As the only grandchild, our kiddo was surrounded by a large, extended family of people who showered them with affection and support. However, in 2020, when our teenager came out as queer and nonbinary, they experienced a painful wake-up call: Their grandparents' love was not as unconditional as we'd hoped. AdvertisementKnowing that our families choose not to widen the network of love and support for their only grandchild hurts us. Our kid is excited to step out into the world, knowing it won't always tolerate them, but assured that there is a support system at home. I wish their grandparents would allow themselves to be part of this support system, but we respect the choice to be absent.

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