My Coming Out Story | LGBTQ+

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ต.ค. 2024
  • This was a hard video to make, but it feels good to let everything out. Thank you guys for the support while I figure out my sexuality and life (lol). If you want me to share more/continue to share about my gay journey, subscribe/ comment/like/share. xoxo
    I edit my TH-cam videos using epidemic sound: www.epidemicso...
    FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL:
    IG: @courtneytheexplorer
    TikTok: @courtneytheexplorer
    Twitter: @courtvondran
    Website: www.courtneyth...
    About Courtney:
    Hey friend, I'm a travel content creator from Chicago, USA. Six years ago, I quit my 9-5 to travel the world...and never went back to my job. This year I flew home from South Korea, ended things with my long-term partner, and realized I was gay. So, here we are - making videos about being gay and documenting the journey to figuring shit out. Thanks for liking, subscribing and joining the fun. Subscribe for LGBTQ+, vegan stuff, vlogs, lifestyle, and some travel mixed in.
    xoxo

ความคิดเห็น • 195

  • @veronicaklingel160
    @veronicaklingel160 3 ปีที่แล้ว +69

    “I’m not sure what’s gay and what’s not” Girl same 😂 I look back over my life and I’m like is this a gay thing or was I just weird?

  • @mayaalexis
    @mayaalexis 3 ปีที่แล้ว +74

    Internalized homophobia is so realll! Thank you so much for sharing your story!!

    • @CourtneyTheExplorer
      @CourtneyTheExplorer  3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      YESSS! Thanks for watching (:

    • @hfactor6429
      @hfactor6429 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Maybe she's internalized heterophobic and fighting that battle!!?

    • @remogatron1010
      @remogatron1010 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      No loss for men. So be it.

  • @bossbanana4318
    @bossbanana4318 3 ปีที่แล้ว +79

    The most difficult thing about coming out is coming out to yourself. It takes much longer for gay women especially because of many factors such as society (the mans pleasure is the main focus) etc.
    What helped me most was just start dating (not too serious) and at some point I met someone that was good enough and helped me come to terms with who I am 😁

    • @liberoAquila
      @liberoAquila 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I disagree, male homosexuality historically has always been more severely prosecuted, even today it's a much bigger deal for a man to be gay, he's considered "gone", while lesbians always have a chance to "redeem" themselves into "straightness".

  • @stephaniemartiros6675
    @stephaniemartiros6675 3 ปีที่แล้ว +29

    Your video made it to the right person 😂 thank you for validating how confusing it is to have come out and to feel so sure that you ARE in-fact gay, yet unsure at the same time??? Ugh I totally get it. Im also in my late 20’s, and feel like I want to date, but still think about my ex sometimes. I’ve done so much healing work on myself, yet I’m still working on the self love part and knowing my worth. It’s a process for sureeee

  • @alienhands4952
    @alienhands4952 3 ปีที่แล้ว +56

    I finally “figured out” I was gay a few days ago. I’ve been crying so much since then, and I’m crying right now. This video is so comforting, because everything you said, I was nodding my head. I needed this so much. Thank you, kind soul.

    • @nothinwatever
      @nothinwatever 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Same 😭😭❤️❤️❤️

    • @bidishasingha2089
      @bidishasingha2089 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      As a lesbian do you feel yourself as girl or boy?

    • @beridelete596
      @beridelete596 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@bidishasingha2089 i don't really feel either as a girl or boy just feels attracted to girls

    • @chancereed1088
      @chancereed1088 ปีที่แล้ว

      Insert meme here : We do not care.

    • @mannyboss7126
      @mannyboss7126 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It’s to complicated when we have feelings for both genders been bi isn’t easy 😢

  • @Mymh001
    @Mymh001 3 ปีที่แล้ว +30

    I see so much of myself in your story Courtney. From messing around with girls as a kid and then stopping altogether once I got rejected, to being so tied up to one best girl friend in high school, to having crushes on more feminine guys. I'm 27 now and it took me 24 years of my life to come out. It was so hard at first because I didn't feel "gay enough", which sounds crazy looking back on it. I am feminine and had always dated guys. Feelings towards girls were far too intense, they made me want to run for my life lol. Today I'm much more comfortable with my sexuality and am proud of who I am, although it's an ongoing journey. I smiled all the way through your video because it really hit home. Greetings from Belgium xx

    • @lenkat.4620
      @lenkat.4620 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Same..

    • @Fireflow.erDani
      @Fireflow.erDani ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Relate to this completely it like I wrote this comment myself. Still working on figuring out exactly what to do from here

  • @clairejohnson7809
    @clairejohnson7809 4 ปีที่แล้ว +36

    I relate to so much of this Courtney. Thank you for making this video and validating so many of my feelings! Im 30 and only just realised, despite having so many crushes on girls. Going to pride every year when I was younger. Having had many many unsatisfying relationships and flings with men, one after the other from the age of 18. Having panic attacks when there was a hint of moving onto the next stage. Im currently in a 5 year live-in relationship with my boyfriend which is having to end. I really relate to so much of this, especially with the codependency and how my huge lack of selflove has stopped me from living authentically. I hope you share more of your journey. ❤

    • @CourtneyTheExplorer
      @CourtneyTheExplorer  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Wow there are so many parallels in our stories. Did you discover gaytiktok during quarantine as well?! lol sending you allll the love during your break-up and huge life transition. You're brave af.

  • @cosodesign8953
    @cosodesign8953 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I’m also terrified of dating women and I couldn’t put my finger on why until you said you’re scared of really falling in love. Intimacy has always scared me because I feel so deeply (which is why I could trick myself into loving men but something was missing) and when I lose people, it devastates me. I don’t know what my future dating life looks like but I’m scared and excited.

  • @yz4043
    @yz4043 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    "I had a crush on the gay one. Of course!"
    😂

  • @rutabierne2169
    @rutabierne2169 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    The part about your childhood experiences and "fooling around", and having close girl friends, has validated all of my childhood memories, because I could relate to every single word you said.

  • @prathyusha016
    @prathyusha016 3 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Not related but frick you're beautiful 😭

  • @user-dy6bb6cq9i
    @user-dy6bb6cq9i 3 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Omg thank you, I’m just realizing this and I’m going to be 39 this summer, I have two beautiful kids I was married for 14 years and it was hell. But everything you are saying is how I feel. Thanks I’m not alone

    • @richsing4165
      @richsing4165 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      BS you didnt just realize at a middle age you are gay being married for that long

    • @truthteller839
      @truthteller839 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@richsing4165 typical entitled male thinking his experience should be everybody’s experience. Newsflash, the heteronormative media men create and push on young girls&women is powerful.

  • @nevaehdumas5191
    @nevaehdumas5191 3 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    Yup, that's me and I am still in the five year relationship and have no idea what to do... but thank you for this video. It really does help

    • @gabbieshetlar1891
      @gabbieshetlar1891 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Same here omg I am so UGHHH IDK WHAT TO DO

    • @akashahuja8853
      @akashahuja8853 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I can’t understand so first you date a men for four years, give all your emotions time valuable memories and then you break up just because you feel that you are gay. What about the guy have you ever thought about that?

    • @rambleonrose2993
      @rambleonrose2993 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@akashahuja8853 they are thinking about the men. Have you, really? Do you feel it is fair to continue in a relationship with someone when you are unable to love them fully, in the ways they deserve? As soon as they are sure, safe to and financially stable enough to move on they really should for the sake of themselves and the men involved. By allowing these men to move on, these men will find that kind of love that they so deserve, as will these women.

    • @darkhorse7460
      @darkhorse7460 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@akashahuja8853 oh, God go away with the guilt tripping.nobody experiencing compulsory heterosexuality intends to hurt their partner and guess what their partner moves on and is just fine have you ever thought about that?

    • @editsbybee7337
      @editsbybee7337 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@darkhorse7460i mean it very much might hurt him saying “he’ll be fine and move on” is insensitive but I also understand having to figure yourself out, she should be open with him tho

  • @brunapollastrini8592
    @brunapollastrini8592 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    OMG! I had the SAME experience...also had my spiritual awakening for that reason and WHAT A RELIEF! Still struggling to accept myself as a gay woman...
    I'm 28 years too.

  • @erikav9249
    @erikav9249 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I’m so glad I ran across your video. It is exactly how I feel about my sexuality and coming out at a later age (30) and still not knowing 100% but everyday we continue to learn more about ourselves and that’s all that matters. Compulsory heterosexuality sure played a role in why it took me long to accept myself as gay. You really don’t know how this helps until it does. Thank you!

  • @justinemitcham1037
    @justinemitcham1037 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I had the same childhood thing with only having one girl best friend at a time and they were my everything and I would get so so jealous of their other girlfriends cuz I wanted to be their only friend 😳😬

    • @justinemitcham1037
      @justinemitcham1037 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Also yes the questioning you after coming out to someone freaking sucks! This still happens to me cuz I’m not 100% out yet and I didn’t know that it was a shared experience but yeah like I’m being vulnerable about something so important and you try to challenge it? Then after those experiences it made someone just immediately accepting it with no questions asked so much more warm and fuzzy if that makes sense lol. Feels good to be supported.

  • @SC-jr6fd
    @SC-jr6fd 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    It’s easy to accept you’re into women, it’s much harder to accept you’re not into men

  • @bronwynoneill2760
    @bronwynoneill2760 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Thank you so much for making this video. I related to so many things you said! I used the label of bisexual for a few years but only ever dated men. Im 27 and after my last serious relationship ended recently it has been a real turning point for me exploring my attraction to women. I am excited but also TERRIFIED about dating women for the first time as the feels just hit different and it requires a whole new level of introspection and vulnerability. Thank you again for making me feel less alone.

  • @kathrynberg7036
    @kathrynberg7036 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Omggg Courtney!!! 😭😭😭 I definitely needed this. Sexuality is so confusing and it’s ok to still be figuring it out. Your openness is so beautiful!! ❤️

  • @gabrielahernandez5910
    @gabrielahernandez5910 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    You’re amazing!! Thank you for sharing your story. Everything you said deeply resonated with me. Sending you light and love upon your journey.

  • @lizziebrabham5232
    @lizziebrabham5232 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    This is a little too spot on for me.. I'm just getting out of a almost 4 year relationship with a man, he's my Bestfriend but I realized that im actually gay. I've been out of as bi for a long time but I always felt that something is missing feeling with him and every man I've been with.I definitely feel like I'm in spiritual awakening. Thank you for making this video

    • @robynweyeneth1531
      @robynweyeneth1531 ปีที่แล้ว

      How did you navigate ending the relationship? Especially when you care so deeply for that person ? 😢 it’s so difficult

  • @Emily-ev2jb
    @Emily-ev2jb 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    This is amazing, I really appreciate how honest and raw you are about your journey. Even now I have friends who question my identity as a lesbian because I’ve mentioned men that I think are good looking (like I’m gay not blind guys lol) and because I’ve dated men in the past. It’s so difficult but at the same time I understand how confusing it can be for others, not just myself! I wish you all the best as you learn more about yourself 💖

  • @rebamayo7313
    @rebamayo7313 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Thank you so much for sharing this. I am recently coming to terms with a lot of new feelings and that I am bisexual, and so much of what you said resonates with me. This is so scary and different but your story really helped ground me.

  • @alwayssingingsam
    @alwayssingingsam 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Thank you for this video and being vulnerable. I feel like people only share their story when they have fully accepted themselves and make it seem more simple than it is. I have been out for over 2 years now and feel more validated every day but I still hesitate to use the label 'lesbian' because of the 'what ifs' or feeling dishonest somehow despite feeling 0 attraction to men or have any desire to date men and feeling so much attraction and love for women. I really resonated with the sentence 'what if i'm wrong'. That feeling has lessened for me but it was a big one earlier on in my journey when i first came out as bisexual but I think you have to trust yourself and be okay with potentially being wrong but doing what feels right now

  • @tigerette1991
    @tigerette1991 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Aww so relatable! I’m 29 and still have no clue but I know I don’t think about men at all. When I had boyfriends I didn’t really want to kiss or do anything else. I have been single for 5ish years now and I’m ok with that. You are beautiful and I hope you find your peace with your ex. Girl I hope we both get our happily ever after. 💕

    • @CourtneyTheExplorer
      @CourtneyTheExplorer  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yesss, we will.

    • @richsing4165
      @richsing4165 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      So why get with men if you felt that way stringing them along

  • @evab1410
    @evab1410 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I had a similar experience with a teacher when I was 12. I didn't really know that I was gay at the time, but I was starting to realize the possibility. Then a teacher (not even my own teacher, but I think he was friends with my homeroom teacher and he stopped by or something) told our class that 1 in 30 people is gay, "so that means at least one of you here is". I remember sitting in the back of the room and thinking to myself "that's not me, that's not me". And then I have a memory that must have been shortly after, panicking about being gay and telling myself that I don't have to be if I didn't want to. And that's when I buried it somewhere very deep and forgot about it till I was 22... Now I also know why I hated that teacher afterwards while everyone else seemed to like him so much

  • @aminahofset313
    @aminahofset313 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    thank you so much for making me, and others, feel accepted and loved on our journey of figuring out our sexuality. it is often really overwhelming because our society expects everyone to be straight. I’m still figuring out my sexuality, but feel like I’m starting to get more comfortable with who I like and all of that

  • @adventuringemilysierra
    @adventuringemilysierra 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    THANK YOU FOR SHARING! I have recently had that same spiritual awakening and ended a 4 year relationship with my male partner. SO MANY EMOTIONS! Your story really resonated with me so thank you so much.

  • @ashleyelizabeth90
    @ashleyelizabeth90 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    So I had crushes on 3 men who turned out to be gay 🤔
    With a man for almost 11 yrs. Came out as bi during these years. Never able to get the validation( not that you need it) still questioning if im actually just gay.

  • @saltontheshelf
    @saltontheshelf 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I'm late here but congrats on the nerve to make this video. Couldn't have been easy. ♥

  • @astrideriksen8464
    @astrideriksen8464 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Yeah , so I had extreme biphobia growing up . I thought my attraction to women was just something that women go through when there young before settling down and getting married to a man . I dated men through high school and university . I had an amazing girlfriend when I was 22 we were together 2 years but I ended because I was embarrassed at her being a woman . Then I met my husband and we have an amazing relationship . About a year ago my ex girlfriend came back into my life ,and we rekindled our relationship . My husband knew about us from the start , she lives with us now and I am never letting her go again .

  • @rebeccakielce3729
    @rebeccakielce3729 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Your video validated so many feelings for me. I am 30 and recently discovered that I am gay as well. I haven’t come out yet and it’s a bit difficult since I have 3 kids and have been married. Thank you for posting! It has really helped me!

  • @evelyntaylor5459
    @evelyntaylor5459 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I still don't know how to get to know other femme lesbians....I don't have the confidence to go to a lesbian club/ bar. 😰

  • @jordiepooily
    @jordiepooily 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    omg!! yes, so much is the same for me! it's tough when you are struggling with your own internal homophobia and also wondering if you are completely gay. girl I am proud of you!! thank you so much for sharing!

  • @veertjuh7
    @veertjuh7 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you so much being so honest and vulnerable with us sharing your story

  • @cancercarrot
    @cancercarrot 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Wow I literally just did the same thing, end a four year relationship and came out to my boyfriend.. maybe I’ll skip the dating part because I’m trying rly hard to prioritize myself and get myself to a happy place and “do me” before getting into anything serious again.

  • @NiftyBean
    @NiftyBean 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    oohhhhh this resonated with me so much. Just ended a relationship with my male partner of 3.5 years. thought i was gonna marry him, but something was missing. i'm so scared and excited about all of this. It's so much. thanks for sharing, i'm glad you were able to share this with us.
    When you said "i don't want to meet and guy and be wrong" oof i feel that. i'm not sure what i am, and that's the scariest and most exciting thing.

  • @saram.vanvalkenburg1812
    @saram.vanvalkenburg1812 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you so much for this video

  • @alannahfarley5207
    @alannahfarley5207 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I relate to this video so hard. I'm 27 and sobbing. Thank you love for sharing your story and giving me this safe space.

  • @ProbablyMarilyn
    @ProbablyMarilyn 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Oh my gosh I’m going through the exact same thing now!!

  • @gingersnapppp
    @gingersnapppp 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    wow, I can really relate to how you were feeling here and the process you were in

  • @QueenBee-xd1xk
    @QueenBee-xd1xk 14 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I'm having a similar situation but at a much later stage. I'm 49 years old I've been divorced 5 years was with my ex for 18 years. Trying to date men over these 5 years I just couldn't bring myself to do it after one date It was such a conflict that I really struggled with and led to a lot of introspection. Coming to the conclusion that all my early experiences thoughts about women thoughts about men all mirror what you've spoken of here. I'm starting to realize that I think I'm gay. In a way it feels like a relief because being with men was always such a struggle for me I could never really get into it. But also scary because I'm 49 years old and it's like I'm just starting out. I don't know what I'm doing. Anyways I appreciate your video. Thanks for putting it out

  • @mariagordillo
    @mariagordillo 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi wow you are amazing and I'm so proud of you ❤️♥️🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈 things will get better for you bff and don't give up 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈♥️❤️❣️😄😀🌈🌈🌈 I had a very much of the same story of my life remember that life is short so keep going and getting to that happy place just for you bff I promise I will keep in touch all my sopor 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈

  • @plumbatty
    @plumbatty 4 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I hope now 3 years later that you have found the courage and reality that you will be coming out for the rest of your life.

  • @eyesooya4739
    @eyesooya4739 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    the most important/comforting thing to me is that, in the end, we are all fucking valid. much love to everyone here, you are NOT alone!

  • @winec00ler
    @winec00ler 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Dude- fuck labels. Just continue to be yourself. As someone who has been in CODA for a year, all I can say is, "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
    the courage to change the things I can,
    and the wisdom to know the difference."
    Big hug. I've been out since I was 17, I am 39 now. I have yet to date anyone. We all have our struggles.
    😘

  • @photent
    @photent 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Don't put pressure on your self discovery. I have just finally come to terms with being a lesbian, I'm turning 30 in a few months. I'm at a place now where I cannot believe how long it took me to figure this out/accept this. It's so obvious now that I'm comfortable with it. It's just who I am and everything makes sense now. There are levels to accepting who you are. I don't know why that is, but I was true for me. Even years ago I had inklings, but I was uncomfortable about it and not ready to embrace it. Then I was at a stage were I was saying "I'm gay, I think", because I wasn't sure in myself. But it all unfolded in it's own time, that's the frustrating thing about it. I would look up quizzes and video on "am I gay", etc, to mentally diagnose myself! But now it's just a huge relief that I'm gay and I don't ever have to force myself to say men again or fit into that box that was suffocating me and making me feel like a failure on so many levels. I'm just ranting now but all this to say that I can relate and maybe we should all do way more PDA an be proud when we have girlfriends so that the next generation of lesbian girls actually views an alternative to heterosexuality out in the world, so she sees something she can relate to and give context for her feelings.

  • @marives3608
    @marives3608 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Me too I’m literally terrified of men

  • @sherrietaha8377
    @sherrietaha8377 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Of course it was normal for you to feel comfortable making out with your girl friends cause for you, it is normal. The norms in society just cause too much confusion for us... Coming out will be easy for us when societal norms define human sexuality like it actually is rather than heterosexuality being THE only norm... We have a few generations to go before we get there. In the meantime, we struggle, find our way out of the cocoon, heal, learn, grow, and share our beautiful stories. Thanks!

  • @alexandermfernandez9283
    @alexandermfernandez9283 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Seeing this video 3yrs later and I'm curious as to how your life is going . Did you ever find the girl you were looking for ?

  • @erincafferty5388
    @erincafferty5388 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you for this. Especially all the crying because MEE TOO

  • @kay-cm3lw
    @kay-cm3lw 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I resonated with everything you said. Thank you so so much for making this

  • @tdempss
    @tdempss 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you so much for sharing this. Our stories sound so similar it’s kinda crazy. I was in a 4 year relationship with a guy and my deeper spiritual awakening kind of made me realize I might not be just bisexual. I’ve actually questioned if I was bisexual or gay since I was 12 but always thought... no I can’t be gay. I’ve had crushes on boys. I’m now 28 and I look back and realize the signs were there. I’m scared to come out because what if I find a man that I do fall in love with and want to marry and I’ve boxed myself in as a lesbian?
    But the idea of being with a guy doesn’t sound right to me anymore.
    It’s been really hard and confusing because I realized I have internalized homophobia that I’m still working on.
    I’ve been watching coming out stories on TH-cam and yours really resonated with me. You’re amazing for loving yourself enough to be honest with yourself about who you are. Thank you so so much for sharing 💗🤍✨🌈

  • @mathilden7955
    @mathilden7955 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wow I'm impressed with how much I relate to your journey 🥺❤️ thanks for sharing it 🏳️‍🌈

  • @sami-yc3xj
    @sami-yc3xj 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Omg having sleepovers and making out with girls and you didn’t even think you might be a little gay... funny but also sad. I’m glad you’ve seen the light ;-)

  • @AliVanSickle
    @AliVanSickle 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just ended an almost 7-year relationship with a man because I couldn't stop those voices in my head... screaming at me to listen to them. I'm 27 btw. I too watched that video by Alayna and resonated with that SO much. I would watch other videos and other gay-related movies and cry when the main character finally got to say/live their truth. I hurt so much for myself. I also hurt for my boyfriend who was so in love with me, but I couldn't fulfill him the way he deserved. Mentally/emotionally or physically. I too have been out as bisexual, but as you said "I don't see myself marrying a man." I've always told myself I saw my future with a woman. I think I might be gay too.. but something I need to figure out as well. Thank you so much for this video...PS you're so beautiful.

  • @ileanajesus7076
    @ileanajesus7076 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    one of the questions I hate is (How do You know?) my answer it has always been I am 34 I was 32 when I came out though kissed a "friend" that happens to be a girl and i like it (i was stunned at that kiss that when she asked me if i liked it i just bobbed my head gently to a yes, i could not even speak)

  • @artemis8676
    @artemis8676 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for sharing your experience! My “best friend” at the time who was bi, invalidated me completely everytime i would talk about my attraction to girls , and when i finally started dating a women she got so mad and cut off out friendship. Also when i broke up with the woman i was dating, she also invalidated me saying i was straight! I know my truth but in the journey after the pain of comphet, it really hurts being invalidated with ppl who are also queer and are supposed to support me. I felt and still feel so alone sometimes. Im still queer and feel nothing towards men but sometimes i question if i might be bi , or is it comphet?? Still have religious trauma. I validate u!! Thank u for making me feel validated too

  • @alexam7506
    @alexam7506 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Going through something similar... Thank you so much for sharing! It is super helpful. Now, to gather the courage and tell my SO 🥲

  • @lila7138
    @lila7138 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you for you honesty. It's like you're telling my story 🙈🙈 thank you sooo much for sharing this ❤

  • @CB-wj6oh
    @CB-wj6oh 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you so much for sharing your honesty and vulnerability. Thank you for posting a video like this. It’s been healing and inspirational for me to watch. 🖤

  • @Sophia-zk5kz
    @Sophia-zk5kz 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you so much for sharing this at a time when you have found a label but are still struggling with questioning and the growing pains of discovering yourself. I am currently out as bi and questioning whether that's really the way I would honestly describe myself and it is so comforting to see some of my own unsureness and worries reflected in another person.

  • @shingletoria
    @shingletoria 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    oof. i’m 26 and this is so eerily similar to my experience. i’m excited to now watch your update video... so glad i found your channel! thanks for sharing your story.

  • @bubba283
    @bubba283 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I'm a guy who was always curious I thought, then got older and knew I was different, it got to the point a girlfriend actually out of the blue, asks me are u gay? I then got scared and still am.

    • @CourtneyTheExplorer
      @CourtneyTheExplorer  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      It’s hard to figure out things for yourself, let alone share those feelings with a partner/friend/family (regardless of how supportive they are). I know what you mean about feeling different. Like I said, it’s terrifying, confusing, and freeing as fuck all at the same time. Sending you all the love 💛💛💛💛💛

  • @chenaboyle7845
    @chenaboyle7845 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    omg... why did I relate to this so much? I'm married to a man and he's my best friend and he knows I think I'm gay, but he doesn't believe me. A lot of my friends think I'm just bi but I know deep in my heart I'm gay.

    • @MsXperienced
      @MsXperienced ปีที่แล้ว

      Well, he’s going to make excuses because he wants to be with you. I tell men that I’m gay and it goes one ear and out the other because it’s hard for them to accept when they find you attractive. It was hard for my ex to accept it when we broke up in 2020 because he wanted to be with me but I didn’t desire him and that’s not fair to him. So despite him still wanting to be with a gay woman, I broke it off….he was mad. I just hope one day he won’t be mad with me. I didn’t end on the best terms afterwards.

  • @heyheyitsvey
    @heyheyitsvey 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    thank you for sharing

  • @season93
    @season93 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you for sharing

  • @bdubgrrl
    @bdubgrrl 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I really appreciate your honesty and vulnerability, thank you!

  • @kikiramsay5572
    @kikiramsay5572 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    You have to go with what your heart says I'm scared to

  • @sarahmckee9147
    @sarahmckee9147 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I’m a Lesbian

  • @tommyryan3434
    @tommyryan3434 ปีที่แล้ว

    You only get one life so joy it take risk you will look back and say i should when a head and don all thing that life has to offer me because dont do it life will past you by and you will regrets when you get old you have to get you heart breaking a few time them you will know on point leave up the wall know one can get in if i was you i go for it that would be my advice to you dont be scared just go for it good luck

  • @telefrk49
    @telefrk49 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Cool :) .... Thanks for sharing !!!

  • @Pig56789
    @Pig56789 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Congratulations! ❤🎉

  • @nightgoblin29
    @nightgoblin29 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    You are soooo brave girl,,, I'm not homo sexual but Bi Sex... I'm old and still scared.. so I'm so proud of you!

  • @emilyakay5068
    @emilyakay5068 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Can't think of much else to add right now other than thank you ❤️

  • @redditstuff5535
    @redditstuff5535 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You're super cute

  • @charlieandmary4904
    @charlieandmary4904 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I am your 818th subscriber =D I am so excited because I can relate to so many different parts of your story. Also I think you are gorgeous!

  • @purplepassion690
    @purplepassion690 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for sharing Courtey hang in there

  • @thekenimoshow
    @thekenimoshow ปีที่แล้ว

    This is such a powerful video and is so similar to what i am going/went through. I think a lot of women force themselves into labels, especially being lesbian when they are trying to escape the straight world, and the pressures from men. but in truth you dont have to force yourself into a label.
    Also there's a difference between romantic interest and sexual interest. Check out the video on my channel called "Sexuality Is Different From Romantic Interest - Here's Why"
    Not that you have to pick one, but the fact that one is able to have sexual relations with the opposite sex, tells me they arent completely homosexual (Yes sexuality/romantic interest is fluid and can change depending on what season you're in in your life, but changes are typically between 1 and 2 points on the scale, not much more drastic than that)
    Also just because your homosexualy doesnt mean you cant be bi-romantic. and as the kinsey scale measures sexuality, you can also use it to measure romantic interest. and yes the two can be different.
    i.e. you can be a 4 sexually and a 6 romantically. i even have a friend thats a 5 sexually and a 2 romantically, which is probably why he's still single. he's a walking contradiction. it's all very interesting.

  • @hawaiiman33
    @hawaiiman33 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just self analyze yours. Ask yourself if you are gay and whatever your being tells you inside. That is your answer. Be completely natural, and never ignore your first instincts.

  • @courtneystenerson986
    @courtneystenerson986 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

  • @EricOtt-cd3fp
    @EricOtt-cd3fp 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    B u

  • @the_rest_is_confetti
    @the_rest_is_confetti 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This video got to the right person. When you started saying what you’re terrified about, that really resonated with me. I’m right there with you girl. And I’m almost 31. Still haven’t dated or even kissed a girl yet. Maybe some day.

  • @shirinbruhnke5279
    @shirinbruhnke5279 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I feel you!

  • @yz4043
    @yz4043 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Life isn't a race! 🤗

  • @parkerbeard6170
    @parkerbeard6170 ปีที่แล้ว

    I give you a lot of credit for coming out! I'm not gay, I'm straight. But I have some friends who are gay, and I love them for who they are as a person! I worked hard to not judge a person by their sexuality choice. Last year I even ran a 5k Pride Race! I was proud to support the program while running the Race! Keep being yourself!

  • @jehoqz
    @jehoqz 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Are you a friend of Bill and Bob? Your vocabulary is sexy. The verbiage you use is very familiar to me. Spiritual awakening, Ego, Higher Power, Acceptance, Codependency... We have a very similar story down to @Alanah lol 🏳️‍🌈 ‘TikTok made me Gay’ ... and same thing ‘I’m Gay’. I’ve always identified as BiSexual but love women. I’m going to be 34 this year and have an old school Italian father and a mother who has Hard time when I get attention from certain family members. I’ve come out to a ha soul of people that I trust with my future first born child. I’ve got 2 exes that have come out. One that is Pan and will never settle with just a man or a woman and battles inner demons and continues to self medicate. My most recent ex just passed away of a heart attack on 4-20-21 at the age of almost 31 ... the man before that broke my heart and two months later came out to me. He is so out and so gay and so proud. I’m almost jealous. I was secretly in love with my best friend who also left this earth 07-15-20 at 40. The last 12 months of my life should be adapted into a film. How I’m still here I don’t know? Just live in today and don’t worry bout tomorrow 🏳️‍🌈

  • @darkhorse7460
    @darkhorse7460 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    actually I just want to say this for everybody before I ever even figured to label myself as anything and I'm still questioning Rocky horror picture show when things open back up is the most fun and you get such an open crowd of people.also yes I'm older 35 and have children and my daughter's dad said the same thing I said I think I'm gay he said no you're not I'm also very feminine looking I do think it's a blow to their ego

    • @akashahuja8853
      @akashahuja8853 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi saw your comment on my gmail. So you know that you are gay and still you date guys, how confused are you how can you do these to a guy. So you feel secured with a guy thays why you are dating just because of your security (how selfish) i woul never think about taking about tripling but this confusion after being with a guy after soo long and you knew this since Childhood. You take good energies from onther and then leave them you want security and the you hurt. Offcourse guys have no option just to let go but have you thought about how confused and messed up your mind it. I request you to do meditation and yoga and make your mind till the dont date. After some years people realize that thwy dont like being gay and then going back. Its confused

    • @darkhorse7460
      @darkhorse7460 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@akashahuja8853 what? I'm not dating anyone.not only are you judgmental and lacking empathy you also don't possess critical thinking skills I request that you mind your own business and don't give people unsolicited advice

  • @lorenahernandez4866
    @lorenahernandez4866 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just broke up with my sons father, I’m crying it’s been so freeing and hard. Omg
    This whole video I understood.
    I don’t need men anymore!

  • @yz4043
    @yz4043 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I definitely don't talk about sex or my sexuality at work. If a guy hits on me I simply say I'm not interested and if they didn't stop (never got to that point.. thank god) I'd definitely let my supervisor know that questions or comments like that (romantic or sexual in nature) make me uncomfortable
    Yes I am that bitch at work 😅😂

  • @t-rex8520
    @t-rex8520 ปีที่แล้ว

    I knew I liked girls when I was 5 years old. So I knew I was gay when I was 5 years. Im Asian and I’m 40 years old now. Thank you for sharing. T-Rex from Dallas.

  • @steevoridgeline
    @steevoridgeline ปีที่แล้ว

    i feel you and your situation reaches me. ill be 50 next year and cannot wait for a first real relationship. But, like you, its frightening indeed... yep that feeling of you know but you cant at the same time... but both finally would work out but one more than the other... so in the mean time, better of staying alone and be proud and happy by ourselves, that way it would be more attractive for a potential match to fall for the you that is free and in love with is own self. 🤝🌈🎖☀ wish us luck !!!

  • @MariaLuisa-vv4ug
    @MariaLuisa-vv4ug 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Why not use the term lesbian? This isnt a judgement, I really want to know

  • @AA-lq5pu
    @AA-lq5pu 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I couldn't even come out to myself because I was financially dependent on others. When I was in Grade 1 (I'm from South Africa) I was traumatised and verbally assaulted on the play ground because I was always looking at this cute girl in my class. I had no idea what it was, but I was confronted by this boy who came up to me and started to scream at me saying "you like girls" and then proceeded to tell me how horrible I was, possibly that I belonged in jail that I was the lowest of the low. I walked home that day, so scared that if my parents found out I would be homeless so I told myself over and over again that I must like boys, I must do everything that it takes and that the only way I would get away with it is if I hid it even from myself. A piece of myself died that day. I killed off some of my life force. All because I was afraid of being homeless and that my parents would no longer love me. I would be confused as a teenager for years because I could never get a certain girl out of my mind, I just couldn't understand why. I was introverted and never really socialized with woman, I spent my free time at church all into purity, I then became a Scientologist (a cult) and L Ron Hubbard would state that he found homosexuals to be the lowest of the low and that it is better to sleep with a snake then these kind of people. I then left the Church of Scientology (that church will destroy your whole life, career, money, health, mental sanity, not joking) I married a man, and fell debilitatingly ill shortly afterwards, I put off consummating the marriage to 2 months after we got married. I began to realise that what was making me feel better was looking at beautiful girls from movie scenes, it gave me hope. I was using it as motivation to help me heal. Sometimes I would get so exited when I went to the shops and there was a beautiful woman there, it would make my day and I would come home thinking about them and how beautiful they were, I genuinely thought it was admiration. Then one day, as a was complimenting this beautiful girl something happened, I started to feel hypnotized as we were looking into each others eyes, she had the same response, I felt so connected to her, I pulled out of it and thought, what on earth was that. I came home thinking about her, It was such a pure feeling of love and connection that came out of nowhere.

  • @lenkat.4620
    @lenkat.4620 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you SO much, Courtney!!💓
    This video literally made me cry since it's the first one I can really relate to.. (And believe me- I've seen them all😅)
    I wish you all the best 🌻

  • @smile-gk7ws
    @smile-gk7ws 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I remember as I came out in school...(;
    At the beginning of puberty I start like girls in a romanticaly way and my first crush on a girl changed everything...
    In school time I only dated men and it feels like I spend time with my brother^^
    Later I had a crush on a very close friend she was really pretty had short hair and her smile could change everything...
    She holds my hand everytime cuddles a lot and I liked it
    My feelings were intense and I couldn't deal with them at first...
    She send text messages and started flirting and confessing her feelings for me
    I said to her that I didn't feel the same and I regret it...
    She was sad I was sad too.
    2/3 weeks later I told her that I liked her too but she did the same I did with her and she ignores me
    Now I could feel how she was feeling and it really hurts:(
    So I think I could speak to another close friend called "Anna" her reaction was unsupportive and she said to me "You're disgusting" and spit me in my face...
    All the people I used to call my"friends" turned away from me and never talked to me for a long time...
    Later I said it was just a phase and then they started to talk to me again but it wasn't me
    Later I said I was a lesbian it gets better and I was more open minded about my sexuality
    I hope you could have a better coming out and sorry for my poor english it's not my mother tongue^^

  • @para-mentischannelbypiggsy4240
    @para-mentischannelbypiggsy4240 ปีที่แล้ว

    I remember a sad experience where two teenage friends split up because she tried to kiss her mate because she was in love with her.

  • @snakeeyes3993
    @snakeeyes3993 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi i just subscribed to ur TH-cam channel and I’m watching your coming out video and I need to talk to somebody

  • @hiimain7932
    @hiimain7932 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Woah. The internal homophobia thing is so relatable. I did not know I am gynosexual, attracted to feminine presentation, and aesthetically attracted to feminine man. So I was so confuse. So I came out as bisexual. I have a guy friend, he felt relieved when I came out as bisexual, he's like "atleast I can still be in your radar". After long self reflection, I came out to myself as "gay". I think the hardest part is coming out to him, he was in denial, he's like "No you cant be gay", I think even now?! and its been two years. To be honest, I want to feel something more for him and I really tried because he deserves it. All the love and care he gave to me is what I wanted, but I dont know it just does not feel right, something is missing.
    Everytime I close my eyes and see my future, my family, I can only see it with a woman, I have this desire to spend the rest of my life in the arms of a woman. I have not dated anyone since I came out. I dont know, maybe part of me has not yet accepted the fact that I am gay?! 😑
    Anyway, thanks for sharing your story. Wish you all the best ❤

  • @yeomansue
    @yeomansue 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I know what you are going through. 13 years ago I realized I liked girls when a coworker started at the supermarket I was working at. She took my breath away and after that I had a meltdown. I cried and cried and freaked out. I didn't take this well and it was a low point for me. I was 42 years old at the time and my son was 14 years old. I did tell my parents, brother/sister-in-law and son. They have totally supported me this whole time. Nothing happened and I didn't tell her because she was straight. So for the last 13 years I didn't do anything about my feelings. I just as soon stay single than deal with my feelings. Fast forward to a month ago in September and a customer walked into the gas station that I work at and she literally took my breath away. For the first time I felt good about my feelings and it felt right. Last weekend, I make a post on my Facebook page and came out to the rest of my family and friends. I have received nothing but totally support from everyone. For the first time I feel good about my self and who I am. I look forward to what the future brings to me and I also look forward to meeting someone I can spend my life with. Side note: I was in the Navy for 20 years and retired in 2005 when you still couldn't come out that you were gay/lesbian. So, I think that had a lot to do with why I had a hard time in the beginning.