feel free to comment your thoughts

Probably the most honest and heartfilled coming out story. You are a great young man. I wish I had your courage at that age. Best wishes.

"The most bitter truth is better than the sweetest lie." Words to live by. Thanks, Austin. Greetings!

Hi Austin. I thought I was the only one Praying to be straight. You are on the rite road. If anything I say stays with you just remember one thing ... Be true to yourself. You are put on this Earth for a reason. Some straight, some gay and so many others. You sound like such a loveable and genuine person. Don't EVER let anyone try to change that. You are Young, You are Beautiful and most of all you seem very smart, Please, ignore the haters. You are so much above them pay NO attention. I have been down you road many times so take it from may I say a Friend. Just remember one thing ... God doesn't make mistakes. You are just how he wanted you. I will close with my Very Best to you and yours, Jim

Damn, you are best of humanity! Best of luck to find what you are seeking!

I'm seeing this on Christmas day, by chance. His story and especially the last few minutes are so touching. All of this wisdom coming from a young man of 18 years. I would be proud to have Austin as my son, and I hope all the dreams you were wishing for have come true since you made this video almost 4 years ago! Best wishes Austin!

You can never know the deep impact of your story on thousands of people you will never meet or know, so don’t stop telling your truth. It’s going to impact the way your friends and family respect each other, treat each other, love each other. Same with strangers who listen to your story. You’re changing the way we will live our lives, and the way we inspire and impact the world around us. So the ripples from your story keep moving out and helping build a better world. Thanks.

Wow! You are an inspiration son. Thank you for sharing your story. I agree with you. You have a wonderful life ahead of you. And I agree that you will find the right guy, get married, and have kids. You’ll be a great husband and dad. Best of luck to you!

Hi Austin, I just ran across your video today (7/26/2021). Everyone in the world should see it. You are so authentic, so genuine, so honest...an inspiration to everyone. I'm 80 years old, and it's things like this that make me very happy and want to live forever! Let us know when you have more to share in your life's journey.

Thank you Austin. I am Spanish living abroad, and your message is clear and strong, but I prefer not to say to anybody,except my closest friend. Not everyone is open minded like you, and things can turn out wrong. So I keep my senses open to persons in general. Your story is to say the truth after learning about yourself, and that is deep and big for such a young person. I wish you all the best,man.❤️

This story resonated with me sm, it’s important that you come to terms with who you are so you can live a truly happy life. I sympathize with you, its important not to doubt your feelings and take pride in who really are. 🏳️‍🌈

You don't suddenly turn gay you are born that way ❤

I've come across this video in 2024, apparently four years after you recorded and posted it. All very well said, and no doubt you've evolved and matured a lot. Consider making a follow-up video to share how successful you've become. Hey, I'm in my 60s and would be delighted if you were my grandson.

What an inspirational man you are, so mature and well spoken for your age. You have great things coming your way in this lifetime!

You are a totally beautiful and remarkable young man. Be proud of yourself. Always stay kind and stay being you!

I really enjoyed hearing your heartfelt coming out story. Words of wisdom and excellent advice for young people struggling with their sexuality. I hope life is treating you well.

A very emotional coming out story. You are a great person to tell others how to live and be themselves. Keep being honest with yourself and others. If you joined the navy good luck.

He's such an cute guy... 🥺 I hope he finds sweet and cute boy as him ❤ I watched the full video and... all that what you are saying its true... but for me I don't really have happy life right now... I am so much depressed that it makes me really hurt myself... I want to be happy... I want to change my life but it's hard because of society :/ Thanks for video it really made me tear up a little... I hope you are doing good in your life... you deserve it...

I hope your parents saw and recorded this?! you are an Angel!!!!!!!!! :)

I am glad you posted this video. You are so authentic and a mature young man of 18 years. Best wishes in your adventure of falling in love with your future husband and best friend and the cutie babies your can sire!

I came out to my dad in 1959! He said not a single word. You are such a sweetheart of a guy. God bless you.

If I am in your mom and dad's place, I would also say the same. You are such a lovely, honest and the kindest person and I would still love you no matter what.

Thank you for sharing the story of your struggle. And your dad was right--he couldn't have asked for a better son. 🙂

Young man, your story and the sensitive way you presented it was beautifully done. I'm sure your parents must be so proud of you. I particularly like the fact that you stressed, loving yourself is the key to contentment and being able to love someone else. That was a remarkable sign of your maturity. Whomever you one day fall in love with will be a very lucky individual.

Oh Austin, such an interesting and heart-warming story of your struggles with your identity. I'm so glad that you're 18 and growing up in these times of acceptance, at least in your country, mine and many others, but not all. I'm Australian, now 77 with my 27 year relationship with my male partner, meaning that I lived a solitary, not lonely, life up to the age of 50. I knew I was gay at the age of 14 but didn't come out to society until my early 30's, such were the times back then. My parents didn't know I was gay, I tried several times to let them know, but the vibes I got, they just didn't want to know, so I didn't tell them except after my father passed away at 94, I told my mother who was 90, and she wasn't fussed or surprised, then she passed away shortly after. I wish I had told them earlier but, as I say, different times, different circumstances. So, listening to your story, reminded me so much of my emotions growing up, as you say, it's not easy, but I'm glad you're dealing with it now and not 60 years ago. Cheers and best wishes for a fulfilling and happy life. Also, I hope you get to read this; cheers again.

I'm sad to hear your long story. but I am more sad when you feel this is a sad and difficult story for you. I will support you always. love yourself and keep working to defend the country in the US Navy. thank you for your passion that you share with all of us.

Super brave to be this vulnerable! This is definitely gonna inspire others 🙏 hope you continue to do more videos!

So genuine, so heartfelt, so powerful. Thank you for sharing your story. ❤️

Well the thing that I highlighted in this video is your attitude. I do really like the way you talk it. It's pure and honest. I feel sorry for what you had been through. Your story is same as mine. The different is that I will never be able to come out here. Our society is too conservative. It's extremely unacceptable to be different, otherwise you will be worthless, useless and no one will respect you as a man. And I can't help it. I hope that I can have somebody to talk to. It will ease my burden.

That which does not kill you, makes you stronger - I must have told myself that so many times growing up. It's true. I'm so happy you are adjusting to your sexuality- keep it up.

Austin, as many others have said, you are an inspiration. I'm very glad that you decided to post this video. It is helping other people. Best to you,

He has excellent virtues & principles! A person of great qualities! Lucky is your partner. God bless you! You are strong. May He make you stronger & protect you through your journey!

Austin, First I want to say I am proud of you. I am in my fifties and still in the closet. Yes, I think all mothers know early on. I think you are wise beyond your years and feel your pain , sorrow , confusion and relief in this video. You will do great things in your life. Stay true to who you are. DJ

Very proud of you! Everything was well said. Hope you are continuing to be good to life and that life is being good to you too.

Thank you very much for sharing your story. Wishing you all the very best in your endeavors

Thanks for sharing. It will help others that are having the same thoughts you were and are having. Glad you accepted yourself and didn't do something to harm yourself like so many that do because they can't deal with what they are feeling and afraid of acceptance from family and freinds. Stay strong. Justg stay safe.

Thank you very much for your video. I feel great respect. You are so authentic and sympathetic. Greetings from Germany and all the best for you and your family!

Thanks for keeping up with it! There were times you could have stopped, but you kept going. I’m proud of all that and you!

just came across this video, you’re truly a motivating person and this video really helped :)

So moving. Thank you so much for sharing your story. All the best to you.

Thank you, Austin, your story and bravery in telling it are inspiring. I like the fact that you would not change anything if you had the chance, and congratulations on the new brother. Enjoy your time in the Navy.

The most compassionate well thought out and related video i've seen

I hope your friend has watched this video and your advice has helped him. Thank you for your story!

Thanks Austin,your story was most inspirational,and your great personality Is there to see and hear,I wish you luck,

This was a beautiful story through and through. Congratulations 🙏

Your coming out video popped up in the videos the KZfaq algorithm suggested I watch. Your honesty really drew me in. I wish I had the wisdom and courage to have come out 50 years ago like you have, but that is regret something that can't be changed. I took a different path -- got married, had three kids, and only came out 20 years ago. I'm now divorced, and don't have a partner. That has made me feel like I've lived an incomplete life -- yet it also is a reminder that the biggest gift any of us can have is to live a genuine life. That's the real freedom we get from coming out. You learned that in your teens, and you are a role model to all of us who struggle with our sexuality in our lives. I'm going to save your video to show others who struggle and also show it to those who think, wrongly, that being gay is a "choice" that we can turn on and off. Thanks again!

I just found your video, I have to say you are very wise. I hope since this video you have found much happiness. Plus you said you will get married and you will have kids, you keep grounded and true, you will achieve those worthwhile goals. You're a good person Austin. and I forgot to say your handsome.

This is one of the most beautiful coming out stories i have ever listened to. Well done Austin. If you was my son I would have been so proud of you. You are one in a million my friend. Thank you for the kind way you describe your story. You are not alone.. You are part of us LGBTQ+ community.

Austin... I appreciated your story and admire your willingness to share it. That took guts and I applaud you for that. My guess is you’re going to be fine as you make your way through life. Being honest with yourself is the best way to be with those around you. You’ll radiate a genuine light that will attract plenty of friends and ultimately someone special who you can share your life with. Be patient and good things will happen.

Thank you so much for talking from your heart and sharing your journey. You are right that everyone has a journey and it isn't always an easy one. It is great that you have a good core group of friends and family around you. It sounds like you will make someone a good husband and a good father someday when the time is right.

Beautiful, so insightful and inspiring! Your family is lucky to have you. Glad you decided to post one of the best coming out videos ever.

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I wish I had had such a courage at your age. I'm sure this video will bring hope and inspiration for many people. You're an amazing young man. Wishing you all the best! ❤

Very well done and it will help a lot of people with their coming out battle and find their own space. Have a good life! ❤

Austin, You young kids show an exceptional amount of bravery by coming out online for the whole world to see. You are a beautiful young man. I'm sure that some of your words will help other kids in the same or nearly the same situation. Thanks and good luck to you

Thanks for sharing your story bro. We really appreciate it and please do more videos bro.

Just came across this video, while trying to figure out who I am, and I absolutely love hearing this story, Austin! Thank you for sharing this unique story of yours.

Austin, you are an amazing young man. Your sense of self and maturity are far beyond your years. I believe that you have already left an indelible mark on so many people. Your story was so real and so meaningful, it really took me back to my youth. Thank you for sharing your story, and I wish you an amazing and fruitful long life... 🙏✨

No need to apologize for the length of the video. I must say I liked the honesty and I appreciated hearing the life lessons you are learning. You can achieve your goals and dreams. Stay fcoused too. By the way you are adorable.

You are a very brave young man. Thank you for this video.

Probably one of the coming out stories that I came upon that i relate to the most. I love that you are greateful for everything that you went through that brought you to this moment cause that is something that I try to live by everyday. I'm not fully out yet but hopefully, once I am, I get to view things this way. Thank you for sharing your story bro, it meant a lot.

Well said and all the best! Thank you for sharing.

Thank you Austin for being such a wonderful down-to-Earth Human Being and such a loving, caring young man. You are blessed and your blessings continue to multiply by being shared through this video that you created. I wish you a most pleasant, spiritually fulfilling life with a man that loves you as much as you love him, love yourselves, love each other and the children that you bring into your family. I am blessed to have stumbled on your video. Thank you! Best of Health & Happiness Forever! "Guy" from Vermont

This was an awesome video and you will help a great many people by your words thank you so much you’re wise beyond your years

Austin you really are an amazing guy, and thank you for making this world a better place.

Austin, Thank you. You are amazing and awesome, inspirational and loving.

A most heartfelt and beautiful coming out story, with an emphasis that we don’t know what tomorrow holds and to be happy now. Well done, super well done Austin! 👀👍

Ok, I’m hooked. I’ll subscribe and look forward to your future videos as you go through life. Your video was heartfelt and hopeful and hopefully many others have taken your advice. As a person a gazillion years older, young men like you give me hope for the future.. best.

Every single moment in your 'today' is linked to the moment just a moment ago. If I hadn't ** I wouldn't be and so on it goes, from childhood to the grave. Going through all the doors that life offers you. Follow on with some, back out of others. It's all an adventure and it is always "your adventure" even if you are linked to someone else. You will become a very wise old man and smile at all the struggles more than at the high-points.

You are a cute guy. Be yourself and express your thoughts and feeling. I know it's hard to come out but it will get better. Love to have you to come to Tennessee and get to know the real you. Great video!

This is awesome... such a kind and thoughtful gesture to share your experience with the hope that it helps others. "I love who I am today.... I wouldn't change anythjng." Nor should you... so impressive is the love of self and family that are clearly the inspiration for this video. Thank-you for sharing your journey... there are messages throughout that should enlighten all viewers, regardless of their gender identification. I wish for you the same peace and contentment your heartfelt words wish for others.

Thanks for your honesty have done this in 2020 what a change to be authentic finally. Getting happier one day at a time.

You sound very wise for your age. Hope things are going well for you in the Navy.

You are such a sweet and sincere guy Austin, thank you for sharing your story. I just came out to my family at 25, and watching people tell stories like yours really makes me feel like everything is going to be alright. Wishing you the best as you continue through life :)

This is one of the GREAT videos on KZfaq. And so extremely generous to give us so much of yourself.❤ It is so important for other teens and preteens to watch. And, if you decide to, it is obvious that you will be an awesome father. In any future constellation of your life. Thanks for this great video and I really wish you a fantastic life ahead❤❤❤❤❤❤

This video means a lot to me, thank you for sharing

Wow. What a neat honest story !!! Thank you I’m sure you’ve helped others

We love you Austin 💜💜💜💜💜💜 You deserve to be happy and loved for who you really are ❤🧡💛💚💙💜 I wish you well and that you always can be happy and remain being the amazing human being that you are ❤🧡💛💚💙💜 I will always support you Austin ❤🧡💛💚💙💜

just finished watching your video and it was motivating and inspirational. I'm also trying to figure out who I am at the moment and you're video really helped! :)

I’m sure this helped a lot of people! 💛

Hey Austin... Thanks for sharing. Absolutely the best coming out story I've heard. I wish I'd been so self aware and brave. I'm not out to my family per day but like your mother said, mother's are always aware. I came from a strong catholic back ground and was taught to hate myself, so naturally I didn't want to upset the family. Like you I knew I was gay from a young age and suppressed it. I've been out to friends and co workers since I retired from the military. I've been talking to a young man for the past year and hopefully he is the one. Only time will tell.

Beautifully told, Austin - very helpful and moving! Keep on keeping on, young man!😍

WOW, I am so impressed with you truly, what an amazing and refreshing young man you are and although I do not know you, I am so proud of you, I am 62 y/o man, gay as well, but not gay , I have never falling into all the gay type life style as personally, I find a lot of it pretentious and fake, I am just a guy who happens to be attracted to other men. anyway, Your story has so much purity and realness to it that I felt compelled to say a few word to you. You seem wise beyond your years and it is very refreshing to see and hear, you have put great thought into your words and action. I know you won't but never change this attribute about yourself, as you probably already know, the human ego can run amuck from time to time and cause all shorts of faults impressions, always remember your roots and most importantly, give your Mom and Dad great credit for raising such a fine young man as yourself. I hope for you all the best with your life, now go young man and be all you can be, you are so very important, perhaps even more than you understand or realize in this moment, but you have the potential to inspire others to be pure and honest as you appear to be, you like the rest of us are on a mission and we all play a role in this creation we call life, and your mission from this day forward is as important as any. keep strong, keep wise, check in with the ego every now and again and take inventory and never be so hard on yourself as to beat yourself up over minor errors. Thank you for sharing your mazing story, it's not that its that much different than anyone else as it is about the pure intention in witch you delivered it, you have shown us your soul and for this I honor you, Thank you

Very nice well articulated compelling story. Sounds like you have a wonderful family and are truly blessed. Thank you so much for sharing. Your video has helped me tremendously well done❤

The US Navy is lucky to have such a strong person who's willing to be themselves and is supportive of others. I can only wish you the very best and I hope that we'll get future videos of your progress.

Very good video! What wise words from someone so young! I’m so glad you made this!

Thanks for deeply discussing your feelings throughout the process of coming to terms with your sexuality. You articulated it well. I don't think most people appreciate how overwhelming and traumatic understanding you're gay is. Thanks for putting it out there to enlighten and help!

A very eloquent and considered video. You should be extremely proud of yourself and how you view life. I know people in their 70s who still can’t view life as intelligently and compassionately as you. Well done 👍.

Incredibly honest and powerful. Your story will change the lives of thousands of people you will never meet or know. “I felt like I was holding my breath all my life, and now I could finally breathe.” Thanks very much Austin.

Thank you for your story and sharing it ❤

Austin my guy! You're a rock star! Awesome to meet you here today! Sendin u love from Palm Beach FL ♥

Wow.. I wish I had watched this video before I came out myself.. because I relate to you so much. Me and my mom are close in this exact way. It maybe 4 years late but I am so immensely proud of you. ❤

As a father, a grandfather, a great-grandfather, and religious, I am so proud of you and respect you. Wish you were my son. Thanks for sharing.👍

I gave them love and security. I tried to lead by example. I worked on my inner self and tried to give the tools to do that. Unfortunately I don’t feel like they care a lot about me. It really hurts. You are so self assured and speak so wonderfully about your parents. You are a very cool person. Good luck on your journey. Facing hard things is tough. Life has plenty of them to face. Fred

hope your chapter in the Navy is going well my guy.

So inspiring , honest , and strong. You deserve love and joy. If our paths would ever cross it would be a high point to shake your hand and say hello. God bless and be safe.

You are very wise for your years. I admire you.

I am glad you did post this!

u r very lucky to have loving parents and feel loved "no matter what"--Best of luck to you in life!

Many young closeted people will benefit from your video. I'm glad you discovered that it was your feelings beating you down. There have been so many other LGBTQ youth who have taken their own lives due to numerous confusing reasons. I'm happy that you found your way out of the maze of conflicting messages that keep so many other youths down and locked in their dark and terrifying closets. ❤😊

You are a wonderful young man! I feel better that we are leaving the world in your hands.