Lindsay King-Miller opens by reframing coming out as a series of decisions repeated across many different relationships and contexts throughout life, not a single dramatic disclosure.

Why this reframe matters:

• Reduces the pressure of treating one conversation as the definitive, permanent moment
• Prepares readers for the reality of coming out repeatedly — to new friends, coworkers, doctors, in-laws
• Allows each instance to be approached on its own terms, at its own pace

This opening sets expectations realistically rather than building toward one climactic, all-or-nothing disclosure.