Helping a Child to Come Out
On Thursday, October 11th, it was National Coming Out Day. Many anxious girls and boys embraced their sexuality and exposed their true identity to their loved ones. Such a topic can be difficult to speak about, but some parents, as explained in the New York Times article, Helping a Child Come Out, took the news by stride and showed nothing but love and support to their children. These proud parents explained that they always had a feeling their children were gay, but wanted them to feel comfortable enough to officially tell them. In fact, new research shows that signs of homosexuality can be prominent at the young age of three years old. Within the last few years, the average age of coming out has become lower and lower, and at such a young age, it is critical to have the approval and support of loved ones.
Seeing these proud and supportive mothers really made me appreciate the love that parents have for their children. These mothers and fathers came together showing that sexuality does not define who you are as a person and is nothing to be ashamed of. Without the support of family, gay children are more likely to have low self-esteem, and face bullying which could contribute to the high suicide rate of gay teens. In the long run, this support at home could save the life of one child at a time.
I really enjoyed this article because it is nice to see the change in peoples views about homosexuality. It is nice to hear that parents are supporting their children and loving them for who they are more and more. I feel so sad and sorry for young teens who aren't even comfortable enough telling their own parents that their gay because if you feel like you cant tell your own family then how are you going to deal with society? Whether your gay or straight shouldn't change the way your mothers or fathers see you so it is nice to see this image of the mother holding the "Proud Mother of a Proud Daughter" poster. I don't think many people realize how hard it must be too accept being gay and then having the courage to tell others. Children and teens may face bullying from other children so the best parents can do is support them.
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