Diversity Rules Magazine

21 Diversity Rules Magazine October 2018 Because I knew how difficult it was for her to tell me, I decided to speak from my heart and wound up saying something like, "You are still the love of my life, and whatever makes you happy, makes me happy, too." is beautiful young woman broke into a big smile, and was obviously relieved. "I'm glad you understand that my loving a woman instead of a man is only a part of who I am," Lyn said. "I knew you would accept me no matter what." Hitting Close to Home eoretically, I've always felt it's a good thing that our society has become more accepting of diversity — and that includes gays and lesbians, and transgender men and women. But on that day, I guess I talked the talk, but was not yet ready to walk the walk. It simply hit too close to home and I wasn't sure that I could accept my granddaughter's unexpected news. We changed the subject to talk about other areas of her life, including her anxieties about going away to college, the goals she had scored in soccer and other things that were going on for her. As Lyn jabbered away, I began to understand that my granddaughter's sexual orientation is only one small part of who she is, a tiny fraction of this fabulous young woman. e afternoon passed quickly, and when she headed for the door to leave, I felt overwhelmed with emo- tion. A Moment to Cherish My firstborn grandchild — the little girl with whom I spent hours playing make-believe with her dolls — had grown into a wonderful woman. She felt comfortable enough to confide in me, her much older (and slightly outdated) grandmother. It was a moment I will always cherish. Recently, I attended my granddaughter's wedding to another woman. And although I still struggle with to- tal acceptance, I am at peace with the fact that this wonderful child, the love of my life, is happy, and that in 2018, she and others, can live as their authentic selves. About Bea Lewis Bea Lewis is a journalist, an author, and a popular speaker on the South Florida lecture circuit. She is the author of My Kids Are All Grown Up, So Why Are ey Still Driving Me Crazy? How to Get Along with Your Adult Children, eir Spouses and other Aliens. She lives in Boynton Beach, Florida. Lyn is the first of her six grandchildren. Advertise Today! Diversity Rules Magazine is an indepen- dent gay press that relies on the support of those who support its mission. Advertising in Diversity Rules Magazine is one of the best ways to support indepen- dent publications. Additionally, your adver- tising support will also help help Diversity Rules spread its messge of respect for diversity and help to empower individu- als to look inside themselves for answers about who they are and what their purpose is in life. Go to the website and advertise! www.diversityrulesmagazine.com

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