Outing My Gay Grandson on Myspace

Dear Ramone,

My 18-year-old grandson is gay but hasn't come out to our family. He is very open about his lifestyle on Myspace, knowing we are his friends and will see it. How long do I wait to tell him I love him no matter what?

Phyllis
Mesquite, TX

Well Phyllis,

Just bless your heart for being so loving! Your grandson is obviously fishing for your reaction to his sexuality. I'm sure he is terrified that he may lose you and the rest of his family if he comes out, yet he no longer wants to be in the closet.

It sounds like he wants to make the announcement, but either doesn't know how or doesn't know where to start. So, he's chosen the path of least resistance: Myspace. Why come out in person, when Myspace can do it for you? Now, all he has to do is sit behind his monitor and wait for your response. Good play, grandson!

He's already taken the first step. Log off of your profile and speed to his house and give him the biggest hug you've ever given him. He needs you now. Just knowing that you love him no matter what will make a world of difference. It will give him the positive support system he needs to go on and lead an affirmative openly gay life.

Yours out on Myspace,
Ramone