But he is aware of some things. Sascha notices that he has different feelings than most of his friends. He realizes that his sexual fantasies are directed towards men. He does not think of women in the way most other boys his age do. He feels that he is not "normal." Sascha is gay.

And there is a fellow classmate to whom he is attracted. He is in love, but should he say anything to this other fine young man? Probably not, he thinks, out of fear of rejection and negative consequences.

Apart from this, Sascha also wonders about how he might be able to meet other gay men and women. And what about gay sex - what is it like? And, for that matter, how does he do it?

In the following pages, we write about these concerns. Hopefully what we have to say will help the reader come to realize that it is okay to be bisexual or homosexual…that it is wonderful to fall in love….that safer sex is exciting and pleasurable, even in a world troubled with AIDS. We are also aware that for many, living a gay lifestyle can be difficult. But, most importantly, we hope to instill a belief in the reader that to be gay or bisexual is not abnormal. It is just another way of life, and the person who is attracted to same-sex relationships has the same right as anyone else to lead a happy and fulfilled life.

The story of Sascha is a work of fiction. But it does represent the feelings of many people in the world. There are many Saschas - their names may be Michael, or Peter or Thomas or Martin. One of them may be you!

One final note: while the specifics of Sascha's story may be made up, the overall theme of the difficulties of coming out and references to historical occurrences are based in fact. Please also have in mind that this is a translation of a brochure from Switzerland. It is possible some facts about the legal situation, discrimination, and also some details about safer sex may be different from what you're familiar with. Nevertheless, it will be an interesting journey for you to see how things are here in Switzerland!

Happy reading!

Florian, Remo, Adrian, Roman and Jan, and lots of great guys who helped to translate this brochure into english!!