DEAR ABBY: I grew up in a small town where I was sheltered from the real world. I am now in college and realize how much I don't know.
I recently encountered a situation I had no idea how to handle. My friend confessed to me that she's gay. Although I was surprised, I wasn't upset because I love her as a friend.
Unfortunately, at the moment she poured her heart out to me, I didn't know what to say. All I could muster was, "Ummm ... OK." Abby, I felt awful!
If something like this happens again, is there proper etiquette to use? I don't want to be insensitive. Coming out is difficult enough without having to figure out what the person you confided in is feeling. Your thoughts, please. -- OPEN-MINDED BUT CLUELESS
DEAR OPEN-MINDED: There is no rule of etiquette for how to react when someone comes out to you. The best advice I can offer is to think with your heart and offer your support. Say, "Thank you for trusting me enough to tell me. It doesn't change the way I feel about you. You are my friend, and I love you." It's honest. It's clear. It's reassuring. And it's what the person needs to hear.
P.S. It's not too late to say that to your friend.