To Noah on the National Day of Silence

Noah,

Today is the Day of Silence where students across the country "take a vow of silence to bring attention to anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying and harassment in their schools." And you and I are spending some time today to talk about how silence about issues like these can be harmful to young people, their families, our communities and all of us.

I want you to know that I value sticking up for what is right even when it's not popular and may be difficult. I want to tell you that today, but more importantly, I think I've spent the last 20+ months showing you that. And I hope to spend the rest of your life leading by example. I hope the love that spills from me is obvious to you, and I am grateful for your open heart and the love you share with me and so many other people daily.

Love is love, Noah. And in life you will be faced with many decisions and opportunities. Make sure to let the love in your heart and your mind guide you. Your dad and I will love you no matter what, but make sure you spread that love with other people too. Sometimes people ache in their hearts in silence. Sometimes people don't feel safe or supported. Make sure you're always a loud voice of love.

In your lifetime, and I hope your early lifetime, you will see laws change. Marriage will be a reality for all loving couples and people will be protected regardless of their gender-identity expression. Make sure that you remember that laws changing won't change all of the hate in people's hearts, but hearts full of love mean so much more.

I love you, and I am proud to support the day of silence. I am also proud to be raising an open-minded, loving child.

Love,
Mama