There is Hope

6. October 2010 by admin.

I have been struggling lately with my response to the recent spate of suicides by gay teens and children. How do you approach a group of children who don’t have any other view of the world? I know that I have lived a charmed life, and that my experiences do not mirror those of most people. But to see these children giving themselves up fear and frustration is unacceptable.I remember how I felt after my first experience with another man. The euphoria and exhilaration were incredible.  As I walked back to my dorm room, I remember feeling as though I was on cloud nine. I can only imagine the utter desolation experienced by Tyler Clementi when he discovered that his moment of passion had been broadcast on the Internet.I cannot understand how people can think it’s all right to ridicule and humiliate people just for being themselves.

The wonderful initiative by writer and columnist Dan Savage, It Will Get Better, is an exceptional example of how people can come together to help teens and children in need find the resources to learn about what life is about.The bullying that goes on schools, the torment that some children have to go through a regular basis, makes me sick. It is never all right to tease or bully or torment someone simply because they are different. We need to teach our children that it is not right to disparage others.

I have to think that at least part of the reason this seems normal to us is the tone that is taken in political advertisements. We seem to accept negative advertising as the standard in politics these days. I find it amazing that we are willing to accept a politician based not on their philosophy and voting record but on the fact that their opponent is someone we would not want in office. The way I look at it, if you cannot tell me what you believe in and how you would vote if you are elected, and instead turn to bashing your opponent, then you do not deserve my vote. I just wish that most of the electorate would think that way as well.  So if it is acceptable in politics, why would it not be acceptable in life?

We are supposed to be the adults. What kind of sad example are we setting for the children? It’s about time we took responsibility for setting that example. If by being out and proud I can provide some example to kids who are trying to figure out who they are, then I will consider myself to be a success.If you are a parent, then it is your responsibility to help your child find their way into themselves. Help them find the resources they need to be comfortable with who they are. And if I can do any good with that please let me know how.

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