If you cannot come out today because of whatever reason — because you’re not ready, because you’re just too terrified, because you’re not sure what you’d even come out as, because you’re hanging on in a place that would become unsafe, or even deadly if you did — and you feel shame over this, then you mustn’t. You really mustn’t.

I can’t tell you what to feel, and I can’t make you feel any differently from how you do, but please believe me there is no shame in that. I am thinking of you with love and affection. Yes, it takes lots of courage to come out, but staying closeted has nothing to do with cowardice. Please, do what is right to take care of yourself, and if you need a friend, I’m here, as are others.”