Hi. :) If your parents are very homophobic, I strongly recommend AGAINST coming out. I know, it sounds awful, you shouldn't have to deny who you are, there's fucking NOTHING wrong with being gay, but announcing your sexuality to your parents who are extremely against it, could severely effect your life in a negative way. They could kick you out, you could end up with nothing and your life ruined. I'm not telling you to live this way forever, I'm simply stating that until you're prepared to move out and you're more mature and ready to be independent, don't do anything that could be detrimental to your life. You don't have to lie and be straight, just don't talk about being gay. If they ask why you don't have a girlfriend, just make an excuse, say you're focusing on your studies, tell them you're not interested in dating right now. About your friend, unless you're absolutely certain that he's gay, don't risk it. I know, you might feel like every fiber of your being is desperate to announce your love for him, or not, I'm not in your situation, so I don't know. You have to evaluate your priorities and weigh the pros and cons. How will coming out effect your life if you're kicked out and disowned by your parents? Would it be more suitable to not discuss sexuality until you're more independent and ready to face the consequences of announcing in case your parents kick you out? Unless your friend is definitely gay and you feel that there's a good chance he's attracted to you, announcing this to him could just disrupt everything for no good reason. Don't do anything impulsive, consider the decisions you make. While coming out and being who you are is very important, your situation isn't ideal and you may not have the freedom to do that just yet. You will be free and express who you are when the time comes, but right now, if you feel it could put you in danger or effect your life negatively, focus on being happy in other ways than announcing your sexuality. Try to observe your parents' outlook. Do they just find gays kind of gross and weird? Or do they vehemently HATE homosexuality and feel that gays should be executed? Good luck. :) Feel free to reply.

You know what? You and I have similar stories, I think the best thing to do is come out dude! I did and my whole world changed for the better! I've never been happier :) tell your friend hell who knows he might feel the same! Goodluck :)