With all this talk about secrecy and surviving the Broom Closet we haven't really touched on how to know if you are ready to leave. Some people think about leaving it for some time before actually beginning to tell family and friends while others suddenly come to a realization and announce it to the world without looking back. Both can be valid ways of getting both feet out of the door, but preparation can certainly make this process a little bit easier. It can also help you formulate elegant answers for those moments when you are confronted with questions.
It can be helpful to first think about why you are wanting to come out to your friends and family. Do you want to live a more honest life? Do you feel that you can't be fully connected with deity until you can give them a name and speak about them in public? Start by thinking about your reasons because this thought process will help you recognize your fears and build a support plan for yourself should important people you care about stop speaking to you and, even worse, spread the news to people that you don't want to tell. It can also be helpful to make a list of those you want to tell and the reasons why you may or may not tell them.
In general terms people tend to tell their closest friends first, moving outward to others like a spiral where you start with the people you tell everything to. You do not need to apologize for not telling them sooner and if they are angry with you try to explain that you have been learning about this path and wanted to keep it private until you felt it was right for you. This stage is where you should already have an idea of basic Wicca and Paganism so that you can explain it to others when you get their questions. The important thing is to tell the truth and be as open as you are comfortable being.
This is the hardest stage of coming out of the broom closet, there is no way around it. The people that thought they knew everything about you may be surprised and feel confused. Others may think it makes complete sense knowing your beliefs about other things, such as social justice, and not think much of it. A lot of your experience is going to depend on how content you are with your choice of a faith, your willingness to explain your beliefs, and your courage to to not accept anything less than acceptance from your friends and family.
The sad reality is that you may lose touch with people because this change for you is too out there for them to accept. People come into our lives and I truly believe that everyone offers us something to learn. When we have learned what we can from them there is no shame in moving on, especially if they refuse to let you be the person you want to be. This can be more difficult of course if you are a minor or living with your parents and friends past the age of eighteen. Do you have a safe place to stay for a few weeks if you are asked to leave your residence? It is a horrible idea, but you may find that you are more able to be yourself.
Here are a list of questions that you can start formulating answers to if think you are ready to share your path with others:
Wicca isn't a valid religion though, right?
Why would you believe in a Goddess instead of the true God?
What about the afterlife and Hell?
Are you seeking attention?
What exactly do you believe?
Do you celebrate Christmas?
Why would you celebrate holidays from another religion?
What does your religion say about gay rights?
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