Don't Let Them Have Children #Oh

Maybe it’s how I was raised, or maybe it’s my desire to be independent, or maybe its my lack of willingness to deal with idiotic comments. Yet again, our society is basing individuals’ ability to be parents based on their appearance or in this case, sexual preferences. An article in the New York Times discusses a study saying that same-sex couples ultimately fail as parents, “The study, Dr. Regnerus wrote, “clearly reveals” that children are most apt to succeed when they grow up “with their married mother and father.”

Not only did this comment make me angry, it made me question where these children are. I've encountered plenty of children throughout my lifetime from working at camps and swim teams. I've met some outstanding parents and great kids, but I wouldn't say they are all flawless. EVERYONE has their issue, that’s how life is. If we base our values off of how television shows portray the ideal family, we will forever be stuck in a world of disappointment.

The article continues noting that Dr. Regnerus wrote in a pretrial brief, “it remains prudent for government to continue to recognize marriage as a union of a man and a woman, thereby promoting what is known to be an ideal environment for raising children.” 

Excuse me while I provide you some examples of “quality parenting” of heterosexual individuals.

1. A mother is accused of leaving her two children in a cold car while she got her makeup done at a mall in Charles County.

2. 8 Monstrous Mothers Who Killed Their Own Children.

And if the stories aren’t enough, enjoy the photos.

Wendy D. Manning, a professor of sociology at Bowling Green State University in Ohio notes: “only about half the children in the United States live with married, biological parents.” The article also mentions, “Children of single mothers, adopted children, children of divorce and children in poverty all have worse outcomes on average than children in stable middle-class marriages.” That’s shocking; I thought ALL children from heterosexual parents were perfect?

Regardless of the sexual orientation of the individuals raising a child it’s understandable that a child may lack the characteristics of a male or female figure in their life. This would promote people to encourage strict “rules” of only having heterosexual marriages. However, this would equally be the case for a child being raised by a single parent.

I guess I’m confused why America cares SO much about what the ‘gays’ are doing OR even why they are referred to in that category? Why do we think that we know the answer to how children should be raised? Why are we so scared of letting people be parents? It’s probably safe to say those who oppose this lifestyle and say that gay people aren't good parents are also the people that walk away when they see a parent scream or even hit their child in public. It’s a double standard. It’s not fair or even logical to automatically assume that if a man and a women have a child together they will instantly be fantastic parents.   

xoxo