My daughter, 16 told me that she’s going out to dinner with her friends at a local place. I was taking our dog on a walk and walked by a park where I saw her kissing a girl. I didn’t say anything, just walked by.
A little bit of a backstory: there was a kid in my daughter’s class who my daughter told me like girls. Their guardians were not supportive, and they endured a lot of mental agonies and eventually tried to end it but she survived, but have a long road of recovery (both physically and mentally) ahead.
From what I understand, this kid was very popular in school, was overall a very bubbly and outgoing person. My daughter was good friends with them, and their entire class is shaken up by this. School is providing counsellors to help them navigate their emotions in a healthy way.
I told my husband and he says we should let her come to us at her own pace. I obviously agree with him, but my mama heart just wants her to know that no matter who she chooses to love, her dad and I are always going to be there for her. Are there any subtle ways to do that?
Here are what netizens thinks:
- So my parents had a hard time with it when I came out almost ten years ago. My aunt however, didn’t skip a beat. One day visiting, she left a pride sticker on my dresser with a note that said “I will always love you. Be you. That’s the best thing there is”
- For real though, I would maybe ask how her classmate is doing and express your disagreement with their guardians’ bigotry and make it clear that it would never make any difference to you. She may clock what you’re doing, but I think that’s okay. You could also find an age-appropriate TV show or movie with a same gender love story and make a supportive comment about it. Hearing positive, affirming things about same-sex relationships is a big comfort for kids who are nervous about coming out.
- Just let her know that you always have her back. You love and support her and are there if she ever needs help.