Recently, I took all four kids on the Metro just because they have been asking me all summer to ride it. The ride out was uneventful. But waiting on the platform to get back on the train and then on the return ride, we were literally surrounded by people asking questions and commenting on me and my family. People were so curious they were asking questions over each other. I don't get nervous easily but by the time we got off the train, I was a bit rattled. Here is a portion of what I remember from the return Metro ride:
" Are you a missionary?
When did you get them?
You wouldn't think a white family would want black kids.
Are they yours?
You should get some dead sea soap. It will clear that right up.
They must look like your husband.
Which one is older? I mean, which one came out first?
Where did they come from?
Are you a vegetarian or health food person? You seem like you would be.
Did you do their hair?
Are your sons adopted?
Don't let people touch their hair. 85% of Mexico has a parasite that they bring here and I don't want things crawling in my hair.
Awww...look, she really loves you.
Are they adopted?
What are their names?
How old are they?
You can buy dead sea soap in bulk. You should get some.
Is their hair real?
How do they get along with your own kids? "
For the record, none of my kids are deaf. They can all hear everything being said about us. And also for the record, none of my kids are mute. They can choose to answer simple questions like their names and ages if they are only treated like humans and asked them.
Typing this up has been rather therapeutic. Reading it over now I can't help but chuckle at how ridiculous people can be. But in the thick of it, it didn't feel quite so benign. And I can't help but think how these questions and comments are affecting all four of my children.
