Reddit had a heart warming story of a father and his pride for his son. The original poster, Austin, said that though the years of his son’s childhood were marked by regret and missed opportunities, his love as a father knows no bounds, and nothing can diminish the fierce love he holds for his child.
An Addicted Father Rises From the Ashes
Through a tumultuous journey marked by heroin addiction, Austin rose from the ashes to stand up for his son.
Protecting His Child
He reclaimed his role as the sole caretaker of his son after the young man said his mother and stepfather were abusing him.
His Son Grew Into a Man He Was Proud Of
Austin witnessed the sweet young boy grow into a magnificent young man with a heart of gold, unwavering bravery, boundless generosity.
His son’s spirit shone brightly even through the shadow of the horrors he faced as a child.
Celebrating His Son’s New Chapter in Life
When his son got accepted into a top-ranked university across the country, Will felt sad about his departure.
Yet, he celebrated his son’s triumph and proudly watched as he embarked on a new chapter in his life.
Building a Life
Austin visited his son every other month and saw the joy he found in his studies, the friends he made, and the life he was building for himself.
A Not So Secret Boyfriend
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, his son returned to the safety of his childhood home, but he was not alone.
With him came his “friend,” a young man who he shared his life and home with, and who the father suspected was more than just a friend.
Telltale Signs of Romance Are Hard to Hide
For six weeks, they lived under the same roof, and though they thought they were discreet, Austin couldn’t help but notice the small gestures of love between them.
He saw the whispered sweet nothings, the secret hugs, and cuddles in the dark and even caught them snuggling in bed one morning.
Heartache About His Son’s Secrecy
Austin’s heart aches at the thought that his son and his partner may feel the need to hide their love and affection in his home.
The Unconditional Love of a Father
Austin wants nothing more than for them to be comfortable and feel free to love one another openly.
He wants them to know that he supports them, no matter what.
Trouble Deciding Which Road to Take
Now, Austin finds himself at a crossroads, wondering how best to approach the situation.
Should he leave it be and wait for his son to open up to him, or should he take action and let them know that they have nothing to hide?
Seeking Redditors’ Advice
How can he help them feel at ease in his home and show them that their love is accepted and embraced?
Austin turns to the community, seeking guidance on navigating this delicate situation and ensuring that his son and his partner feel loved and supported.
The Advice Redditors Gave
Iamspamanda replied, “If you like his boyfriend (it sounds like you do!), then I’d say something like, “I hope you know that [boyfriend’s name] is always welcome in our family. It’s clear he really cares about you, and having people like that in our lives is so important.”
Reddit Personal Experiences
Another user said they had been in a similar situation and told Austin what their parent did.
They wrote, “My mom sent me a text that said, “You never have to admit anything to me that you’re not comfortable with. But if Jasmine was ever more than a friend, I’d want to make sure she knew she’s loved here too.”
How They’re Doing Now
Austin took the advice from Redditors and openly told him, “Son, I love you very much.”
He went on, “You don’t have to tell me anything you don’t want to, but I want you and him to feel comfortable being yourselves in my house, and you don’t ever need to hide anything from me, alright?”
Out in the Open
His son was relieved by Austin’s openness and felt more comfortable in his childhood home.
Anger and Resentment
When his boyfriend came out to his own family, he was met with anger and resentment.
A Safe Haven
Together they are relieved to find a safe haven in Austin’s home.
Have you been in a similar situation? What would you have done? What is the best way to let your child know you accept them and will be there, no matter what?
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The post Father Asks for Reddit’s Help to Address His Son’s Hidden Sexuality: What Would You Do? first appeared on Wealthy Living.
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This post is based on Reddit but the names have been changed.