Replies to 'The Meaning of "Family"'

Wow this is a hard one hunny, Umm I dont have any great advice but try and stay neutral? This is something that you really can not do anything about but be supportive to all involved.. Of course your mother is hurt and of course your brothers are mad they are all in shock I am sure.. That is a long time to be together and have no clue.! A Very difficult situation here.. I hope the best for all involved and try and stay strong it can get very ugly an I am sure very painfull. Good Luck

It is very sad that your family is broken. Your father is gay; that means he has been gay for a long time but he’s been trying to fit into society’s ideal “American Dream,” and it hasn’t worked for him. Try your best to be understanding of your brother’s feelings- when they want to talk to you, just listen- don’t defend your father or say anything about him; because it sounds as though your brothers really just need someone to vent to. You are in the same boat as they are- he is your father, too! It sounds like you’ve got a different outlook on the situation, though, and although this is a very difficult time, you will come out healthier in the end. My biggest advice for you is to seek professional therapy for yourself, because dealing with every one else’s problems tends to force a person like yourself to put your own issues on the back burner and to forget to take care of yourself. You need and deserve a ‘soft place to fall,’ as Dr. Phil would say, a professional, unbiased person would be the right fit for you. I wish you the best!