Information About Our Online Group Support For Women Coming Out (SFWCO)
Support
For Women Coming Out (SFWCO) is now a private online website sponsored by
Amazing Dreams Publishing and the GayellowPages--THE SOURCE FOR WOMEN.
We
are providing a safe haven where lesbian, bisexual and questioning women worldwide
can find acceptance and a friendly atmosphere. New members are given a discount
link for our new Coming Out Support Package, which includes "How To Be A
Happy Lesbian," our new "Coming Out Advice for Gay Women, Bisexual and
Questioning Women" and "Relationship Advice for Gay Women and Bisexual
Women. The authors of these books are the owners and moderators of our SFWCO group.
Most of our members are over 25, and some have been married in the past and are
in the coming out process. We do have a few younger women, which is why we always
screen any new members; please read ***NOTE*** below.
Because
we want to serve all ages, this group is not meant for cruising or posting R or
X rated photos. We will not tolerate unkind remarks or trouble makers. Anyone
reported will be permanently blocked. A few women have joined our support group,
and then tried to make it into an online dating service, which it is not a place
for that at all. There are plenty of other online groups for that purpose.
If you are looking for a friendship type of a group, we have Regional Networking
Groups for Lesbian and Bisexual women set up for that purpose here:
www.amazingdreamspublishing.com/lesbian-bi-networking.html
If you are looking for a dating group, we provide some great online dating tips
and have online dating services for lesbian and bisexual women that are really
good here:
www.amazingdreamspublishing.com/lesbian-online-dating-tips.html
I f
you need a support group for your coming out process, or you would like to be
a supportive big sister to our members who are coming out, we will gladly consider
your membership. Please read the ***NOTE*** below,
and then follow the link to our Yahoo Support For Women Coming Out Group.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
***NOTE*** PLEASE READ: The Support
for Gay Women Coming Out group (SFWCO) is a support group for Gay Women, bisexual
and questioning women who are coming out, and our group is for women only. To
protect our members, anyone applying to the SFWCO must fill out an Agree to Rules
Form. On this form we ask that you state your reasons for joining, including if
you are lesbian or bisexual.
Unless you are invited, all new members must have a Yahoo Public Profile that
shows you are Female to join this group. Instructions on how to do this will automatically
be sent out to all pending members. Please check your SPAM or Junk Mail folders
for these instructions.
If you are a lesbian, bisexual or questioning woman and are just coming
out and you need a place to feel safe, please join the group and write us a bit
about yourself and your reasons for joining the group. There is a place to do
this when filling out your Yahoo application form for this group. We will discuss
your pending membership with the moderator and owner of the group to see if they
approve. You will have a reply via your Email address that you have listed with
Yahoo within 48 hours. If you do not hear from us within that time period, please
check your SPAM or Junk Mail folders for emails from us concerning your membership.
We follow
this procedure to protect our members. If you become a member you will be protected
under the same strict rules. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The
reason the Support For Women Coming Out Group came into existence:. I
had shopped around my partner and my book "How To Be A Happy Lesbian: A Coming
Out Guide" for about a year to the big NYC publishers, only to find that
no one was interested in it. Seems they didn't like my idea of having a downloadable
PDF version of our guide for women who needed it but were afraid to buy it in
a bookstore, or to women living in countries where being a lesbian could be a
death sentence.
I finally decided enough was enough, and with encouragement from my mentor, a
very famous lesbian writer who owns her own publishing company, I decided to market
the book myself. I had been the graphic design manager for a book distributor
for several years, so I had learned a lot about the industry. I had also been
designing magazines and catalogs for a long time, so the jump to designing books
was no big deal. After much agonizing over coming out in such a huge way, I finally
decided to start my own company, and Amazing Dreams Publishing was born.
"How To Be A
Happy Lesbian: A Coming Out Guide" was written primarily for young women
who were coming out, but women of all ages and from all parts of the world were
downloading the Acrobat PDF version--I think it has been downloaded over 1500
times. After it had been available for a few months, I had one woman Email me
that she really loved the book, but needed more support in her coming out process.
She was married with kids, and living in a rural town out West somewhere, and
there sure wasn't any support for LGBT people for miles around.
I agreed with her, and on Nov 5, 2003 I started an online support group to help
with a need that had not been met in the Coming Out Guide. I guess this woman
Emailing me was a pretty important thing, because over two thirds of our members
are or have been married to men, most have kids, and many are living in very rural
situations. This is not just in the US; some of our members also live in countries
where being a lesbian can mean a 10 year prison sentence or public execution,
so the Support For Women Coming Out group has become a lifeline for many women.
I am totally
surprised by where this road took both me and Amazing Dreams Publishing. I would
have never imagined that I would be running a support group that so far has helped
over 5,000 gay and bisexual women from almost every country in the world, but
in the long-run things usually work out for the best. It is amazing to me that
being turned down by all those publishers led into this incredible group of women
who are supporting each other worldwide. I think it is the most important thing
I have ever done in my life.
To
me, we are all human beings, no matter what country we are from; what color our
skin is; what religion we embrace, or do not embrace; what education we have,
or don't have; what home-life we have now or in the past; what name we call ourselves,
or what names other people call us; and on and on and on. There is still the basic
fact that we are women, living in a world that treats us, for the most part, as
second rate citizens, but the truth is that we are all Goddesses on our on journey
to becoming the best we can be!
Tracey Co-author of: "How
To Be A Happy Lesbian: A Coming Out Guide" "Coming
Out Advice For Gay Women, Bisexual and Questioning Women" "Relationship
Advice For Gay Women and Bisexual Women" Owner/Moderator of the
Support For Women Coming Out (SFWCO) Online Support Group |
What
our members are saying about our Support For Women Coming Out Group: |
"I've
only been a member for a short couple of months too. I have found this to be the
best thing I've done for myself in a long time. I have gotten so much care and
understanding from all of the members. I think that there are a lot of members
who do not post, or who post infrequently, but I sense their presence in the group.
Of those who do post frequently I have found great wisdom and kindness. I know
you will too. I'm looking forward to hearing from you all." Member
Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Gay and BiWomen
| "I
recently joined this group. So far I've gotta say that it has been the best thing
I've done for myself in a long time. I can relate to the feeling of wanting someone
to talk to in person, but I am very, very grateful for this Email group. I feel
like I stood at the top of a mountain and JUMPED! I am now somewhere in the falling
(flying, floating) part of my journey. I trust that I am going to have a peaceful
and joyous landing. Thank you for creating this group. It has meant so much to
me. It really feels like a life line." DJ Member Support
For Gay Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual
Women
|
"Anyone
still here that was here a couple of years ago? Wanted to "give an update...
I turned to this
group when I met my Melissa, and I think you guys were the first ones I told when
I came out to my family.....Well, Melissa and I will celebrate our 3rd Anniversary
next month, we both finished school (I got my degree in photography). We moved
a little bit south, to the San Jose area because M got transferred for her job,
and I am starting up a photography business.
When I first came to this site, I didn't know too many Gay Women, but I have managed
to meet some very beautiful women who are now my closest friends, and I no longer
feel scared that someone might browse this website and figure out who I am.
Coming out is a strange
thing. I have been taking it on a case-by-case basis. I don't bring it up if no
one asks, but if they ask, I will tell them. Sometimes my rainbow belt gives it
away. But I have never had any bad reactions. Just last week, when we met our
new neighbor, she asked us if we were sisters... I think we both laughed and just
said "no" and left it at that. An hour later, the neighbor came over
and offered us a bottle of wine. She apologized for offending us (even though
neither of us were offended) and said "I knew Melissa is gay, but you just
don't look it, so I didn't know."
The world is changing. Imagine. Someone apologizing for assuming you are Straight!
Anyway, I just
wanted to check in, see how everyone is doing, and let anyone who is just coming
into this phase of their life know that I am a success story... if you do a search
for Jane, you will see my stories..... a long way from where I was three years
ago, but still happy and in love! Jane Member Support For Gay Women
Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"I
just joined the group last week and wanted to let you all know that
I'm in awe of the caring responses, creativity, and courage of the woman in this
group. I have been feeling very isolated, not really knowing any other Gay Women
where I live, and it's been incredible to sit down and read these emails. I'm
lucky to live in an area where there is an active and relatively accepted gay
and lesbian community, but I'm not a naturally outgoing person and I guess I'm
having trouble taking the first step to meet other women. I would really appreciate
if anyone wanted to share stories about how they have met other Gay Women in their
areas. I'm not looking for a relationship yet (although I guess I wouldn't mind
if it happened) but would love to find a few lesbian friends. Thanks for your
help and support!" Heather Member Support For Gay Women Coming
Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women | "This
past summer, I turned 45 and all hell broke loose - that inner me wanted to come
out. It has been a truly overwhelming feeling/process at times. Fortunately, I
got myself into therapy and the woman I am working with is truly awesome. The
second thing that has helped me find a little measure of peace is your website
and support group. I only found you guys about a month ago but it has been like
a balm to my soul. Truly. When the thoughts in my head get too much, I either
find myself journaling or reading the message board. They both work equally well
in calming me down. I don't feel alone on my journey - what peace to know that
there LOTS of other women like me." Paula Member Support
For Gay Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual
Women |
"Thanks
so much for this support group. It has made such a difference in my life. I feel
so much better, with less anxiety. I can't believe there are so many of us out
there in the same saturation. Have a blessed day." Member Support
For Gay Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual
Women | "You
have no idea how you helped me through this journey. I know that I'm not yet totally
out, but I know I'll soar high because I found my wings--wings that I didn't even
know were there--just waiting for me to spread so that I can fly!" Member
Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian
and Bisexual Women |
"This
support group means the world to me. I was in the depths of hell when I came across
the website and requested membership. I was also very close to committing suicide
as I felt I had no where to turn. This group changed it all. The members gave
me a reason to hope, to want to go on, and most important of all I was able to
get hooked up with a Therapist....My life is a million times better! I am stronger,
and for the first time in 23 years, I am happy! Today I turned 47 but in many
ways it's a real 'birth day.' I am in control of my life and loving every minute
of it."
Nancy Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support
Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women | "This
group has been a godsend for me. I was so scared when I first accepted the fact
that I am a lesbian. It took awhile for me to accept myself and start being proud
of the person I am. I got to that point in large part because of the support and
love of the women on this group. I lurked in the background, reading and digesting
and learning. Thank you to Tracey for starting this group, to Nancy for moderating
and to all the strong women who make this group so wonderful!" Glenda
Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group
for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"You
all are wise and wonderful women. I am so glad that I've met you. I will never
be able to repay the blessings this group has given me. Thank you so very much
for this meeting place and for the honor of getting to know you!"
Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group
for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"Thank
you for starting this group, it's very comforting to have a place to go where
I know I'll be accepted." Member Support For Gay Women Coming
Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
| "First
and foremost, I want to thank you so much for the time and effort you put into
this support group. When my whole world seems to be upside down, I know you, and
all the other members, are here for me to turn to. It means so much to have others
to cushion the almost daily falls that my heart seems to be taking right now during
this stuff. O.K. Breathe. It will all be O.K. Thanks, Tracey. So much. For this
arena of strong women, like yourself, to turn to." Laura Member
Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian
and Bisexual Women | "I
joined your group when I was trying to find something to help me understand how
I can come out and meet people. I only spent about a few months writing and responding
in the group, but that was only because I was able to come out with grace to my
family and friends thanks to the advice I received. I'm now dating a wonderful
woman and I'm happier than I've ever been. Thanks for running such a helpful group!"
Sue Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support
Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"I
found out about you through Amazing Dreams Publishing...and what an Amazing website.
The Group has been a source of comfort to me...although I am just a "lurker"...as
I am in the process of coming out. What is nice is getting the sense that I am
not alone. If only (famous last words!) something like this was available to me
when I was younger, I would not have wasted so many years. So...Thanks for everything.
You are providing a valuable service. And I, for one, am grateful. Member
Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Gay and BiWomen | I
am so very grateful to have found this site. Thank you for what you are doing
for so many people, and all the rest of you that are linking arms and going through
this together, Your courage, comfort and honesty with one another is such a haven.
By reading the messages coming across my screen, well, suddenly I don't feel so
all alone with my thoughts, and I'm certainly not unique in this. Again, thanks
Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group
for Lesbian and Bisexual Women | "I've
only read a small sampling of all the messages, but I already felt that I have
discovered the right group, without even searching that hard! I felt a lot of
shame at taking so long to discover my true nature--and at times I still have
doubts. So, it's very comforting to be in a group where there are other women
who didn't just have instant clarity and congruent action at age 14 or something."
HC Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support
Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"I
only became a member of the group on Saturday and am touched by the warmth and
compassion that emanates from these postings. I feel blessed to have found this
refuge; a safe place to listen, talk if I need to and maybe learn how to finally
make peace with who I am." Stacy Member Support For Gay Women
Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
I
just wanted to say I have gotten so much help from this group in such a short
time, and as I'm sure I've said many times before, I don't know how I'd have coped
without it. I am so thankful for the fact that you set up and run this group,
with all the additional duties you have as well at home and work. I'd also like
to thank all the ladies in the group for their advice and support. Even people
who I never spoke to directly have helped me unknowingly. When I read their posts
and identify so much with what they're saying, it lets me know I'm not the only
one going through this stuff. Even when their posts are just about ordinary life,
it helps and takes me mind off my situation. This is a much longer post than intended,
so to sum up I'll just say - THANKS EVERYONE!!!!!" Jane Member
Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Gay and BiWomen | "When
I found the SFWCO Support Group, I was at a crisis point. Mentally and physically
I was a wreck. I was literally on the verge of a nervous break down and was suicidal.
This group has in a very real sense saved my life. I now have a safe place to
share my joys and my struggles. I have peace and hope back in my heart. My sense
of self-esteem has returned along with my mental and physical health. Thank you
for being there for me." Pam Member Support For Gay Women
Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"Not
sure why, but I want to cry. You folks...all of you folks have meant so much to
me for the past few months since I joined the group. I will never be able to let
each and every one of you know just how much you have helped me! You guys are
my cyber family and I love you all so much. I cannot wait until next October when
I plan to go to NC and join in the festivities, and especially to meet at least
some of you." DG
Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group
for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"A
funny thing happened that I would like to share. My prospective girlfriend, knowing
that I have no sexual experience with women (or with men for that matter) sent
me something she thought would help. She found a great website "Amazing Dreams
Publishing," and downloaded an Ebook for me on, well, lesbian sex tips. Funny,
but the authors seemed a bit familiar. We had a huge laugh over it when I told
her I was aware of the book, and that I had joined this group. I also told her
that we already owed the authors of the book and this group quite a bit. Without
everyone's support, I don't know if I would have had the nerve to even begin to
explore this new side of myself. I suspect I would have been unsettled and unhappy,
and not even understood why. I take this as a good sign, and yet another reminder
that is is indeed a small world." Patricia Member Support
For Gay Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual
Women | "A
million thanks to the owner and moderator of this group! You're very instrumental
in helping not just me, but countless Gay Women and/or others through uncertain
times. The Coming Out guide is a wonderful resource that I can't even imagine
how much time you invested in putting together. SFWCO is a great support system
for those of us who are either struggling to figure out where we really stand
or know where we stand and are struggling to deal with outside issues related
to it. And usually, all you have to do is announce that we have a new member,
but you had to put ... How much time into muddling through the technical bull
to help me become a member. Technology stinks sometimes, but I really appreciate
everything that you did to get me into this group. Those are just a few of the
things that you've done to help not just those of us on the list, but Gay Women
all over the US and beyond. So from me for one, God bless you for everything!"
Anne Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support
Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women | "As
a lesbian living in utter isolation, I found myself in a severe depression. By
luck I found the Support For Women Coming Out group and it absolute lived up
to its name. I was not seeking a dating site. I was searching for a reason to
live but did not understand myself in anyway. Once I became involved in the group,
I not only found a home but a family. A family of ladies who support, care and
understand issues that are related to ones self acceptance of being a lesbian
and coming out as well. Little by little I was able to reach out to my own friends
and gain acceptance. I found the courage to accept therapy and now am a very happy
lesbian who is embracing life!!! Thanks Tracey for offering me a home!"
Nancy Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support
Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
|
"I
can hardly believe it has only been a week. It feels like you all have been supporting
me much longer than that! Amazing. Nothing major in my life has changed and yet,
everything has changed, because you are there. In the Catholic church we talk
about the "communion of saints" (those who have gone before us into
glory and are pulling for us.) Well, here, right here, is for me a more tangible
communion. A communion of women on the way to wholeness, to embracing who they
are and to loving others out of a place of peace-filled integrity. Not that we
have arrived yet, but we press on. I have been so inspired (and blessed!) in the
past week I have to stop saying Spirit is not responding to my prayers. She just
did. Thank you all for living out loud here in this group. Thank you for welcoming
me in." Donna Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO
Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women | "I
have gotten so much help from this group in such a short time, and as I'm sure
I've said many times before, I don't know how I would have coped without it. I
am so thankful to the that the women who manage this group, especially with all
the additional duties they have at home and work. I'd also like to thank all the
ladies in the group for their advice and support. Even people who I never spoke
to directly have helped me unknowingly. When I read their posts and identify so
much with what they're saying, it lets me know I'm not the only one going through
this stuff. Even when their posts are just about ordinary life, it helps and takes
me mind off my situation. This is a much longer post than intended, so to sum
up I'll just say THANKS EVERYONE!!!!!" Jane Member Support
For Gay Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual
Women | "I
have learned a lot from the members in this wonderful group. This place really
is a Godsend. I never knew there are so many women in this world just like me.
The support and encouragement this group supplies gives hope and freedom to all
its members. That's a pretty incredible thing. This group is vital to my survival.
It really is. Thanks for providing it" Ginger Member Support
For Gay Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual
Women | "Hello,
to this amazing group! I have been reading some of your personal experiences,
and I could not believe how much love is coming from this group. I think each
and everyone of you are wonderful, caring people. I just really needed to let
you know my feelings. Feeling the love . . ." Ann Member Support
For Gay Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual
Women | "I
still can't thank you and everyone else enough for the help you've given me. Tracey
is wonderful for setting up the group in the first place - there's nothing else
like it. I don't know how I'd have coped if I hadn't been able to come here and
talk things over and get advice. I love reading other people's posts too (whatever
they're about), it gives me other things to think about so I don't dwell on my
situation. As I've said before I really hope that one day I can help someone too.
It is like having another family, coming here and seeing what other people have
been up to." Jayne Member Support For Women Coming Out
SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women | "I
initially joined because I felt like I was stumbling around in the dark with questions
I did not have answers to. I had to watch and read in silence for a considerable
amount of time before engaging in any conversations being very concerned for anonymity
and such. Quite skeptical, and very hesitant and doubtful, I have since learned
that the individuals in here are concerned, knowledgeable, and truly care about
everyone in the group no matter what stage the individual may be in. They will
be very conscientious about the privacy and well-being of its members. Whether
you are gay, bi, or just seeking to find out where you are....these people will
make every attempt to help, support, listen, and speak truthfully with you in
an honorable and caring fashion." Rebelshade Member Support
For Gay Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual
Women |
"I
love all of you and your stories are a great encouragement! I could never read
all of the posts but have tried fervently. I am in awe by the connection I feel
to woman from all over the world and every culture. Thank you for your insight
and honesty. I've cried, laughed, considered, and shared with you through your
words. Thank you for being my family. I am NOT alone. . ." Mo
Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group
for Lesbian and Bisexual Women | "I
think we could tell you thanks a million times a day and it would never be enough.
You saw the greater picture, envisioned the future, and opened a whole new world
for so many of us, and I thank you with all that I am." Member
Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group
for Lesbian and Bisexual Women | "If
anyone is struggling with anything to do with their sexual orientation, or anything
for that matter, like I have been all night, I'd like to encourage you join this
group. It did me wonders, and now I feel I can go to bed, rest my mind, and dream
peaceful thoughts which I deserve." Annie Member Support For
Gay Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual
Women | "I
draw strength from just knowing that although we all have unique stories or experiences,
I am part of a group that shares one thing in common - we are all dealing with
coming out. The support the members give each other is amazing, and they have
helped me realize that its OK to not only be me, but celebrate who I am."
Aimee Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support
Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"Honestly,
I don't know where to start. I briefly touched on how I feel about this group
in a recent post, but it still didn't seem sufficient. Every negative I've experienced
since coming out has been countered here. Days when I thought it might be easier
to give in and rollover - there was a post from someone here to give me that little
extra to keep going. Thing is, I don't back down easily anyway LOL - but SFWCO
helped me stand my ground not "just because" - but because it's important
that I fulfill all I'm meant to be. So, I'm still thinking, turning things over
in my mind, trying to come up with "The Quote." As important as this
group has been to me, I want it to be Good." Nicole Member
Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Gay and BiWomen | "We
owe this support group THE MILLIONS OF THANKS. If it weren't for this group and
a place to hang my heart I really would be struggling through this. You all have
been so supportive of me and held me through a very trying time in my life. You
created that for me and I am ever so grateful and endeared. Thank you for being
here and leaving the light on for me. Thank you for your words of wisdom and inspiration.
I truly am a better woman and lesbian because of this group and the fantastic
women in here. This group rocks!" Margaret Member Support
For Gay Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual
Women | "When
I finally realized I was a lesbian, I felt totally lost and alone and terrified
until I found The Coming Out Guide and this support group. The guide is wonderful
but the support group is alive, evolving and reactive, proactive... a true friendship
in a sense, a shelter for a first out lesbian, a hand, a hug... a warming welcome...
you-belong-kind of space. I feel at home with you guys and very grateful to Tracey.
I have seen her immediately step in when she feels this space threatened and keep
us safe from sexual posting and all other kind of garbage and I like that, very
much. I feel safe because she keeps this space safe. I also identify with so many
of you that I feel among friends all the time. One thing I notice in this group
is that even when members don't post they do read... like me... even when there
are many message... I read and I look forward to the posts, the answers. The group
has become a ritual, a reality check-in (cyberspace?) and my connection to my
true self." Sol Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO
Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women | "This
group has been awesome and a great support for me right after my break with my
ex and horrible experiences in chat. It is nice to have this group a key stroke
away. It is also a relief to talk to other women going through the same process.
It is difficult to put in words, at this moment, all the positive ways that this
group has touched my life. I have a feeling that the transformation for me has
just started. I am looking forward to this next year and being able to express
myself in here. I am currently working like crazy at the bookstore and you have
inspired me to reach out to others in my area in any way I can, by making your
book available to them in the store too. I am thankful that this is a monitored
"safe place" for lesbian women to share. I was actually about to discontinue
my Internet services when I stumbled upon this little group. I started this group
completely distrusting of everyone due to disgusting cyber chat rooms and completely
disconnected to other "true" lesbian women. I agree that this place
has been awesome in its security and open and liberal in its delivery. Thank you."
Kate Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support
Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"I
have been out for 20 - something years. When I joined last year, foremost I was
remembering how desperately I had wished to have such a place when I was first
coming out. The first message I got was a welcome from Tracey, who introduced
herself as a fellow horsewoman. I still had no idea what I was getting myself
into. I am listening to Larry King right now...Linda Dano was just saying how
very important it is to reach out. (The topic is battling depression) I don't
think I've thought that I've had any kind of profound wisdom or advice to give,
only a hand to give out, a strong shoulder to bear it, and loving heart that accepts
all. Thank you all for being there for me. I truly do believe, I have gotten much
more than I have given" Karen Member Support For Gay Women
Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women | "I'm
a 43 year old Black/mixed Lesbian Femme from the Dallas/Fort Worth area, and I'm
really glad to be part of an wonderful group for "Ladies in the life"
and that I have a place to go where we can talk,discuss, debate or whatever and
respect everyone's opinion. I've always loved girls when I was little and as I
was growing up it was women. It had to be for a really good reason. That it was
who I am. Proud to be an Lesbian! We need more groups like this that are worth
while to join. We love women, and we shouldn't be shunned or ostracized for it
by society at large. I was born an Lesbian and that is who I am and always will
be. Thanks for letting me be part of this great group!" Tayshanda
Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group
for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"I
agree that it is really difficult to put into words just how much this group means
to me. The amazing ladies in this group walk alongside me in my journey to be
a fully self expressed woman, accepting all aspects of my sexuality. I am also
blessed to be able to have the opportunity to contribute to the lives of woman
that I may never meet in person but that hold a very special place in my heart.
I live in a small town in New Zealand where there is no support for woman coming
out and it is 5 hours to the closest big city. By being a part of the SFWCO group
I know that there is always someone at the end of the keyboard through the ups
and the down. I have learnt so much from the sharing of others and know this is
a safe place to ask what feels like even the silliest question. To all the woman
in this group, thank you for allowing me to be connected to this chain of friendship
and growth. Being part of this group has meant soo much to me over the past year
and it has been an honour to be apart of it and what it group and the members
blossom. I don't think I could ever put into words what it has meant to be apart
of this group. To find a community of woman who offer love, acceptance and support
unconditionally has been the light at the end of the tunnel." Kia
kaha, Arohanui e hoa Rainbow Angel Member Support For Gay Women
Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"As
a short-timer on the list, I've already gained so very much from the support and
acceptance of SFWCO members and moderators. Living in a small NW FL town is hard
if you're different. Diversity is not embraced here, so having a list of like-minded,
caring, and supportive women has been invaluable in a difficult time in my life.
It's a safe nest to be in when you're learning to fly." Katy Member
Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Gay and BiWomen | "I
know that my load has become a lot lighter since finding this group, and many
others must find it that way too because of all the messages that have been posted.
I look forward to getting the chance to go online and check and see what's happening
with the members, and knowing that there are sympathetic ears listening and ready
to give practical advise that helps me to cope with all these new feelings."
Fredie Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support
Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
"It's
very hard to put into words everything this group has done for me. You ladies
have been my lifeblood some days. There's been times where I felt I had no where
to go and no one to talk to. You've been tough when you needed to (many of you
will remember that about a year ago LOL). You've been loving when I was needing
it. You've done so much to support me and help me that it's impossible to even
BEGIN to put it all into words. This goes not only for the wonderful moderators
but the others in the group also. You've let me know that I'm not alone and that
others have similar problems. No question I've ever asked the group has been looked
at as "stupid" or anything like that. Every single question I've asked
has been answered with great advice and additional resources if needed. I've learned
that it's OK just to be me and I am the only one that can make me happy. I don't
need to be in a relationship, I don't need to keep my parents happy. I just need
to be me. THANK YOU to the whole group. And I'm sure there's probably about 5
pages of stuff I could put in here that you wonderful ladies have helped me out
with." Angie Member Support For Women Coming Out
SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
Support
For Lesbian Coming Out: The Wind Beneath My Wings Often
times we turn to the SupportForLesbianComingOut group as a means of self-expression.
The Support For Women Coming Out group is very hospitable. Most of us
find the contentment we are searching for in it as we embrace it; our needs for
self-expression and self-improvement are often satisfied. We are free as bird
in this field and the Support For Women Coming Out group is the wind it
could bring us where we want to go, it lifts us up
We owe it not only to
society, but to ourselves as well to listen: to understand. We are the birds and
the Support For Women Coming Out group is the wind beneath my wings."
Cutie Cute Cute Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO
Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women |
Poems
Written By Our Members: |
"I
just wanted to say thanks for all the hard work you do, so I wrote this poem for
you. I hope you like it. With
much appreciation and heart felt thanks. Pam Member Support
For Gay Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support Group for Lesbian and Bisexual
Women Soul
Whisper Across the miles Carried by the wind In the laughter of a
child In the smile of a friend Can you hear My soul whisper?
A simple thank you from this heart of mine In the beauty of the sunset
In the joy of a dream fulfilled In the simpleness of life's Smallest treasure
One life that's been changed Doesn't seem like much But for the life that's
been changed It's more than enough Can you hear my soul whisper Across
the miles In the stillness of a summer's breeze Or the beauty of the rising
moon. Hear my soul whisper |
Following
is a thank you to Tracey Stevens, co-author of "How To Be A Happy Lesbian:
A Coming Out Guide," who volunteers her time to manage our Support For Gay Women
Coming Out group: |
"Thanks
for being here for me it means a lot to me. Just knowing I have someone that understands
what I'm feeling and what I'm going through makes it a little easier to deal with
all these crazy feelings inside. I know I don't always say just how confused I
feel. But it's strange finding love and comfort in the arms of another female.
Being older and realizing now these feeling were here a long time ago is even
more strange. I tend to write when I'm having feelings of confusion. Sometimes
it makes sense to no one but me. As I struggle with all these feelings inside,
I'm learning to find some comfort in my new found friends here in this group.
If you listen closely you may hear my voice within."
Flipper Member Support For Women Coming Out SFWCO Online Support
Group for Lesbian and Bisexual Women A
Little Bit More of Me
My mind is in a state of confusion. My body is in a state of comfort.
My soul is finding peace. My mind tries to understand what I once was
And what now other people are. People have become the narrow-minded One
finger pointing at me, three at themselves. This used to be me. The tables
have turned. How strange. My body is finding comfort. For the first
time I truly feel safe I feel warmth and love. Somehow this woman makes
me feel protected. I could lay in her arms just needing to be held She
understands this. It's not about sex, it's about love. I'm finding out
there is a difference. She's teaching me to love. My soul is like a new
bird Learning to fly. The sky is the limit. At times I have this
new found peace within One that brings me comfort. When everything else
seems to be a struggle It will carry me through. I will learn to trust
the voice within I will learn to fly. FLIPPER©2005 |
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