When one hears the phrase "coming out" nowadays, typically an image of a flambouyant teen pops into mind, but that certainly isn't always the case. Take for instance the story of Loranine Barr, from Laguna Woods in Florida, who's essay entitled, ""My Turn", is printed in the September 3 issue of Newsweek.

Loraine was partnered with Mary Frances Piercey for 44 years. They came close to coming out once but the topic changed course over dinner with friends one night and they never got the courage to bring it back. The two grew up in an era when things like this "weren't discussed" which was partially why the couple felt compelled to keep up the separate bedrooms illusion to keep from raising suspicions. Mary died in 1998 of liver cancer and Loraine hasn't been in a relationship since. She says her "heart always will belong to Mary Frances Piercey."

The story is touching - if not a little sad - including when an 81 year old man, from Salt Lake City, called Loraine after reading the essay and said, "It brought tears to my eyes, and I congratulate you."

I guess it is never too late to be honest about yourself and come out. Too bad some politicians can't figure this out before their "wide stance" gets them into hot water.