Sit down with them in a quiet, private moment, and tell them directly. “Mom and Dad, I love you both a lot and I want to be honest with you, which is why I need to tell you that I’m gay.” “This might be a shock to you, but I need to be honest. I’m gay.” Be prepared to respond to their questions and reservations. “I’ve thought about this a lot, and yes, I’m sure that I’m gay. I know that it’s not just a phase.” “It’s been proven that you can’t force someone to be gay or straight, and that it’s not a choice either way. This is just the way I am.” Reassure them that you’re happy and healthy. “I know you both want the best for me, and this is what it is. I’m happy with myself.” “This is who I am. I’m happy and healthy, and I’m OK with this. I want you to be, too.” Give them time to accept it, but remind them that you don’t need their permission. “I know this might be coming as a shock. It’s OK if you need time to come around to it.” “I can tell you weren’t expecting this. I know you might need some time to accept it, and I really want you to.” “I’m not asking for your permission, but I am asking for your acceptance and love.” Tell them that you love them and want them to accept you as you are. “I love you both so much, and I want you to love me too, for exactly who I am.” “Thank you for listening and being open to this. I love you.” Offer to give them resources. “I can send you a few websites if you want more information or anything like that.”