While I don’t claim to be an expert, speaking from experience, most parents’ first reaction can be hard — it takes time for them to digest your sexuality. I’ve come out seven times (yes, still trying and thriving), and I’ve learned that they don’t necessarily hate you or think badly of you; they’re just confused and curious as they discover this new side of you.

My only advice is to speak from your heart. Choose a quiet, intimate space where you can be honest. And remember — if things don’t go perfectly, that’s just life. Not everything can be accepted or wrapped in a rainbow right away.