A Note to Mom and Dad from Tyler (Nicholasville, Kentucky)

Dear Mom & Dad,

How does one begin explaining to the world how wonderful both of you are and what you mean to me and the impact you play in my life? There's not a doubt, that I honestly believe I have the most amazing parents and I am truly blessed with the family you have given me. Of course this family extends far from just the two of you, everyone in our family is supportive of me and my life and for that I am truly grateful.

I know it was hard, both of you growing up in such religious households, when I finally admitted to you that I was gay. In the beginning I felt so ashamed, as if I let the both of you down. I felt like I crashed your dreams of having the grandchildren you dreamed of or never seeing me with a bride to call your daughter-in-law. I was terrified, given the religious status of our family and your friends, that you'd loose the love for me that you have and that you would be disappointed in the man I am to become. I was so embarrassed, for you, that you had to live with something where people would look at you and our family differently. I think about the hell I put both of you through, growing up in Kentucky and rebelling through high school. But through all of the ups and downs, you were always there to remind me that you loved me, give me a hug and help steer me in the right direction.

I couldn't ask for a more supportive family. What you, Tanner and my best friend, Pam, that you have taken in, do for me on a daily basis I will be forever grateful. Coming out to you, our small town and the rest of the family was one of the hardest things I've gone through and I couldn't have done it with out you guys as my backbone. And to that I thank you. I'm trying so hard to become the successful man you've raised me to be. Everything that I am and everything that I will become is because of you. I try to live each day to it's fullest potential and I hope that I make you proud. You are two of the most generous and loving people that I know. I truly have the best damn family anyone, gay or straight, could ask for. You both mean the world to me and I promise I will continue working hard to keep you proud of the man I am becoming. I love you.

Miss you. Love you.

Tyler