I never had the chance to come out to my own father as he passed away before I got up the courage. I wasn't sure how he would take it and frankly, I was scared. So just know that your son loves you very much because you did something many other fathers cannot: provided a safe and loving space in which he feels able to be open and honest about himself with you.

It's not always going to be easy and some things will change. It's ok to have all these feelings right now. There's a good chance he'll be picked on and people won't understand. BUT, because you do and he can confide in you when he is - he will make it through. He will never blame you for being his authentic self, because it hurts so much to keep it inside and hidden. He won't decide to not ever not come back, if you decide to always keep the door open and be there for him. You did nothing wrong. Continue to be an advocate for him, defend him and most of all continue to tell him you love him. Ask questions, he may get annoyed sometimes but he will see you are interested in his life and that means the world. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and thank you for making it easier for your son to be who he is openly and proudly.