After years of rumours, whispering behind cupped hands and straight out harassment, Tom Daley, an English Olympic diver has confirmed publicly that he is dating a man. And while it’s a shame that the world has forced Tom to say something before he was ready to – the way he has done it, is quite simply wonderful.
Tom decided to use You Tube to tell the world – he wanted to set the record straight. And he has.
Tom says, that “In an ideal world, I wouldn’t be doing this video, because it shouldn’t matter.”
I agree Tom, it shouldn’t matter. And to me, it never has.
When did you know you were straight or gay? Or bi? Or any other sexual identity?
Growing up I didn’t know anyone who was openly gay. But, I knew early that I was straight. A fact confirmed to me the first time I clapped eyes on footballer, Ian Roberts. Ironic, I know.
It was after weeks of pleading, that my parents agreed to take my brother and I to Jameroo recreational park. I was young, maybe 13 or 14. And, I wish I had been more grateful. In between watersides and toboggans, I sulked about the homemade ham sandwiches we were forced to eat for lunch.
That was until I noticed Ian Roberts. He was in the pool. Body glistening in the sun. An elite athlete. I knew who he was. As a family, we were avid rugby league fans. But I wanted to be sure. I asked my Dad.
All knowing, my Dad sensed that I wasn’t asking out of simple curiosity. I was asking because I thought he was hot. His response. “Yes, love. That’s Ian Roberts. But I wouldn’t get your hopes up, he bats for the other team.”
At the time, Ian’s sexuality was an open secret. A bit like, Bert Newton’s hair plugs. Not publicly acknowledged, but understood.
I was in free-fall. I couldn’t believe this towering man mountain standing before me, was gay. The only images I had of a gay men, resembled something like Cameron from Modern Family. Thankfully, we have all matured since then.
Top Comments
People are just people, it's very strange and difficult to label everyone. Even if someone has been with a man and a woman they may not be bisexual maybe it was just that they fell in love with a person and the gender didn't matter and it might not happen again. Everyone should be free to live their life as they please, we all have a right to love and be happy.
Who really cares whether someone else likes the same sex, dresses as a different sex or has had reconstruction. Doesn't everyone want to be in a loving relationship? I'm just tired of the whole "look who's come out gay", doe sit make a difference to my life or your life? Can't we all just accept other people for who they are, and if not, mind our own business???