I have to preface this with a warning. I very rarely write about politically or socially controversial topics because I don't really care to hear other peoples' view, so I figure no one really wants to hear mine. And this post isn't about me stating my views, though they do come out. It's really about watching my children grow emotionally and spiritually - which is priceless.
Vidya: Mommy, when a woman marries another woman, and they have a baby, what does the baby call each of them?
Me: It just depends what they want to be called. There are a lot of different words for mommy. Or for daddy if it's two gay men.
Vidya: What does gay mean?
Me: It's a term to describe a same-gender couple. Or you can say homosexual.
Mari: How do two men have a baby?
Me: They either adopt or have a female friend carry the baby for them.
Vidya: Do two women both call each other wife?
Me: Yep. Or life-partner if they're not able to get married.
Mari: Why wouldn't they want to get married if they love each other?
Me: Well, it's not legal in every state.
Vidya: You mean it's against the law?
Me: Yep.
Mari: Is it legal in Mississippi?
Me: No. I'm sure Mississippi will be one of the last states to legalize gay marriage.
Vidya: Why?
Me: Because there's a heavy Christian influence here, and many Christians believe it's a sin.
Vidya: Is it a sin?
Me: Well, that's something you'll have to decide for yourself when you're older and you've met more gay people.
Vidya: I think I'm old enough. (Pause) I don't think it's a sin.
Mari: Do you think it's a sin, Mommy?
Me: Well, what do think a sin is?
Mari: Something bad that God doesn't want you to do. (Pause) But isn't a sin something that hurts someone else? It doesn't make sense that it's a sin. I mean, what if Daddy was a girl. Would you still marry him.
Me: You can't help who you love, baby. And yes, if Daddy were a girl I still would have married him - if we were allowed to - because I love him that much.
Mari: I'm pretty sure it's not a sin.
Me: Then I guess you have your answer.
I can't always control how my political, religious, and moral views shape my children, but I do encourage them to create their own ideas and opinions, based on their own set of morals and their own views of right and wrong. It's a proud moment for me as a parent when I see my children make a thoughtful stand, for our against something, without being told what to believe.
