Dateline Dayton — In my last essay I told you my age. From some of my previous essays, you could surmise that I am fairly conservative. Why am I telling you this? You may be surprised at my stance this issue.
I admit my details are sketchy. I only got bits and pieces of the controversy that took place while I was in Las Vegas. I’m referring to the picture of Elton John and his partner with their child on the cover of a magazine.
Personally, I found nothing offensive about this picture. The fact some individuals were asking to have the magazine removed or covered, as if it were pornography, is absurd.
With the number of children who are being abused by birth parents, grandparents and others, it is comforting to know this child is going to be loved, respected and well taking care of. Although not important, the child will want for nothing.
So What?
I realize this child will not be growing up in a “traditional” family atmosphere. But how many are? With the number of divorces we have in this country, many children are being raised by a single parent, and in some cases that is the father. How different is that?
Here is what makes the situation even worse for these children being raised in what we seem to believe is an acceptable environment:
When the mother or father, remarries or is living with a person of the opposite sex. How confusing is this for a child?
Then the whole situation can get even more confusing when a child from that arrangement comes along. It reminds me of the old Abbott and Costello routine, “Who’s on First?”
Also there are the unwed mothers. How healthy is this situation for a child?
So just why all the fuss over Elton and David adopting a child and having their picture on a magazine?
I give a lot of credit to anyone willing to adopt a child, no matter what their personal situation is — married, divorced, single or living with a partner. These lucky children usually end up in a loving, caring home with someone who can provide for them.
In Closing
Finally, one comment on the political scene this week. President Obama wants to have a civilized conversation with both parties on the budget. Is it possible for something like that to happen in Washington?
Mr. Hennessey may be contacted at pmhenn@sbcglobal.net
