Atlanta, GA 12/31/2010 12:12:04 AM
Jake Shears is "proud" to be an example to gay teenagers.
The Scissor Sisters frontman had strong role models when he was coming
to terms with his sexuality and is hopeful he can do the same for other
people.
He said: "I'm proud to be that. I know what it's like to be a teenager,
and what it's like to come out, and the difficulties of it all. And how
it feels to be in school and be bullied.
"When I read about suicides and gay teenagers it's so tragic. I don't
think teenagers realise that it actually does get better. The minute
you're done with high school your life gets better.
"If I'm the go-to for new gays, and if I can be someone that gay
teenagers can look at as someone who's happy and who has made a good
life for himself, then that's great.
"I had people like that for me when I was growing up, and it was very important."
Jake also gave advice to young people who are struggling to be open about being gay.
He said: "My advice would be to just stick to who you are. There are
sacrifices you have to make, there are crosses that you have to bear.
You're always going to be portrayed in a certain way, you're always
going to be pigeonholed. That's the price that you're going to pay.
"But it's a price that's worth it. It's a responsibility. So that would be my advice - remain exactly who you are."
