I am gay. Those three words are how I began the caption on this same photo one-year-ago, today. I remember waking up that day, with the most overwhelming sense of emotions. I was excited for a future where I no longer had to mask myself with heteronormative posturing. But then, of course, I felt apprehensive because I didn’t know how people were going to react.
I’d already told my immediate family and a few close friends and they all offered nothing but love and support and I decided that even if the rest of the world abandoned me, their support would be enough.
However when the day finally came, I was terrified of losing friends, fans and sponsors. What I didn’t anticipate though, was all that I was about to gain. I’ve gained so much over the past year and I am so tremendously thankful for all of it.
I’ve started to love myself, a big step for someone who spent their adolescence in self-contempt. I’ve made lifelong friends, fallen in love and felt truer and happier than I ever imagined.
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I’ve witnessed myself swell with pride while holding my guy’s hand walking down the street; no longer dictated by fear to walk with my hands in my pockets acting like the person I loved was merely a friend, an acquaintance.
I got to ski completely unencumbered and ended up having my best competitive season ever because of it.
And while competing I got to, finally, acknowledge my boyfriend standing at the bottom of the half-pipe cheering me on; something I regrettably failed to do in my previous 5-year-long closeted relationship.
Ultimately, for the first time in my life, I got to feel free – something everybody should feel every day! I can’t thank you all enough for the support you’ve given me over the last year, it truly means the world to me.
I get messages every day from guys saying my story has helped them come to terms with themselves or given them the confidence to tell their friends or family that they’re gay. And that, I have to say, has been the highlight of my past year.
Of course there will always be nay-sayers but if I’ve helped even one person feel better about themselves then this process, for me, has all been worth it. I love you guys. “— in a new Instagram post, Gus Kenworthy meditates on his life since coming out of the closet one year ago
Tobi
“… my boyfriend standing at the bottom of the half-pipe cheering me on …”
I’m not sure I’d want him standing or cheering at that precise point.
JLJ
Nice note. Eloquently written. Good for you Gus. The community needs more people like you as role models.
Captain Obvious
I’m fairly certain his half second of fame is up. He should really focus on the skiing thing and not try to be a gay Kartrasian.
cmrwrangler
One day in the dark corner of a bar, I’m going to walk up to Gus, shirtless. We’ll lock eyes, and he’ll smile at me. I’ll run my fingers through his hair, lean in, and ask him to teach me how to hit down-flat-down rails.
OzJosh
@Captain Obvious: Captain MeanNasty&Bitter surely?
Captain Obvious
@OzJosh: You’re the one who sounds bitter. That worked up over this kid?
Chambers
Gus,
Please take a seat. You are a famous good looking, white, athlete. Apparently, were also blessed with an understanding and supportive family. Your coming out is not representative of most people.