Ok, no, I’m not singing that old school jam by Naughty by Nature.

As many of you know, our oldest son is gay, and I often talk about that here.  I do so for a number of reasons - it’s a part of our life, I have strong beliefs when it comes to the LGBT community and their rights, I’m proud of Corey for being secure in his convictions, etc.  It’s a topic I am passionate about, and so I share our experiences.  Do we have all the answers?  Of course not, our son is only 17, but I do know how we have dealt with this up until now.  

I wonder if perhaps I come across as ‘preachy,’ though I try not too.  I realize not everyone believes as we do. Some have convictions just as strong, and they rest on the opposite side of the fence.  Though I don’t agree with the idea that homosexuality is a sin, I wouldn’t come right out and tell someone they are wrong and that they are going to hell for their beliefs.

But I am writing today because I was accused of looking for applause.  I was told that perhaps I am seeking a pat on the back because I think I am ‘doing the right thing.’

Well, let me say this… yes, I am proud. I’m proud that my husband and I raised our son to know his own mind.  To be secure and strong in his beliefs. I’m proud that he knew that telling Roy and I wouldn’t change the way we felt about him, and so he told us as soon as he knew his own mind.

I’m proud that in sharing our experiences here I have gotten some responses from the LGBT community telling me that Roy and I are doing ok.  That some of the choices we have made with our son, are a good thing.  That put my mind at ease.

I’m proud that the family we have told have reacted simply and matter of factly.  I know that Corey was worried about telling grandparents.

I’m proud that Corey has sought out and found friends - of both sexes - that could care less about his sexual orientations.  Something I am very happy about as kids this age (6-18), especially young men, can be very cruel especially if they aren’t sure of their own sexual orientation.

I’m proud of the younger boys (Joe is 16, Addi is almost 13, Hayden is almost 8, and Dean is 4) for understanding that Corey being gay is just a part of who and what he is.  It isn’t a big deal to them.

I’m proud that one of the few times someone said something to the younger boys about Corey, they responded intelligently and did not let the situation escalate into violence.

So, back to the original question - am I looking for plaudits?  Applause?  Pats on the back?  

From one person.  I only care that that one person knows we are doing our best.  I only want approval (or criticisms if need be) from one person.  I only want a hug and a thank you from one person.

Our son.