Should this be an legitimate reason to be afraid to come out?

[Crystal Rayne]

No matter what your reason is, your feelings are valid. If you aren't comfortable with coming out, you shouldn't feel forced. You say that you'll never be ready to come out, so you should know that's an option as well. You don't have to come out at all, because who you find attractive is your business. The only problem there is if you find somebody of the same sex or transgender or whatnot to be your significant other. Then you'll have to make the decision and discuss that with your partner. In any case, don't feel forced. Of course anxious feelings and uncertainty are normal when it comes to this kind of thing, but you need to find out what works best for you. I don't think your reason for being in the closet is stupid. I know that the whole, "it's just a phase" is irritating, but you have to accept that they may say that. You have to decide if it's worth it. Can you accept that that may be their views? I think that as long as you know in your heart what your sexuality is, it doesn't matter. You have to learn to let it slide, and just know that it's because they'll be in denial.

Give yourself time, and when/if you tell them, you must give them time as well. I hope this is helpful and I hope you decide what's right for you.