What Happens When the Closet Opens?

I'm a likeable young man. I dress very well, rarely going without a tie. I address adults respectfully, and I have some measure of both wit and charm. When I do things, I do them well. This has caused a lot of people to be interested, in some respect, in my life.

My science-teacher-turned-principal from grade school often inquires after me. Children I don't recognize often say hi to me. That's probably because I am asked to help lead Vacation Bible School every year. I've become something of a role model to some, and an older brother to others. I've taught hundreds.

What happens after I come out?

My parents will have to learn because they're stuck with me. So that's fine.

I know my family will be fine. I mean, my grandmothers might have issues, but everyone except my parents are either without particular faith, or of a particularly open Christianity (and there might be a Hindu, but they're pretty cool with everything).  So that's great.

Some people will be able to just write me off as a God-hating faggot and move on. So that's okay too.

What about the others, though? I know I've become a brother substitute at least once over. That's too close to write off and far enough that sticking with me isn't mandatory. Then, as a role model I try to espouse those values I hold dear. Tolerance, love, and being true to oneself (because my life is apparently a Lady Gaga song). Will those stay taught once the 'old Luke' is dead?

I don't want to be like the star quarterback the whole town loves who eventually is found dead of a heroin overdose and quickly forgotten. I don't want to be swept under the rug. My parents work at a conservative Christian institution. Will they just stop having a son as far as their coworkers are concerned? Will they be pitied? Will they be seen as bad parents (which would be stupid because they're amazing parents)?

I know I'll survive. I know I'll try to reconcile the apparent disparity between my 'two lives' to those whom it would most affect.

I'll have to rip off this band aid one day.

I hope it doesn't hurt anyone.