When my daughter told me she was pansexual, I just said okay. It didn't bother me in the least. Why would I object to her being her authentic self? But some parents do object. I know this because Natalie has told me about several friends who have tried to come out to their parents and were met with some of the following phrases below.
Natalie's friends know that I am there for them. So they've told me some heartbreaking things. Natalie also has seen sad coming out stories on Tik Tok--these poor kids are crying because their family won't accept them.
So here are some things that I've gathered that you should NOT say to someone coming out to you, whether it be your kid, a friend, or another family member. ANYONE.
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You're too young to know. Natalie has told me several of her friends parents have said this. While I don't like to criticize other parents in how they want to parent, I do not agree with this. You know who you are attracted to.
It's a sin. I admittedly probably don't like this because I am not religious. But telling anyone it's a sin is pretty rude. Believe what you want, but don't force others to think the same as you do. I have many religious friends, some of which are gay, and they've told me the Bible can be interpreted in so many different ways.
Yeah, right. Never blow off someone who is trying to share their truth. It might mean they will never open up to you again.
It's a choice. No. No, it is not. Educate yourself.
I'm disowning you. Seriously, so many people on Tik Tok say they've been disowned by parents or other family members for coming out. I do not understand how anyone can do this. You'll really ignore a family member or friend because of who they are attracted to?
Here's what you SHOULD say:
"I'm here for you," or if you're not exactly sure, say "tell me more." As I mentioned, I said okay, but I always tell Natalie I am here if she ever needs to talk. And if anyone ever tells her it's wrong, well, I'll be there to stand up for her. When I shared her truth on social media I was met with mostly positive responses, but there were some mean ones as well. One person said "I'll pray for her" and I responded, "Hopefully to have a happy life."
You are a great mom!
ReplyDeleteI will never understand a parent who can't just love their child for who they are especially when their choice effects NO ONE ELSE but themselves. I am so glad to hear you were simply "normal" towards your daughter as if she said, you now how you think my favorite color is pink, well its actually blue.. I mean its just that simple.. Their life, their choice. PERIOD!
ReplyDeleteAssuring your child of your support is very vital in parenting
ReplyDeleteThis post is very informative, most parents don’t know how to react.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, some parents are to quick to respond instead of thinking before they speak. Some children know at a really early age and feel obliged to hide it for fear of what others will think. I agree with what you have suggested. Being supportive is the best way to approach this.
ReplyDeleteAs long as my chilld is happy and safe nothing else matters more
ReplyDeleteI agree. "It's a sin" that's the worst thing to say. And I love how you explained it.
ReplyDeleteIt's heartbreaking that blog posts like this have to be written. Parenthood is all about loving your children unconditionally--and that includes sexuality.
ReplyDeleteI'm so shock with the third one. Some people are so mean.
ReplyDeleteIt blows my mind that kids and teens are still dealing with parents being so close minded. I simply can’t imagine being like that so I absolutely love that you’re talking about it openly. The littlest comments can go a long way.
ReplyDeleteIt's sad that in a delicate moment like this, a parent can tell something that can hurt kid's feeling! Your suggestion are to keep in mind for the future
ReplyDeleteThese are wonderful thoughts. I'll definitely accept my kids if they do come out. I just want them to be happy with their choices and how to live their lives.
ReplyDeleteI think it's crazy that some parents still want to be mean like that. I would always be accepting of my children no matter what. As long as they are happy, then so am I.
ReplyDeleteI am sure Natalie's friends feel grateful to have you and hopefully hearing your support of Natalie will help open the eyes and hearts of their parents. Being supported makes a world of difference!
ReplyDeleteGlad she has your support. That's what kids need from parents. And I agree, it's not a choice. -LYNNDEE
ReplyDeleteYou are such a great momma!!! these are such great tips. thanks for sharing this
ReplyDeleteI don't have children but I have a sister who came out. My mum reacts exactly as you mention, accepting her as she is.
ReplyDeleteYou are great momma. These are great tips. Kids needs parents both needs to be understanding each other.
ReplyDeleteIt breaks my heart that some need to read this. Let's all just love and be those unconditional parents.
ReplyDeleteWhen you love your kids/fam/friends/someone unconditionally, you accept them fully, respect their choice! I am not a parent yet, but will keep your tips in mind always ❤️
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Everything Enchanting
I love to see you making awareness about this! People can be so mean and hateful, and it hurts the worse coming from family.
ReplyDeleteI do hate how something like this needs to be written, I wish people would love their children unconditionally, as they should.
ReplyDeleteI hate that there are parents that will disown their children if they come out. But I feel like things are looking better. I went to pride last Saturday and there were almost a million of people 😍
ReplyDeleteI can't believe in this day and age people are disowned for being themselves. You shouldn't have to control your feelings to fit in with others beliefs.
ReplyDeleteAmen! There are aspects of EVERY PERSONS' life (even YOURS) that all people may not understand and/ agree with but that does not give us the right to cast judgement or retreat love/affection. ESPECIALLY to our own children.
ReplyDeleteI am not really sure why the only response to someone coming out to another isn't "thank you for trusting me" Or "ok, I love YOU, for you.. Not based off who you love or not" I mean I will never understand why being gay is anyone's business expect for the person and their chosen partner in life..
ReplyDeleteIt is such a delicate time for youth as whole, lots feelings and changes. Support and love is all they really need and some in their corner, it is not the time to abandon them to figure things out, but they do need some space in world that is constantly telling them who to be and who they are via social media influencers, tv and peer pressure. I would hate to be a youth these days, so much outside noise out there.
ReplyDeleteWonderful post and you're truly a great mom!!
ReplyDeleteParents should be the first to accept and support their kids. Otherwise, society won't accept them (kids) either.
ReplyDeleteSome people are just hard and rude... Acceptance should start from within and especially from the family.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all thanks for sharing this with us, it's definitely a great sense of appreciation that our child must feel for us parents. As this will boost their being.
ReplyDeleteThis is a really great and very informative post! Thanks for sharing these awesome tips!
ReplyDeleteAs a teacher I see many different scenarios. The students who have a supportive home turn out in a much better way than those whose parents start to pull away from them. Love our kids 100%. That is my take on it. They need it.
ReplyDeleteYou should love your child no matter what. This is very educational!
ReplyDeleteI will accept my kids no matter what… period end of story. Thank you for this informative post!
ReplyDeleteParents play a big role in their children life. And kids will always look up to them, they need support and acceptance as long as they are happy.
ReplyDeleteThis post should be read by every parent who has a kid that wants to come out and be themselves. Love is love no matter what. We must educate ourselves and be supportive so they know that its ok and that they will be loved and respected. I admire Natalie for being herself and not being afraid to show how she really is.
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