Dear Samuel

I’m sure you were surprised when Misheck told you about his feelings for you and although you feel uncomfortable around him now, the things you like about him haven’t changed. There’s no reason to stop being his friend just because he’s sexually attracted to boys. He took a big step in telling you his secret.

Be completely honest with him about your own feelings. Tell him that you aren’t gay so you can’t be his boyfriend. Don’t mess around with his emotions. And if you can, let him know that you don’t reject him and you don’t want this to spoil your friendship.

Try to imagine how he feels and let him talk to you about being gay – he’s probably quite lonely if people around are against gays.  If he doesn’t already know other gay people and organisations, encourage him to make these contacts.

Whatever you decide about your friendship with Misheck, you mustn’t tell anyone else – only he can decide who he wants to tell and when. Your society and schoolmates may be very negative so not many gay people want to ‘come out’. But Misheck is your friend and needs your support.

Auntie Stella