America's Closet

With the buzz of Mrs. McGreevey's tell all you have to wonder why she's playing the same highly criticized publicity game the former governor did.

"When a gay man finally decides to come out to his wife, it's a moment he's prepared for, in some cases over the course of his entire life, but in all cases, he's worked up to it, he's had time to prepare for this new reality. In most cases, he's chosen the time and the place, he's rehearsed the scene many times in his head. Furthermore, he sees it as the beginning of a new life, a mentally healthier life (or so he hopes,) the pursuit of wholeness as a human being. He goes into it prepared and on his own terms."

Anyone who has come out of the closet, or wanting to come out, knows this statement is not true. Why do you think individuals stay in the closet? A largely homophobic culture here in America keeps them in the closet. Coming out of the closet is not a selfish act; it is very selfless. It may be planned and prepared, but only for those listening. The caveat, though, is how your actions are handled afterwards. At this point we see the tail spin in the McGreevey history. Hopefully her tell all takes a higher road...not just for people in the same situation, but for everyone. She has an amazing opportunity to show the strength of her character and the integrity of the American people.