A respected and effective college writing instructor (who happens to be gay but does not find it necessary or desirable to announce his sexual orientation) considers himself respectful of all people and even tolerant of those wish to express views the instructor personally finds reprehensible. This has allowed students to open up to the instructor: students trust him because they know he respects everyone and they respect him as a teacher. Announcing his sexual orientation to his class would silence those students who hold prejudicial views about gays and lesbians. Two gay students concur in the instructor's belief that the decision to "come out" is up to the individual. The question of remaining closeted or coming out with regards to fellow instructors should also be up to the individual. To develop and maintain a satisfactory professional life, the instructor eventually found it necessary to be "out" with regard to his colleagues. Yet being visibly gay does, at times, evoke hostile feelings from others. It also may not be politically wise to be openly lesbian or gay. Each situation in which instructors find themselves must be evaluated separately, and the decision as to whether or not they will identify themselves as lesbian or gay must be based on that specific situation. (RS)