This blog by Jordan, a youth activist in South Carolina, was written as part of our "Celebrating Pride" series for June.

I didn't really understand that I was gay until I was in high school, and even then I wasn't too sure. How could I be a 'homosexual'? I grew up around conservative, southern baptists my entire life... How could I be gay?

Coming to terms with my sexuality and accepting the fact that I was, in fact, gay, was a challenge. 

When I finally came out to my friends, I was surprised by how they reacted: they accepted me (most of them anyways) and some even gave me a hug. It was such a relief. Tell my friends I was gay was scary, but It felt so good to let them know and to get it off my chest. The next step was telling my mom. That process took more time. 

I was in the car with my mom, we were on our way back home from getting groceries, and I told her that I needed to tell her something (by this time I finally had a boyfriend and he was coaching me via text what to say). After a few rounds of "20 Questions," I finally blurted out "I'm Gay." She was a little shocked at first, but finally told me that she had a feeling that I was and told me she loved me. I told her I had a boyfriend, and she even smiled. To finally tell the one person person you wanted to tell and have them accept it evoked an amazing feeling of elation. I was über happy.

In all, my coming out experience was a lot better than I expected. I haven't come out to everyone in my family, but in time I will. I'm just thankful and proud to have such an amazing group of supporting people in my life. 

Also, since I've told my mom, my boyfriend and I have visited and have gone on weekend trips with my mom. If that's not accepting, then I don't know what is. Surrounding yourself with people who love you and accept you is a very important thing and I'm so thankful that I had that when I came out.