If you're not up to speed with the latest news then you may not know that Welsh rugby star Gareth Thomas has come out as gay; why it has to be news is a sad reflection on the world - I appreciate it's easier than ever to be openly gay these days but still, why is sexuality such an issue to an overwhelming amount of people? Why do people find it so abhorrent or so difficult to understand that people of the same sex can be attracted to each other? Does it do those that find it such any harm? And why do they care? If a guy or a girl finds happiness and love with the same sex it should be celebrated, that's what this thing that we call life is all about surely? Whatever, the fact that it is news only highlights the fact that homophobia is alive and well; but by coming out Mr Thomas is taking a stance and I for one and my baby for two applaud and thank him. Not that we, as individuals and as a same sex couple, have anything to gain from this; I mean my boyfriend and I are both openly gay, both as individuals and when we're together - we hold hands, kiss, cuddle and generally show our love and affection for each other in most public places, we are not ashamed because there is no reason to be ashamed.
I guess that's the point of the matter at hand, by coming out Mr Thomas, as a person within the public eye, a national sportsman is saying there is nothing to be ashamed of in being gay. I believe he's the first professional sportsman that's come out whilst he's still active within the sport - it's a brave move and reading the story to it, it's been a struggle to admit his sexuality; the story is quite sad, he felt he had to hide his sexuality which I guess most gay guys can relate to. He's done the right thing, we're sure of that, my baby and I both know the relief you feel from coming out, of not hiding your true feelings, of living your life as you see fit and not as dictated by many a religion or the general consensus of the populous. We are all individuals, we do not all fit into the same pigeonhole and no amount of religious hatred or rightwing propaganda can change how someone feels within their heart.
I hope Mr Thomas will change the lives of many more gay guys who still hide within the closet, who are too afraid to admit they are gay, who feel they have to live a lie because of something they cannot help. I hope it gives those the strength and the courage to come out; I mean if a gay guy in a male contact sport long seen as the preserve of male machoism can do it whilst within the public glare, surely ordinary, everyday guys can do it too. I also hope it gives other professional sports players the courage to come out as gay, the more the merrier; and I say that not as homosexual propaganda but because such people are looked upon by many as their heroes. All our heroes do not have to be straight and as is proven, being gay does not necessarily make you any less talented or less of a man; and it certainly does not make you any different from the next guy.
People need their heroes to be truthful with them because they are role models, their behaviour can often shape the lives of the people that look up to them for inspiration. Mr Thomas you are indeed a true hero and I hope you become the inspiration and the leading light for many more by doing nothing more than telling the truth.
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