What Coming Out Looked Like for
P.Y.O Founder Michael Chimento
Coming out was probably one of the biggest roller coaster rides I’ve ever been on, one that at times had its thrills and at other times made me downright ill.
Despite that, I asked others to join me for the ride. Some stayed on as long as they could, and some got off right away. Some were disgusted that I asked them to ride with me at all.
At times I felt so isolated, riding alone. I almost jumped off when the coaster was at its tallest precipice. The images of my two children flashed in my mind, and that’s what kept me in my seat.
The shame I felt in growing up with same-sex attraction was paramount and caused me to make some decisions that not only impacted me negatively, but also impacted others who were hurt in the process. I have learned to forgive myself for all of the confusion I've created and hope that others can forgive me for the same.
Despite all of that, I've been out now for almost 4 years and have never been happier!
I was inspired to create this project so folks like myself and my husband, Scott Miller who endured a coming out process like we did, can share their stories through picture exhibits. Thus, I created Picture Yourself Out.
Despite that, I asked others to join me for the ride. Some stayed on as long as they could, and some got off right away. Some were disgusted that I asked them to ride with me at all.
At times I felt so isolated, riding alone. I almost jumped off when the coaster was at its tallest precipice. The images of my two children flashed in my mind, and that’s what kept me in my seat.
The shame I felt in growing up with same-sex attraction was paramount and caused me to make some decisions that not only impacted me negatively, but also impacted others who were hurt in the process. I have learned to forgive myself for all of the confusion I've created and hope that others can forgive me for the same.
Despite all of that, I've been out now for almost 4 years and have never been happier!
I was inspired to create this project so folks like myself and my husband, Scott Miller who endured a coming out process like we did, can share their stories through picture exhibits. Thus, I created Picture Yourself Out.