Ages and ages and attitude changes

My open support of gay rights recently led to a discussion with a couple from the older generation of lesbian women whose own mothers either ignored or did not acknowledge their gayness. As a matter of fact, one felt her own flesh-and-blood mother was embarrassed of her and simply denied the fact that she was gay in order to protect her social position or image--or whatever. How sad, ridiculous and hurtful. Her mother never even talked with her about her being gay. Hiding or ignoring is the biggest sin mothers or fathers of gay children can commit. What kind of scars do many older gay people carry with them--silently accepting their anguished position. How can you allow some fake societal expectation to perpetuate your own feelings toward your child.
I certainly hope we have changed through the years and now offer strength and acceptance to the younger generation of gays. We should honor the older generation who have unfairly endured the burden of silence and discrimination--yet led wonderful and productive lives with their partners in spite of it. They are the examples of commitment that helped to power the ongoing efforts toward same-sex marriage, and we thank them.