Well, my experience wasn't too bad, but I felt the same way you do before I came out. I was afraid of (both) feeling and looking diffrent in front of everyone. I was worried that people would gossip and the word would get around. I was concerned about co-workers and friends feeling uncomfortable around me. I ended up telling my sister first. I asked her how dad would feel about it, and from there it became easier and easier. I told my ex-girl friend (who is now one of my best friends) and almost my whole family. You might find that many of the people in your life either already expected it (and believe me, everyone except for my imediate family sees me as very masculine) or it just doesn't bother them (or in a more harsh way of putting it, they don't care). As far as your employer and co-workers are concerned, why do they have to know? Honestly, I'm not sure that discussing your sexual prefrences in the work place is a very professional thing to do anyway, but that doesn't mean that you can't be yourself while you're on the clock. They can suspect it all they want, but they can't prove anything unless you confirm it. I think telling your family and certain friends would be a great first step. Remember, this doesn't have to happen all at once. Don't overwhelm yourself. Besides, you might end up enjoying some of the unexpected feedback, so why not make it last. If I were you, I'd start off with telling one or maybe a couple people that can help you through this. That way, (even though you may feel a little bit like you are) you won't be completely alone. You'd be surprised how much self confidence you can gain from the support of a few people who love you. I hope everything goes well. Hit me up if you ever want to talk. Good luck!

I feel your pain bro. Just a horrible state of mind to be in. I really wish you the best of luck with everything. And I hear you about moving away and starting fresh with an identity. I am thinking the same, but can't do anything until i can find a job in that new location.

I'm sorry you're going through such a hard time right now, but maybe the way you're feeling right now has to do with this impending doom you feel is around the corner.
I guess I'd have to ask why you feel like you're walking to an execution. Is there somethng that gives you the feeling your news will be so tragic?
When I came out, I sat my in-laws down and told them personaly. THAT was an uncomfortable moment. But, I still love my mother in-law very much, and she feels the same way about me. I just wish I could see her more often.
When I cane out I decided I wasn't going to be closeted at all. Everyone knows. Friends, family, coworkers ... everyone. I don't run around stating I'm gay, but I never change what I might say to keep it from people either. So if people ask what I did on the weekend, I tell them the truth. "My son, my partner and I went here and there." When people ask if I'm married, I just tell them about Richard. So far, so good. I haven't had any real problems yet.
Of course, there's been some complications. Everything wasn't always perfect.
Again, what makes you feel things are going to be so bad?

Where I live gays get beat up, fired fro jobs, ridiculed, b;locked for anything and rejected. I have seen it.

Maybe it's best you move away from a place like that. If you are truly concerned for you safety, may it would be better if you broke the news to your loved ones by message or on the phone.
Is the place you will be moving to any safer that the one you're leaving?

God Lord, Amndy2011, where on earth do you live? This sounds like somewhere out of the 1970s! I too suggest that you relocate if you can..