The Beautiful Non-Binary of Parenthood

The day I gave birth for the first time, my oldest child emerged into the room, into the world, and into my arms, pink and blonde and perfect. “It’s a girl!” the doctor announced somewhere beyond my haze of shock and exhaustion. “You have a girl.” My husband and I...
Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are!

Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are!

I was reading an article in the Chicago Tribune today about Barry Manilow, his recent public “coming out,” and acknowledgment of his marriage to his partner of 40 years.  The article talked about the mixed reactions of the public ranging from support to questions...

Men’s Lives: Lived and Unlived

We live in a time when traditional conceptions of masculinity are subject to critique and revision.  The legitimacy of the critique only makes the conflict more acute.  Here are some examples, based on men I know but presented as composites to preserve...