There’s been so much support from folks on this blog. But right now I just need to admit that I worry a lot. I worry about Q’s future, no matter what it holds. I’ll support him. We’ll support him. But what will he encounter “out there?”
That worries me. A lot. And often.
I love this boy so much.
I believe that means you are a good parent. I think that parents of all shapes and sizes have the same concerns for their children of the same sizes and shapes. (I hope that makes sense in writing, it does in my head!) It will be harder for him outside of your doors, and that will generally suck for both him and you as a parent.
In the mean time – what an awesome photo – nicely done!
RM — I so appreciate this reminder…that fear and concern is NORMAL. Yes, perhaps I have fears that many parents don’t have, but who knows. Others clearly have plenty of fears that I don’t have….working on embracing the fear, and knowing that I’m not alone in it.
I worry about my son, too, who is a teenager now, and can’t wait to get out in the world. We support him, and he lives in a supportive community. But is it safe out there? All I know is that you are out there, and you would be supportive of my son if your paths crossed, and I would likewise be supportive of yours. Hopefully that helps us both a little. There is love out in the world too. Peace to you and your family!
Yes, he most absolutely will find challenges outside the safety of your home… as do many kids (for various reasons) but knowing that he is loved and there is always home where he can be safe will hopefully enable him to hold his head high and be the person he is meant to be, and maybe even happy being that person.
Hang in there mom, remember to breathe and just keep loving him as much as you can. It will make a difference.
He is not alone. You are raising him to be a good kind hearted and accepting person and that kindness, generosity and willingness to teach people who are willing to learn will make him friends who will stand up for him and stand with him against bullies. sooner than later you will see that the world is changing because of parents like you raising kids that are brave and willing to live out loud and pave the way for the next generation of pink boys and blue girls and purple in betweeners.
Thank you.
You might already be aware of this, but since Q is getting to that age, I wanted to link you to it just in case:
http://www.camparanutiq.org/
A close friend of mine worked there as a counselor last summer, and loved it. I saw a few pictures of his cabin (no actual pictures from camp are published and the location of the camp is not publicly disclosed–they are very protective of the privacy of their campers), and thought of Q the whole time–oodles of 8-10 year old “pink boys” with all sorts of varied gender expression having a great time and looking so full of joy.
In any case, if you haven’t heard about it, take a look…
I have to admit that it has been a long time since I have looked at this blog, but I was at the bookstore this afternoon and saw a book that made me think of you and Q. If you haven’t already, check out My Princess Boy (their website is http://www.myprincessboy.com/index.asp)
I think he may find that “out there” is just fine, and comfortable. It’ll depend on the friends he chooses, where he lives etc. I see all kinds of kids (and adults and teens and tweens) in the Bay Area who have unique gender expressions.