Question:
How do I maintain my faith witness while also keeping a relationship going with my transgender granddaughter?
She is an adult now and has legally changed her name. My daughter has told us that if we don’t call my grandaughter by her male name and use male pronouns (“he, him, his”) we will no longer be able to visit their home. I love them all so much and don’t want to lose them but I also have to be faithful to God.
Response:
This is heartbreaking.
Unfortunately, I have heard many similar stories as so many are being confused by the issue of transgenderism.
To begin with, I think it would be very helpful for you to talk with a counselor about this situation.
You can speak with a Focus on the Family professional and licensed counselor free of charge, M-F from 7 AM-9 PM Central Standard Time by calling 855-771-4357. If you call this number, you will reach a representative and you should say that you would like to have a counselor call you back. You should hear back within 48 hours.
I understand your dilemma and won’t advise you about what you should do now because I think this situation deserves a fuller and more detailed and private discussion with a counselor.
While you wait to talk with a counselor, I encourage you to pray about this situation and to continue to connect with your granddaughter as a loving grandmother.
Now, more than ever, your granddaughter needs to maintain relationships that are important to her.
2 thoughts on “Transgender Tension with a Grandchild”
In the story of the prodigal son the son left and the father stayed. He didn’t chase after the Son but waited for him to return and recognize his mistakes. Once that happened he received in with open arms. I think there’s a lesson there.
David, you are so right. That is exactly what the Lord gave us as his example when we were shut out of our daughter’s family re: transgender grandson and lesbian daughter. We responded to our daughter’s angry text:
“Please let your family know our doors are always open and our arms are open wide.”
Since then, God has shown us ways to prepare for the family reunion. (Ephesians 4 has been a good start.)