He's seven. I think I gave my first talk when I was seven. The idea of him in a suit, reading from the Bible to 100 or more people, having his performance publicly reviewed, and then being told he should be preparing how own talks is absurd.
As I watch him grow more and more of my memories return -- a frightening proposition.
I think being born to parents who raise you to know you won't be accepted or loved unless you mirror their beliefs is unequivocally worse than abortion.
When I hear people talking about others cruelly, mockingly and contemptuously I hope they never have children. It's a horrible thing to be born to parents who hate you. There is no sense of safety among parents who'd reject you if they only knew your thoughts or who you truly were.
Innocence is a one-time experience, control is an illusion and expectations do not belong among countless variables. "The only constant is change." Sometimes I hear people speak about their children as if they're dogs. Dogs are trained to be obedient and children should be taught independence. I'm nearly five years into a life I never planned for. As I watch him grow I am reminded of my childhood, of who I could have been, and why kindness and tolerance are virtues.
Decency can seem antiquated but all times are indecent.
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