I live in a minuscule town in Western North Carolina, where southern traditions are very important to the majority of the population. Such as drinking sweet tea, eating biscuits and gravy, and going to church. Here within one of those important traditions lies why I had to take such a significant risk. At the beginning of my eighth grade year of middle school, only a mere thirteen years of age, I knew I was different. However, what made me different would surely turn many against me. I came out as gay to a close few, making sure those I told were trustworthy and accepting. By living in such a small town, word travels fast, and many are quick to talk, therefore it was important for me to be cautious with whom I told, until I knew I was completely