How do you know who is a friend or who is a partner?
It can be really hard to navigate.
Again, I would suggest joining a social group for LGBITQ to take away the guessing aspect. There are many of these kinds of groups if you are living in a country where being homosexual is accepted on at least legal levels (even if there is still plenty of intolerance to go around). In places where it isn’t legal or isn’t culturally accepted, there are always underground groups.
Regardless, don’t live in isolation as an adult. It isn’t worth the pain and will keep you bound in your attempts to come out. It is a very important step to take and doesn’t require mad assertions or flag waving. Rather, at times just a gentle acknowledgement, at least to someone you can easily trust.
You will know if a person is one you either would value as friend or a prospective partner, for either a short time or as a long-term relationship.
Sometimes one may even turn into another, so be open to that possibility.
Don’t shut your heart.

