About yesterday….
Those that know me know that delegation is NOT my strong suit! I like to just do it all myself…. but yesterday I stepped outside my comfort zone and delegated. What a liberating experience! My other Mama Bears stepped up in grand style showing up with a tent, table, snacks, water and HUGS!
This is our second year participating in this event and it was a joy once again! I saw people wearing all sorts of shirts and some of my favorites were, “I love my gay child,” “Proud Mom” “Proud Dad” and “Will Trade Racists for Refugees” !
And I hugged….one armed! Boy did I hug!
And I listened.
I listened as one of my favorite Queens read a beautiful story to children titled, “Families, Families, Families” while children interacted with the story in the sweetest way, sharing what their families look like. I listened as a woman told me how she recently moved her family from California to Evanston in order to continue safe healthcare and an affirming community for her children. I listened to a woman share that she was learning to ask how to use correct pronouns. I listened to a mom share how she was learning to love the adult child in front of her and grieve her own losses. I listened to a man who had gotten engaged in the past year and was planning the wedding of his dreams all while preparing for the longevity of marriage by going to couples therapy with his partner. I listened to a young woman tell me that she attends family events alone as her partner is not welcome and her family does not acknowledge her partner. I listened to a man tell me that his own father got a hug from a Free Dad Hugger last year and it seemed to open his heart a bit to his son.
And I learned….I learned from one of my Mamas that the word of the day was “Bashert.” Bashert is a Yiddish word that means ‘destined’ or ‘meant to be.’ I felt that deep in my bones yesterday with each and every interaction.
And it did not stop once we cleaned up to go home. I stopped at the store on my way home, yes….in my tutu and FMH shirt! I was stopped by 2 older (80’s) ladies in the parking lot….At first I was a bit apprehensive after my recent encounter at a local fast food establishment, but I stopped to talk to them. They told me they loved my outfit and thanked me for giving hugs. They were both banished (their word, not mine) from their families when the families found out they were in love and more than just friends. They have been together over 50 years and created their own family of people that love and accepte them. I hugged them both together for a long time….and they were so gentle and caring. I did not let go until they did and when we stepped apart….all of us were crying…in the parking lot of the grocery store! What a sight! I watched as they walked away with their arms around each other and thought how lucky they were to have found such love in one another.
Another moment of beshert…..and another reminder of why hugs (and tutus) are so important.
Love….and hugs….heal.
Peace
#tutulady
#forwardisapace
Kristine Binder 