Kids...

There is no telling how many people per day get affected by what others say of feel about them. Did you know that most of all teenage suicides is because of teasing from other kids? Did you know that a majority of the time it's name calling like "Fag" "Queer" and the like that get these kids so upset? Bear in mind that some of these kids really aren't gay in the least. And what about the ones that are?

It's been discovered awhile ago that the ones who really were gay, or thought they were, couldn't talk to their parents about the teasing and weather it had any validity in it. And they thought that their parents would dis-own them,beat them...what ever negative reaction they thought they'd get. And for them, they figured that suicide would be easier to deal with then facing their parents.

Why you may ask am I talking about this, well I think it's something that everyone needs to be aware of. Especially if they have children of their own. If what we pass on to our kids is that it's wrong to be who you are, or to even so much as come and talk to us about how they feel....then what really are we teaching them to be when they grow up into adults? I would rather be able to talk to my parents,regardless...then to commit suicide. But not everyone is like me.

So, if you think something is going on with your kids...don't be afraid to talk with them about it. Reassure them that you love them and don't take a defensive approach. Encourage them to always have that open line of communication with you, about anything. And if they say something that you don't like, or didn't want to hear...express that you will need a time to understand or digest what they have just said. If it is that they are gay or trans or what ever, read up on the subject. Join PFlag....encourage your child to be apart of a support group. (BTW,PFlag stands for Parents,Friends of Lesbian and Gay children. You can find a local chapter in your phone book or online.)

So, please...for the sake of our children, open your hearts and your mind. Have a talk with them ...tell them you love them..and help them be the best person they can be.

Peace and love to y'all,
Reese