Monday, September 29, 2008

"You are a beautiful family."

That's what an older lesbian said to us this morning, as we stopped in at the bakery across the street to get some much needed coffee. She was sitting at a table with several other women, all dykes in their 60s or 70s. When J and I walked in, with baby strapped to chest, they all smiled at us. As we were leaving, they called us over to see the baby.

"She's beautiful," said one of them. "And you are a beautiful family."

She said it almost forcefully, as if guessing at or anticipating all of the times that people either ignore us as a family, or simply don't realize that that's what we are.

They were so happy to see us, a young, queer, out family. And I was so happy to see them, and to finally receive an unequivocal message of support from an older generation. It made me cry. And it made me very proud of my beautiful family.

9 comments:

M said...

Hey, I'm so happy that you're back, and I'm so happy for the nice comment you got. Seeing the picture, I also want to say that you are a beautiful family!

giggleblue said...

that's wonderful!

Two Moms With A Plan said...

I stumbled on your post and teared up. I know that feeling of acceptance and how it feels when it finally happens. Congratulations on your beautiful family!

Elsje said...

the photo you posted shows that you are indeed a beautiful family. more importantly, your comments about parenthood, your partner and life in general show that too. i'm so happy that you have your Ocean. life certainly does change...in all the right ways

frog said...

Aw, lovely!

Anonymous said...

I had been checking your blog daily and then when there were no updates... I stopped, then forgot to check it until today.

Since I don't have a better word to express how I feel, congratulations.

Shalonne said...

Hi, I heard a song today that reminded me of you and Ocean. It is Ocean by Hanna McEuen. I just thought I'd tell you about it in case you wanted to give it a listen. I don't think it was ever very popular so you may not have heard it before. Sorry if this sounds weird coming from someone you only met once and probably forgot :) I love your daughter's name so when I heard the song...

Jen said...

heck, it made me cry too, half a country away :) what a fantastic experience to have!!

Jack said...

Such beautiful tigers in this picture. Wait!! I think I see one in the background, frolicking in the waves and catching fish!