By phalangesenfuego - 10/03/2016 14:07 - United States - Yakima

Today, a student came out to me, saying that she thinks she's gay. This has happened several times since I have taught here, which made me wonder why they were comfortable telling me. Turns out being a single, childless woman of my age screams "lesbian" to this particular community. I'm not. FML
I agree, your life sucks 22 964
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phalangesenfuego tells us more.

phalangesenfuego 11

OP here. Just to clarify, I'm not offended that people mistake me for a lesbian. What bothered me was the assumption was made based on what I feel are stereotypes of what a lesbian should be (single and childless). I do support ALL my students with whatever they come to me with, be it family issues, bullying problems, etc, and I feel privileged they feel comfortable enough to come to me with these things they are struggling with. And thank you for all the positive comments. Sometimes teaching is a thankless job, and positive support is few and far between.

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Lesbehonest, this is a great chance to give advice to the next generation!

Doesn't sound like you're childless to me. Seems like you've acted as a mother to several of these students who felt more comfortable talking to you than their own families. Good on you, OP! Teens and young adults need more understanding and less being told what is and isn't right. Keep it up!

Comments

I'm single, childless, and work in a male dominated career. Guess I might as well buzz my hair and start dressing in big sweatshirts.

It's annoying that people make that assumption, but it's also an opportunity to help people. On the other hand, you also need to watch out for burnout... back when I was in college, I was the one people told all their troubles and strangenesses to, apparently because I would listen without telling them TMI, and didn't repeat the stories to others. Flattering in some ways, but it definitely got wearying over time.

Jeez can't people be free to live their lives how they want without people making assumptions

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TallMist 32

Hey, at least your students feel like they can trust you! That's a good thing! Even if it's for the wrong reasons.