Friday, February 10, 2012

Same-Sex Couples And Adoption

I own my inspiration for this post to my mother because she and I often have some of the most thought and feel-provoking conversations on a variety of topics.

My mother and I can literally talk about anything.

And the really cool thing about our relationship is that we don’t always see things the same way, therefore our opinions sometimes differ. Yet, we never end up getting into an argument because we allow each other to have our opinions without feeling defensive.

She and I have very passionate opinions, but are also open and willing to examine each other’s side.

Earlier this week, I was speaking with my mother on the phone and for some reason we got on the topic of same-sex couples adopting.

Now my mother knows of my “partner preference” and has never had an issue with accepting it. In fact, she’ll often say, “I hope you find someone special to share a relationship with, Ronnie.” My mother has always accepted and supported me in all the things that encompass my life.

However, she and I have different viewpoints on same-sex couples and adoption.

I, obviously see nothing wrong with it because if two people (whether two males or two females) have a calling to adopted a child and can raise them financially, responsibly, and with loving care, why not?

My mother on the other hand, though knowing that same-sex partners would do an amazing job in raising a child, feels that the child would perhaps suffer in being judged and ridiculed by other children for growing up with two fathers or two mothers. She feels that this would add pressure to the child.

And honestly? I can see her point.

Yet, I shared with her that most children have pressures growing up. A child can be judged or ridiculed for being over-weight, under-weight, not smart enough, or even for a physical or mental disability. We’ve all been ridiculed in one way or another for something that other people feel is different. If you think about it, we ALL have something about us that stands out and makes us different than the norm; therefore we will always be compared.

Yes, perhaps a child growing up with same-sex parents will have certain judgments to contend with, but my thought on that is how do we raise the consciousness of the world for future generations if we don’t allow it to happen through our children? I think we sometimes underestimate a kid’s ability to adapt. I myself grew up being verbally abused almost every single day of my school years for being gay. But do you know what? I survived. And it made me a much stronger and more compassionate person.

There are a plethora of children who are born into this world disregarded, so if two same-sex partners are willing to take these children into their lives, allowing them to feel valued and wanted, then I say, AMEN.

I would like to conclude this post by saying that many people feel a child needs the stability of a mother and father to grow up. But my question is…what exactly defines a mother and father, a man and a woman?

Not really.

A mother and father are any two people who have the ability to nurture and love.

Wishing you a beautiful weekend everyone!

X

*Note: I realize this topic will bring up individual opinions and I invite you to share yours. Yet, I ask that you share them in thoughtfulness. Also, my mother reads my blog, therefore if you don’t agree with her opinion that’s fine, but I request that you share it without condemning. She and I might not share the same viewpoints, however she is my mother, and I love and respect her. Thank you everyone....x