I guess it really does get better, year by year.

So here's a little snapshot from a middle-aged, middle-income Dad out here in Middle America. Last night, I was driving my 14-year-old daughter home after her performance in a variety show staged by the local high school and junior high students. We chatted about the highlights of the show, and at one point, our conversation went like this:

ME: "...and Marie was hilarious in that Star Wars skit! It took me a long time to recognize her in that Luke Skywalker costume!"

HER (puzzled): "Huh?"

ME: "You know, Marie. The one who was so funny in the Shakespeare comedy last year."

HER: "Oh, that's Jack. He's a guy now."

and blah, blah, blah, on she went with more chatter about the show.

Well, it didn't surprise me at all for her to show such acceptance of Jack. I guess what surprised me was the casual, effortless ease of her acceptance. And it's not just my daughter. Let's face it, when you're talking to a 14-year-old, you're talking with her whole peer group. If this is the outlook of her peer group, then I just feel it's a very healthy sign.

It's just one little story, but it left me feeling hopeful that things are moving in the right direction. Hopeful that, if everyone just keeps the ball rolling, and keeps spreading compassion and understanding, then maybe the lives of young Jacks of the future are going to be far happier than those of the past.