Zenoyise Madikwa

Zenoyise Madikwa

Is it worth hiding the fact that you're gay? John Grootboom, a Johannesburg-based social worker, says it takes strength and a lot of courage for people to embrace their homosexuality.

Grootboom believes that "coming out of the closet" is a good and admirable thing because it is tantamount to self- acceptance for the homosexual.

"I'm a firm believer that coming out of the closet is the hardest thing someone can do.

"Self-acceptance is the first step to coming out. After you feel comfortable with your own sexuality it may become important to tell other people like your parents or best friends that you are gay."

Grootboom adds that this decision is an individual process which only the person involved can decide and judge.

"A person may decide to come out and admit to others when they feel they are emotionally ready and believe that it is a safe time."

Grootboom believes that coming out does provide a person with a healthier self-esteem because it allows them to talk about their sexual orientation.

An important thing to understand though is that despite our wanting people to be open and accepting, there will always be those who don't or won't understand.