My Coming Out Story

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  • čas přidán 22. 08. 2024
  • This is it folks. This is the real T. I take you back all the way to the moment when I started to think that I might be gay. Fast forward 19 years and here we are. Come along for this beautiful roller coaster of emotions.
    More Spencer:
    / spencer2thewest
    More Jake:
    / jakeclement1
    Booking and Business Enquiries:
    jake.clement@we.org
    Today I tell my coming out story.
    Produced by: Spencer West and Jake Clement

Komentáře • 271

  • @nicolasnashall2982
    @nicolasnashall2982 Před 3 lety +199

    My youngest son came to me when he was 18 and said he had something he had to tell me. His face was so grave, he had tears in his eye and so I was filled with dread thinking he was in trouble or ill. He took a deep breath and said “I’m gay”, I waited for him to add to this with the serious news, but that was it! I was so relieved I remember telling him not to worry me like that again (not the best response in hindsight) and that I was absolutely fine with him being gay. Fast forward 8 years and he is now engaged to a wonderful chap and I couldn’t be more proud of the man he is. He like you dated girls and I think this was because he wanted to “fit in” with his friends, but he had always preferred playing with his sister and her friends when he was young rather than with his brother. I wish you all the best and hope you have an amazing life. Kate (from 🇬🇧) x

    • @cloudsunicorns194
      @cloudsunicorns194 Před 3 lety +10

      You sound like a wonderful mom.

    • @JimmiAlli
      @JimmiAlli Před 3 lety +6

      The mother always knows.

    • @andfolk254
      @andfolk254 Před 3 lety +7

      Nicola your response to your son’s coming out was so sweet. It made me smile. He’s a lucky man.

    • @snipercow861
      @snipercow861 Před 3 lety

      Scientifically the last child is most likely gay

    • @wendyannh
      @wendyannh Před 2 lety +4

      What a wonderful response! Your son is very lucky to have a mom like you.
      It’s such a shame that so many people have to worry so much about coming out.

  • @psychicmediumleoshelton5027

    "Ellen wasn't this amazing person as she is now"...paused the video, scroll down a bit, looked at the date this was posted...smirked...restarted the video.

  • @deborahjansson8622
    @deborahjansson8622 Před 3 lety +70

    Thank you for sharing your story. I remember my mom telling me that she would disown me if I ever told her that I was gay. I was 18 at the time. I also tried to live straight, and in that, was blessed with an amazing son. But, ultimately I had to be me, and came out to my mom and sister when I was 30. By then, mom was amazing and was able to except me just as I am, and love me and my partner. ❤️

    • @karkitty202
      @karkitty202 Před 3 lety +1

      I don’t want to offend or anything negative of the sort but I am curious(obviously answer only if you want to), what’s going on with the mother of your son? Does she understand and accept you for you? Do you guys get along? I’m sorry if this is personal, I’ve just never had the opportunity to ask someone in your situation these questions

    • @wendyannh
      @wendyannh Před 2 lety

      @@karkitty202 That might be one of the most bizarre questions anyone has ever asked another person. The “mother of [Deborah’s] son”? And “what’s going on with” her?? WTF?
      *Deborah* is the mother of her *own* freaking son!!

  • @raym1477
    @raym1477 Před 2 lety +5

    As a gay disabled man myself, I appreciate hearing your coming out story.

  • @user-md9bo5fp5t
    @user-md9bo5fp5t Před 6 lety +97

    I live in Korea and in Korea gay is bad. I am gay and it has been so hard to keep my sexuality and relationships a secret. From the time of being a little girl I knew that I was not like the other girls in my class so this helps me feel like there are people like me. When people tell their stories of coming out it gives me hope that one day I will be able to also. I wish that one day Korea will be as accepting as parts of America. Thank you for giving me hope. (p.s sorry if my english is not good I am learning)

    • @Spencer2TheWest
      @Spencer2TheWest  Před 6 lety +41

      Thank you for being so brave and living your truth the best you can. I never thought my home country of the U.S. would be accepting but we're slowly making strides and all you can do is hang in there, be safe and have a good support system. There are some resources in the description of this video if you are able to access them maybe they will help you. Just know that you are ok and exactly who you are suppose to be.

    • @Alice-it9oc
      @Alice-it9oc Před 2 lety +3

      I’d really love to know how you’re dealing with it today.

    • @minnietrout814
      @minnietrout814 Před 2 lety +1

      My son teaches English in Busan. 😊 I hope you’re doing well today. And btw: you speak great English. ❤️

  • @stepha2642
    @stepha2642 Před 3 lety +39

    When my ex came out to me I said to him “as long as you’re happy, I don’t care about anything else.”

    • @CourtneyLachiver
      @CourtneyLachiver Před 3 lety +2

      I was in a similar situation like yours. There was a dude I met online and never met him in person. We wanted to date but at the time I didn't have a car so it was an online relationship that was very brief. Flash forward years and years later, he told me he had something to show me. I was like, "sure, what is it?" He then said to me, "I'm transgender, I've felt this way since I was very young, I identify as a female." She expected me to be repulsed but instead I was like, "that's freaking awesome! I'm happy you feel comfortable telling me this!" She was very relieved and at ease.

    • @stepha2642
      @stepha2642 Před 3 lety +1

      @@CourtneyLachiver he knew I'd be cool with it. He wasn't worried at all.

  • @carolynalfieri5633
    @carolynalfieri5633 Před 2 lety +7

    I met my first girlfriend when I was 17. I was "lost in love" and was never home. Dad was about to lecture me when I told him that I had something that I needed to tell him first. He asked, "What, you knocked up?" I said, "No. I'm gay and xxx is my girlfriend". The poor man was in such a state of shock that all he could say was, "As long as it doesn't interfere with your homework, it's fine." Then he left the room. He came around after the shock wore off. I'm 51 now and met my wife in SLC!

  • @charleshertoghs202
    @charleshertoghs202 Před 3 lety +34

    Thanks for your story. I recognize myself in what you said. I was 18 when I came out. Now almost 70 and 48 years with my man. Wish that to you to. Big hugs

    • @bee-pv8ph
      @bee-pv8ph Před 3 lety +7

      This is BEAUTIFUL I hope you and your man have many more amazing years together

    • @charleshertoghs202
      @charleshertoghs202 Před 3 lety +4

      @@bee-pv8ph thanks sweet man
      Big hugs

    • @carly582
      @carly582 Před 3 lety +2

      I'm nearly 30 and still havnt come out

    • @marie_eria
      @marie_eria Před 3 lety +3

      This is the sweetest thing,,,Please tell your husband we all said hello! Big hugs to you too, and wishing for the best! stay healthy! :)

    • @wendyannh
      @wendyannh Před 2 lety +3

      @@carly582 I hope you are able to find the courage to do so - and that your loved ones take it well.
      And I hope and pray that one day this will simply never even be an issue for people at all.

  • @chromeo3945
    @chromeo3945 Před 3 lety +58

    I just uglycried all over my phone at the end of this video.. I am exactly who I'm supposed to be. Thanks, man

    • @emilioincerto
      @emilioincerto Před 3 lety +4

      No need to cry. We all grow up and deal with becoming a sexual being as we enter adulthood

    • @bee-pv8ph
      @bee-pv8ph Před 3 lety +10

      @@emilioincerto crying is beautiful, nothing bad that needs to be prevented, especially in a situation where you're learning self acceptance. There's definitely a need to cry

    • @karkitty202
      @karkitty202 Před 3 lety +3

      You /are/ exactly who you’re /supposed/ to be man.

  • @pattib3828
    @pattib3828 Před 3 lety +8

    As a proud sister with two gay brothers, I look forward to a day when people don't have to come out. They can just be the beautiful light that they are. Let's quit with the labels.

  • @rbriseno8756
    @rbriseno8756 Před 3 lety +6

    Thank you for sharing. When my BFF told me she was gay, I could tell it was difficult for her to do so. I don't recall being super surprised, but I think I told her something like, "be you, be happy." That conversation was many, many moons ago. I'm 52 and she is 48 and has been married to her wife for 6 yrs. I love my BFF no matter what.

  • @ember6391
    @ember6391 Před 6 lety +82

    I'm so proud of you for being who you are Spencer, congrats for being brave enough to do this.

    • @Spencer2TheWest
      @Spencer2TheWest  Před 6 lety +17

      Thank you so much! I really appreciate the comment and the love. ❤️

  • @Emsky1989
    @Emsky1989 Před 3 lety +15

    Thank you for being brave enough to post this. My story is sort of similar, well, my wife's story anyway. She came out as transgender about seven/eight years ago. At first, I'll admit, I wasn't 100% accepting of it and found it weird with her wearing a skirt, I asked her to take it off. An hour later, I told her to put it back on and I became fully accepting of her ever since then and I couldn't be prouder of her.
    She went through a time where her parents weren't accepting it at all. Her dad's coming around ever so slightly, where she couldn't wear women's clothing to see her parents, but now he's allowing that, but still dead name her and uses the wrong pronouns. However, her mum has come around almost full circle, where she sometimes dead names her in front of her dad, but they can talk about women stuff together, which I'm happy about as she and my wife are so close.
    When my wife came out as Transgender, she also made me realise something about myself, I came out as Pansexual not long after she came out and I couldn't be happier.
    I am honoured to have gone through this journey with my wife, who I love with my heart. We've been married since 2013 and hope we can spend the next seventy years together xx

  • @lizajane1878
    @lizajane1878 Před 3 lety +17

    As a Christian hearing you speak. I heard you. ❤️ thank you.

  • @kristinabranch3097
    @kristinabranch3097 Před 3 lety +4

    Spencer, you are so very loved and a example of what a good man is. Thank you 🙏 for that. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🤍

  • @niknoks6387
    @niknoks6387 Před 3 lety +19

    My mum said but you got married to a man and had kids. I said yeh that’s what’s was expected. I’m 50. So at 32 I came out, I have been with my wife since I was 2002 and we got married in 2008 (UK) . once mum got over the shock she was fine. I’m glad I didn’t come out at 18 when I first knew, although it would have made life easier, I would never have had my kids and my wife now.
    Had it have been now, I would have come out in my teens. Times change eh!
    We have to stick together as one big gay family eh! X

    • @amibelle9270
      @amibelle9270 Před 3 lety

      I'm sorry but you knew you were gay and still married a woman, isn't that an unfair thing to do to someone?

    • @niknoks6387
      @niknoks6387 Před 3 lety +5

      @@amibelle9270 in the 80’s it wasn’t the same as now. If it was now I wouldn’t have married a man first, I wouldn’t have come out to my mum in my teens not when I was 32. My first gay experience was at 32. I never cheated in on my husband. I didn’t leave him because I was gay, I left him as he was abusive, mentally.

    • @amibelle9270
      @amibelle9270 Před 3 lety +3

      @@niknoks6387 I re-read your comment again and realized you're a woman, sorry about the confusion and good for you.

    • @damariszuckschwert9489
      @damariszuckschwert9489 Před 2 lety

      @@amibelle9270 So is fair when woman do it to a man? Double standard

  • @lynn2574
    @lynn2574 Před 3 lety +7

    It hurts my heart to hear the struggles you had. You must have felt so isolated at times. I was raised in an extremely conservative church that taught the same thing about homosexuality as yours did. I don’t have the right vocabulary often, and am sometimes uncomfortable talking about sexuality with friends, but my heart and arms are unconditionally open. I’m grateful to my LGBTQ + for loving me through my ignorance while educating me. ❤️ Just found your channel, and really enjoy your videos.

  • @diamondpaintingwiththebesties

    I just found your channel and thank you for sharing your story. My daughter is gay and she came out to me a little over a year ago.. it didn’t change a thing but what I struggled with was why she waited so long to tell me... but talking to my LGBTQ friends, they helped me understand that it had nothing to do with me but for her to accept herself. Thank you so much

  • @kellyreilly-robinson2130
    @kellyreilly-robinson2130 Před 3 lety +10

    I love your understanding of your parents. At 48 my life growing up was confined to religious beliefs of our church. When my children were born I knew it would be unconditional love and it is. Thank you for sharing your truth! You are amazing

  • @tmaffeo
    @tmaffeo Před 3 lety +7

    Ty so much for sharing your “ coming out story” my son was 23 when he told me and sadly and selfish , the first thing I thought about was not being a grandmother . a mother has unconditional love for their child and that’s what I told him I love you no matter what . For my husband and being Italian, it was hard for him but now he accepted it . My Son is now 42 and I wouldn’t change him for the world 🌻🌻🌻

  • @jimmywhite3922
    @jimmywhite3922 Před 3 lety +26

    Spencer!...I'm having butterflies after CZcams introduced you to me tonight! That was awesome and encouraging and you just radiate love and positive energy. I'm late to the party but I'm in. 😉

  • @jaybirddee3790
    @jaybirddee3790 Před 3 lety +8

    Thank you!! You’re like the gay Stanley Tucci of our dreams. Kudos to you for having such strength and for sharing with such poise and love.

  • @johnnytownsend4204
    @johnnytownsend4204 Před 3 lety +4

    Thanks for this. At my first PFLAG meeting, the VP of our branch asked her son to speak. He came out that day to her, and he was scared, even though his mom was in the leadership at PFLAG. His older brother had come out a few years earlier, followed by his lesbian sister a year or so after that, and he felt like the last hope for a hetero kid in the family. Most of us back in the day were scared to come out for one reason or another. I was excommunicated from the LDS Church for being gay. Now I'm with my husband, also an exmo, who did his mission in Italy as I did. We both still speak Italian to each other every day.

  • @rhondabeckwith8782
    @rhondabeckwith8782 Před 3 lety +11

    Do you really know how courageous you are? I truly believe you are here in this world to inspire and help us weaker pple to over come difficult things..you are perfectly perfect and much more. I feel good each time I listen to you.. Not to mention how funny you can be.. So happy I stumbled upon you..btw greatest smile and laugh ever..thank you for sharing all your vulnerabilities..hugs xo Rhonda

  • @theonionqueen3519
    @theonionqueen3519 Před 3 lety +2

    Oh my god...the shiver that went through my body when he mentioned Matthew.....it still breaks my heart so much.

  • @CassiesWorld
    @CassiesWorld Před 6 lety +16

    Thank you for sharing your story. You are so strong !💖 It made me feel less alone. I really appreciate it

  • @ashleyjohnson8248
    @ashleyjohnson8248 Před 3 lety +2

    The last part about mourning the loss is so true and hit me in the feels!!

  • @gabrielaparadamorose6183
    @gabrielaparadamorose6183 Před 6 lety +18

    Eternally proud of YOU and even more thankful to have seen this genuinely sincere video that shares your whole heart! I always felt while reading your book that there were missing chapters. When you say that your disability isn’t your biggest challenge it means that the Hetero world has a lot of work to do still. You are loved for being exactly who you are and for having the courage of a true warrior to use your public platform with grace to help others. ((Hugs))

    • @Spencer2TheWest
      @Spencer2TheWest  Před 6 lety +7

      Gabby thank you so much for always supporting and understanding who I am. You are so loving and I really appreciate everything you do for me and so many others!

  • @LLStark
    @LLStark Před 3 lety +16

    Wow! This was good! I'm surprised I even watched the whole thing; but it was so interesting and beautifully put; hey once i started i couldn't stop...i am not gay or bi but i sure can identity with a lot of your story...you r so cool...and funny...and down to earth....and i can go on and on so
    😎🤗
    #thanx4sharing ❤

  • @stephr7637
    @stephr7637 Před 3 lety +2

    This is such an important post. As a MH nurse, as a friend (and I hope an ally) to gay people, and as someone who despite being cis and straight was raised in a judgemental family that didn't value females so felt a little of the 'I'm not acceptable as I am', thank you so much for explaining in such an eloquent way why every person counts for exactly who and what they are regardless of what others may think or have been conditioned to. Thank you.

  • @DaLuCkYnUmBeR13
    @DaLuCkYnUmBeR13 Před 6 lety +7

    My eyes.... were.... sweating. So incredibly proud of you, your strength, and your determination, Spencer. You’re such a positive influence and I know all of your stories have impacted so many people. Thank you for this video and thank you for existing 💕

  • @westindiesgalfruits2335
    @westindiesgalfruits2335 Před 3 lety +8

    You're the most adorable human being ever and I love your CZcams channel ❤❤❤

  • @carriecadieux7745
    @carriecadieux7745 Před 3 lety +4

    I really enjoyed this video. My daughter Leah went to Kenya 8 years ago(wow seems like yesterday. ) Leah was 14 at the time and when she returned she talked so much about you. You are a great role model. Leah came home learning that you were gay and I must say how proud I am that she didn’t bat an eye at it. I think I did something right as a parent. People like you make parents jobs easier. Leah learned so much with her years of volunteering, attending the leadership camp right here in our home village of Bethany, and our many years of volunteering at We days in both Ottawa and Toronto. ( I felt like a groupie)I wish you only happiness and hope you find that special man out there! Thank you for all you do for our youth, you make a big difference!❤️

  • @sargunhanda6706
    @sargunhanda6706 Před 6 lety +5

    AMEN! With my Crohn's Disease and other personal struggles, people think it's the hardest thing for me - but it's actually coming out to my family (I still haven't; I don't have the courage to do so yet...) Thank u for giving me strength and hope for the future when I come out ❤ Also, I'm a youth speaker at WE Day Seattle this year, so I can't wait to meet/see u in May!

    • @Spencer2TheWest
      @Spencer2TheWest  Před 6 lety +1

      Dear Sargi thanks so much for the comment and sharing something so personal. Here are a few resources if you need some help on talking about it. Its important to do it when you're ready, and you'll know when that time comes. Keep up the good work and we'll see you in Seattle.
      itgetsbetter.org/
      www.thetrevorproject.org/#sm.00010ebdq11784cqbylcje0dew8np

  • @tinkerbell_faye
    @tinkerbell_faye Před 5 lety +4

    Thank you so much for sharing your strory. It's people like you who help us LGBT feel supported. It means a lot. Thank you, truly.

  • @mickiedownend7845
    @mickiedownend7845 Před 3 lety +14

    My heart cries for you. What is wrong with people that think they are better than anyone who is different.

  • @mattparsons1510
    @mattparsons1510 Před 6 lety +11

    I was in tears the whole time, I’m so so blessed to have ppl like you on earth who are able to be a shining light for ppl. Thank you ❤️

  • @johnwmcmahan7889
    @johnwmcmahan7889 Před 6 lety +9

    Beautiful My Friend. I love you so much and am so proud of you and all that you do. Thank you for being a voice. Your TRUE voice.

    • @Spencer2TheWest
      @Spencer2TheWest  Před 6 lety +3

      Love you honey! Thanks for 20+ years of friendship!

  • @MelissaSchwartz143
    @MelissaSchwartz143 Před 3 lety +3

    🥺🥺🥺 you’re such a good story teller. So captivating and I’m so happy you were able to come out and I’m so glad your family wanted to understand you and ultimately accepted you and loved you the way you are.

  • @wyomingirl4260
    @wyomingirl4260 Před 4 měsíci

    I found your videos recently and was amazed. I remember seeing you at the public pool as a kid. I remember setting the record for highest/most tiers of the pyramid challenge in swim class at RSHS. I wish my best friend from that time, someone you might have known, could have seen this. Nick would have been so proud of your bravery and living your true life.

  • @archxpat
    @archxpat Před 5 lety +3

    Your are an amazing guy. As a gay man I know what a process coming out is.... and how many times it has to be repeated! I told my parents pretty much the way you did & got the same reaction. We are lucky to have the support.

  • @sherryc2443
    @sherryc2443 Před 3 lety +2

    This touched my heart. Thank you for sharing.

  • @celticmandoplayer
    @celticmandoplayer Před 3 lety +3

    Spencer, just now finding your channel and this video. Congrats on coming out ! Yes, it's scary, but I have to say easier these days, thankfully. I came out in 1978 (yikes!) and the world was a very different place, a more dangerous place for us whether you were a guy or a sister like me. Thankfully, we're accepted so much more today. We've come a long way, Baby! Kudos for your video, too. I hope that it helps because, yeah, it really does get better and coming out is very freeing.

  • @kathryngordon5115
    @kathryngordon5115 Před 3 lety +2

    I know this was posted a long time ago - but I just saw it for the first time.
    You are an amazing human being - and I am so grateful for your channel.
    Growing up lesbian around the same time you did - this meant the world to me.

  • @a.j.stauft1779
    @a.j.stauft1779 Před 14 dny +1

    Omg such a good chat..wow your here in Canada 🇨🇦 just keeps getting better..yeah..Calgary saying yeah..another gorgeous man in our Canuck ranks..perfect..love how you explain your thoughts..so cool thank you 🥰💋

  • @ReneeKnightYogaRani
    @ReneeKnightYogaRani Před 5 lety +4

    Why is it not okay in our society for a man to think another man is cute, or a woman to this another woman is attractive, without having a sexual connotation to it?
    Thank you for telling your story. I'm sorry that anyone is still experiencing prejudice for their sexual orientation which isn't really an option, it;'s part of who we are.

  • @sensationalsix1644
    @sensationalsix1644 Před 3 lety +2

    I know this is an old video, and I’m not even sure how I ended up here, but I wanted to say that your story is beautiful and so very relatable. Thank you for sharing ❤️

  • @ohiorich1
    @ohiorich1 Před 3 lety +4

    I applaud you. You said everything right. (yes I know how odd that sounds, but you said everything well, and so that everyone could understand). I applaud YOU. Yes I have just recently found you here on You Tube, and I am glad that I have. You impress me, and you have taught me. So THANK YOU, for you being you. I am glad I have met you (on here).

  • @shannaparker4628
    @shannaparker4628 Před 3 lety

    I ran across you & have been glued for hours now watching all your videos. I just absolutely love you! Every single thing about you. I'm straight so I've never had to come out but I have family that has & the strength that it takes is admirable. I really held on to every word you said! So much so that it's 6:30am where I'm at & I'm laying in bed doing my ugly cry haha all because you speak with such conviction & I can tell for certain that you truly mean what you say. I'm proud of you & who you are, never change... You're making this world a more beautiful place for us all! Lots of love💘

  • @deboralavalley2577
    @deboralavalley2577 Před 3 lety +3

    Be yourself always and and be proud of who you are and never let anyone put you down

  • @user-qy4co7hb9j
    @user-qy4co7hb9j Před 3 měsíci

    Thank you for sharing! My admiration to you and your shining personality✨✨ cried in the end, at the part when you told about your mom and Timberlake purse. I am so happy that your experience with parents got to the point that they are happy for you to be who you are!
    I live in a homophobic country but hope someday it became more tolerant. And we would never be afraid of being who we are

  • @stacygodfrey4939
    @stacygodfrey4939 Před 3 lety +2

    Amazing story. You are so brave and your Parents reaction/response is how every parent and human should react.

  • @peregrinekipling378
    @peregrinekipling378 Před 3 lety +1

    You are a fantastic gentleman! Thank you for this brave and moving video, and all your shared experiences with us. Be proud and happy and healthy always! Lots of love to you! xxx PS I remember Matthew Shepherd and that terrible time. Thanks for remembering him too.

  • @diannedelledera3096
    @diannedelledera3096 Před 3 lety +1

    Thank you for having the courage to share your message. Kudos to your parents! Life is so difficult, if we would just accept ourselves and accept others with love the world would be such a great place!

  • @marynielson1527
    @marynielson1527 Před 2 lety

    Just found this channel - so love your sense of humour and honesty. Look forward to more and thank you Spencer.👍

  • @ReyOfLight
    @ReyOfLight Před 3 lety +2

    I wish to see a day where people who are on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, don’t actually have to come out but can just be themselves and where their true self is nothing different between that and a heterosexual cis person when introducing a partner to your family etc. Love is love!

  • @karenb7620
    @karenb7620 Před 3 lety +1

    You are an amazing person. I love your spirit, energy and compassion. What a role model - you should be very proud of who you are xx

  • @Guitartube25
    @Guitartube25 Před 3 lety

    Videos like these are so helpful. I am hetero myself, but I feel like encouraged to call my mom and confess her something xD
    I think this "coming out day" is so adorable and funny (in the best way)
    Because all those shy humans come together, even over distance to give each other the courage to come out all at once. If I ever become a parent I will mark that date and wait for it, if my child comes out and chooses this date I will be ready with chocolate and movie night and hugs ☺️

  • @katvalasek4673
    @katvalasek4673 Před 3 lety +1

    I totally relate to what you say about mourning the person who you think they are. I have a transgender child. I had to mourn my son to accept by daughter. You are very very insightful. She is also gay too. She has had her reassignment surgery and still enjoy women. I got a double whammy. Thank you for your thoughts. God bless you!

  • @LaurenMcGillOtt
    @LaurenMcGillOtt Před 6 lety +3

    Can't believe I'm just seeing this now! Love you Felicia, so proud to have you as a friend.

  • @shoshannafachima1306
    @shoshannafachima1306 Před 4 lety +1

    You are a bright light in this world.
    I saddens me that you were bullied in school.bullying is horrible.
    You spoke eloquently and with such feeling.may be blessed to find mr.right and hopefully raise a wonderful and compassionate family

  • @angelawoodward9969
    @angelawoodward9969 Před 2 lety

    I think you are truly inspirational selfless and a wonderful human being. This world needs more people like you. Sending love to you.

  • @EXRAY479
    @EXRAY479 Před 3 lety +3

    I think that no matter who you should still be valued and are accepted wherever you go and that go’s for all people no matter what you still matter and should be valued for who you are.
    and make sure to value you’re self for who you are no matter what.

  • @kellyryan26
    @kellyryan26 Před 3 lety +1

    This is the second video from your channel that popped into my feed. So glad your coming out has a wonderful ending. I loved your Mom’s comment regarding the Mrs. Timberlake handbag! Precious! And you are adorable!

  • @laurabart8870
    @laurabart8870 Před 6 lety +3

    i love u spencer....u are one of the most loveable amd inspiring people ever....u are so amazing and i can only hope my kids become half the man u are

  • @Fapple
    @Fapple Před 3 lety

    wow. im a cis hetero able bodied woman in my late 20s and if i ever have kids i wanna make damn sure they know ill accept and love them no matter what their sexuality is. Coming from a conservative asian family, I failed lawschool, and having to tell my dad, and the depressing anxiety filled months leading up to that discussion almost made me want to never even tell him and just lie about it, so I honestly can't imagine then what it's like being anxious to tell your parent about your sexuality, especially if theyre conservative, and even not, i think yes because we live in such a heteronormative society, I could see how any questioning or knowingly gay person would be scared to tell their family, I just can't imagine and I don't want to put anyone through that. Im glad you were able to get that acceptance from your parents, and I am glad you shared your story. So so glad.

  • @beepb00p78
    @beepb00p78 Před 3 lety +5

    Honestly, you're an absolute icon.

  • @stephanieoliver10
    @stephanieoliver10 Před 6 lety +3

    Forever grateful for you and your words. Hope you have been well! Sending lots of love ☺️

    • @Spencer2TheWest
      @Spencer2TheWest  Před 6 lety

      Aww thanks so much for all the love! Hope you are well!

  • @yvette8250
    @yvette8250 Před 3 lety +1

    Hi! I just stumbled upon a few of your videos. This one and 3 other ones really touched me so I had to subscribe. You're an amazing human being. You rock! Sending you love from Bayonne, NJ 🤗🧡🤟

  • @craftingqueenb
    @craftingqueenb Před 3 lety +1

    I just found your channel today and your personality is the best 💕I’ve been binging your vids all day. I’m glad you came out and can publicly be yourself 💕💕💕

  • @cherrychassis
    @cherrychassis Před 6 lety +2

    Your story is wonderful and empowering! I am pansexual and I come from a conservative family who wasnt phobic but still werent 100% on board with me coming out. I wasn't raised to only focus on having a man in my life but after getting into middle school I noticed it was something that kids and adults made fun of either light heartedly or with cruel intent so I actually thought there was something wrong with me. I only cared about the persons soul not their appearence and to me this was how it should be but at the same time I was scared of what people would say or do to me and I was scared my family would hate me. I didn't know what I was until after I graduated highschool because at that time I only knew there was straight, gay, lesbian and bi. . . I didnt know there pan existed or anything else so I just told friends I was bi and my family that I was straight for most of my life. I honestly don't know if my mom is 100% with who I am to this day because she was never comfortable discussing things with me in detail but I have no filter around her so she KNOWS I find people attractive reguardless of their sexuality or gender. As I got older I surrounded myself with people who were open minded or part of the lgbtq+ community and it is the best decission I have ever made because I made life long friends who do not judge me or others for who they are! I wish youtube was more developed when I was in school because videos like this would have helped me so much when it came to my self esteem and confusion but I am so happy you are able to reach out to the younger generations and even adults who are still trying to find themselves or who are scared to come out to thier family. Thank You Spencer!!

    • @Spencer2TheWest
      @Spencer2TheWest  Před 6 lety

      Thank you so much for sharing something so personal and ultimately beautiful. It can be hard to live your truth but it sounds like you are doing it with grace, which is best case. Keep living your truth and I have a feeling your parents will eventually come around, now that we are starting to have a language it will take some time for people to get use to it. Keep leading by example!

  • @horselings1067
    @horselings1067 Před 3 lety +1

    Thank you!

  • @mahtinp
    @mahtinp Před 6 lety +4

    Spencer, this is wonderful, composed, and insightful. I always appreciate that when you do a sit-down talk video, it's not only very relateable, but also well put together, so that anyone at anytime can benefit. You've always been a gem and a wonderful advice-giver, but even more so now that your whole life-story talks to the camera.

    • @Spencer2TheWest
      @Spencer2TheWest  Před 6 lety

      I really appreciate all of your support and thanks so much for such a beautiful comment. Really feeling the love today.

  • @enblndn
    @enblndn Před 6 lety +16

    This is beautiful. Thank you for sharing dear dear you.

  • @hafdissigurdardottir3176
    @hafdissigurdardottir3176 Před 3 lety +1

    Thank you for shearing your story 🙏
    I think that your story will help many ❤️🙏❤️
    Love ❤️from Iceland 🇮🇸 🦋🦋🦋

  • @RDP920
    @RDP920 Před 3 lety +1

    Great video. I love your smile and your spirit. Thank you for sharing.

  • @NonnasNursery00
    @NonnasNursery00 Před 3 lety +1

    I always knew my brother was it didn’t change my mind about him I love him no matter if he is or not. Now that I’m older an have 3 kids along with 7 grandkids, 2 have came out. I couldn’t be more proud of them, an my brother. 🥰

  • @beverlycongelliere1215
    @beverlycongelliere1215 Před 3 lety +1

    I’m so very proud of you congratulations💫

  • @mishybear42
    @mishybear42 Před 3 lety +1

    Thanks for sharing!

  • @deefitzgerald2906
    @deefitzgerald2906 Před 3 lety

    YOU are so FABULOUS…..You have to be HAPPY in YOUR OWN SKIN…….You are so HANDSOME and so educated and I just LOVE WATCHING Your videos because they are so FUNNY 😂…….We all have to LAUGH about ourselves……KEEP DOING YOU…..

  • @TaushaTW
    @TaushaTW Před 2 lety +1

    I don’t have to agree with how someone lives to accept them as a person. Your life. Your choice. God loves you and so do I.

  • @josephmorales172
    @josephmorales172 Před 2 lety

    You are awesome! Great coming out story mine was sorta crazy I'm from a Italian Mexican background mixed with Russian and I got to tell you my parents were ok only my father later felt he couldn't handle it which for me was ok I felt he'll eventually come around as for my mother she's my biggest supporter I was lucky in that sense and if I may you truly are a inspiration to many blessings to you and yours 🙏

  • @cloudsunicorns194
    @cloudsunicorns194 Před 3 lety +1

    What a beautiful story of you.

  • @averyglabb811
    @averyglabb811 Před 6 lety +7

    WE DAY IS AWESOME!!!!!!!!! ♥️😘🤗

  • @fawnajohnson6130
    @fawnajohnson6130 Před 3 lety +2

    I was the first person my dad/mom came out to as trans, but I wasn't the first to know. My brother snooped on his/her phone, discovered an affair, and showed it to my mom. It was definitely a rocky time, but the bad air is cleared. I'm happy that I got to be the first person my dad/mom to came out to by his/her own will

  • @carieluce8409
    @carieluce8409 Před 3 lety

    My daughter is now with another woman . She found the love her life. He dad is having a hard time. You are such a inspiration in si many ways !!!

  • @ouellettetimothy9808
    @ouellettetimothy9808 Před 3 lety +1

    Good for you! Be out, Be proud, Be yourself!

  • @barbaraciprane2250
    @barbaraciprane2250 Před 3 lety +1

    You are very well spoken, the ones

  • @johnwhale3774
    @johnwhale3774 Před 2 lety

    Im so happy Spencer that you are happy, you are such a wonderful Man , you deserve the best life can bring, you have a great big heart God bless you.

  • @annetteparent5593
    @annetteparent5593 Před 6 lety +1

    You made baby Jesus cry...but they are tears of joy...thanks for sharing. By the way don’t forget to bring me back some Vernor’s from Windsor!

  • @billcunninghame8554
    @billcunninghame8554 Před 3 měsíci

    Safe and loved - beautiful. Thank you for sharing.

  • @TaushaTW
    @TaushaTW Před 2 lety +1

    5:01 Thank you for saying this.

  • @ScottishWoman24
    @ScottishWoman24 Před 2 lety

    I know that this an old video, and just tonight I discovered your channel. I am 51, and identify as cis, but I remember Matthew Shepherd. That was a sad and scary time. You keep being you. Live your best life possible. You rock!

  • @kerribennett3013
    @kerribennett3013 Před 3 lety +1

    It is absolutely ok! I was right there with you w/johnathan Brandis! You are exactly who you were meant to be and what I wouldn’t give to have a friend like you in my life!!

  • @wendyannh
    @wendyannh Před 2 lety

    It breaks my heart and literally makes me cry every time I hear about a gay or trans person being rejected by their family or friends because of who they are, and I am so glad that didn’t happen to you. It’s just so, so wrong, and so utterly inconceivable to me. I’m as straight (I identify as het, actually, because reasons) as it’s possible to be personally, but my God, how can *anyone* turn on their own children and other loved ones like that? Are they not still the exact same people they were a split second before the words “I’m gay” passed their lips?
    The tears did start when you mentioned your parents’ initial responses because I really thought that’s where this was going to go - but your quotes from that book about loved ones needing some time to come to terms and realign their thoughts of who you are and their dreams for your future, makes a lot of sense. It also kind of gave me a little empathy for those parents and friends who do have an issue, and hope that more of them will eventually see the light.
    I can’t imagine having had to live an entire life of hiding and pretending like you did, and am very glad for you that that closet is in the rear view mirror, and that your parents did come to terms. And what a lovely gift to find out that your best friend was right there with you.

  • @kayking6681
    @kayking6681 Před 2 lety

    You are amazing!Love your blogs!!!We are proud parents of a gay son! He is engaged now and we love his fiancé.We refer to them as our boys!!!!

  • @SaryAnn626
    @SaryAnn626 Před 3 lety

    I’ve only watched two of your videos, but I love your demeanor. Your heart and kindness are beautiful! I will be watching more!

  • @gabrieledrewery5910
    @gabrieledrewery5910 Před 3 lety +1

    Congratulations. It must be a hard thing to go through. Always worried that you can't be yourself. I can't imagine. I'm glad you found your happiness.

  • @guytiips3906
    @guytiips3906 Před 2 lety

    Thank you Spencer for your energy.
    #Watching from Thailand

  • @cathymarshall2582
    @cathymarshall2582 Před 2 lety

    Thank you for sharing your story. You are an amazing guy.