Will my parents accept me?

[Emma]

Hi, I had my "awakening" last year. Since then I have been exploring different Therian communities looking for advice. My parents are very strict Christians and aren't to accepting. I'm a Christian Therian but I'm scared they will reject who I am or not take me seriously. I'm a cougar Therian And advice would be great.

[G.D.]

Hello there, Emma.

Kerguelen made some good points. It would be best to be cautious about telling people in your life, including your parents, about your non-human identity. Simply because most people aren't equipped to handle that information properly, or at the very least process in a way that can be used for constructive interactions and responses. If you feel your parents wouldn't accept you, perhaps take some time and wait. It's not like your identity is going anywhere, and as you get older you may find a better way of explaining your identity to them. But certainly don't rush into it without some form of plan and prior prodding.

You will find a majority of people in the community simply don't tell others in their lives about their identity. To keep things simple, to sustain relationships, etc. There's a number of reasons as to why. But you should do what you feel is best, in the end. Just make sure, if you do plan on telling someone, to have thought it out in a way that it can make sense to others. Try to gather as much information as you can on what it means to identity as non-human, and why. And your method of identification. Speak clearly and thoroughly, and don't let people's reactions discourage you from being who you are.

But I would certainly wait until you were a fair bit older and not so reliant on your parents, if I were you.

[Seraphyna]

Will they accept you? Maybe. I guess it depends on how conservative Christian they are. However, I'd think long and hard on why you feel you should tell them...especially if you're a minor. At the best they'll accept it, the middle ground would be they think it's a fad, the worst case scenario would be having you committed for the sake of your "health". You are under no obligation to share your identity with anyone, online or off.

[Emma]

Thank you all for your advice! You have been really helpful, most just ignored me on other sites. I think that it's probably best to keep it a secret for now . Thank you for reminding me that as long as I know who I am, what does it matter who or if I tell. I'm so glad I found an accepting and helpful community! Best wishes!

[G.D.]

If you're still looking for help on other topics, information regarding Therianthropy/Otherkinity, or just a community in general I second Kerguelen.