I was in third grade at a conservative Christian school in 1983 when I first learned that “gay” did not merely mean happy. I discovered that when one of my classmates got in trouble for calling someone gay, and I didn’t understand why saying that was a problem.

I think in-depth discussion of sexuality can and should wait until middle school, but for there to be no mention of it whatsoever prior to that point is, I think, naive. If I and my classmates were discovering the concept in a sheltered environment two-plus decades ago, today’s students know even sooner.

There is a significant and legitimate need for more parents who are willing to adopt in Tennessee, especially for older children. Determining whether an adult is a fit parent, in my opinion, should have little to do with their sexual orientation and plenty more to do with their character.

I’ve said this before, but I would much rather have Metro Council member Keith Durbin parent a child than State Rep. Rob Briley, and that feeling has nothing to do with which one of them is gay. Decisions about adoption and parenting should have to do with making sure that those who adopt are responsible and compassionate people who are willing and able to care for children above all else.