A look of love
I watch him kick a soccer ball
Quite a feat at two feet tall
Running around so carefree
As I watch, he watches me.
He sees I'm proud of what he's done
As I smile, he has fun.
He plays the game as he knows how
He scores a goal and takes a bow.
He shares this moment with his dad
The smile he sends me makes me glad
The bond we share cannot be broken
His face tells all with words unspoken
This little man, this gift to me
I look to Heaven, silently
Thank you God for this pleasure
This gift, my son, is what I treasure.
“A gender-equal society would be one where the word ‘gender’ does not exist: where everyone can be themselves.”*
I’ve always been aware of gender conditioning and actively tried to combat any lingering prejudices or stereotypes in my own parenting, even down to encouraging dolls with my boys when they were little. It’s great to read people writing about gender issues they’re experiencing with their kids. For too long these subjects have been discouraged or silenced. I’d love to publish some more creative writing on this topic, especially if you are struggling with a child who actively tries to move away from gender normative preferences. A society where everyone can be themselves – thanks Gloria for those aspirational words.
* Gloria Steinem