the general audience simply do not understand. For example, the other day I saw a video of a BGM (black gay male) wearing heels, a purse, lipstick and a full blown beard. To me he just had too much going on. It makes one think that you are a male who is trying to hold on to being straight and being gay at the same time. If you're going to attract males do you do it by being masculine or feminine? It's hard to accept things that are so complicated. A book would help a lot.
I feel ya. I had to learn my happiness trumps family. I can and will only be around people who love me. It’s sad that it has to be like that but family is not always “ Home” be where you are loved. You and nobody else deserves to be in a trauma situation.
This is so damn relatable, when you said your family is only open on their terms that hit so hard because in one sentence you summed up the explanation so many go through in such an accurate way! Thank you Trey ❤
Yes, yes, yes! And guess what? That part of the relationship is not based in "religious" law. It is merely a manipulation to set one person over the other in a false hierarchy.
Trey, thank you for sharing your story. It helps more people than you might realize. While you might not have the support of the bigots in your family, I"m so proud of you for not letting that hold you back. Continue to focus on personal goals. Success is the sweetest revenge.
I have a cousin about 6 six years younger than me. She came out as lesbian to the rest of the family (she first came out to me and the other cousins) last year and EVERYTHING I saw her go through from my mom, her parents and other older adults in the fam was EXACTLY what I feared my entire life. I'm bisexual. To make it worse, I'm a black male and bisexual. From a religious family. Even though I'm at a much more progressive point in my self love journey and I came out to myself last year - I'm still in the closet. I literally just found your channel but Trey, I cannot tell you what this video means to me. TH-cam has always been my safe space to figure myself out, and lately I've been watching coming out videos A LOT. This video in particular, has been the most relatable one because even though I haven't actually come out yet, I know what's gonna happen. THIS is a good example. Right now they don't accept my cousin. They understand that they can't do nothing to change her, but their tolerating her - not accepting her. I so wish we could have conversations about our queerness and that I could go through this with her, but I'm not ready for that yet. I am most definetly slowly coming out though
We have no choice who our family is because your born into it , but anyone can be family and sometimes you have to create the life you want . As long as you except you it’s all good . Hope you find more peace and get better as Life excels you
Trey, parental rejection is dreadful, the WORST. And even though you press forward and live your truth, you still feel that void of parental love and acceptance. And I don’t know what to advise about that. Because if you try to live against your truth, just to make them happy, YOU will be utterly miserable. So do Trey, be Trey. Leave the door open to your family to embrace you on YOUR terms and engage them when you can. Your bold transparent testimony is gonna resonate with a lot of people who are walking in your shoes, struggling with rejection. You’re truly an influencer, using this powerful platform to say an encouraging word.
Thank u so much man and u are so right man. We can only be who we are. When we try to be anything other than that it is miserable. I do hope that me talking about my truth helps someone. That would make me so happy.
@@treypressley7755 I sm so sorrybfor the trauna inflicted by your mother and at some point by proxy; your grandmother. I have experienced family division. A lot of us old school survivors need to reach out to you young ones for just the support and counseling needed to keep you from the pills or a slit wrist. I know and I personally hurt everytime I hear. You are loved...as a person. As a man and as a man of colour. We have and can accomplish as much as the "main stream". But as unique as we are; we need to find ourselves along the way. I would live to start an outreach for our cause. We still need ....family....we still need support....we still need love....we still need a community. Hold on Brother. Breathe. Find your center...your soul. Evolve from your experience and live your truth so that another may survive. Peace and love.
Right! The other side is how unfair it would be for straight men and women to have someone with them, who's not naturally or genuinely attracted to them at all. The culture is pushing more chaos and turmoil by pushing gay people into unloving, disingenuous relationships. I really feel for countries who criminalize homosexuality. Imagine the number of marriages that will be totally fake and dishonest and the generational curses that will come from them? We've got to end this homophobia, it's not winning us any favor.
I'm sorry to hear your story. The sadness is palpable. The only truly unconditional love is the love of Jesus Christ. He loves you, and so do I. Your story will save some lives! Thank you 😊
Trey, your story is so compelling and yet it's so familiar to most of us. My mom died on last year at age 91. Although she loved me, because of her religious conviction she could never fully accept the fact that I was homosexual. It's the cognitive dissonance. She struggled with it and she cried about it because she loved me, but her religion would not allow her too fully accept me as homosexual. Trey, I had to leave it at that. Nothing was going to change but the love was there. You had your grandmother's love and remember that her group didn't or couldn't fully accept that, but she loved you. I bet in her own way she did accept you as I believed my mom did. You are a beautiful human being.
Trey, your story was emotionally captivating. I am so sorry that you are still hurting. You are super gorgeous, seemingly kind and genuine. I am so thankful that God changed the direction of your suicide attempt. You have so much to offer, keep living your best life.🙏🏽❤👍🏽
Man, I just ran across this video. I did not expect it to have the effect it did on me. Man,your authenticity was 100. You allowed yourself to be vulnerable. You have blessed folks with this video. I have subscribed and liked. Keep doing great things!
I have seen blk folk look at really cute little boys, and say things like 'he's going to be a lady magnet' or a 'heart breaker' because they project this hyper sexual expectation onto them, (especially if they are light skin) but when that same boy turns out to be gay, those same people will project their disappointment onto them in the worse way. I can imagine that some of what you went through is rooted into this ignorant psychology. All I know is that I can truly understand why so many black men would rather be known as a killer than be gay. I can also understand why DL guys are so rampant but the culture and people pay the price end the end.
People don't realize it hurts to be put on trial for being who you are. Your story is similar to mine. I have a very toxic abusive dysfunctional family. Society is no better. I appreciate you. You're so brave...and the walk gay black men go through is real and being put on trial for everything we are to people is wrong....that SHIT HURTS!!!❤️❤️❤️
God loves you so so much. He has not removed the thorns, those who pierce others for transgressions, but said his grace is sufficient. Give that grace and you will receive that grace sweetman. My son is gay. I love, love, love, him, and I love you too!
I just ran across this January 2, 2023 and it Breaks My Heart, that you had to go through this, but i went through the same thing growing up, but as i got older i didn't give a dame about what Family thought about me. The ones that was there for me, i LOVE them, but the ones that didn't ? i could careless. but i learn it the hard way.I had Family that i LOVED treated me bad, and they hurt me growing up, today i have NOTHING to do with them, i don't miss them or anything. I live my life, and i don't have to answer to any of them, or anyone. They are so many HYPOCRITE out here, and RELIGIOUS People are The Worst Ones(not all)smh Hey Trey Good Luck and Stay Safe, don't let nobody bring you down, not even FAMILY.
Trey, I heard your story and I am sorry that you didn't have anyone in your family there for you, or to support you as you were finding your TRUTH. I had a family member who confided in me about his TRUTH before he told his family. I supported him, and his dreams... I even cosigned for an apartment for him and his lover... he was my baby boy. I WAS THERE when others wasn't... because I LOVED him. I was hurt when he told me his TRUTH, because society is already hard on us for being black, but black and gay.. back then it wasn't as accepting as it is now. I see your tears, and I feel your pain as you tell your story, your TRUTH. Unfortunately, the bond, relationship that I had with my family member is no more, and it broke my heart. But, I have peace in knowing that I was there when he needed me, asking for nothing in return but his love. Anyways, he's doing well .. (or so it seems), and I pray for him daily. Hopefully, Trey your family will allow you to be your TRUE self when you go home again. Blessings and Favor, Linda
I appreciate hearing your story. It hit home for sure! The word “sissy” was something my father used loosely, be mindful I was only 4, or five yrs old hearing that. Whenever he said that word, I never knew what it meant. All I can feel was hurt, and disappointment hearing him say it. After all these years, I’ve experienced my very first bully which happened to be someone I call “Dad”.
Man when I tell you our stories are so similar. I was born and raised in Detroit. I was born in the era where they use the sissy word too. My grandma, I loved her dearly would use this word every time she saw gay ppl on talk shows. My uncle used this word about me when he thought I wasn’t listening but I heard him and this stuck with me when I came out to my family when I turned 30. I left my mom’s house when I was 19. And because I couldn’t truly be myself around her and my sister I never had a true relationship with them after this. Everything was a business transaction. But 19 and down I was real close to both of them. My mom passed away in 2022 when I was 42 and all my mom knew the 19y/o me. She never knew the adult me. But thank goodness the rest of my family accepted me with open arms. Thank you for sharing your story 🙌🏾❤️💯
Trey bro, this was a powerful testimony. Your story will indeed help others who are struggling with their orientation and coming out to their families. God loves you for who you are. As long as you're not hurting anyone, be who you are. I trust someday God will link you to that special someone for life. Keep the faith, keep loving yourself and God. You're going to be just fine bro. Much love and blessings from one gay black man to another.
I think your Grandma loved you more than you ever knew🤗🥰... I think your Mom intentionally made that comment after your "Mama passed" cause she felt you had a closer connect with her Mom than with her... Keep ya head up bro... It gets better 💪🏿
Thank you so much for sharing your story and your truth. As a gay man older than yourself I remember navigating family and friends for my own health, well being, and survival. I’m so glad your still here with us. I pray that you not just survive but thrive . Stay strong and remember you are loved❤
Speaking YOUR truth will help you continue to heal in ways you never imagined! It’s nice to see a black gay male be bold, honest, wise, strong & express ALL your emotions free of judgement! Love your vids & you as well! Please keep posting!😇💙
Man I had to immediately subscribed after seeing you cry. Just want to say please, please don't cry no more sad tears. For the record I have one son and if he ever tells me he's Gay I will embrace him and tell him it's okay. Also I will assure him that I'll always love him and be there for him as well. I would also asked him to bring his partner to visit at my home so I can get to know him. I Love my son too much and would not want to cause him more pain. Sending peace and love from The Bahamas! 🙏✌️❤️🇧🇸
Hey man that was so brave of you to tell everyone about your experience. It really hit home and brought a few tears to my eyes as I had a similar experience with my parents, they were homophobic as well, and as a matter of fact, so were the rest of my family. I don't have anything to do with any of them, but I have my friends. My parents are dead now, my mum was accepting at the end but my father wasn't. It's a shame but they didn't have any good education, so as a result they were narrow minded and prejudiced. You are a fantastic guy, so keep making the videos. Love you man.
James I'm so sorry you've experience homobic parents, also I'm sorry for your parents lost James!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Keep your head up and Keep believing yourself you will fine a lover that fit your sexuality preferences .
Thanks for sharing....When you told the part about what your mom said to you, it broke my heard and I just wanted to reach through the screen and give you the biggest hug. I felt your pain. Glad to hear you and your Mom are in a better place now. It's completely understandable that you still feel the pain today. I firmly believe that talking about it is the best way to heal.
Thank you for sharing your story, I am currently going through some stuff myself, your story is relatable to mine, and searching healing and self love.
My brother, sometimes the ones we loves the most are the ones we allow to hurt we when we lease expect. We have to stay strong within ourselves. There are so many people who are still hurting in adulthood. Stay strong my brother.
Grew up in the same situation. It's a hard life, but all we can do is make the best life for ourselves and stay away from people who make us feel like we are difficult to love. If someone is too attached to their dogma to be open to loving us unconditionally, the are missing out on a great relationship with us.
Thank you for this! We're about the same age and I grew up in the South in a religious family and I know EXACTLY where you are coming from! Stay strong my phyne attractive gay brother! 🌈 ✊🏼 ♂️
My brother I just ran across your post. So much appreciate you sharing your truth. Growing up as a black gay man so much of this is familiar. I feel your pain and I'm so sorry that you had to go through this. Some of us in the black community do not understand the damage that they do particular that you young black men who are coming to terms with their sexuality. Thanks for sharing your story!
TREY --- CONGRATULATIONS! I have listened and, am an automatic fan. CRITICS --- are those who see your authenticity, who LISTEN to your ability to ARTICULATE that authenticity and, who WISH that they had the COURAGE to be just like YOU! CARRY ON!
Thank you for sharing your truth. I remember being called a sissy and punk from relatives and classmates. It used to make me feel so bad but I could not change myself. I came to terms with myself at 16. I remember telling my parents that I could not change. From that point on, they accepted me for me. I know how it feels to be uncomfortable around your own family. We got pass this and I became my mother's helper. She would send me to pay bills, go grocery shopping and keep the house clean. These things made me the self sufficient person that I am today. My family accepted all my friends like family. So thank you again for sharing your story. It brought back some memories, good and bad.
You probably don’t know me, and never will. But tou have to know that this video has changed a 17 year old in France. You changed my life. I needed this video. I thought i was alone, that my story was doomed to lead me doing the worst to myself, i wanted to k!ll myself recently, but your video gave me hope. It inspired me to look forward in the future, to know that there is an end to the suffering and that i will actually be a full adult just like you. I want to be like you, i hope i will have all the strength to go where you are right now.
Such a good looking and well spoken guy. You’re a great spokes person for yourself and for the rest of us gay people. By the way, you’ve got a great singing voice, I was blown away. In the south, almost no one’s family is open. Great video. I got disowned by my mother her last word for me were, “I’m not leaving you anything because of your lifestyle.” At this point, I have NO contact with family. Find someone who loves you for you. Be done with the rest.
I can definitely relate to this topic and treatment. I feel like many times people forget that none of us are perfect so we shouldn’t be judging anyone. Never allow another person to make you feel less than. Only God can judge you not family nor church people only God!💕✨ (and many times the people who are bashing openly gay people are sometimes secretly gay or have lived this lifestyle… hypocrites)
I feel you man. Thanks for speaking your truth. I've been through what you are going through. You fine and you will grow up a happy and loving person.❤️☺️
I am 19 still live at home with my mom and dad...I am in the closet and they are homophobic...I honestly can relate to some of the comments that already make u never wanna come out...I don't ever see myself coming out cause the fear of them disowning me is real in my case I could honestly lose my friends too...I really don't know how I will ever be happy but... hey it's cool hearing you got through it :)
Trey I just want to say you are very brave and whether you believe it or not you're a very strong individual your story is very similar to mine some of the things you were saying about family and that Bond especially when you're from a big family there by the grace of God go I God bless you God keep you got shot in his light upon you God loves you and so do I stay strong brother💯💖...
Inspirational story please upload more videos like this very inspiring for black gay men like myself I had similar experiences with my family as a black gay man
Hello Mr Trey Presley I'm a black gay man who is 34 years old I live in Phoenix Arizona and I love your video I can relate to what you went through about your family not accepting you for being gay I experienced the same thing and this video and story really touched me and it hit home with me and I just want to say thanks for sharing it because it really helped me heal some wounds in my past
One of the most heart felt post I've seen on TH-cam. You are correct, WE must do better! As stated, so many in our community have taken their life, over such hatred. Being black, a minority, one would assume things would be easier. It's not, far from it. Stay strong and be your authentic self, my brotha!
Beautiful story, man. Thank you for opening your heart and inviting us in. I pray for your continued strength, growth and happiness. Much love to you and keep telling your story. ❤️
You probably already have heard this before. But I'll say it again. You are not alone my brother! Know that people ALL over the world are praying for you. Especially a brother in STL. You keep pushing through & make your OWN reality. I know it's rough. Tryst I know. But it's not impossible. Don't you ever forget that God loves you EXACTLY the way you are. Much luv my brother!💛
Hey Trey, I can see the pain in you and I pray that it is replaced with Love in every area of your life that you need it. Sometimes we're better off in our own spaces so we can live free of negative energy that's harmful to the development of a healthy self-image and love-life. We can't force others to change but we can love them from a comfortable distance. Just know that, regardless of what anybody's assessment of you may be, our "Creator" gave birth to a perfect creation named Trey Pressley. Stay strong, Love conquers all. 🙏🏽 🗡🛡
Thank you for telling your truth, Trey. I am a lot older than you, Black and gay. It pains me to hear that you younger people are still experiencing the prejudice from family that we experienced years ago. There was a very high level of prejudice against gays that existed then in the Black community at that time, and I see, unfortunately, that it is still there. You are truly a courageous young man and I am so happy that you found support in your extended family. Take care and prosper.
This was a dope confession that you did man. And I appreciate you for being strong and doing this. Nothing is better than loving and accepting yourself.
hey Trey...thanks for sharing....my story is the same. The most important thing to remember is the Lord's love for you....period...when family can't support...The Lord is always there..faithful no matter what!! love you Guy
Tray I love your story it is very inspiring and I am glad that you were able to come out to your family. I live in a country where being gay is not accepted so it makes it very difficult or hard for me to live my truth. There are times when I just don't care anymore about what people say or think of me anymore.
@@treypressley7755 Gregory like trey said What is your location / City / countryyou live at . Because that's a shame and it probably making you feel uncomfortable and trap in a unsupported Contry and city!!!!!!!!!!!! I whould try to move if I was you Gregory because it can be superrrrrr dangerous for you !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Omg omg omg!!! Thank you soooo much for sharing your story. Thank you so much for continuing to be yourself. The way I relate to this is insane. Wow! Omg going home and not feeling comfortable to be yourself is hitting me hard. What’s your relationship with your family especially your mom now? Do you still feel the urge to gain their acceptance or their approval of you?
Thank you so much man. Honestly i would like to sit and talk to my fam about everything I'm sharing and try to get them to understand. The thing is they are very old school and deeply rooted into religion. That's not my life anymore. I have learned and grown so much. I just don't feel like the convo would go anywhere. Does that make sense?
My parents took me to a psychiatrist for children when they read a love letter sent to me from a classmate in middle school. They thought I had a mental illness. Yes it was painful growing up in Houston as gay black boy. If feel you brother. Thank you for your courage, and also for giving a voice and knowledge to many black gay youth and their families.
You are strong, smart, beautiful and most of all vulnerable. If life was a race, you are ahead of all the people who hurt you by being you. I love you.
I appreciate you sharing your story with us. The gay family understands exactly how you felt and what you were going through. I hope you have a strong support system with friends, you seem like a really nice man. I hope your family sees this and comes in around to support you and love you the way you need and deserve to be loved
Trey Pressley you are beautiful just the way you are. "Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all." You were born into that family to help you learn to love yourself, and obviously you have done a great job of it so far. Sharing your truth will allow you to give your family back their pain. It is theirs, not yours. Give it back to them and carry it no more. Time to replace that pain with unconditional love for yourself and them. When you see yourself in the right light always, they will too. And just know that where Grandma is now, she knows that she was wrong. In time you will learn to feel her helping you from the other side...truly. You are a Shining Star bro, believe it!
Thank you for your story! I am a 63 year old Black man who lives two separate lives. I've known that I was gay since I was a little boy and the messages I got from my Black family was that you can't be gay. I heard all of the talk about men being sissies or light in the loafers, or isn't it a shame that so-in-so is a fag. I learned early on to try to be a "man." I know that everyone knows because I don't talk about women or have any romantic relationships with women. I have a best gay friend, but I haven't dated in ages. I'm very successful in my career and I thought that would be enough. Its not. My mother passed away in November 2022. I know she knew and I wish that I would have said to her that I am gay. I've never been suicidal, but I"m tired and really trying to build up the courage to come out. Being in the closet is exhausting because I'm always making excuses and staying away from things. It is nice and hear another Black man tell his truth. I needed to hear you. Thank you so much!
It's weird how many people sweep female homophobes under the rug. Some of my biggest bullies growing up were girls/women. They were the first to point out my queerness, the first to put me down for it, and the first to get me in fights because of it.
Hello Trey. This video just popped up on my TH-cam feed. I'm here to tell you you're preaching to the choir and the Amen section. I'm 54 Black, Gay and proud. I could tell some stories about family, so called friends and especially phony "church people ". To keep it short; just know that you're NOT alone by a long shot. Your story is similar to my story and millions across the globe. You are a strong young man and I know your journey will be a difficult one. Keep doing you! 🙏❤️👍
I happen to see this video. Bro you came through some hurtful pain. I willing to bet it has made you very very strong. You may have felt no love from some of your family, Look how many lives you are touching. Look at how many people that feel loved from you and your videos. You You have helped so many people know they too can get through it. Continue to share your stories. You could be saving lives. Love you too.
I’m always told I need to let it go, it’s in the past. Unfortunately it’s not easy to let go of hurt. You will always have those memories. I share your pain and I wish I could wipe your pain away.
Trey 😢😢😢 I'm in tears. I go through the same thing with my family. And it hurts like hell. My family has basically turned there back on me. When I came out my mom said some very very horrible horrible things to me. I thought she would never ever say. I hid myself for many many years because I knew it was gonna be this way. And I wasn't ready. But now I'm dealing with it and about to ho move to New York to be with my boyfriend. We definitely gotta do better and love one another. This video really hit home. And I see I'm not alone
I'm sorry you went through that man. Its something that never gets any easier. Continue to stay positive man and keep ur head up. U aren't alone!!! Live your life to the fullest man. Much ❤️
@@treypressley7755 Thank you so much boo. I definitely will. So as I leave here my life is definitely gonna change for the better in New York. I'm sorry you had to go through it to. We both are strong gay black men and nothing will never ever break us ❤️❤️😘😘
Trey I'm in FLA..Orlando to be exact...I grew up in an Era where being DL was the norm....so evolving was tough so I say that to say this....the ills that was around when I grew up taught me that every day u have to stay true to urself.....ur history and experience has made u who u r...ur a sweetheart...I'm jagged and edgy but us as FAM ....knows that being BLACK and GAY is the most beautiful thing...don't EVER dim ur light ! And p.s. u seem to have it wholesome.....much props to that. Shine bright like a diamond love. PEACE❤
Thank you for sharing your story. I knew I was attracted to men when I was 6-years old. My father passed away that year and my mother died a year later. I was sent to a foster home where there was the threat of being transferred to a detention center if I did nothing wrong. Losing my parents so young, I have never felt like I fit in. I grew up afraid that someone would discover that I was gay and that I would be thrown to the wolves. I did everything the church said to do even to the point of getting married. After 28 years, my wife left. It’s was a few years later that I finally learned to realized that God loves me and that’s when I started loving myself. I’ve served the Lord all my life working in church music programs and being a caregiver to those in need. God is going to judge us by the way we show love to others. I can tell what type of character you are. If I could, I’d give you a heart-felt hug to encourage you. I realize that I need to share my story too. Thank you for being so open. ❤
@@treypressley7755 hi trey , my name is Neil and I from Jamaica . I came out to my mother because she went through my email and send a message to a guy I was dating. To be honest the guy was very upset because she was telling him that she knew that we spent the some time together at a hotel . He told her to ask me and leave him alone. Anyway she did ask me and I told her yes and she ask me why am I doing that. From that day my relationship with her was different. My mother and my brother heat me for being gay. Because of that I feel like I am trapped in a place where I am not free to be myself. My brother calls me a battyman and tell me that mi fi dead. Trey the funny apart about all of this is that my brother and my mother are living in my house and I do everything for them. I cant even take a man home with me they will saying things to hurt them right in front of me. There are times when I want to take home my man and make love and I can't. I am now 44 years old and I feel like a little boy trapped into a man's body who is not free.
Brave & Heartfelt! Well done. I think you realize how many people will benefit from this vlog. You have nothing but great intentions. Continue to share your truth, your journey, your experiences, knowing damn well that there are souls out there who will benefit from your life story as it continues to unfold. I really hope that more people come on board and subscribe! Best of luck buddy!
That hit home. Your story is a lot of our story. Sucks that even though we grow we still carry some if not all of that hurt and rejection from being a black gay kid in the south. Thanks for sharing man 😊
Sweetie i know how you feel im 44 years old and gay my family knew about me my stepdad hates gay i have to wait and move out to come out i been this way all my life im here to tell you live your life make yourself happy just be careful out there people will try to hurt us because of who we are especially in the black community all im saying is just be yourself
Thank you for sharing your story baby. I know it’s very difficult and there’s still a lot of pain in your voice. Sounds like you Live your best life in spite of negativity that you’ve been forced to deal with. Thanks again for sharing it was inspirational for me!
My Brother I watch your video it brought tears to my eyes I am a Black Gay man and very proud of it am 60 years old my Birthday is December 15 1962 am a Sagittarius I speak my truth everyday my mom new I was Gay when I told her she tell me Baby I already know that I say how you were Different from the rest of your siblings and I carry you for nine months 😢I felt relieved but anyway live in your truth don’t let nobody bring you down pray I pray everyday just keep living there with come around one day I am following you so take care my brother
Keep sharing your truth! And keep being you regardless of what others may think or say. Love and take care of yourself. With time perhaps other family member will accept your truth; perhaps not. That's their loss. Keep Being You!
No Gay person ever needs to apologize for whatever they feel about straight people. We are made Gay, and if we feel negatively about straight people for the things they put us through, it is what it is. They earned it. They earned it.
Trey a gay person is more than your sexual orientation, you are a human worthy of all humanity. Much love sweetie.
Appreciate your story. My dad could tell I was gay and he raised me. He loved me.I didn't care what anyone else thought of me. I remember when I was 19. I overheard my grandma laughing at me on the phone to a person she hated. That still bothers me 25 years later. Trucking saved my life. When I was 21 I got to see very masculine men who were gay that I didn't see in Mississippi. I went buckwild while I was traveling from state to state. What's funny about my family now. I make a very good living but because I'm gay they look at me like I'm less than. I have a cousin in prison for murder. They think more of him than me. Pensacola is kinda like the Jackson,MS area. Not much to do but church, work and gossip. I think your family probably hates that you are good looking, successful and you made it out of that area. They are probably miserable and want you stuck there. That part of Florida is like Alabama or Mississippi.
This resonates with me so much my dad and mom accepted me when I told them but it took me to move out because I said you can disown me but you can’t kick me to the curb.. but I want to get my cdl and begin building with someone one day.
It's so CRAZY to me that the BLK community is down for pokie, raay ray, single moms and everything in between but AUTOMATICALLY give the side eye to those of us who are in the LGB experience. YES - we have a lot of mess in the community in regards to promiscuity, substance abuse and the like that can give a stigma to "the lifestyle". BUT - I imagine that if folks were not getting ostracized by family to the extent that they often are, we would not be as inclined to run those behaviors.
Same here bro
I totally understand ❤ I have to share my story w you
Very well said!!!!!
Sounds similar to my story. I'm 41 and grew up in South Carolina. It's double hard to be Black and gay.
why do u even wanna be gay..do u have mental problem
@@WazzyTV yeah
It’s sad really cause it’s not our business who people choose to love that’s Gods business and that’s our problem in the black culture….WE judge too much and too hard ! 🙏❤️
I totally understand bud. I’ve been through similar situations most of my life. I’m close to being 50yrs old and alone. The only things I have is my career, faith and friends. Please hang in there. 😊❤
I’m white and my partner was black. So I dealt with racism from both sides.
I came out as gay to my family my freshman year of high school. Told my dad my junior year. 26, and it's been a roller coaster for me. I'm inspired by your story, sir. Thank you for taking time to tell it how it really is.
I have never commented on anything like this virtually. I am not on any social media. I came across this clip by happenstance. I choose to comment for the first time ever and speak something into your life - please receive it -
You are enough !
You are loved !
You are special !
You are an example!
You are a demonstration to hundreds of thousands of gay men of what it looks like to be different!
Being different is ok . God is different . What he does is different ! What he creates is different!
I could say so much more but I will digress . We / I love you . ❤
Many are called but few are chosen . You have been chosen to lead the way and be the difference in the world ! God is Love and LOVE IS YOU
🌈
I definitely feel where you are coming from. I am also a gay black male and was raised by a single narcissistic mother. While my mother brought alot of good to my life, she was very abusive, controlling and did not react well to me coming out. She often referred to my sexuality as "that gay stuff" and it was not to be talked about. I removed her from my life when I was 29 back in 2015 and it was the best decision I ever made. My life got so much better.
You are a beautiful man and I know you will find the love and acceptance you long for. Thank you for sharing your story and I wish you well!
My heart goes out to you! Religion and our culture as black people have a lot to do with how we perceive sexuality. There are parents who will not accept their son or daughter’s homosexuality, but it’s so important to accept your self and love yourself despite this. Sometimes going through a parent rejecting you is a way to learn how to love yourself, as painful as it is. Once you no longer seek validation, acceptance, and love and find it in yourself, the way others see you becomes transformed. People can only do better when they know better. 🙏🏿❤️
💯
Wow very well said.. U only need validation from self love❤..If U live your life for others approval U will never be happy. U never give up the truth of who U R in search of something or for someone else. Your sexual preference doesn't define who U R. You have to live within your integrity...There attitudes about the subject matter rather positiive or negative defines who they R. If they oppose and object then U love❤ them from a distance ..move on don't worry be happy. We only have one life and it's yours to live the way U see fit.. U R a child of God to spites others opinions.. And he loves U unconditionally...
Yes, sir -- this is the education that should not be secret, but it eludes so many.
I've always said it feels like a double whammy being black and gay smh. We get it from all angles and it take a lot of strength, courage and resilience to be black gay man. I was only worried how my mom and brother would take it. They both were very accepting but there are other family members who try to be slick and say hurtful things sometimes but. We chose who we want to share our energy with, fam or not. If someone doesn't accept you for something small as sexuality then f it
ADULTS are the ones that put the thoughts in young children’s heads. I never thought about being gay until my dad started taking toys away from us because he didn’t like us calling them “our baby”. Adults need to understand that children aren’t thinking about sexuality until it is INTRODUCED to them. I started wondering if I was gay because I liked to do certain things and adults told me that those things were for girls and sissy’s. I suggest that parents just let their child be true to themselves and go through the phases of self development without adults interfering and putting thoughts into their heads.
Wow this was very emotional, I couldn't imagine my mother not accepting me , I'm sorry that you had to experience that from your mother. I hope one day your mother can truly accept you for all that you are.
Thank u so much man. I hope so as well.
ikr....
My mom don't support me but I m part of the LGBTQIA I'm a transgender woman Im from Pensacola FL
I feel you. I grew up in the 50s and 60s. Homosexuality was illegal. It's so hard for people to not be their true selves. I'm masculine not sure if it's from necessity or is it me. But I can surely emphasize. Hugs and love my brother
Thank u so much man.
Trey, it saddens me because it's so obvious that your fam means the world to you, however, as a grown man, you must find your strength in who you are boo!! If your fam can't accept you, move on babe, family or not, you gotta live life for Trey!!💯💝🥰
How did you survive? I mean how did you manage to hide it? Or were you out anyway?
@ronaldmedley3827 How did you guys find your partners back then? Did hookup culture exist back then? How did you guys find out about each other back then? Or was it mostly closeted heterosexual men secretly hooking up whenever/wherever they could?
man u got me teary eyes when your family puts you down for being gay, especially your mom if you are a momma 's boy it does something to you on the inside. my mom cried when i told her and she gave me her religious stance on the matter, she did hug and kiss me, but i was sad the whole day i felt like i let her down
I hear all the hurt in your voice. I had to distance myself from my “very religious” family when I came out. God is love, unconditional love. Let them live in their hypocrisy. I have an amazing chosen family, or as Uncle Clifford would say, framily. People who deserve to be in your life will love you the way you deserve to be loved and leave the job of judgment to god. Sending hugs, light and love your way!
God isn’t Real
@@dequanrick2209 I love and accept different ideology. Speak to what feels true for you and I sincerely wish you a good life with whatever form of higher power that speaks to you including the higher power of self. Have a beautiful day!
💯💜
@@MadameNoir 💯💜
@@HISBestLifeCoach Thank you love. Have a wonderful day!
Sometimes you don't have to say anything. My grandmother knew when I was young and loved me regardless, along with the rest of my family. I am now 61 and believe it or not it was only 6 years ago that I accepted the fact that I was gay. To the young people, embrace and accept who you are with no apologies to anyone. Love and blessings Trey.
Thank you so much man. ❤️❤️❤️
I'm a 18 years old Gay Man that my mom , my grandma ( my mom MOM ) knew I was Gay without saying anything!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I will support any LGBTQ+++ People but if a lgbtq+ person start getting disrespectful then I will do it back . I mean What I Say !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My grandmother knew that I was gay too. But it wasn't due to her having any kinda gaydar. It was likely the compromising position she caught me in with a very long handled broomstick that convinced her of it!
I think it would be a good idea if a gay BM would write a book that will help more people understand what being gay actually is. There are a lot of things that the general audience simply do not understand. For example, the other day I saw a video of a BGM (black gay male) wearing heels, a purse, lipstick and a full blown beard. To me he just had too much going on. It makes one think that you are a male who is trying to hold on to being straight and being gay at the same time. If you're going to attract males do you do it by being masculine or feminine? It's hard to accept things that are so complicated. A book would help a lot.
@@NicoleSparkle-le9tg What are you saying???
I feel ya. I had to learn my happiness trumps family. I can and will only be around people who love me. It’s sad that it has to be like that but family is not always “ Home” be where you are loved. You and nobody else deserves to be in a trauma situation.
This is so true man and it's how i operate without even thinking about it.
This is so damn relatable, when you said your family is only open on their terms that hit so hard because in one sentence you summed up the explanation so many go through in such an accurate way! Thank you Trey ❤
Yes, yes, yes! And guess what? That part of the relationship is not based in "religious" law. It is merely a manipulation to set one person over the other in a false hierarchy.
Trey, thank you for sharing your story. It helps more people than you might realize. While you might not have the support of the bigots in your family, I"m so proud of you for not letting that hold you back. Continue to focus on personal goals. Success is the sweetest revenge.
I have a cousin about 6 six years younger than me. She came out as lesbian to the rest of the family (she first came out to me and the other cousins) last year and EVERYTHING I saw her go through from my mom, her parents and other older adults in the fam was EXACTLY what I feared my entire life. I'm bisexual. To make it worse, I'm a black male and bisexual. From a religious family. Even though I'm at a much more progressive point in my self love journey and I came out to myself last year - I'm still in the closet. I literally just found your channel but Trey, I cannot tell you what this video means to me. TH-cam has always been my safe space to figure myself out, and lately I've been watching coming out videos A LOT. This video in particular, has been the most relatable one because even though I haven't actually come out yet, I know what's gonna happen. THIS is a good example. Right now they don't accept my cousin. They understand that they can't do nothing to change her, but their tolerating her - not accepting her. I so wish we could have conversations about our queerness and that I could go through this with her, but I'm not ready for that yet. I am most definetly slowly coming out though
You summed up my childhood, except I was that little black boy that could not hide. It was a nightmare growing up in many respects.
It's difficult but sometimes you just have to let your family go if it's a toxic situation....
We have no choice who our family is because your born into it , but anyone can be family and sometimes you have to create the life you want . As long as you except you it’s all good . Hope you find more peace and get better as
Life excels you
Trey, parental rejection is dreadful, the WORST. And even though you press forward and live your truth, you still feel that void of parental love and acceptance. And I don’t know what to advise about that. Because if you try to live against your truth, just to make them happy, YOU will be utterly miserable. So do Trey, be Trey. Leave the door open to your family to embrace you on YOUR terms and engage them when you can. Your bold transparent testimony is gonna resonate with a lot of people who are walking in your shoes, struggling with rejection. You’re truly an influencer, using this powerful platform to say an encouraging word.
Thank u so much man and u are so right man. We can only be who we are. When we try to be anything other than that it is miserable. I do hope that me talking about my truth helps someone. That would make me so happy.
@@treypressley7755 I sm so sorrybfor the trauna inflicted by your mother and at some point by proxy; your grandmother. I have experienced family division. A lot of us old school survivors need to reach out to you young ones for just the support and counseling needed to keep you from the pills or a slit wrist. I know and I personally hurt everytime I hear. You are loved...as a person. As a man and as a man of colour. We have and can accomplish as much as the "main stream". But as unique as we are; we need to find ourselves along the way. I would live to start an outreach for our cause. We still need ....family....we still need support....we still need love....we still need a community. Hold on Brother. Breathe. Find your center...your soul. Evolve from your experience and live your truth so that another may survive. Peace and love.
Right! The other side is how unfair it would be for straight men and women to have someone with them, who's not naturally or genuinely attracted to them at all. The culture is pushing more chaos and turmoil by pushing gay people into unloving, disingenuous relationships. I really feel for countries who criminalize homosexuality. Imagine the number of marriages that will be totally fake and dishonest and the generational curses that will come from them? We've got to end this homophobia, it's not winning us any favor.
I'm sorry to hear your story. The sadness is palpable. The only truly unconditional love is the love of Jesus Christ. He loves you, and so do I. Your story will save some lives! Thank you 😊
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Trey, your story is so compelling and yet it's so familiar to most of us. My mom died on last year at age 91. Although she loved me, because of her religious conviction she could never fully accept the fact that I was homosexual. It's the cognitive dissonance. She struggled with it and she cried about it because she loved me, but her religion would not allow her too fully accept me as homosexual. Trey, I had to leave it at that. Nothing was going to change but the love was there. You had your grandmother's love and remember that her group didn't or couldn't fully accept that, but she loved you. I bet in her own way she did accept you as I believed my mom did. You are a beautiful human being.
Trey, your story was emotionally captivating. I am so sorry that you are still hurting. You are super gorgeous, seemingly kind and genuine. I am so thankful that God changed the direction of your suicide attempt. You have so much to offer, keep living your best life.🙏🏽❤👍🏽
Man, I just ran across this video. I did not expect it to have the effect it did on me. Man,your authenticity was 100. You allowed yourself to be vulnerable. You have blessed folks with this video. I have subscribed and liked. Keep doing great things!
Thank you so much man. It makes me happy that it affected u hopefully in a good way. Much love.
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I have seen blk folk look at really cute little boys, and say things like 'he's going to be a lady magnet' or a 'heart breaker' because they project this hyper sexual expectation onto them, (especially if they are light skin) but when that same boy turns out to be gay, those same people will project their disappointment onto them in the worse way. I can imagine that some of what you went through is rooted into this ignorant psychology. All I know is that I can truly understand why so many black men would rather be known as a killer than be gay. I can also understand why DL guys are so rampant but the culture and people pay the price end the end.
People don't realize it hurts to be put on trial for being who you are. Your story is similar to mine. I have a very toxic abusive dysfunctional family. Society is no better. I appreciate you. You're so brave...and the walk gay black men go through is real and being put on trial for everything we are to people is wrong....that SHIT HURTS!!!❤️❤️❤️
Amen
God loves you so so much. He has not removed the thorns, those who pierce others for transgressions, but said his grace is sufficient. Give that grace and you will receive that grace sweetman. My son is gay. I love, love, love, him, and I love you too!
Thank you so much. This means everything
I just ran across this January 2, 2023 and it Breaks My Heart, that you had to go through this, but i went through the same thing growing up, but as i got older i didn't give a dame about what Family thought about me. The ones that was there for me, i LOVE them, but the ones that didn't ? i could careless. but i learn it the hard way.I had Family that i LOVED treated me bad, and they hurt me growing up, today i have NOTHING to do with them, i don't miss them or anything. I live my life, and i don't have to answer to any of them, or anyone. They are so many HYPOCRITE out here, and RELIGIOUS People are The Worst Ones(not all)smh Hey Trey Good Luck and Stay Safe, don't let nobody bring you down, not even FAMILY.
Trey, I heard your story and I am sorry that you didn't have anyone in your family there for you, or to support you as you were finding your TRUTH. I had a family member who confided in me about his TRUTH before he told his family. I supported him, and his dreams... I even cosigned for an apartment for him and his lover... he was my baby boy. I WAS THERE when others wasn't... because I LOVED him. I was hurt when he told me his TRUTH, because society is already hard on us for being black, but black and gay.. back then it wasn't as accepting as it is now.
I see your tears, and I feel your pain as you tell your story, your TRUTH. Unfortunately, the bond, relationship that I had with my family member is no more, and it broke my heart. But, I have peace in knowing that I was there when he needed me, asking for nothing in return but his love. Anyways, he's doing well .. (or so it seems), and I pray for him daily. Hopefully, Trey your family will allow you to be your TRUE self when you go home again.
Blessings and Favor,
Linda
I appreciate hearing your story. It hit home for sure! The word “sissy” was something my father used loosely, be mindful I was only 4, or five yrs old hearing that. Whenever he said that word, I never knew what it meant. All I can feel was hurt, and disappointment hearing him say it. After all these years, I’ve experienced my very first bully which happened to be someone I call “Dad”.
Sorry you went through that
Man when I tell you our stories are so similar. I was born and raised in Detroit. I was born in the era where they use the sissy word too. My grandma, I loved her dearly would use this word every time she saw gay ppl on talk shows. My uncle used this word about me when he thought I wasn’t listening but I heard him and this stuck with me when I came out to my family when I turned 30. I left my mom’s house when I was 19. And because I couldn’t truly be myself around her and my sister I never had a true relationship with them after this. Everything was a business transaction. But 19 and down I was real close to both of them. My mom passed away in 2022 when I was 42 and all my mom knew the 19y/o me. She never knew the adult me. But thank goodness the rest of my family accepted me with open arms. Thank you for sharing your story 🙌🏾❤️💯
u handsome 🙈❤
I am in tears 😢 and you didn't deserve such treatment. Rooting for you genuinely. Stay focused and unapologetically you. Harriet
Trey bro, this was a powerful testimony. Your story will indeed help others who are struggling with their orientation and coming out to their families. God loves you for who you are. As long as you're not hurting anyone, be who you are. I trust someday God will link you to that special someone for life. Keep the faith, keep loving yourself and God. You're going to be just fine bro. Much love and blessings from one gay black man to another.
I think your Grandma loved you more than you ever knew🤗🥰... I think your Mom intentionally made that comment after your "Mama passed" cause she felt you had a closer connect with her Mom than with her... Keep ya head up bro... It gets better 💪🏿
Now that you mention it, I totally agree. I think that remark was extremely spiteful and intended to directly hurt his feelings.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and your truth. As a gay man older than yourself I remember navigating family and friends for my own health, well being, and survival. I’m so glad your still here with us. I pray that you not just survive but thrive . Stay strong and remember you are loved❤
Speaking YOUR truth will help you continue to heal in ways you never imagined! It’s nice to see a black gay male be bold, honest, wise, strong & express ALL your emotions free of judgement! Love your vids & you as well! Please keep posting!😇💙
I told James to keep his head up high and be proud!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I told James to keep his head up high and be proud!!!!!!!!!!
I told James to keep his head up high
Man I had to immediately subscribed after seeing you cry. Just want to say please, please don't cry no more sad tears. For the record I have one son and if he ever tells me he's Gay I will embrace him and tell him it's okay. Also I will assure him that I'll always love him and be there for him as well. I would also asked him to bring his partner to visit at my home so I can get to know him. I Love my son too much and would not want to cause him more pain.
Sending peace and love from The Bahamas! 🙏✌️❤️🇧🇸
Hey man that was so brave of you to tell everyone about your experience. It really hit home and brought a few tears to my eyes as I had a similar experience with my parents, they were homophobic as well, and as a matter of fact, so were the rest of my family. I don't have anything to do with any of them, but I have my friends. My parents are dead now, my mum was accepting at the end but my father wasn't. It's a shame but they didn't have any good education, so as a result they were narrow minded and prejudiced. You are a fantastic guy, so keep making the videos. Love you man.
James I'm so sorry you've experience homobic parents, also I'm sorry for your parents lost James!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Keep your head up and Keep believing yourself you will fine a lover that fit your sexuality preferences .
Also I watch Straight porn, Gay porn, Bisexual porn 2 women 1 guy or the other way around!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm So serious!!!!!!!!!!!!
What a beautiful man - and such a sad story. total honesty, that's rare
Thanks for sharing....When you told the part about what your mom said to you, it broke my heard and I just wanted to reach through the screen and give you the biggest hug. I felt your pain. Glad to hear you and your Mom are in a better place now. It's completely understandable that you still feel the pain today. I firmly believe that talking about it is the best way to heal.
Thank you for sharing your story, I am currently going through some stuff myself, your story is relatable to mine, and searching healing and self love.
My brother, sometimes the ones we loves the most are the ones we allow to hurt we when we lease expect. We have to stay strong within ourselves. There are so many people who are still hurting in adulthood. Stay strong my brother.
This broke my heart. I’m literally in tears. 😢
i’ve cried three different times 😖
Grew up in the same situation. It's a hard life, but all we can do is make the best life for ourselves and stay away from people who make us feel like we are difficult to love. If someone is too attached to their dogma to be open to loving us unconditionally, the are missing out on a great relationship with us.
You are loved! The world is much bigger than family.
Thank you for this! We're about the same age and I grew up in the South in a religious family and I know EXACTLY where you are coming from! Stay strong my phyne attractive gay brother! 🌈 ✊🏼 ♂️
I appreciate the honesty.... So Many of our stories are almost identical.
It's sad.
My brother I just ran across your post. So much appreciate you sharing your truth. Growing up as a black gay man so much of this is familiar. I feel your pain and I'm so sorry that you had to go through this. Some of us in the black community do not understand the damage that they do particular that you young black men who are coming to terms with their sexuality. Thanks for sharing your story!
TREY --- CONGRATULATIONS! I have listened and, am an automatic fan. CRITICS --- are those who see your authenticity, who LISTEN to your ability to ARTICULATE that authenticity and, who WISH that they had the COURAGE to be just like YOU! CARRY ON!
Wow, amazing story. I’m so proud of you Trey
Thank you so much.
What comes from the heart reaches the heart and your story has reached the depths of my soul. Thank you for sharing. Keep healing
Thank you for sharing your truth. I remember being called a sissy and punk from relatives and classmates. It used to make me feel so bad but I could not change myself. I came to terms with myself at 16. I remember telling my parents that I could not change. From that point on, they accepted me for me. I know how it feels to be uncomfortable around your own family. We got pass this and I became my mother's helper. She would send me to pay bills, go grocery shopping and keep the house clean. These things made me the self sufficient person that I am today. My family accepted all my friends like family. So thank you again for sharing your story. It brought back some memories, good and bad.
You probably don’t know me, and never will. But tou have to know that this video has changed a 17 year old in France. You changed my life. I needed this video. I thought i was alone, that my story was doomed to lead me doing the worst to myself, i wanted to k!ll myself recently, but your video gave me hope. It inspired me to look forward in the future, to know that there is an end to the suffering and that i will actually be a full adult just like you. I want to be like you, i hope i will have all the strength to go where you are right now.
Such a good looking and well spoken guy. You’re a great spokes person for yourself and for the rest of us gay people. By the way, you’ve got a great singing voice, I was blown away. In the south, almost no one’s family is open. Great video. I got disowned by my mother her last word for me were, “I’m not leaving you anything because of your lifestyle.” At this point, I have NO contact with family. Find someone who loves you for you. Be done with the rest.
I can definitely relate to this topic and treatment. I feel like many times people forget that none of us are perfect so we shouldn’t be judging anyone. Never allow another person to make you feel less than. Only God can judge you not family nor church people only God!💕✨ (and many times the people who are bashing openly gay people are sometimes secretly gay or have lived this lifestyle… hypocrites)
You are so right. Back in high school i was one of those guys. I hated gay people because i knew i was. I'll share more about that as well.
@@treypressley7755 woooow, yess please do
I feel you man. Thanks for speaking your truth. I've been through what you are going through. You fine and you will grow up a happy and loving person.❤️☺️
I am 19 still live at home with my mom and dad...I am in the closet and they are homophobic...I honestly can relate to some of the comments that already make u never wanna come out...I don't ever see myself coming out cause the fear of them disowning me is real in my case I could honestly lose my friends too...I really don't know how I will ever be happy but... hey it's cool hearing you got through it :)
Trey I just want to say you are very brave and whether you believe it or not you're a very strong individual your story is very similar to mine some of the things you were saying about family and that Bond especially when you're from a big family there by the grace of God go I God bless you God keep you got shot in his light upon you God loves you and so do I stay strong brother💯💖...
Inspirational story please upload more videos like this very inspiring for black gay men like myself I had similar experiences with my family as a black gay man
Hello Mr Trey Presley I'm a black gay man who is 34 years old I live in Phoenix Arizona and I love your video I can relate to what you went through about your family not accepting you for being gay I experienced the same thing and this video and story really touched me and it hit home with me and I just want to say thanks for sharing it because it really helped me heal some wounds in my past
One of the most heart felt post I've seen on TH-cam. You are correct, WE must do better! As stated, so many in our community have taken their life, over such hatred. Being black, a minority, one would assume things would be easier. It's not, far from it. Stay strong and be your authentic self, my brotha!
I'm part of the LGBTQIA community as well I'm transgender woman I'm from Pensacola FL but I live in Birmingham Al now
I love your transparency T! Thank you.
Thank you.
Beautiful story, man. Thank you for opening your heart and inviting us in. I pray for your continued strength, growth and happiness. Much love to you and keep telling your story. ❤️
You probably already have heard this before. But I'll say it again. You are not alone my brother! Know that people ALL over the world are praying for you. Especially a brother in STL. You keep pushing through & make your OWN reality. I know it's rough. Tryst I know. But it's not impossible. Don't you ever forget that God loves you EXACTLY the way you are.
Much luv my brother!💛
Both my parents loved me unconditionally and my family. I lost my Dad but we were very close and our relationship never changed ❤❤
Hey Trey, I can see the pain in you and I pray that it is replaced with Love in every area of your life that you need it. Sometimes we're better off in our own spaces so we can live free of negative energy that's harmful to the development of a healthy self-image and love-life. We can't force others to change but we can love them from a comfortable distance. Just know that, regardless of what anybody's assessment of you may be, our "Creator" gave birth to a perfect creation named Trey Pressley. Stay strong, Love conquers all. 🙏🏽
🗡🛡
Thank you so much. The kind words really mean a lot to me. Much love.
@@treypressley7755 ♥
Thank you for telling your truth, Trey. I am a lot older than you, Black and gay. It pains me to hear that you younger people are still experiencing the prejudice from family that we experienced years ago. There was a very high level of prejudice against gays that existed then in the Black community at that time, and I see, unfortunately, that it is still there. You are truly a courageous young man and I am so happy that you found support in your extended family. Take care and prosper.
This was a dope confession that you did man. And I appreciate you for being strong and doing this. Nothing is better than loving and accepting yourself.
hey Trey...thanks for sharing....my story is the same. The most important thing to remember is the Lord's love for you....period...when family can't support...The Lord is always there..faithful no matter what!! love you Guy
Tray I love your story it is very inspiring and I am glad that you were able to come out to your family. I live in a country where being gay is not accepted so it makes it very difficult or hard for me to live my truth. There are times when I just don't care anymore about what people say or think of me anymore.
Where r u located man?
@@treypressley7755 Gregory like trey said What is your location / City / countryyou live at . Because that's a shame and it probably making you feel uncomfortable and trap in a unsupported Contry and city!!!!!!!!!!!! I whould try to move if I was you Gregory because it can be superrrrrr dangerous for you !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Gregory that unsupported country is not safe at all!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm A Gay man also I just go by Nicole to give me feminine female character and a different flamboyant side!!!!!!!!!
Omg omg omg!!! Thank you soooo much for sharing your story. Thank you so much for continuing to be yourself. The way I relate to this is insane. Wow! Omg going home and not feeling comfortable to be yourself is hitting me hard. What’s your relationship with your family especially your mom now? Do you still feel the urge to gain their acceptance or their approval of you?
I would love to hear your story Mike. I’m sure coming from a homophobic country was extremely difficult for you to live your truth.
Thank you so much man. Honestly i would like to sit and talk to my fam about everything I'm sharing and try to get them to understand. The thing is they are very old school and deeply rooted into religion. That's not my life anymore. I have learned and grown so much. I just don't feel like the convo would go anywhere. Does that make sense?
My parents took me to a psychiatrist for children when they read a love letter sent to me from a classmate in middle school. They thought I had a mental illness.
Yes it was painful growing up in Houston as gay black boy. If feel you brother. Thank you for your courage, and also for giving a voice and knowledge to many black gay youth and their families.
You are strong, smart, beautiful and most of all vulnerable.
If life was a race, you are ahead of all the people who hurt you by being you.
I love you.
That's a powerful testimony T. Thank you for sharing your truth. I honor you for real. I would welcome a conversation with you.
Hey hey hey. Np man. Thank you for tuning in.
I appreciate you sharing your story with us. The gay family understands exactly how you felt and what you were going through. I hope you have a strong support system with friends, you seem like a really nice man. I hope your family sees this and comes in around to support you and love you the way you need and deserve to be loved
♥️🙏🏾 everybody only got 1 life…. Live in your truth idc who don’t like it…. Don’t be miserable because people are doing what they want to do 💯
Trey Pressley you are beautiful just the way you are. "Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all." You were born into that family to help you learn to love yourself, and obviously you have done a great job of it so far. Sharing your truth will allow you to give your family back their pain. It is theirs, not yours. Give it back to them and carry it no more. Time to replace that pain with unconditional love for yourself and them. When you see yourself in the right light always, they will too. And just know that where Grandma is now, she knows that she was wrong. In time you will learn to feel her helping you from the other side...truly. You are a Shining Star bro, believe it!
That's hard😕 be strong, you are a good guy and you deserve a good live!
Thank you for your story! I am a 63 year old Black man who lives two separate lives. I've known that I was gay since I was a little boy and the messages I got from my Black family was that you can't be gay. I heard all of the talk about men being sissies or light in the loafers, or isn't it a shame that so-in-so is a fag. I learned early on to try to be a "man." I know that everyone knows because I don't talk about women or have any romantic relationships with women. I have a best gay friend, but I haven't dated in ages. I'm very successful in my career and I thought that would be enough. Its not. My mother passed away in November 2022. I know she knew and I wish that I would have said to her that I am gay. I've never been suicidal, but I"m tired and really trying to build up the courage to come out. Being in the closet is exhausting because I'm always making excuses and staying away from things. It is nice and hear another Black man tell his truth. I needed to hear you. Thank you so much!
Powerful truth Trey! So appreciate you sharing brother.
So proud of you brother - keep shining your light - people are listening-
It's weird how many people sweep female homophobes under the rug. Some of my biggest bullies growing up were girls/women. They were the first to point out my queerness, the first to put me down for it, and the first to get me in fights because of it.
Hello Trey. This video just popped up on my TH-cam feed. I'm here to tell you you're preaching to the choir and the Amen section. I'm 54 Black, Gay and proud. I could tell some stories about family, so called friends and especially phony "church people ". To keep it short; just know that you're NOT alone by a long shot. Your story is similar to my story and millions across the globe. You are a strong young man and I know your journey will be a difficult one. Keep doing you! 🙏❤️👍
I happen to see this video. Bro you came through some hurtful pain. I willing to bet it has made you very very strong. You may have felt no love from some of your family, Look how many lives you are touching. Look at how many people that feel loved from you and your videos. You You have helped so many people know they too can get through it. Continue to share your stories. You could be saving lives. Love you too.
Hello Trey, that was a very emotional message, I hope all is well with you. May god continue bless you and your beautiful daughter.
I’m 68 years old and you just told my story ,my feelings, and my emotions. I’m sending you a hug.
I’m always told I need to let it go, it’s in the past. Unfortunately it’s not easy to let go of hurt. You will always have those memories. I share your pain and I wish I could wipe your pain away.
Trey 😢😢😢 I'm in tears. I go through the same thing with my family. And it hurts like hell. My family has basically turned there back on me. When I came out my mom said some very very horrible horrible things to me. I thought she would never ever say. I hid myself for many many years because I knew it was gonna be this way. And I wasn't ready. But now I'm dealing with it and about to ho move to New York to be with my boyfriend. We definitely gotta do better and love one another. This video really hit home. And I see I'm not alone
I'm sorry you went through that man. Its something that never gets any easier. Continue to stay positive man and keep ur head up. U aren't alone!!! Live your life to the fullest man. Much ❤️
@@treypressley7755 Thank you so much boo. I definitely will. So as I leave here my life is definitely gonna change for the better in New York. I'm sorry you had to go through it to. We both are strong gay black men and nothing will never ever break us ❤️❤️😘😘
@@willisharris2141 amen 🙏🏽 ❤️
@@treypressley7755 Yes Amen !! 🙏🏾💛😘
Trey I'm in FLA..Orlando to be exact...I grew up in an Era where being DL was the norm....so evolving was tough so I say that to say this....the ills that was around when I grew up taught me that every day u have to stay true to urself.....ur history and experience has made u who u r...ur a sweetheart...I'm jagged and edgy but us as FAM ....knows that being BLACK and GAY is the most beautiful thing...don't EVER dim ur light ! And p.s. u seem to have it wholesome.....much props to that. Shine bright like a diamond love. PEACE❤
Thank you for sharing your story. I knew I was attracted to men when I was 6-years old. My father passed away that year and my mother died a year later. I was sent to a foster home where there was the threat of being transferred to a detention center if I did nothing wrong. Losing my parents so young, I have never felt like I fit in. I grew up afraid that someone would discover that I was gay and that I would be thrown to the wolves. I did everything the church said to do even to the point of getting married. After 28 years, my wife left. It’s was a few years later that I finally learned to realized that God loves me and that’s when I started loving myself. I’ve served the Lord all my life working in church music programs and being a caregiver to those in need. God is going to judge us by the way we show love to others. I can tell what type of character you are. If I could, I’d give you a heart-felt hug to encourage you. I realize that I need to share my story too. Thank you for being so open. ❤
Tray I feel and I you made me cry the whole time because I could just see myself in you and I appreciate you and your coming out story.
Thank you so much man. Tell me about ur story.
@@treypressley7755 hi trey , my name is Neil and I from Jamaica . I came out to my mother because she went through my email and send a message to a guy I was dating. To be honest the guy was very upset because she was telling him that she knew that we spent the some time together at a hotel . He told her to ask me and leave him alone. Anyway she did ask me and I told her yes and she ask me why am I doing that. From that day my relationship with her was different. My mother and my brother heat me for being gay. Because of that I feel like I am trapped in a place where I am not free to be myself. My brother calls me a battyman and tell me that mi fi dead. Trey the funny apart about all of this is that my brother and my mother are living in my house and I do everything for them. I cant even take a man home with me they will saying things to hurt them right in front of me. There are times when I want to take home my man and make love and I can't. I am now 44 years old and I feel like a little boy trapped into a man's body who is not free.
@gregory ayee put them out
Brave & Heartfelt! Well done. I think you realize how many people will benefit from this vlog. You have nothing but great intentions. Continue to share your truth, your journey, your experiences, knowing damn well that there are souls out there who will benefit from your life story as it continues to unfold. I really hope that more people come on board and subscribe! Best of luck buddy!
That hit home. Your story is a lot of our story. Sucks that even though we grow we still carry some if not all of that hurt and rejection from being a black gay kid in the south. Thanks for sharing man 😊
Sweetie i know how you feel im 44 years old and gay my family knew about me my stepdad hates gay i have to wait and move out to come out i been this way all my life im here to tell you live your life make yourself happy just be careful out there people will try to hurt us because of who we are especially in the black community all im saying is just be yourself
Thank you for sharing your story baby. I know it’s very difficult and there’s still a lot of pain in your voice. Sounds like you Live your best life in spite of negativity that you’ve been forced to deal with. Thanks again for sharing it was inspirational for me!
Absolutely appreciate your transparency and believe MANY others will benefit. Thank you!!
My Brother I watch your video it brought tears to my eyes I am a Black Gay man and very proud of it am 60 years old my Birthday is December 15 1962 am a Sagittarius I speak my truth everyday my mom new I was Gay when I told her she tell me Baby I already know that I say how you were Different from the rest of your siblings and I carry you for nine months 😢I felt relieved but anyway live in your truth don’t let nobody bring you down pray I pray everyday just keep living there with come around one day I am following you so take care my brother
Keep sharing your truth! And keep being you regardless of what others may think or say. Love and take care of yourself. With time perhaps other family member will accept your truth; perhaps not. That's their loss. Keep Being You!
Thank u for the kind words man. I hope and pray for the same thing
Hang in there, Trey! That took mad courage to be vulnerable and honest to the world. You’re in my prayers. 😇
I love you man! 🧡💚. People whether family or not, need to realize that WORDS hurt! From the bottom of my heart, I’m here man. Hugs you.