I am a lesbian with 2 teenage boys. I am out, but I do not hang out in the gay scene. Recently my youngest son (15) came out. I was extatic! I have known since he was little. My problem is....since I am not in the gay scene and I am a woman, I am not sure what I should be warning him about or where to find the info. I know all the normall "straight" warnings to give him, but we all know the gay lifestyle is different. And people treat us different. And he is a very trusting child. I don't want him to be hurt or taken advantage of at such a young age. do you have any tips for me.
You are right, being lesbian or gay can be a challenge. I would concentrate on giving him a firm foundation in values and esteem. A strong individual is less likely to look for comfort in drinking, drugs or the wrong people. This is not only in the gay world, I think all children have these challenges. When we reach a certain age, if we are lucky we come to know what is true and beautiful in life. Make sure he knows what he is striving for and he will be on a good track. Also remember part of growing up is making mistakes. We learn from them. I am not a parent, but I would think that is the hardest thing for a parent to do, would be to watch your children make mistakes. Maybe that is our lesson we learn from them. We just have to love them and let them know they are loved.
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