osexual raising children. Yet, according to Fairbanks, families have “long…defied the accepted norm.” His proof is that there have been, for some time, multi-racial, multi-generational, single mom, single dad, and foster families. His judgment to be a family comes in the presence of love and acceptance. Underneath all of the controversy over homosexuality Fairbanks wants people to understand that it is not a question of homosexuality but rather one of who is willing and capable of being a good parent. Fairbanks is successful in conveying his message that love and sacrifice are what’s necessary for proper parenting and that homosexual couples are just as willing, and competent individuals, able to become parents. His final line is very heartfelt. It is the type that stays with you even if you forget what the previous text was about: “Parenting is the most important job in the world, and it’s not for everyone. It takes commitment. It takes sacrifice. Most of all, it takes love. Love, not sex, and gays and lesbians are just as qualified for the job as anyone.” This sums up his view without being demanding or critical of anyone’s personal point of view. I must note that before reading this editorial I had not given much thought into the subject. Because of Fairbanks’ writing I do agree with his view. He has struck a nerve that has caused me to think of homosexual parenting in comparison to my own upbringing. Because Fairbanks’ was writing without a controversial tone I was, in a sense, listening better. I understood his argument and his proof, without being too technical, did cause me to reflect on my own definition of ‘FAMILY.’ ...
