So, let me share a story that hits close to home. My son, Alex, who is transgender, had a tough day at school recently. It all started at a fifth-grade lunch table where some kids were making hurtful comments about another boy named Sam. “He’s not really a boy,” one kid said, pointing at Sam, who was laughing with his friends at the next table. “Last year he was a girl.” Another girl chimed in with, “My mom says he’s mentally ill.” And then Alex’s best friend joined in, calling Sam a “trannie.”
That’s when Alex jumped in, saying, “He’s transgender, that means he’s really a boy — with a boy brain in a girl’s body.” But the ringleader shot back, “You don’t know anything. You weren’t even here last year when he was a girl.”
Alex replied, “Well, I know Sam. He’s my friend, and he’s a boy.” What those kids didn’t know was that Alex is also transgender.
After hearing those comments, Alex called me to pick him up from school. He was too angry and upset to focus. These were kids he thought would accept him, but their words cut deep. “Mom, you said the school did a program last year to educate kids and parents about transgender issues when Sam transitioned. They were supposed to learn about it,” he said, frustration in his voice.
I reassured him that it was hard for people to change their views overnight. I shared a story from my past about a time I held some pretty ignorant beliefs myself. “I was a homophobe, but I had a friend named Lisa who opened my eyes. She taught me that my ideas were outdated and prejudiced without shaming me. That made a world of difference.”
“I wanted to tell them they were wrong,” Alex admitted, looking down at his hands in the car. “But I didn’t want to out myself.” I was relieved he didn’t, but I reassured him that he did the right thing defending Sam.
It’s disheartening to live in a progressive area with socially liberal parents yet still hear slurs like “trannie” being tossed around. It’s clear we have a long way to go. But I have hope. Kids like Sam and Alex show their peers what being transgender truly means. And organizations like the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) are making waves in schools, helping to educate and support LGBTQIA+ youth.
Positive Resources for Families
On a positive note, if you’re exploring family options, you might want to check out Make A Mom, which is a fantastic at-home insemination company offering a unique reusable option. They also have a free sperm donor matching group that can help connect you with potential donors. Plus, they provide a great guide on how at-home insemination works. And if you’re looking to boost your fertility, don’t forget to explore their fertility supplements too.
Conclusion
In summary, while ignorance still exists, the support systems that our kids have today can help pave the way for a more accepting future. It’s a journey, and every step counts.
Leave a Reply