Clearing My Mind

Generally this space is reserved for updates on Addie and eventually Baby Monty #2. However, today I am claiming my right to post my personal thoughts on something here.

For those who did not read it on Thursday, a male student at Fairfax High School in Los Angeles was chosen the Prom Queen by his peers. The student, who was originally denied the opportunity, gave a speech to the student body saying that the fliers did not specify gender for either position. I was about to ask "Since when was there any confusion about the gender specifications for kings and queens?" Apparently, the answer is May 2009. The student went on to say that he doesn't want to be a girl, but deep down he is a queen and that he felt the role would fit him better.

These comments stir a whirlwind of thoughts and feelings, but two specific ones draw the most attention. Number one, it saddens me to see that it has become acceptable enough for men of any age to turn their backs on the masculine nature that God made for them and embrace feminine traits as more appealing. Though I'm certain I'm paraphrasing, I know that John Eldredge spoke in his book "Wild at Heart" about how society has turned its nose at the strong, male character and his innate desire to be a purposeful leader. While God has appointed a number of women through time to be strong leaders as queens, they were WOMEN. They were designed to assert and provide leadership with a unique set of characteristics. My underlying concern is that society has developed such an apathy for this distortion of God's desire for us as man and woman that my children and future generations will be looked down upon for upholding these core beliefs.

Secondly, I am troubled that someone of this age would have a well-developed self-image that is so schewed from that of his birth and nobody is asking the necessary questions. What caused this young man to abandon his masculine nature? What are the emotional issues that have led him down this path? Some may disagree with me, but I refuse to accept biology. I do not accept that God created any man or woman to end up with homosexual preferences. Knowing that God sees this as a perversion and a sin, I will not accept that argument.

A third thought came to mind when re-reading one of the quotes in the AP story. The senior class president spoke for her fellow students and celebrated that the class was so open-minded. I would argue that these students are mis-characterized as open-minded and should more accurately be deemed as uninformed and blinded to the greater issues. While I hesitate to blame the media, it is an important part of our society and it has definitely contributed to the acceptance of this lifestyle. Instead, I think it is more important for us as Christians to take a greater stand against societal elements we find immoral and use both our voting and buying power to force executives to change the way they program. These children have been raised in a society that has embraced those ideals and has no concept of the long-term emotional consequences that many people will face.

I'm no crusader...just a soon-to-be-father of two who is worried sick about the world his kids will inherit. Thank you Mom and Dad for the delicate balance you forged for me between education and protection.

Addie's Additions

The last few weeks have been a busy time for our growing bundle of energy. She got to spend a few days with her grandparents and other family members in Liberty, Missouri. Needless to say, her and Mema picked up where they left off while Grandad won over his youngest granddaughter with some vanilla ice cream. When she came home, Ashley and Mommy have managed to teach her to touch her head and her belly. Then, she claps in approval...it's pretty awesome. Her walking improves everyday, as does her penchant for finding little odds and ends in and around furniture and putting said items in her mouth. Gone are the days when we could just let her exist and not worry about her finding something she might swallow and/or choke on. Less than a month until she rings in her first full year of life...stay tuned for the post-party wrap-up.

Two Birds, One Stone

Isn't it great when you can make people happy by both posting a picture of your little girl and making a major family announcement? Yes, the t-shirt tells the truth. Baby Monty #2 is due around December 1. So far so good, but we'll have more updates as we learn more.