Unprejudice.

I had an interesting experience today. I think this is the first day that I have actually felt that we are a real family. My partner and I have only been together for a few months now even though we’ve been friends for much, much longer. Today we took our oldest son to his school’s open house and to register him for the beauty that is first grade. It was a learning experience all around.

The school that Tyler is going to is the old stomping grounds of my partner, Robin and her older brother. They went to this school their entire life. Pre-k through graduation. So of course, everyone knew her. I’m not used to knowing practically no one. And it’s still mind-boggling to me that someone can stay in one place long enough to go to the same school for their entire life! Even with everyone know Robin, I was very surprised how many of the teachers looked at Tyler like he was Robin’s biological son. I guess seeing them day in and day out, I miss all the similarities they really do have.

When Robin would turn and introduce me as her partner and Tyler’s mom, a rare few seemed shocked by the first part of that statement. They couldn’t believe I was his mother. It didn’t offend me at all. On the contrary I found it humorous. I mean, in reality, the children I carried for nine months really do look more like my partner than they do me. They all four have the same fair skin and fine, straight, blond hair. Robin and our two youngest all have the same blue eyes, where Tyler has my gray-green. I am a complete contrast from the rest of them. Dark, thick, curly hair. Smaller gray-green eyes. I am still carrying a tan from all my years living in the Florida heat.

The other thing that surprised me was everyone’s openness to our relationship. When I moved from a large, and rather open minded, big city to this small little town I was literally introduced to small town thinking with a set of flying fist. Still I refuse to hide my relationship away under a rock. Robin and I hold hands, kiss each other good-bye and say I love you in front of who ever is nosey enough to listen on. Yet, I was still a little nervous about walking into my son’s school with my partner for the very first time. Expecially knowing that this is her domain. We did recieve our share of looks, but we took it in stride. And those who did actually take the time to talk to us where very polite, very friendly. I can actually say I was plesantly surprised. I can only hope that the acceptance that the teachers at his school has shown carries on through there teaching and we can have an up and coming generation of kids who don’t disriminate, don’t hate, don’t hold prejudice against someone because of the color of their skin, the religion they choice, or who they happen to fall in love with.