The three of them
I looked around the table at the faces watching me
and decided what I needed was a nice hot cup of tea.
Three grandchildren waiting for the never-ending food,
I wanted to enjoy them while I was in the mood.
Their smiles always cheer me, they really make my day.
Each is truly special – in their own particular way.
I love the way their eyes shine and the funny things they say,
their minds are quick and witty, learning new things every day.
Their faces glow with wonder as life's mysteries they unfold,
challenges, dreams, inspirations - their ages make them bold;
at thirteen, ten and five years old, their lives are just beginning.
When they go home I'm tired, but in my heart I'm singing.
“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