This is my story of growing up mormon and gay. *Instagram: Josephgarner94 *Don’t forget to subscribe and click the bell button so you are notified anytime I post a new video 🤗
with 19 nieces and nephews, the chances of one of them having a similar struggle with their sexuality is a really high possibility. i’m glad that they’ll have you as an uncle to talk to and really feel safe with
@@meyu1468 Hmm well those people are below the age of 22 so a lot of them could be saying that because they are bicurious, but if that is actually true that's awesome!
I wince when I read such a finite dichotomy ignoring the loving purpose of life, challenges, choices, I also wish all could love others for who they are. It's not exclusive.
@@andrewspurgeon2000 well growing up mormon, I would like to know where my money is? or was? Or someone can tell me why we lived off the church store house or why we had to have help with bills, or why our electricity was out occasionally same with our water.. I am inactive but I am still technically a mormon. So where is my money? Don't just assume things It's not gonna get you very far in life.
helookalikaman79 yeah I haven’t one tat far bro the video but this guy radiates sweetness and kindness and caringness but with a hint of mournfulness which is completely understandable
Ben Shaw Yep, he’s very cute, but also very intelligent. I can imagine the church has a huge impact on/power over people and that it took this dude years and years to find himself, but he finally did and he took the right decision to start dating guys. It must have been a tremendous relief for him to escape from the dominance of the church.
I wish you could talk to my mom. My parents thought I was,murdered 3 years ago and had a celebration and never verified to see if the lie my sister told them that I was,killed was true. My parents told me to leave. Now since I have a little money they wanted back into my life. My parents told me the only reason they had me was so that they would have someone to take care of them when they got old. But my parents would destroy any relationship so I would just have them.
@@alisarsour8552 It kills me to hear these stories. I know they are your parents and you love them. But you have to take care of yourself love yourself more. Your parents have each other, it's your turn to find your better half. Best of luck!!
I told my mom in confidence and by the morning she told everyone she knew. Then they took me to a cemetery and told me to pick out a grave because that is where I will be in 2 years. Then they told me I was weak. That I would never be happy and get use to a lonely miserable life.. They told me to leave so I left. They said the reason they didn't speak,to me for years was they heard I was murdered. Then they found,out I had made some good investments and they contacted me. They want me declared as not fit to take care,of myself so they can take my assets. My family are not nice people. I like the content on your channel.
It's not a religious issue. Non-Biblical based Asian societies are more anti-LGBT than traditionally Christian nations are. Taiwan is the only Asian country to date that has fully legalized gay marriage, and that was in May this year. They are also the only country in Asia besides Israel that have legalized gay adoption. Most people have a natural, biologically ingrained repulsion to homosexuality and this is universal across the globe. Given that traditionally Christian nations are the only ones heavily promoting LGBTQRSJWism right now, the 'cus religion' narrative does not hold water.
Aleeki N. So? Its not because of religion. Stables economies allows society to develop. When u dont have food or clean water LGBT rights get “irrelevant” (in a not-offensive way obviously) so plz dont star with “religion is acceptance” or any of that shit because its not.
Honestly this isn't really a religious issue. Most of my family members are Christian and 20 percent of them are bisexual, including myself. Everyone around me happily accepted every LGBT+ person. Don't get me wrong we aren't that connected to each other but it is mostly because of their bad decisions (single mother, alcohol addiction, etc.) and it isn't because their sexuality or gender.
We really need to stop calling it “a lifestyle”. Kardashians have lifestyles. Gays have lives. It’s an important difference. Calling one’s sexuality a lifestyle or a life choice is destructive, self-damaging and indicates it’s something one can change. It’s not. It’s just the way you are. It is so sad to watch these stories of fear of ones family’s reaction to ones very being. My father was incredible and loving beyond my dreams. I found out later he was crying one night...not because I was gay but because his boy felt he couldn’t bring this to him. He felt he had failed me. But when my mum told me that I felt the opposite...he had succeeded in the most beautiful way. I’m a lucky boy. I am so thankful I came out to my parents before they passed as I would never have known how amazing their reactions would be. I’m shocked all parents aren’t like mine. A parent should love a child unconditionally and with great empathy. Times are getting better but there’s still some truly sad tales out there. 🌈🌈🌈
dear michaelmouse you are number one your voice is why our community gets stronger. When we talk to each other we know we are not the only gay person in the world. If the haters are tiring to get in your way just walk around them your true self is your life.
For those that don't know, "stay in the Church" in this case means that you are gay but never act on it, or you marry someone of the opposite sex and live by the rules of the Church. It's horribly sad and heart-breaking. (and unfair for the spouses too) I wish everyone could be loved and accepted completely for who they are 💗
@@jhctxcla I don't know about Jehovah's Witnesses, but for LDS, it's absolutely true. Same with Catholic Church (both of which i have family experience with) if you're out of the closet you're expected to be either celibate, or to marry someone of a different orientation that you're not attracted to.
Does anyone think the channel Ellie and Jared follows this? Sorry, I know this question is extremely inappropriate, but I’ve been curious on other people’s thoughts for too long. The guy says all his celeb crushes are men.
You are a delightful person...your story is relatable outside of the mormon culture...stay strong ....realize continuing with the religious relationships as they are...take the good in yourself and write your own story...don't just take it as gospel words from a nother human... You will go far if you remain true but actually think
I hope I can find someone soon. I feel so desperately lonely some days. I'm in my early 30's and have yet to ever experience a successful long term romantic relationship. And as for short term intimate and sexual experiences I've never experienced something fulfilling/enriching yet (and i don't have many experiences to count, it's been years since I've even been on a date) My heart is desperate for that connection and sense of emotional safety and physical closeness. I've yearned for this ever since I was 13 years old. I think I might end up getting really lucky though in terms of love, so I have hope. And I'm trying dating apps again.
I'm a member of the the church. Nobody puts the church ahead of loving your own family it's all in how you react and how those people chose to react I'm a member of the church and I don't support you being gay but I'm not going to be cruel and mean to you and make fun of you and try to change you I'm going to be nice just like I am to every single other person on this Earth. Just because you don't agree with how someone decides to live their life and who they choose to love doesn't mean that you can be cruel and mean to someone. I've been bullied my whole life I'm not going to bully someone else because of what they believe in.
No one is born gay, because no one is born with sin. Unless you can show me a specific gene that makes you want to defy your biological urge to reproduce with the opposite sex, You arent going to change my mind or anyone else in the church’s mind.
Dang the scariest part of this story is the fact that that dude like stalked you and made you feel forced to talk to your parents about everything again. That’s cruel and so not his place. I’m so sorry that happened. Stay safe dude.
Alysa Huber he didn’t have to say it, but it was obvious his parents were pushing him to date girls instead of boys, even after he told them he was gay.. They wanted “what was best for him”, as in, they wanted him to conform anyway.
No... It is possible to have differing opinions and not be against said person. People can do hard things in the name of what they think is best. Parents do it a lot. I'm sure they had his best intentions at heart.
I'm 75 and have been with my other half for 30 years and cried tears of joy when I read your story. I'm really happy for you. You are a beautiful person who has a huge amount of compassion. And I congratulate your parents for how they seem to be accepting of you. Be kind and forgiving to everyone.
Paul ferzoco..... 'be kind and forgiving to everyone', as the Mormon Church and any other religious faith has shown since time immemorial to gay people. What's the matter with you?
There can never be too many coming out stories, there will always be someone that can relate to a particular one, and sharing that story can have a profound impact on them. Wish you all the best!
I also came out to my Mormon parents and family last year while I was on holiday. They told me they knew as a mother knows her children. I'm very lucky to have a mother and father who loves me as I am given the religion says otherwise. My family are all very supportive and constantly ask if I have a boyfriend yet 😂
Im wanting to tell my mormon parents but i also tried telling my dad that i was non binary and he just quoted scriptures to me and it really hurt me. I also havent been able to feel like telling them much after this especially when i know they were worried but when my mom found out i self harmed she made me feel super uncomfortable by asking me to take off my jacket when a freind was over.
@@rebelmcabee4109 that kinda sounds real bad and horrible that your mother made you feel like that. I'd suggest that you take your time and go slow. Until you've found your ground. Also when you've moved out as you will feel less stress if it doesn't go to plan... Just remember family isn't defined by blood, but by the love that people have for you and accepting you for who you are. People change with time tho, take it slow.
I grew up Mormon and gay! Can totally relate to you so hard... I thank god that my parents were excepting, but I was made to see a Mormon therapist to sort through my feelings and was even given the opportunity to go to straight conversion group. I prayed to god about what path I should choose and came to the answer that I needed to accept the person I was meant to be.
I relate. I grew up in a very religious Mormon household here in Utah. I Went to church. Did temple work etc. I always knew I was gay since I was a kid but knew I couldn’t be due to my religion. As I got older I just started to realize I had to be myself to be truly happy. I did the same thing. Talked to lots of guys on tinder and eventually I kissed a guy and instantly knew it was the life for me 😂 coming out was one of the hardest things I’ve done. But fast forward to now and my family has accepted me and my boyfriend and they love him and things are Gucci 🙏 hope you’re happy now man. Slide into my DMs if you ever need to talk ❤️
That sounds a lot like what I’m going through, my family is really religious. My grandparents on my dad’s side and all my family on my mom’s side go to church. I realized that I was bi and ace a while ago and am too scared to tell them because I’m scared they’re going to disown me. I’m getting comfortable being who am but feel like I have to mask my sexuality when I’m with my family I just wish that the church would be more accepting.
@@josephgarner94 Thank you Joseph for sharing your amazing story I really appreciate it. As a heterosexual young man myself born in 1998 from Lakemba, New South Wales, Australia with healthy positive masculinity I absolutely have no problem if boys and men around the world want to show their emotions because we are human beings with emotional feelings. Being bisexual and being homosexual does not make you less of a man & there are bisexual plus homosexual teenage boys & men who are masculine around the world. We males really need to show empathy for boys and men & listen to how they feel inside instead of mocking them & rejecting them by claiming that they are not manly or masculine enough because that is called bullying & it is a dangerous game. What is a man? He is a human male adult enough said men do not have to prove their manhood because that is a huge lie made up by old school gender activist bigots. As a mature young man myself plus other men around the world we do not have to prove our masculinity because that is just machismo not masculinity, so to all my fellow brothers out there just be a compassionate mature gentleman that is it end of story.
K Midnitee not 100% sure but i remember hearing from one of my close mormon friends that many kids are seen as a very positive thing in the church and basically will bring better things for your family and that children are gods gift i suppose. something to do with many kids = happy life
Unfortunatly, this isn't the sadist Morman "coming out" i've heard about. This amazingly coragious and strong boy made it. many don't! it's the 21 century and the morman church has just recentaly decided that "gay" was the way you were born, but try to emotionally blackmail the gay kids into NOT ACTING ON IT!. What gay morman kids are told, is that life on earth isn't that important and when you die, you won't be reunited with your family in the after life!! Basically what they are telling you, is that you are usless, because your not going to marry (a girl) and produce 4 or 8 or 10 kids to add to the populstion of the church. One xmorman boy i met, was told to leave home and town, because it was emotionally to difficult to get to know him now, because they would miss him to much in the after life. He lucke out. The cop who was going to arrest him, took him to his pastors house, not jail. Alother boys father, paid a long distance trucher to take him 500 miles away , well across the state line and leave him on the highway. He was 15. He left home without a dime. no clothes. no id. He lucked out. The trucker had a gay brother and felt sorry for the boy and braught him to his mothers home. The took care of him. loved him and he's been thair son ever since. If thair is a god, i'm sure he's not morman. Both boys would up as students at the college where i teach. They are the lucky "throwaway kids". Lots wind up as male prostatudes or dealing in someone elses drugs or kill themselves, because of family rejection, shame, guilt and church caused depresson. You are not alone. google the nearest gay youth hotline or center. YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
Fixing typos and grammatical errors, Unfortunately this isn't the sadist Mormon "coming out" I've heard about. This amazingly courageous and strong boy made it. Many don't! It's the 21st century and the Mormon church has just recently decided that "gay was the way you were born," but they try to emotionally blackmail the gay kids into NOT ACTING ON IT. Gay Mormon kids are told that life on Earth isn't that important, and when you die, you won't be reunited with your family in the afterlife! Basically what they are telling you is that you are useless, because you're not going to marry a girl and produce 4 or 8 or 10 kids to add to the population of the church. One ex-Mormon boy I met was told to leave home and town, because it was emotionally to difficult to get to know him now, and they would miss him too much in the afterlife. He lucked out. The cop who was going to arrest him, took him to his Pastor's house, not jail. Another boy's father had a long distance trucker take his son 500 miles away, well across the state line and leave him on the highway. He was 15. He left home without a dime. No clothes. No ID. He lucked out. The trucker had a gay brother and felt sorry for the boy, so he brought him to his mother's home. They took care of him, loved him, and he's been their son ever since. If there is a god, I'm sure he's not Mormon. Both boys would end up as students at the college where I teach. They are the lucky "throwaway kids." Lots of them wind up as male prostitutes, drug addicts, or commit suicide because of family rejection, shame, guilt, and church causing depression. You are not alone. Google the nearest Gay Youth Hotline or center. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. P.S. Highly doubt this is all true, you claim to be a college professor yet cannot even use commas properly. The end is one of few redeeming qualities that even makes this worthwhile in the slightest. You do you. Edit: capitalization
The saddest stories are actually the ones that end too early. Whenever the Mormon church comes out with some new anti-LGBTQ "REVELATION" the number of teen suicides go up. Every...single...time. Love should never be conditional. I grew up like that and it's like an arrow to your heart. I got out of Utah and realized people were a lot more accepting than I thought possible, even in the 90s. If you are hurting look for your own family, your community, it makes all the difference. Whether it's the youth drop in center or the Drama Club (mine back then) in your school, there are safe accepting spaces for young queer people. In Mormonland you just have to look a little harder.
@@diabolicalandi Hi Andrea, thanks for your responce. We have a lot to talk about and if it's ok, i'll send you a long responce (rant) later. Luckly, i was raised christian (not mormon or evangelical) ! Church and related youth activities, was a place parents sent (dumped) their kids to get them out of the house. Free babysitting. haha It wasn't a place to fill your heart and mind, with fear and hate. I'll get back to you later, when i have more time. Thanks again for your reply
@@diabolicalandi I still live in Utah and there are so many people who are accepting, maybe not so much within the older generations but the younger ones have clearly gotten so much better
try coming out in 1957,,( i didn't ) because i would have been killed right away..gay guys now have it much easier but back then that was not the case. being called names all your life hurts,,you say repair it, but that can't happen. jimmy
it is not a lifestyle ...it is your LIFE ...BE PROUD ! i am a 54 yr old lesbian. I have 1 brother and he was always concerned that my lifestyle might affect him in some way... not sure how lol ....fast forward to my only nephew , who came out to me 2 yrs ago ...Karma in a way I guess ...I am so pleased that they have accepted him 100% Be yourself young man and God bless !
The devil's playground? Lily Dale and the spirtualists there? No, you are so wrong if you say that. The devil's playground is in my underpants! I am proud and strong.
Mi friend 's son: Mother I'm sorry to wake you up Mother: Are you OK? My friend's son: I'm gay Mother: OK. I know your are gay, so was your dad...go back to sleep True story...
Hi, Joseph. I am a gay man old enough to be your grandfather (71), and I am here to tell you that your life can be just as rich and full as that of your straight siblings. Yes, you can marry (a man) and have kids (adopt or surrogate) if that is what you want. Stop dating girls, though. That path leads to nothing but pain and confusion for both yourself and the young ladies involved. Be patient with yourself and with your family, and just continue to be as open and honest with them as you can. Time will take care of the rest ( I know; I've lived it). Lastly, understand that there is nothing wrong with you that needs fixing. You are as your creator made you, and you deserve to be fulfilled and happy. BTW, thanks for subscribing to my channel. I plan to make videos about being gay in the dinosaur days, but these are still in the planning stage, because family obligations have sidetracked me.
Gary Lee I’m not homophobic but I’m gay and sometimes I rlly wish that meant I didn’t have to be in the lgbt community. Yes I’m attracted to men. No I don’t like the lgbt community because it’s full of a lot of drama.
I’m Mormon and recently I’ve been struggling and questioning my sexuality. I’m 13 and with Mormons, you can’t date or be in a relationship until you’re 16. I’ve “dated” boys which I know isn’t right with Mormons and I completely understand that, and I don’t know if it’s just that it’s middle school relationships I’m not feeling much with them or that I’m lacking knowledge in myself. I’m also not looking for any relationships with *anyone* soon for that matter. Recently there have been a lot of things (signs if you will) that maybe I *am* bisexual. I think it was last October’s women’s conference, before general conference, one of the 12 apostles was talking about the LGBTQ+ community and that really hit me hard. I know for a fact I don’t talk to my parents enough about anything but I really hope that I will be able to talk to them about how I’m feeling and *maybe* even come out to them. I *did* once talk to my mom and she said the main reason Mormons don’t encourage gays is because they see people sexualizing it and that makes them immediately jump to sex before marriage. I’m not looking for any of that. I’m really glad Heavenly Father has given you the opportunity to become who you really are. I hope he’ll help me talk with my parents.❤️
Ainsley Rose Hey I’m kinda in the same situation with you except I’m a 14 year old boy and not a Mormon but a Catholic. I’m confused on my sexuality too. I recently noticed over the past two years. I recall when I was younger feelings of being gay, but just now realizing it. I tried to deny it for so long. Right now I’m stuck in the middle of Bi, or gay. I have no intentions of coming out anytime soon, especially since I need to know who I am first. It’s just hard you know. I think my family would accept me, we are catholic but not the really religious family. I believe in God and pray and wanna go to church more. It hurts me when I see all these posts from Religious people saying being gay is a “lifestyle” or a “choice” when if it was I would just want to be straight point blank period! And also, I know God loves us all, and put us on thus earth who we are for a reason. But yeah I just thought I could tell you since A) it’s TH-cam and B) You’re a stranger 😂 I don’t even know if I can tell my best friend yet. I’m too afraid, I feel like I am gay but I wanna deny it. Anyways, thank you for reading my ted talk 😂 😊
I am almost in exactly the same situation. Thank you so much for talking about your struggles. I started looking at girls a little differently a while back and just trying to push it down, and ignore it. Eventually general conference came around and I finnaly realized that I am bi. I know for a fact that I'm not looking to get busy with anyone and I want to be respectful of the lord and the cards I've been dealt. I haven't talked to my parents yet and am still sorting out how to do it. I hope evrething goes well. Best of luck! ❤
I have watched a significant number of coming out videos and this one of the more heart wrenching. I just want to give you a big hug and tell you everything will be alright. You have to love and accept yourself and simply be Joseph. PS I have a similar number of nieces and nephews and some of them are very religious also, and they still love their gay uncle. Your doing good! You more than anyone else deserve your love and respect.
Love this so much you’re so brave for coming out and sharing this video. It’s so inspiring. I’m sorry for how rough it has been for you and I hope it gets better for you soon. ❤️
Continue to be honest to yourself and everything will fall into place. You will find the perfect mate to call your own and love them for a lifetime. I know. I am 65 years old, my husband is 67 and we have been married in our hearts for 42 years and legally for 4 years. We both were raised Southern Baptist, so we understand. Being out is actually much easier now than 42 years ago. Wishing you all the best--always.
Buddy this hits home so much, just one brother and two sisters here, I know how it feels to watch them all get married, have kids and so on, it's easy to feel left behind. Be strong, your not alone.
You handled everything with such grace! You seem so calm explaining your story. My father wasn’t Mormon, but my mother is and he came out to her when I was 8 years old. I’m sure he felt so conflicted between wanting a “normal” family life and being happy actually dating men. I’m glad you are able to live the way you want now ❤️ and that your parents are still loving towards you.
My best friend is gay, and we met in a singles ward. He struggled for years and I can't imagine having to go through that first hand. His mother said she would rather be hearing that he has cancer than be hearing that her son is gay. I commend you for coming out and being true to yourself. You deserve happiness.
You tore my heart and built it back up again. God Bless you, God Bless your courage, God Bless those who love you for just you, lastly just God Bless. Much much love and any support you need from NYC.
This one dude stalked you. Oh my I’m glad you got out of that situation safe .... your Story really warms my heart and I hope that in the future you won’t be so hard on yourself. 💕
i’m a closeted child of southern baptists so i really resonated with this video. i have the same fears regarding my family’s reaction. i’m really hoping it works out
What a beautiful heart you have to share your journey coming out to your family! You seem like a genuine and loving person and your partner will be fortunate to have you whenever it happens. All the best!
Hey Joseph, your story is beautiful and is inspirational. I’m in a similar situation with my Christian family. My parents have been church leaders and worship leader/pastor. It’s extremely difficult but I have recently found a support group through my friends in college and I hope that someday I have the courage to come out to my family as well. Specially being in a position where my family and myself have been a big part of the church. Coming out to them is also coming out to the church. Great listening you speak about your experience.
Bless your courageous heart, Joseph. It was very hard for most of us to come out. You are a sweet, beautiful youngman and I believe you will find your ideal bromance. Thanks for telling us about your painful experience. These videos of personal coming out stories help many, many more young men by giving them support and hope. Love you, boy.
Man, I was really impressed by your story and how brave you are. Growing up in a religious mormon family must be hard and being able to come out with dignity was lhe best thing you did to yourself. I'm your Brazilian fan. I want to hear more of you. Hugs
Hey Joseph I am so proud of you for standing up for yourself for who you are and not being judged for what you are. Keep your chin up and be proud don’t let anyone bring you down
I just came across your channel. Wow, I resonate with your words, well done. It can be difficult, but when we come out and aspire for real love, that is where the magic happens. Growing up Mormon and gay was difficult for me too, but I feel like I've become so much more from my experience. Thank you for your story ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
You're a beautiful story teller x :) You've travelled a tough road but still share it with such dignity and love for your family..... keep sharing your tale :)
I've been in a mixed orientation marriage for many years, She has been my greatest support since I came out to her. What will be will be. We do not know, but we are prepared for all contingencies. Thank you for your story. I love you brother and support you in all you do. Sid
You are so brave and thank you for this, it made me fill something i really don't understand, sad for what you went through, happy for having lets say some kind of an understanding family, wishing for a better future for all of us but i just wanted to thank for you it and wish all the best
What an amazing guy you are. You're going to make a man very happy one day. Thank you for your video and your honesty. I wish you ALL the best in life.
I don’t think many people realize how easy it is for closeted/struggling gay folks to be taken advantage of in relationships/dating. Being closeted is something that can be held over your head and it’s terrifying to think if someone you’re dating gets angry they can use that against you. These stories are hard to tell but thank you for sharing! It’s so important for gay youth, especially religious gay youth to hear. Hope you are doing well in your journey❤️
Thank you for your strong and compelling story. Your well spoken, honest, and clearly a loving caring soul. You deserve to be happy and healthy. Keep in touch. Rob.
he really does look like a Mormon doesn’t he ALSO SO PROUD OF YOU CUTIE💕💕🥰😘 YOU INSPIRE ME SO MUCH AND I WISH YOU ALL THE HAPPINESS IN THE WORLD AND IM SENDING YOU A VIRTUAL HUG RN
I really loved this video, and it felt so authentic and relatable for so many different reasons. It's really to decide when it's right, but from your eyes, you can perceive how important was for you to be honest. I wish I had the same strength, or that I will! Thanks for this inspiring confession. New fan here :)
Thank you for sharing your story. You made me cry as I could feel your pain. I can relate to your story in so many ways. The stalker guy pissed me off and he should be in jail, what a creep. Sending you much love.
You are special, beautiful and deserve to live your life your way. God never makes mistakes. Don't allow anyone to diminish you, great things lie ahead for you
Thank you so much for sharing this. It really helps those of us who have yet to come out. Seeing truly, what it's really like, all the emotions in your eyes....it makes me realize how beautiful learning to accept oneself is. Thank you. Far and away the most genuine, real coming out story I have ever had the privilege of hearing. When I told my mother, she said she'd make it her mission to find a girl I could love. I really really hope she can, but I don't think she will. P.S. I'm also an Eagle Scout.
Joseph, thanks for sharing your coming out story. I think all of us have or will eventually make this leap of coming out to those important people in our lives. The people we love, but still worry how it will be received versus the euphoric feeling of finally living honestly. I am glad your parents and your family took it fine, most of my acquaintances were fortunate to have wonderful families too. Sadly, I have run into a few where the outcome were not as good. Sometimes it takes time to heal a lot of wounds. To be able to live open and honest - is so worth it. Thank you again - best wishes to your future.
Hey Joseph, you did a great job on your video. I am glad to hear that you survived your first experience with a Stalker. I'm glad that you are still able to enjoy the love and affection of your family during your journey through life. For some people that is so important, especially young kids. Coming out today is much simpler and garners much more support than when I came out and I am happy that that is occurring since being Gay is not something that can be changed no matter how badly someone may want to do so. I hope that you continue to enjoy the life you have ahead of you and find someone special to make that journey with.
Thank you for posting this and being so frank. Sometimes it's really hard being closeted and part of a Mennonite family. You seem like such a kind genuine person. I really hope your journey with all of this gets easier.
Big hug from Atlanta, GA! You are being true to yourself and that is a beautiful thing! I was raised Mormon, but I am no longer. Don’t let anyone or anything change who you are. You are priceless just they way you are.
I can’t believe this was recommended to me at just the right time, I really appreciate your story. And 17:24 my jaw literally dropped I kid you not that’s so shocking
Joseph, this is such a great video. Thank you for your courage and honesty. It also seems that your family are true believers as they understand the passage of Matthew 22:34-40. To your happy and fulfilling future. Jim
You are one fortunate guy to have a supportive family. Its been a crazy rollercoaster ride for you but you got a good heart and a level head. No doubt in my mind you will find happiness with the love of your life. Good luck. You deserve it.
Joseph take your Time and be at a peaceful place. If people Love You they will support you. Sounds Crazy, BE TRUE to YOURSELF. Your very WISE on this, watch out some people are not Kind. Enjoy your time together with family. Love You my Brother.
Hello you! Recently I came out to my family, my friends and the rest of my siblings already knew, but I’m having some problems with my parents. As you said in your video, Since I was a little boy, even before my baptism, I knew I was kind singular and different. As you, I served my Mission in Salt Lake City and I’m still doing my best effort to do my best.
Wow… that was heartbreaking but also one of the best and most inspiring coming out videos I've ever watched, and I've watched a lot. 💛 I think I was 11 when I knew something was up, and by the time I was 13 I knew without a doubt that I wasn't straight. It's been years and I've been too afraid to bring it up to my parents. Sometimes I sit in church and think about girls and feel so guilty, it's overpowering. I hope that one day I can be as brave and as strong as you have been. You seem like such a sweet, genuine and eloquent person and you deserve all the love in the world.
with 19 nieces and nephews, the chances of one of them having a similar struggle with their sexuality is a really high possibility. i’m glad that they’ll have you as an uncle to talk to and really feel safe with
Castle Crasher in gen z, apparently about 52% identify as not being exclusively heterosexual sooo almost definitely:)
@@meyu1468 Hmm well those people are below the age of 22 so a lot of them could be saying that because they are bicurious, but if that is actually true that's awesome!
I wince when I read such a finite dichotomy ignoring the loving purpose of life, challenges, choices, I also wish all could love others for who they are. It's not exclusive.
Life is also long and ever changing. I've seen too many people make critical decisions too early in life.
Castle Crasher I’ve heard it’s 1 out of 10 here in America (10%) but maybe we are just more gay than the UK? Lol
At first I thought it said “Coming Out To My Moron Parents”
OMG SAME
Me too 😂
Where's Da Tea I thought it said coming out as a mormon parent
Same
Me too hey😂😂😂😂😂😂
Hell no, having to buy birthday and Christmas presents for 19 nieces and nephews?? How do you afford to live lol
Mormons usually have money lol
Drew Spurgeon not the Mormon’s I’ve met it’s a religion it’s not a guaranteed bank account lol
@@andrewspurgeon2000 well growing up mormon, I would like to know where my money is? or was? Or someone can tell me why we lived off the church store house or why we had to have help with bills, or why our electricity was out occasionally same with our water.. I am inactive but I am still technically a mormon. So where is my money? Don't just assume things It's not gonna get you very far in life.
stay connected...
Jaw Travel ?
Dude is hot... But he is more than just looks... The love, honesty, emotion, and compassion.... makes him the total package.
helookalikaman79 yeah I haven’t one tat far bro the video but this guy radiates sweetness and kindness and caringness but with a hint of mournfulness which is completely understandable
His eyes are gorgeous, such a deep, beautiful blue.
Ben Shaw Yep, he’s very cute, but also very intelligent. I can imagine the church has a huge impact on/power over people and that it took this dude years and years to find himself, but he finally did and he took the right decision to start dating guys. It must have been a tremendous relief for him to escape from the dominance of the church.
@alex alamangos Au contraire! It's wonderful.
Just one kid...ha ha
As a mother of a gay child Trust me when I say GOD MAKES NO MISTAKES!! 🌈💙
I wish you could talk to my mom. My parents thought I was,murdered 3 years ago and had a celebration and never verified to see if the lie my sister told them that I was,killed was true. My parents told me to leave. Now since I have a little money they wanted back into my life. My parents told me the only reason they had me was so that they would have someone to take care of them when they got old. But my parents would destroy any relationship so I would just have them.
@@alisarsour8552 It kills me to hear these stories. I know they are your parents and you love them. But you have to take care of yourself love yourself more. Your parents have each other, it's your turn to find your better half.
Best of luck!!
@@freddhernanadez2230 pretty sure not loving thy neighbor is also an abominable sin *thonk*
@@Wiijimmy no it's not.
As a pansexual ped0romantic and father of a gay child I agree!! 🌈💙
I told my mom in confidence and by the morning she told everyone she knew.
Then they took me to a cemetery and told me to pick out a grave because that is where I will be in 2 years. Then they told me I was weak. That I would never be happy and get use to a lonely miserable life.. They told me to leave so I left. They said the reason they didn't speak,to me for years was they heard I was murdered. Then they found,out I had made some good investments and they contacted me. They want me declared as not fit to take care,of myself so they can take my assets. My family are not nice people. I like the content on your channel.
😓😘
Sorry dear Ali, that your family were so cruel and heartless towards you. Hope you have a few good friends. Lots of love and good wishes.
That is so terrible, I'm sorry.
I'm so sorry, Ali; I wish I could give you a hug.
So perhaps you should try to file some restraining orders and other types of things to legally protect yourself from their evil.
Religion can be such a beautiful thing, but it has destroyed so many peoples lives. Thank you for sharing.
It's not a religious issue. Non-Biblical based Asian societies are more anti-LGBT than traditionally Christian nations are. Taiwan is the only Asian country to date that has fully legalized gay marriage, and that was in May this year. They are also the only country in Asia besides Israel that have legalized gay adoption.
Most people have a natural, biologically ingrained repulsion to homosexuality and this is universal across the globe. Given that traditionally Christian nations are the only ones heavily promoting LGBTQRSJWism right now, the 'cus religion' narrative does not hold water.
Euphoric Atheist ”asian” ?. Its literally only the west that in some way accept homosexuality. Lets not even talk about Africa.
Aleeki N. So? Its not because of religion. Stables economies allows society to develop. When u dont have food or clean water LGBT rights get “irrelevant” (in a not-offensive way obviously) so plz dont star with “religion is acceptance” or any of that shit because its not.
Euphoric Atheist omg what the fuck? “Natural, biologically ingrained repulsion to homosexuality” S U R E
Honestly this isn't really a religious issue. Most of my family members are Christian and 20 percent of them are bisexual, including myself. Everyone around me happily accepted every LGBT+ person. Don't get me wrong we aren't that connected to each other but it is mostly because of their bad decisions (single mother, alcohol addiction, etc.) and it isn't because their sexuality or gender.
We really need to stop calling it “a lifestyle”. Kardashians have lifestyles. Gays have lives. It’s an important difference. Calling one’s sexuality a lifestyle or a life choice is destructive, self-damaging and indicates it’s something one can change. It’s not. It’s just the way you are. It is so sad to watch these stories of fear of ones family’s reaction to ones very being. My father was incredible and loving beyond my dreams. I found out later he was crying one night...not because I was gay but because his boy felt he couldn’t bring this to him. He felt he had failed me. But when my mum told me that I felt the opposite...he had succeeded in the most beautiful way. I’m a lucky boy. I am so thankful I came out to my parents before they passed as I would never have known how amazing their reactions would be. I’m shocked all parents aren’t like mine. A parent should love a child unconditionally and with great empathy. Times are getting better but there’s still some truly sad tales out there. 🌈🌈🌈
dear michaelmouse you are number one your voice is why our community gets stronger. When we talk to each other we know we are not the only gay person in the world. If the haters are tiring to get in your way just walk around them your true self is your life.
it's 'church-speak'. They also like to say why did you "choose" this. DISCOVERY rather than choice.
*Kardashians have a lifestyle* 😂😂😂
I ABSOLUTELY agree. Always thought that. It implies that it’s a choice!
Exactly. When do straights ever call their orientation, "the heterosexual lifestyle?"
For those that don't know, "stay in the Church" in this case means that you are gay but never act on it, or you marry someone of the opposite sex and live by the rules of the Church. It's horribly sad and heart-breaking. (and unfair for the spouses too) I wish everyone could be loved and accepted completely for who they are 💗
Willow Winkle same for Jehovah’s witnesses.... I was
I don't think that is necessarily true. Difficult? Sure! Congratulations on your integrity and honesty. You are beautiful, physically AND MORALLY!
@@jhctxcla I don't know about Jehovah's Witnesses, but for LDS, it's absolutely true. Same with Catholic Church (both of which i have family experience with) if you're out of the closet you're expected to be either celibate, or to marry someone of a different orientation that you're not attracted to.
Does anyone think the channel Ellie and Jared follows this? Sorry, I know this question is extremely inappropriate, but I’ve been curious on other people’s thoughts for too long. The guy says all his celeb crushes are men.
I just want you to know that marrying the opposite sex is not required or pressured to at all.
Some guy is gonna be so lucky to have u . Yay love
Coral Taylor 😭♥️
Joseph Garner ❤️😘
I have a handsome sweet gay son! ❤️😍
You are a delightful person...your story is relatable outside of the mormon culture...stay strong ....realize continuing with the religious relationships as they are...take the good in yourself and write your own story...don't just take it as gospel words from a nother human...
You will go far if you remain true but actually think
I hope I can find someone soon. I feel so desperately lonely some days. I'm in my early 30's and have yet to ever experience a successful long term romantic relationship.
And as for short term intimate and sexual experiences I've never experienced something fulfilling/enriching yet (and i don't have many experiences to count, it's been years since I've even been on a date) My heart is desperate for that connection and sense of emotional safety and physical closeness. I've yearned for this ever since I was 13 years old. I think I might end up getting really lucky though in terms of love, so I have hope. And I'm trying dating apps again.
Gay is not a “lifestyle”. Gay is how you were made. Parents who love their church more than their son baffle me.
It is awful and definitely not okay, but it is part of the propaganda of the Mormon church. It is how people are trained to react.
@Mel J- -Wrong.
I'm a member of the the church. Nobody puts the church ahead of loving your own family it's all in how you react and how those people chose to react I'm a member of the church and I don't support you being gay but I'm not going to be cruel and mean to you and make fun of you and try to change you I'm going to be nice just like I am to every single other person on this Earth. Just because you don't agree with how someone decides to live their life and who they choose to love doesn't mean that you can be cruel and mean to someone. I've been bullied my whole life I'm not going to bully someone else because of what they believe in.
@Mel J - If you want evidence, research it yourself.
No one is born gay, because no one is born with sin. Unless you can show me a specific gene that makes you want to defy your biological urge to reproduce with the opposite sex, You arent going to change my mind or anyone else in the church’s mind.
Dang the scariest part of this story is the fact that that dude like stalked you and made you feel forced to talk to your parents about everything again. That’s cruel and so not his place. I’m so sorry that happened. Stay safe dude.
I just had to say this ..... your eyes are sooooo pretty ;)
Agreed
Luna Crazy made my day thank you:)
Eyes and mind are pretty ;-)
I totally agree with you. I got hypnotized by his eyes.
Filipe Fialho Alves I got hypnotized by...
everything
How did he find so many girls and boys? I mean i cant even get a flirt
Same....
Im over here getting old and cant even find one boyfriend lol
He is very cute, that is why.
i mean look at his face
Same tho
There is so much pain in your eyes talking about a family who is against you.... it hurts my soul
Drew Spurgeon I’m glad I wasn’t the only one who felt that pain
Where did he say his family was against him? I heard the opposite.
His family is not against him he never said that
Alysa Huber he didn’t have to say it, but it was obvious his parents were pushing him to date girls instead of boys, even after he told them he was gay.. They wanted “what was best for him”, as in, they wanted him to conform anyway.
No... It is possible to have differing opinions and not be against said person. People can do hard things in the name of what they think is best. Parents do it a lot. I'm sure they had his best intentions at heart.
I'm 75 and have been with my other half for 30 years and cried tears of joy when I read your story. I'm really happy for you. You are a beautiful person who has a huge amount of compassion. And I congratulate your parents for how they seem to be accepting of you. Be kind and forgiving to everyone.
Paul ferzoco..... 'be kind and forgiving to everyone', as the Mormon Church and any other religious faith has shown since time immemorial to gay people. What's the matter with you?
There can never be too many coming out stories, there will always be someone that can relate to a particular one, and sharing that story can have a profound impact on them. Wish you all the best!
I also came out to my Mormon parents and family last year while I was on holiday. They told me they knew as a mother knows her children. I'm very lucky to have a mother and father who loves me as I am given the religion says otherwise. My family are all very supportive and constantly ask if I have a boyfriend yet 😂
Im wanting to tell my mormon parents but i also tried telling my dad that i was non binary and he just quoted scriptures to me and it really hurt me. I also havent been able to feel like telling them much after this especially when i know they were worried but when my mom found out i self harmed she made me feel super uncomfortable by asking me to take off my jacket when a freind was over.
Especially when i had been four months clean by then.
@@rebelmcabee4109 that kinda sounds real bad and horrible that your mother made you feel like that.
I'd suggest that you take your time and go slow. Until you've found your ground. Also when you've moved out as you will feel less stress if it doesn't go to plan... Just remember family isn't defined by blood, but by the love that people have for you and accepting you for who you are. People change with time tho, take it slow.
Thank you i will remember that.
I grew up Mormon and gay! Can totally relate to you so hard... I thank god that my parents were excepting, but I was made to see a Mormon therapist to sort through my feelings and was even given the opportunity to go to straight conversion group. I prayed to god about what path I should choose and came to the answer that I needed to accept the person I was meant to be.
I relate. I grew up in a very religious Mormon household here in Utah. I Went to church. Did temple work etc. I always knew I was gay since I was a kid but knew I couldn’t be due to my religion. As I got older I just started to realize I had to be myself to be truly happy. I did the same thing. Talked to lots of guys on tinder and eventually I kissed a guy and instantly knew it was the life for me 😂 coming out was one of the hardest things I’ve done. But fast forward to now and my family has accepted me and my boyfriend and they love him and things are Gucci 🙏 hope you’re happy now man. Slide into my DMs if you ever need to talk ❤️
So happy for you x
If everything is so Gucci and Dolce Gabbana, perhaps you and your boyfriend could adopt me 😭💯 because I won't have a family if I came out for sure!
That sounds a lot like what I’m going through, my family is really religious. My grandparents on my dad’s side and all my family on my mom’s side go to church. I realized that I was bi and ace a while ago and am too scared to tell them because I’m scared they’re going to disown me. I’m getting comfortable being who am but feel like I have to mask my sexuality when I’m with my family I just wish that the church would be more accepting.
I'm very proud of you, your courage is amazing.
🙏🙏🙏
@@josephgarner94 Thank you Joseph for sharing your amazing story I really appreciate it. As a heterosexual young man myself born in 1998 from Lakemba, New South Wales, Australia with healthy positive masculinity I absolutely have no problem if boys and men around the world want to show their emotions because we are human beings with emotional feelings. Being bisexual and being homosexual does not make you less of a man & there are bisexual plus homosexual teenage boys & men who are masculine around the world. We males really need to show empathy for boys and men & listen to how they feel inside instead of mocking them & rejecting them by claiming that they are not manly or masculine enough because that is called bullying & it is a dangerous game. What is a man? He is a human male adult enough said men do not have to prove their manhood because that is a huge lie made up by old school gender activist bigots. As a mature young man myself plus other men around the world we do not have to prove our masculinity because that is just machismo not masculinity, so to all my fellow brothers out there just be a compassionate mature gentleman that is it end of story.
after that intro, all i could think about was why mormons have so many kids?
K Midnitee a lot of Mormons believe birth control is a rebellion against god
Emma_N condoms too?
Emma_N Mormon here, Joseph is a friend of mine.
That’s not true at all. I’ve never met a member of the church that believes that.
Same reason as Catholics, probably
K Midnitee not 100% sure but i remember hearing from one of my close mormon friends that many kids are seen as a very positive thing in the church and basically will bring better things for your family and that children are gods gift i suppose. something to do with many kids = happy life
Unfortunatly, this isn't the sadist Morman "coming out" i've heard about. This amazingly coragious and strong boy made it. many don't!
it's the 21 century and the morman church has just recentaly decided that "gay" was the way you were born, but try to emotionally blackmail the gay kids into NOT ACTING ON IT!.
What gay morman kids are told, is that life on earth isn't that important and when you die, you won't be reunited with your family in the after life!!
Basically what they are telling you, is that you are usless, because your not going to marry (a girl) and produce 4 or 8 or 10 kids to add to the populstion of the church.
One xmorman boy i met, was told to leave home and town, because it was emotionally to difficult to get to know him now, because they would miss him to much in the after life. He lucke out. The cop who was going to arrest him, took him to his pastors house, not jail.
Alother boys father, paid a long distance trucher to take him 500 miles away , well across the state line and leave him on the highway. He was 15. He left home without a dime. no clothes. no id.
He lucked out. The trucker had a gay brother and felt sorry for the boy and braught him to his mothers home. The took care of him. loved him and he's been thair son ever since.
If thair is a god, i'm sure he's not morman.
Both boys would up as students at the college where i teach.
They are the lucky "throwaway kids". Lots wind up as male prostatudes or dealing in someone elses drugs or kill themselves, because of family rejection, shame, guilt and church caused depresson.
You are not alone. google the nearest gay youth hotline or center.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
Fixing typos and grammatical errors,
Unfortunately this isn't the sadist Mormon "coming out" I've
heard about. This amazingly courageous and strong boy made it.
Many don't!
It's the 21st century and the Mormon church has just
recently decided that "gay was the way you were born," but they try
to emotionally blackmail the gay kids into NOT ACTING ON IT.
Gay Mormon kids are told that life on Earth isn't
that important, and when you die, you won't be reunited with
your family in the afterlife!
Basically what they are telling you is that you are useless,
because you're not going to marry a girl and produce 4 or 8 or 10
kids to add to the population of the church.
One ex-Mormon boy I met was told to leave home and
town, because it was emotionally to difficult to get to know him
now, and they would miss him too much in the afterlife. He
lucked out. The cop who was going to arrest him, took him to his
Pastor's house, not jail.
Another boy's father had a long distance trucker take
his son 500 miles away, well across the state line and leave him
on the highway. He was 15. He left home without a dime. No
clothes. No ID.
He lucked out. The trucker had a gay brother and felt sorry for
the boy, so he brought him to his mother's home. They took care of
him, loved him, and he's been their son ever since.
If there is a god, I'm sure he's not Mormon.
Both boys would end up as students at the college where I
teach.
They are the lucky "throwaway kids." Lots of them wind up as
male prostitutes, drug addicts, or commit suicide because of family rejection, shame, guilt, and
church causing depression.
You are not alone. Google the nearest Gay Youth Hotline or
center.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
P.S.
Highly doubt this is all true, you claim to be a college professor yet cannot even use commas properly. The end is one of few redeeming qualities that even makes this worthwhile in the slightest. You do you.
Edit: capitalization
The saddest stories are actually the ones that end too early. Whenever the Mormon church comes out with some new anti-LGBTQ "REVELATION" the number of teen suicides go up. Every...single...time. Love should never be conditional. I grew up like that and it's like an arrow to your heart. I got out of Utah and realized people were a lot more accepting than I thought possible, even in the 90s. If you are hurting look for your own family, your community, it makes all the difference. Whether it's the youth drop in center or the Drama Club (mine back then) in your school, there are safe accepting spaces for young queer people. In Mormonland you just have to look a little harder.
@@diabolicalandi Hi Andrea, thanks for your responce. We have a lot to talk about and if it's ok, i'll send you a long responce (rant) later. Luckly, i was raised christian (not mormon or evangelical) ! Church and related youth activities, was a place parents sent (dumped) their kids to get them out of the house. Free babysitting. haha
It wasn't a place to fill your heart and mind, with fear and hate. I'll get back to you later, when i have more time. Thanks again for your reply
@@diabolicalandi I still live in Utah and there are so many people who are accepting, maybe not so much within the older generations but the younger ones have clearly gotten so much better
You were an “Eagle Scout.” Once an Eagle Scout always an Eagle Scout. So you are an “Eagle Scout” which is a big accomplishment!
I agree it is a huge accomplishment
Lots of mormon men are but in reality lot of those mens' mothers are ones that should have that title.
Best gay uncle award goes to... You!! Hehe thanks for sharing your story
:57 I cannot explain how much I connect with the sadness you held back. “and then there’s me”
I’m sorry it’s been so difficult for you
alacruz you can see the immense sadness in his eyes
Thank you 💕💕💕
try coming out in 1957,,( i didn't ) because i would have been killed right away..gay guys now have it much easier but back then that was not the case. being called names all your life hurts,,you say repair it, but that can't happen. jimmy
“Are you ok”
“Dad I’m gay”
That makes it sound different lol
it is not a lifestyle ...it is your LIFE ...BE PROUD ! i am a 54 yr old lesbian. I have 1 brother and he was always concerned that my lifestyle might affect him in some way... not sure how lol ....fast forward to my only nephew , who came out to me 2 yrs ago ...Karma in a way I guess ...I am so pleased that they have accepted him 100% Be yourself young man and God bless !
When you settle down with your dream guy remember there are so many ways you can have kids hang in there :)
The devil's playground? Lily Dale and the spirtualists there? No, you are so wrong if you say that. The devil's playground is in my underpants! I am proud and strong.
Mel J do you think IVF and surrogacy in straight couples is disgusting as well?? Since it’s unnatural??
@Mel J is that based on facts and research or your own anecdotal view
Mel J soooo adoption is unnatural to you??? lmaooooo
Thanks for sharing. There will be lots of good things ahead.
Gary Lee Gay relationships aren’t only about sex. It’s about mutual love And understanding for one another. What you’re saying is hugely disrespectful
@Gary Lee Actually most of us gay guys are just into sweet romance. It's much more pure and special than hetero relationships.
@Gary Lee ur silly, we flaunt it done much because gays have literally been oppressed and can only really now be in the public eye
Mi friend 's son: Mother I'm sorry to wake you up
Mother: Are you OK?
My friend's son: I'm gay
Mother: OK. I know your are gay, so was your dad...go back to sleep
True story...
I've known guys whos fathers were gay as well. They say its a gene inherited from the mother that causes one to be gay but I have my doubts.
That sounds unhealthy. o_o
@@ridiculouscuteness3 How exactly?... I mean... She was tired.... And she already knows... I'm sure they discussed it further in the morning😅
i've spent 19 minutes watching this video wanting to give you a big strong hug the entire time :( you deserve to be loved
Ex-mo and gay here.
Be who you are.
Love Wins!
Hi, Joseph. I am a gay man old enough to be your grandfather (71), and I am here to tell you that your life can be just as rich and full as that of your straight siblings. Yes, you can marry (a man) and have kids (adopt or surrogate) if that is what you want. Stop dating girls, though. That path leads to nothing but pain and confusion for both yourself and the young ladies involved. Be patient with yourself and with your family, and just continue to be as open and honest with them as you can. Time will take care of the rest ( I know; I've lived it). Lastly, understand that there is nothing wrong with you that needs fixing. You are as your creator made you, and you deserve to be fulfilled and happy. BTW, thanks for subscribing to my channel. I plan to make videos about being gay in the dinosaur days, but these are still in the planning stage, because family obligations have sidetracked me.
Such a sweet and honest person you are.
I just wanted to hug you the whole video.
Marrying a girl would have been a terrible thing,,terrible. why hurt them. jimmy
Hi Joseph. This was an excellent video on a difficult topic. Thank you ...
Gary Lee rather rude. This vid isn’t rlly for homophobic people so leave.
Gary Lee I love how you just got so offended that you felt the need to reply 3 times. Like that’s a lotta effort man.
@Gary Lee just drop it man, ur not helping here. look for the beauty in others instead
Gary Lee lmaoo ok bud
Gary Lee I’m not homophobic but I’m gay and sometimes I rlly wish that meant I didn’t have to be in the lgbt community. Yes I’m attracted to men. No I don’t like the lgbt community because it’s full of a lot of drama.
This is so close to my story and I really appreciate you being so open and honest. Thank you!
I’m Mormon and recently I’ve been struggling and questioning my sexuality. I’m 13 and with Mormons, you can’t date or be in a relationship until you’re 16. I’ve “dated” boys which I know isn’t right with Mormons and I completely understand that, and I don’t know if it’s just that it’s middle school relationships I’m not feeling much with them or that I’m lacking knowledge in myself. I’m also not looking for any relationships with *anyone* soon for that matter. Recently there have been a lot of things (signs if you will) that maybe I *am* bisexual. I think it was last October’s women’s conference, before general conference, one of the 12 apostles was talking about the LGBTQ+ community and that really hit me hard. I know for a fact I don’t talk to my parents enough about anything but I really hope that I will be able to talk to them about how I’m feeling and *maybe* even come out to them. I *did* once talk to my mom and she said the main reason Mormons don’t encourage gays is because they see people sexualizing it and that makes them immediately jump to sex before marriage. I’m not looking for any of that.
I’m really glad Heavenly Father has given you the opportunity to become who you really are. I hope he’ll help me talk with my parents.❤️
Ainsley Rose Hey I’m kinda in the same situation with you except I’m a 14 year old boy and not a Mormon but a Catholic. I’m confused on my sexuality too. I recently noticed over the past two years. I recall when I was younger feelings of being gay, but just now realizing it. I tried to deny it for so long. Right now I’m stuck in the middle of Bi, or gay. I have no intentions of coming out anytime soon, especially since I need to know who I am first. It’s just hard you know. I think my family would accept me, we are catholic but not the really religious family. I believe in God and pray and wanna go to church more. It hurts me when I see all these posts from Religious people saying being gay is a “lifestyle” or a “choice” when if it was I would just want to be straight point blank period! And also, I know God loves us all, and put us on thus earth who we are for a reason. But yeah I just thought I could tell you since A) it’s TH-cam and B) You’re a stranger 😂 I don’t even know if I can tell my best friend yet. I’m too afraid, I feel like I am gay but I wanna deny it. Anyways, thank you for reading my ted talk 😂 😊
I am almost in exactly the same situation. Thank you so much for talking about your struggles. I started looking at girls a little differently a while back and just trying to push it down, and ignore it. Eventually general conference came around and I finnaly realized that I am bi.
I know for a fact that I'm not looking to get busy with anyone and I want to be respectful of the lord and the cards I've been dealt.
I haven't talked to my parents yet and am still sorting out how to do it.
I hope evrething goes well. Best of luck! ❤
I have watched a significant number of coming out videos and this one of the more heart wrenching. I just want to give you a big hug and tell you everything will be alright. You have to love and accept yourself and simply be Joseph. PS I have a similar number of nieces and nephews and some of them are very religious also, and they still love their gay uncle. Your doing good! You more than anyone else deserve your love and respect.
“...and there’s me” 💙 - you’re amazing Joseph!
Felipe Gonzalez ♥️
I don’t have anything interesting to say so I’ll say this: Happy TGIF dude! 🙂and thanks for sharing ur story!
My parents and grandparents are mormons and I came out and they accepted me they’re really great especially my mother and sibling
You’re amazing, joe!! I’m so glad you trusted yourself and are true to you! You deserve all the happiness no matter what people think!
Love this so much you’re so brave for coming out and sharing this video. It’s so inspiring. I’m sorry for how rough it has been for you and I hope it gets better for you soon. ❤️
Continue to be honest to yourself and everything will fall into place. You will find the perfect mate to call your own and love them for a lifetime. I know. I am 65 years old, my husband is 67 and we have been married in our hearts for 42 years and legally for 4 years. We both were raised Southern Baptist, so we understand. Being out is actually much easier now than 42 years ago. Wishing you all the best--always.
Buddy this hits home so much, just one brother and two sisters here, I know how it feels to watch them all get married, have kids and so on, it's easy to feel left behind. Be strong, your not alone.
Thank you for being so open about this! You are really tuff!
You handled everything with such grace! You seem so calm explaining your story. My father wasn’t Mormon, but my mother is and he came out to her when I was 8 years old. I’m sure he felt so conflicted between wanting a “normal” family life and being happy actually dating men. I’m glad you are able to live the way you want now ❤️ and that your parents are still loving towards you.
My best friend is gay, and we met in a singles ward. He struggled for years and I can't imagine having to go through that first hand. His mother said she would rather be hearing that he has cancer than be hearing that her son is gay.
I commend you for coming out and being true to yourself. You deserve happiness.
Celeste R thank you:) and THANK YOU for supporting your best friend while he navigates life ♥️
I love you! This touched me so much, I grew up mormon as well and I have still been figuring it out, thank you so much!
The fact that you’re brave enough to post your videos online and be proud of who u r is beautiful lov u bb
I cannot imagine anyone not loving you. You're beautiful inside and out. Thanks for having the courage to share your story.
DARRYL B ♥️
You tore my heart and built it back up again. God Bless you, God Bless your courage, God Bless those who love you for just you, lastly just God Bless. Much much love and any support you need from NYC.
You’re amazing! Thank you for sharing your story! You are so loved and held!
This one dude stalked you. Oh my I’m glad you got out of that situation safe .... your Story really warms my heart and I hope that in the future you won’t be so hard on yourself. 💕
i’m a closeted child of southern baptists so i really resonated with this video. i have the same fears regarding my family’s reaction. i’m really hoping it works out
Joseph, what an awesome, deeply caring, brave, honest and loving person you are! I'm grateful to have discovered your channel. You're amazing! 💛
John Moon ♥️♥️♥️
Yoo man God bless you from Beirut, Lebanon! I hope you keep receiving positive news in your coming life.
What a beautiful heart you have to share your journey coming out to your family! You seem like a genuine and loving person and your partner will be fortunate to have you whenever it happens. All the best!
You’re so kind and sweet and you honestly deserve the world. Just know that God loves you, and He always will. He makes no mistakes xx
Hey Joseph, your story is beautiful and is inspirational. I’m in a similar situation with my Christian family. My parents have been church leaders and worship leader/pastor. It’s extremely difficult but I have recently found a support group through my friends in college and I hope that someday I have the courage to come out to my family as well. Specially being in a position where my family and myself have been a big part of the church. Coming out to them is also coming out to the church. Great listening you speak about your experience.
Thank you for sharing! I'm sure your honesty has helped many people!
Bless your courageous heart, Joseph. It was very hard for most of us to come out. You are a sweet, beautiful youngman and I believe you will find your ideal bromance. Thanks for telling us about your painful experience. These videos of personal coming out stories help many, many more young men by giving them support and hope. Love you, boy.
Man, I was really impressed by your story and how brave you are. Growing up in a religious mormon family must be hard and being able to come out with dignity was lhe best thing you did to yourself. I'm your Brazilian fan. I want to hear more of you. Hugs
Hey Joseph I am so proud of you for standing up for yourself for who you are and not being judged for what you are. Keep your chin up and be proud don’t let anyone bring you down
I just came across your channel. Wow, I resonate with your words, well done. It can be difficult, but when we come out and aspire for real love, that is where the magic happens. Growing up Mormon and gay was difficult for me too, but I feel like I've become so much more from my experience. Thank you for your story ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
You're a beautiful story teller x :) You've travelled a tough road but still share it with such dignity and love for your family..... keep sharing your tale :)
I've been in a mixed orientation marriage for many years, She has been my greatest support since I came out to her. What will be will be. We do not know, but we are prepared for all contingencies. Thank you for your story. I love you brother and support you in all you do. Sid
You are so brave and thank you for this, it made me fill something i really don't understand, sad for what you went through, happy for having lets say some kind of an understanding family, wishing for a better future for all of us but i just wanted to thank for you it and wish all the best
Mido, what a thoughtful and heartfelt comment. I think you must be an exceptionally nice person.
Wow, you nearly brought me to tears! I'm glad your parents are staying in your life.
What an amazing guy you are. You're going to make a man very happy one day.
Thank you for your video and your honesty.
I wish you ALL the best in life.
Joseph, be strong and stay with your own beliefs, with love from the Netherlands. You sure look excactly like me in my twenties. Amazing!
I don’t think many people realize how easy it is for closeted/struggling gay folks to be taken advantage of in relationships/dating. Being closeted is something that can be held over your head and it’s terrifying to think if someone you’re dating gets angry they can use that against you. These stories are hard to tell but thank you for sharing! It’s so important for gay youth, especially religious gay youth to hear. Hope you are doing well in your journey❤️
So SO true
Thank you for your strong and compelling story. Your well spoken, honest, and clearly a loving caring soul. You deserve to be happy and healthy. Keep in touch. Rob.
I'm just in a real need to say this.. you're absolutely stunning!! You'll find more love in your life, may you be happy always, Joseph ♥️
Hun. I don’t even know what to say. Thank you for sharing. I’m soooo proud of you❤️❤️❤️
Laykin Renee thank you:)
he really does look like a Mormon doesn’t he ALSO SO PROUD OF YOU CUTIE💕💕🥰😘 YOU INSPIRE ME SO MUCH AND I WISH YOU ALL THE HAPPINESS IN THE WORLD AND IM SENDING YOU A VIRTUAL HUG RN
I really loved this video, and it felt so authentic and relatable for so many different reasons. It's really to decide when it's right, but from your eyes, you can perceive how important was for you to be honest. I wish I had the same strength, or that I will! Thanks for this inspiring confession. New fan here :)
Thank you for sharing your story. You made me cry as I could feel your pain. I can relate to your story in so many ways. The stalker guy pissed me off and he should be in jail, what a creep. Sending you much love.
Love this and love you. Such a well made video and a well told story. ❤️
Hayden Warzek 😘
You are special, beautiful and deserve to live your life your way. God never makes mistakes. Don't allow anyone to diminish you, great things lie ahead for you
Crazy Horse Trading ♥️♥️♥️
Thank you so much for sharing this. It really helps those of us who have yet to come out. Seeing truly, what it's really like, all the emotions in your eyes....it makes me realize how beautiful learning to accept oneself is. Thank you. Far and away the most genuine, real coming out story I have ever had the privilege of hearing.
When I told my mother, she said she'd make it her mission to find a girl I could love. I really really hope she can, but I don't think she will.
P.S. I'm also an Eagle Scout.
Jay Bhateja hang in there my friend! And thank you for all the kind words ♥️
Joseph, thanks for sharing your coming out story. I think all of us have or will eventually make this leap of coming out to those important people in our lives. The people we love, but still worry how it will be received versus the euphoric feeling of finally living honestly. I am glad your parents and your family took it fine, most of my acquaintances were fortunate to have wonderful families too. Sadly, I have run into a few where the outcome were not as good. Sometimes it takes time to heal a lot of wounds. To be able to live open and honest - is so worth it. Thank you again - best wishes to your future.
jeffmcmu You’re absolutely right time really does heal those wounds ♥️thank you:)
I know that it's been a while since you posted this and that we're total strangers but I just wanted to say I love you 💕
Hey Joseph, you did a great job on your video. I am glad to hear that you survived your first experience with a Stalker. I'm glad that you are still able to enjoy the love and affection of your family during your journey through life. For some people that is so important, especially young kids. Coming out today is much simpler and garners much more support than when I came out and I am happy that that is occurring since being Gay is not something that can be changed no matter how badly someone may want to do so. I hope that you continue to enjoy the life you have ahead of you and find someone special to make that journey with.
Thank you for posting this and being so frank. Sometimes it's really hard being closeted and part of a Mennonite family.
You seem like such a kind genuine person. I really hope your journey with all of this gets easier.
Big hug from Atlanta, GA! You are being true to yourself and that is a beautiful thing! I was raised Mormon, but I am no longer. Don’t let anyone or anything change who you are. You are priceless just they way you are.
I can’t believe this was recommended to me at just the right time, I really appreciate your story. And 17:24 my jaw literally dropped I kid you not that’s so shocking
"It's easy to find anyone in Mormon town". LOL True dat.
Joseph, this is such a great video. Thank you for your courage and honesty. It also seems that your family are true believers as they understand the passage of Matthew 22:34-40. To your happy and fulfilling future. Jim
You are one fortunate guy to have a supportive family. Its been a crazy rollercoaster ride for you but you got a good heart and a level head.
No doubt in my mind you will find happiness with the love of your life.
Good luck.
You deserve it.
Joseph take your Time and be at a peaceful place. If people Love You they will support you. Sounds Crazy, BE TRUE to YOURSELF. Your very WISE on this, watch out some people are not Kind. Enjoy your time together with family. Love You my Brother.
Hello you! Recently I came out to my family, my friends and the rest of my siblings already knew, but I’m having some problems with my parents. As you said in your video, Since I was a little boy, even before my baptism, I knew I was kind singular and different. As you, I served my Mission in Salt Lake City and I’m still doing my best effort to do my best.
Your family is lucky to have you. You have enriched their lives by being who you are, and all of ours by sharing your story. The best to you!
I greatly admire your courage and support you got and I pray that you will continue receiving love from family and friends.
Congratulations..🎉🎈🎊 on coming out and living your truth...great story and Happy pride 🌈
Thank you:)
Awwww this was so strong of you!!
WOW!! that was amazing. Thank you so much for sharing such a personal story. 💞💞
Wow… that was heartbreaking but also one of the best and most inspiring coming out videos I've ever watched, and I've watched a lot. 💛 I think I was 11 when I knew something was up, and by the time I was 13 I knew without a doubt that I wasn't straight. It's been years and I've been too afraid to bring it up to my parents. Sometimes I sit in church and think about girls and feel so guilty, it's overpowering. I hope that one day I can be as brave and as strong as you have been. You seem like such a sweet, genuine and eloquent person and you deserve all the love in the world.