Your heart, might, mind and spirit are in the right place, Amelia. Keep speaking out.
Taregan CapellaJuly 31, 2013
I have a correction. In my previous comment, I wrote "normal parents" after I wrote gay parents, seemingly alluding to the fact that gay parents are abnormal. I would like to change that phrase to "heterosexual parents" because I wholeheartedly accept gay parents. I know a couple families who have adopted and raised really great kids. I am a supporter of gay marriage.
The only time I would find it acceptible of my calling a couple "normal parents" is if they were loving and supportive--whether they're the same sex, or opposite sexes.
Additionally, I believe that "nature" Amelia was talking about concerning the bond of a child with its parents may be there, yes...However, the nature that matters is the oxytocin in the brain--also known as the relationship hormone. That is basically a key to happiness (and probably success). Nurture loving relationships that make you happy. Look into oxytocin a little bit if you like. That is all. (Man, I write a lot.)
Stephan robi sonJuly 2, 2013
Amazing speech and young lady! I can relate to Alex and made the same promise at age 12 after going through separations,a divorce and then losing my daddy to cancer. My daughters and sons are blessed to have a father. Ask any teacher to pin point those (like me) who are living without a mother or father. Sometimes we sacrifice something. Beautiful like life and happiness for what we believe to be a right. It is just selfish.
AndrewJuly 1, 2013
Nobody is saying that gay couples have to have children. The fight is over basic rights and privileges that should be given to all human beings. The right to be with the one they love. Children separating from their parents from death is indeed a tragedy, but it is something that you cannot control. Children separating from their parents in a divorce can have a negative impact, but it can also be positive thing. If a marriage doesn't work and the couple divorces, then it is good because they weren't good for each other and shouldn't be together. A dysfunctional mother and father relationship could be even worse for a child. If gay couples do want to have children, they wouldn't love them any less than any other parent. They will automatically have a bond simply because it is their child. She is assuming that gay parents will not love and care for their kids because they do not have a biological bond, which is completely wrong to assume. There are plenty of examples of peoples that have been raised by gay couples that testify of their parents love and good parenting abilities. It would be correct to assume then that this would apply every mother and father that has to adopt a child as well, which is obviously not right to think either. A mother and father relationship is all she has known and witnessed. If she were to be raised by a gay couple, would she love her parents less?
CraigJuly 1, 2013
Good job, young woman. The things the bullies say are not true. You are an amazing, precious daughter of our Heavenly Father, and I'm sure that he could not be more proud of your faithfulness and your courage. I'm going to tell my daughters about you, and I hope that they will be as faithful as you have been and hopefully will continue to be.
Everyone who has read this, keep this young woman in your prayers. Certainly the adversary will attempt to destroy her. She needs and deserves your prayers on her behalf.
DannyJune 30, 2013
Great kid -- I love how she defends the faith... A superb defender of a faith that has been defending traditional marriage since the 1890s.
helen sweanyJune 30, 2013
After a long term and abusive marriage, we divorced. My youngest had just turned 18 and she was in honors classes at college. Ex said since she was an adult, he would pay nothing toward her, including car insurance, etc. We struggled financially until she thought it best to move in with a group of friends and had to drop out of school to support herself. A child should have two loving parents, regardless of gender.
heartwingsJune 30, 2013
Thank you, Amelia, for saying what is in so many of our hearts. You are the epitome of what being raised by two loving parents--a man and a woman--does in raising a thinking, emotionally healthy, wise young woman. Thank you to you and your parents!
Ross HJune 30, 2013
Angela,
If the biological parents gave away their child to you, then that is not robbery. It is a gift.
Linda s.June 30, 2013
Amelia is SO much more intelligent and braver than all those ignorant bullies out there who don't understand the true meaning of life. She is a shining light in this dark world.
Thelma BarnesJune 30, 2013
Ask children who have been deprived of one or the other natural parent and they will tell you of the void it leaves in their life. Many search their whole life to find the natural parent(s). The girl needs a good mother to emulate and a good father to lean on and protect her. The boy needs a good father to emulate and a good mother to nurture and stroke him to know how to love and stroke a wife. Amelia takes it all right to the source of gestation and how nature brought mother and father together to provide all the needed love, stroking, nurturing, and intents of our Father in Heaven. Amelia must have been prepared in her pre-earth life for this very purpose. Thank you Amelia for carrying through with a pure message from our Father in Heaven.
Marj StewartJune 30, 2013
This valiant and courageous young woman needs to go to Congress and set them straight. She speaks the truth and it cuts to the center! Love her heart AND her common sense approach to the whole disturbing conversation on this lame subject.
veraJune 30, 2013
This is wonderful! To:Angela, I also have adopted children, as well as biological and I see where you might feel she is saying your kids are"worse off for being adopted " but I believe most children who are adopted were either given up by a parent who may have been single and wanted them to have the mother and father kind of family or were taken from parents incapable of properly and safely caring for them. I think her statemental are reflective of children denied either a mother or father because the parents sexual desires were of higher value to them than giving them the blessings you are able to give your children by giving them both a mother and a father, adoption is a wonderful blessing to you and your kids, and no one could ever say they are worse off for it. I also think that same sex couples do love their kids, but they just may not realize how much more their child could learn in so many aspects of life from both mother and father.
Amanda June 30, 2013
Well said. I read one of the comments that stated how this applies to adoption how what she said was off base? I don't think it is, I was adopted when I was 9 and even though I don't have a bio connection to my mom and dad they are still my parents. I think the whole taking kids away from parents mean that one of the parents didn't choose to be cut off from their child. With adoption more times then not the parents choose not to keep their child but it both of them that make the choice. Still well said
Lisa BringhurstJune 29, 2013
Amelia, you've always had a way with words even back in our 6th grade classroom. Way to stand up for your beliefs. I'm impressed!
Mark WoolfJune 29, 2013
what a blessing you are to the youth in this day of confusion & evil. rights wrong and wrong is right. Bless your heart Amelia, you have strengthened mine & my determination to stay strong and I am an old man. We need an army of youth like you.
Maryland J. HarrisonJune 29, 2013
Yes, I agree with you. God said what he meant and He meant what he said. Man will destroy the World. God and His people will remain and rule. God said to train up a child in the way that they should go, the right way and they will not depart from it. Homosexual is a sinful Abomination and they will be cast into the Lake of Fire in Hell. The Homosexuals are wrong, but they want to call the righteous wrong, And they call us hater, but they are the haters because we don't go along with their Sin, and God help the children, they are bringing the Children into there mess and sickness. Homosexuals are sick, sad and Satan is ruling their mind. They are deceive and all that go along with them and call wrong right and right wrong. Come Lord Jesus Christ I love you Lord. Like you I love the Sinner and Pray for them But like you I hate the Sin. I feel sorry for the Innocence Children, they don't no anything. Thank you young sister for speaking out, I stand with you in Jesus Christ Name. They will reap what they are sowing. The Bible is True. MJH.
Jayde TygerJune 29, 2013
Another 13 year old speaking here-
In reply to Angela's comment about adoption.
Adoption is normally when there are not both a mother and a father who would be able to look after their child. So the only way to ensure that the child is able to have a good life and be raised by a mother and a father is to put the child up for adoption.
MaryJune 29, 2013
Angela, Adoption currently serves children, who have had tragic loss, giving them both a mother and a father. You and your husband provide your children with all that biology promised them- a mother and a father. It is a relationship based on what is best for kids.
JimJune 29, 2013
Angela, I know Amelia very well, and she is 100 percent behind adoption by a loving man and woman. The test is, is it best for the child? And, is this situation as close to the biological model as we can get under the circumstances? We love you for your valiant efforts!
Helen WiningsJune 29, 2013
Thank you for speaking up. Your comments were wonderful and certainly ring true. We've got to stand up for the traditional family and protect innocent children.
tim buckleyJune 28, 2013
Regarding adoption. Amelia is saying that every child deserves a father and mother. Of course that does not always happen, it is the ideal to shoot for. Adopted children deserve adoption by a father and mother.
ConnieJune 28, 2013
Angela, You have a good question. The LDS church does encourage adoption and oppose abortion. Your children, through adoption, are yours in every sense and they are not split between parents. I have many close friends who became wonderful parents through the adoption process. Their children have fathers and mothers and it is It is a beautiful way of becoming parents. In every case I know of, adoption was a very spiritual experience for the individuals involved. Congratulation on being selfless and being wonderful parents while giving your children a father and mother, in other words, a FAMILY.
ShareeJune 28, 2013
Angela, I don't think Amelia was talking against adoption. If adoption is by a father and a mother, then that child is raised by to parents. If adoption is by a gay couple, that child does not have both father and mother.
eearsJune 28, 2013
tough kid. I wish more adults had her backbone.
Helen WiningsJune 28, 2013
Thank you for speaking up. Your comments were wonderful and certainly ring true. We've got to stand up for the traditional family and protect innocent children.
Bob BradshawJune 28, 2013
Way to go Amelia-your article should be forwarded to each of the Supreme Court Justices -especially Judge Roberts-who swayed the Court to this ridiculous legal result.
Katie BaldwinJune 28, 2013
Amelia spoke with such eloquence and she spoke the truth. When the government redefines marriage as they have done, they remove a child's right to be raised by a mother and father. They negate gender. This harms every one of us, and most especially those without a voice - children. Brava to Amelia for being so bold and so brave!
Lindsay VossJune 28, 2013
Amelia, I am so proud of you. I went to school with you and your light shined so bright and now it is shining so bright it shines on everyone. Thank you for staying strong no matter what! You are so amazing.
CelesteJune 28, 2013
Very, very eloquently put. It took a lot of courage for her to take a stand but she sets such a great example for other children to follow! I'm so proud of her and appreciate the respect she showed others, even when it wasn't reciprocated.
AngelaJune 28, 2013
How does this apply to adoption? My husband and I don't have ANY biological connection to our children, but they are ours. Are you saying they are worse off because they were "taken" away from their birth parents? Or does this only apply to same sex couples? I thought the LDS church encouraged adoption. This makes it seem like the complete opposite. While I applaud a 13 year old for being able to talk in front of a large group of people, I really think she is off base on this.
Kristen MathersJune 28, 2013
Spot on!! What an inspired young girl! I had tears reading this. Brilliant!
Nick GoddardJune 28, 2013
Simply put
Valerie WinwardJune 28, 2013
This is a very profound article, about 2 real heroes who have "the heart of a lion!" I am thankful for 13-year-old Amelia Summerhays' courage to speak truth as it is. Ummm...it reminds me of "The Emperor's New Clothes"---you can't fake truth!
Cynthia DyeJune 28, 2013
Amelia, you are a radiant, lovely, wise, and courageous young woman! What a strong role model you are for those who want to stand for truth and righteousness. It's an honor to know you and hear you speak!
Donna GreenJune 28, 2013
From the mouth of babes! Well done.
LinJune 28, 2013
I have never heard a clearer understanding or articulation of these truths. Brilliant.
Victor VJune 28, 2013
Well said!! It's so simple but so difficult for people to understand. This girl has great parents that have helped cultivate such a strong heart. Well done!!!
S.L. CatalanoJune 28, 2013
Amelia has great courage to stand up for her beliefs, however un-politically correct they may be. She truly is an example to all of us who believe that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God. Carol Rose, the Massachusetts director of the ACLU called DOMA "pernicious".
If Amelia spoke out in favor of gay marriage/unions, she would have been hailed as a hero.
Isaiah's prophecy has come to fruition. Most of society calls "...good evil and evil good."
Had Adam and Eve been Adam and Steve, none of us would be here.
Even a thirteen knows the correct definition of GOOD, and that is marriage between a man and a woman.
Margie RoviraJune 28, 2013
Well spoken Amelia! We are so proud of young people like you who stand up for traditional family values! Keep it up...there must be many young people who feel this way, but are intimidated by all the bullying!
Carla BuchmanJune 28, 2013
Dear Amelia, thank you so much for your sweet, strong spirit, thank you for daring to shine in the midst of darkness.
CherylJune 28, 2013
Bravo! Thank you and know you represent a large group and you have lots of support!
Nick GoddardJune 28, 2013
Simply put
Anne BradshawJune 28, 2013
What a superb young woman. Thank you, Amelia, for having the heart of a lioness.
MaryJune 28, 2013
Let's do our best to share this message with the world. It is a strange time when children have to defend their own rights, while adults try to end them. Thank you Meridian for sharing her voice!
Fred DryerJune 28, 2013
Good going, a while back a mother was offended when some people stated their opinion about Gays. She stated that it was not a choice her son made but it was always inside him and it was nature for him to be gay and if anyone felt different they were disrespecting her and her husband and the other children in the family. Opinions yes disrespect NO. I will never have my kids told in school that the alternative lifestyle is acceptable. They have been instructed to leave the room and to call me whereever I am and I will deal with it. Good going young lady, I am proud of you.
Charles BaileyJune 28, 2013
God bless you Amelia! I believe it was Sheri Dew who said a few years ago in a Conference talk that the righteous women of the Church are the Lord's secret weapon in the last days. I wish the whole world could hear your speech. Thank you for your courageous stand.
Mark A. JanssonJune 28, 2013
Thanks Amelia, from all of us who appreciate the critical self-evidence of moms & dads in a child's life. The struggle for sensibility will continue and we are glad to stand with you.
Janet H June 28, 2013
Whether or not there are haters and bullies in the world, truth is truth. People who know the truth and not making excuses are so proud of you. I'm going to read this to my 13 year old daughter. Thank you for standing strong for what is right.
Marjorie LewisJune 28, 2013
Hats off to Amelia!!!! What strength and what courage she has and she is so right. Children are so precious, and yes most of us love them, but it is a blessing and a right to have a Mom and a Dad raise a child. Nothing can take the place of a Mom or a Dad!!! Love you Amelia, stay true to yourself and to your decision, a lot adults, and kids agree with you and are right there behind you. You couldn't have said it any better!
Barbara AllredJune 28, 2013
Amelia, you could have not said it any better if you were 113. I'm proud of you!
Thank you for being true and strong!
D. PetersonJune 28, 2013
Bravo!!
Ethelyn DwigansJune 28, 2013
I don't think that it could be said any better.
eearsJune 28, 2013
tough kid. I wish more adults had her backbone.
Shane HatchJune 28, 2013
This is the most beautiful and well spoken argument I have heard for the need of a mom and a dad! Amelia, your awesome! No doubt you have great parents. I applaud this speech and hope that somehow the world will listen!! Thank You!
Steven S.June 28, 2013
Excellent article
Peggy BrewserJune 28, 2013
What a amazing young lady this is!!! It is written that "The truth cuts like a knife! OR " The truth will set you free", now with all the name Calling and "bullying" I think I must say, just because they do not like the facts doesn't give them the right to offend another! This young lady is 100% correct. And no one can deny, not God or Nature that it takes a female and a male to create a child therefore "Mother" and "Father" are created! And ever child.... Yes, I said every child has the "right" to know both of whom created them!!!! Great Job young lady, I am very proud of your lion heart!!!
Charles E. MartinJune 28, 2013
78% of all black children are born to unmarried women. It is time for black males (notice I do not say black "men"), to MAN UP, and show some responsibility. Marry the girl before you bang her, and get jobs to support the children you are siring.
Comments | Return to Story
Melany WilkinsAugust 3, 2013
Your heart, might, mind and spirit are in the right place, Amelia. Keep speaking out.
Taregan CapellaJuly 31, 2013
I have a correction. In my previous comment, I wrote "normal parents" after I wrote gay parents, seemingly alluding to the fact that gay parents are abnormal. I would like to change that phrase to "heterosexual parents" because I wholeheartedly accept gay parents. I know a couple families who have adopted and raised really great kids. I am a supporter of gay marriage. The only time I would find it acceptible of my calling a couple "normal parents" is if they were loving and supportive--whether they're the same sex, or opposite sexes. Additionally, I believe that "nature" Amelia was talking about concerning the bond of a child with its parents may be there, yes...However, the nature that matters is the oxytocin in the brain--also known as the relationship hormone. That is basically a key to happiness (and probably success). Nurture loving relationships that make you happy. Look into oxytocin a little bit if you like. That is all. (Man, I write a lot.)
Stephan robi sonJuly 2, 2013
Amazing speech and young lady! I can relate to Alex and made the same promise at age 12 after going through separations,a divorce and then losing my daddy to cancer. My daughters and sons are blessed to have a father. Ask any teacher to pin point those (like me) who are living without a mother or father. Sometimes we sacrifice something. Beautiful like life and happiness for what we believe to be a right. It is just selfish.
AndrewJuly 1, 2013
Nobody is saying that gay couples have to have children. The fight is over basic rights and privileges that should be given to all human beings. The right to be with the one they love. Children separating from their parents from death is indeed a tragedy, but it is something that you cannot control. Children separating from their parents in a divorce can have a negative impact, but it can also be positive thing. If a marriage doesn't work and the couple divorces, then it is good because they weren't good for each other and shouldn't be together. A dysfunctional mother and father relationship could be even worse for a child. If gay couples do want to have children, they wouldn't love them any less than any other parent. They will automatically have a bond simply because it is their child. She is assuming that gay parents will not love and care for their kids because they do not have a biological bond, which is completely wrong to assume. There are plenty of examples of peoples that have been raised by gay couples that testify of their parents love and good parenting abilities. It would be correct to assume then that this would apply every mother and father that has to adopt a child as well, which is obviously not right to think either. A mother and father relationship is all she has known and witnessed. If she were to be raised by a gay couple, would she love her parents less?
CraigJuly 1, 2013
Good job, young woman. The things the bullies say are not true. You are an amazing, precious daughter of our Heavenly Father, and I'm sure that he could not be more proud of your faithfulness and your courage. I'm going to tell my daughters about you, and I hope that they will be as faithful as you have been and hopefully will continue to be. Everyone who has read this, keep this young woman in your prayers. Certainly the adversary will attempt to destroy her. She needs and deserves your prayers on her behalf.
DannyJune 30, 2013
Great kid -- I love how she defends the faith... A superb defender of a faith that has been defending traditional marriage since the 1890s.
helen sweanyJune 30, 2013
After a long term and abusive marriage, we divorced. My youngest had just turned 18 and she was in honors classes at college. Ex said since she was an adult, he would pay nothing toward her, including car insurance, etc. We struggled financially until she thought it best to move in with a group of friends and had to drop out of school to support herself. A child should have two loving parents, regardless of gender.
heartwingsJune 30, 2013
Thank you, Amelia, for saying what is in so many of our hearts. You are the epitome of what being raised by two loving parents--a man and a woman--does in raising a thinking, emotionally healthy, wise young woman. Thank you to you and your parents!
Ross HJune 30, 2013
Angela, If the biological parents gave away their child to you, then that is not robbery. It is a gift.
Linda s.June 30, 2013
Amelia is SO much more intelligent and braver than all those ignorant bullies out there who don't understand the true meaning of life. She is a shining light in this dark world.
Thelma BarnesJune 30, 2013
Ask children who have been deprived of one or the other natural parent and they will tell you of the void it leaves in their life. Many search their whole life to find the natural parent(s). The girl needs a good mother to emulate and a good father to lean on and protect her. The boy needs a good father to emulate and a good mother to nurture and stroke him to know how to love and stroke a wife. Amelia takes it all right to the source of gestation and how nature brought mother and father together to provide all the needed love, stroking, nurturing, and intents of our Father in Heaven. Amelia must have been prepared in her pre-earth life for this very purpose. Thank you Amelia for carrying through with a pure message from our Father in Heaven.
Marj StewartJune 30, 2013
This valiant and courageous young woman needs to go to Congress and set them straight. She speaks the truth and it cuts to the center! Love her heart AND her common sense approach to the whole disturbing conversation on this lame subject.
veraJune 30, 2013
This is wonderful! To:Angela, I also have adopted children, as well as biological and I see where you might feel she is saying your kids are"worse off for being adopted " but I believe most children who are adopted were either given up by a parent who may have been single and wanted them to have the mother and father kind of family or were taken from parents incapable of properly and safely caring for them. I think her statemental are reflective of children denied either a mother or father because the parents sexual desires were of higher value to them than giving them the blessings you are able to give your children by giving them both a mother and a father, adoption is a wonderful blessing to you and your kids, and no one could ever say they are worse off for it. I also think that same sex couples do love their kids, but they just may not realize how much more their child could learn in so many aspects of life from both mother and father.
Amanda June 30, 2013
Well said. I read one of the comments that stated how this applies to adoption how what she said was off base? I don't think it is, I was adopted when I was 9 and even though I don't have a bio connection to my mom and dad they are still my parents. I think the whole taking kids away from parents mean that one of the parents didn't choose to be cut off from their child. With adoption more times then not the parents choose not to keep their child but it both of them that make the choice. Still well said
Lisa BringhurstJune 29, 2013
Amelia, you've always had a way with words even back in our 6th grade classroom. Way to stand up for your beliefs. I'm impressed!
Mark WoolfJune 29, 2013
what a blessing you are to the youth in this day of confusion & evil. rights wrong and wrong is right. Bless your heart Amelia, you have strengthened mine & my determination to stay strong and I am an old man. We need an army of youth like you.
Maryland J. HarrisonJune 29, 2013
Yes, I agree with you. God said what he meant and He meant what he said. Man will destroy the World. God and His people will remain and rule. God said to train up a child in the way that they should go, the right way and they will not depart from it. Homosexual is a sinful Abomination and they will be cast into the Lake of Fire in Hell. The Homosexuals are wrong, but they want to call the righteous wrong, And they call us hater, but they are the haters because we don't go along with their Sin, and God help the children, they are bringing the Children into there mess and sickness. Homosexuals are sick, sad and Satan is ruling their mind. They are deceive and all that go along with them and call wrong right and right wrong. Come Lord Jesus Christ I love you Lord. Like you I love the Sinner and Pray for them But like you I hate the Sin. I feel sorry for the Innocence Children, they don't no anything. Thank you young sister for speaking out, I stand with you in Jesus Christ Name. They will reap what they are sowing. The Bible is True. MJH.
Jayde TygerJune 29, 2013
Another 13 year old speaking here- In reply to Angela's comment about adoption. Adoption is normally when there are not both a mother and a father who would be able to look after their child. So the only way to ensure that the child is able to have a good life and be raised by a mother and a father is to put the child up for adoption.
MaryJune 29, 2013
Angela, Adoption currently serves children, who have had tragic loss, giving them both a mother and a father. You and your husband provide your children with all that biology promised them- a mother and a father. It is a relationship based on what is best for kids.
JimJune 29, 2013
Angela, I know Amelia very well, and she is 100 percent behind adoption by a loving man and woman. The test is, is it best for the child? And, is this situation as close to the biological model as we can get under the circumstances? We love you for your valiant efforts!
Helen WiningsJune 29, 2013
Thank you for speaking up. Your comments were wonderful and certainly ring true. We've got to stand up for the traditional family and protect innocent children.
tim buckleyJune 28, 2013
Regarding adoption. Amelia is saying that every child deserves a father and mother. Of course that does not always happen, it is the ideal to shoot for. Adopted children deserve adoption by a father and mother.
ConnieJune 28, 2013
Angela, You have a good question. The LDS church does encourage adoption and oppose abortion. Your children, through adoption, are yours in every sense and they are not split between parents. I have many close friends who became wonderful parents through the adoption process. Their children have fathers and mothers and it is It is a beautiful way of becoming parents. In every case I know of, adoption was a very spiritual experience for the individuals involved. Congratulation on being selfless and being wonderful parents while giving your children a father and mother, in other words, a FAMILY.
ShareeJune 28, 2013
Angela, I don't think Amelia was talking against adoption. If adoption is by a father and a mother, then that child is raised by to parents. If adoption is by a gay couple, that child does not have both father and mother.
eearsJune 28, 2013
tough kid. I wish more adults had her backbone.
Helen WiningsJune 28, 2013
Thank you for speaking up. Your comments were wonderful and certainly ring true. We've got to stand up for the traditional family and protect innocent children.
Bob BradshawJune 28, 2013
Way to go Amelia-your article should be forwarded to each of the Supreme Court Justices -especially Judge Roberts-who swayed the Court to this ridiculous legal result.
Katie BaldwinJune 28, 2013
Amelia spoke with such eloquence and she spoke the truth. When the government redefines marriage as they have done, they remove a child's right to be raised by a mother and father. They negate gender. This harms every one of us, and most especially those without a voice - children. Brava to Amelia for being so bold and so brave!
Lindsay VossJune 28, 2013
Amelia, I am so proud of you. I went to school with you and your light shined so bright and now it is shining so bright it shines on everyone. Thank you for staying strong no matter what! You are so amazing.
CelesteJune 28, 2013
Very, very eloquently put. It took a lot of courage for her to take a stand but she sets such a great example for other children to follow! I'm so proud of her and appreciate the respect she showed others, even when it wasn't reciprocated.
AngelaJune 28, 2013
How does this apply to adoption? My husband and I don't have ANY biological connection to our children, but they are ours. Are you saying they are worse off because they were "taken" away from their birth parents? Or does this only apply to same sex couples? I thought the LDS church encouraged adoption. This makes it seem like the complete opposite. While I applaud a 13 year old for being able to talk in front of a large group of people, I really think she is off base on this.
Kristen MathersJune 28, 2013
Spot on!! What an inspired young girl! I had tears reading this. Brilliant!
Nick GoddardJune 28, 2013
Simply put
Valerie WinwardJune 28, 2013
This is a very profound article, about 2 real heroes who have "the heart of a lion!" I am thankful for 13-year-old Amelia Summerhays' courage to speak truth as it is. Ummm...it reminds me of "The Emperor's New Clothes"---you can't fake truth!
Cynthia DyeJune 28, 2013
Amelia, you are a radiant, lovely, wise, and courageous young woman! What a strong role model you are for those who want to stand for truth and righteousness. It's an honor to know you and hear you speak!
Donna GreenJune 28, 2013
From the mouth of babes! Well done.
LinJune 28, 2013
I have never heard a clearer understanding or articulation of these truths. Brilliant.
Victor VJune 28, 2013
Well said!! It's so simple but so difficult for people to understand. This girl has great parents that have helped cultivate such a strong heart. Well done!!!
S.L. CatalanoJune 28, 2013
Amelia has great courage to stand up for her beliefs, however un-politically correct they may be. She truly is an example to all of us who believe that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God. Carol Rose, the Massachusetts director of the ACLU called DOMA "pernicious". If Amelia spoke out in favor of gay marriage/unions, she would have been hailed as a hero. Isaiah's prophecy has come to fruition. Most of society calls "...good evil and evil good." Had Adam and Eve been Adam and Steve, none of us would be here. Even a thirteen knows the correct definition of GOOD, and that is marriage between a man and a woman.
Margie RoviraJune 28, 2013
Well spoken Amelia! We are so proud of young people like you who stand up for traditional family values! Keep it up...there must be many young people who feel this way, but are intimidated by all the bullying!
Carla BuchmanJune 28, 2013
Dear Amelia, thank you so much for your sweet, strong spirit, thank you for daring to shine in the midst of darkness.
CherylJune 28, 2013
Bravo! Thank you and know you represent a large group and you have lots of support!
Nick GoddardJune 28, 2013
Simply put
Anne BradshawJune 28, 2013
What a superb young woman. Thank you, Amelia, for having the heart of a lioness.
MaryJune 28, 2013
Let's do our best to share this message with the world. It is a strange time when children have to defend their own rights, while adults try to end them. Thank you Meridian for sharing her voice!
Fred DryerJune 28, 2013
Good going, a while back a mother was offended when some people stated their opinion about Gays. She stated that it was not a choice her son made but it was always inside him and it was nature for him to be gay and if anyone felt different they were disrespecting her and her husband and the other children in the family. Opinions yes disrespect NO. I will never have my kids told in school that the alternative lifestyle is acceptable. They have been instructed to leave the room and to call me whereever I am and I will deal with it. Good going young lady, I am proud of you.
Charles BaileyJune 28, 2013
God bless you Amelia! I believe it was Sheri Dew who said a few years ago in a Conference talk that the righteous women of the Church are the Lord's secret weapon in the last days. I wish the whole world could hear your speech. Thank you for your courageous stand.
Mark A. JanssonJune 28, 2013
Thanks Amelia, from all of us who appreciate the critical self-evidence of moms & dads in a child's life. The struggle for sensibility will continue and we are glad to stand with you.
Janet H June 28, 2013
Whether or not there are haters and bullies in the world, truth is truth. People who know the truth and not making excuses are so proud of you. I'm going to read this to my 13 year old daughter. Thank you for standing strong for what is right.
Marjorie LewisJune 28, 2013
Hats off to Amelia!!!! What strength and what courage she has and she is so right. Children are so precious, and yes most of us love them, but it is a blessing and a right to have a Mom and a Dad raise a child. Nothing can take the place of a Mom or a Dad!!! Love you Amelia, stay true to yourself and to your decision, a lot adults, and kids agree with you and are right there behind you. You couldn't have said it any better!
Barbara AllredJune 28, 2013
Amelia, you could have not said it any better if you were 113. I'm proud of you! Thank you for being true and strong!
D. PetersonJune 28, 2013
Bravo!!
Ethelyn DwigansJune 28, 2013
I don't think that it could be said any better.
eearsJune 28, 2013
tough kid. I wish more adults had her backbone.
Shane HatchJune 28, 2013
This is the most beautiful and well spoken argument I have heard for the need of a mom and a dad! Amelia, your awesome! No doubt you have great parents. I applaud this speech and hope that somehow the world will listen!! Thank You!
Steven S.June 28, 2013
Excellent article
Peggy BrewserJune 28, 2013
What a amazing young lady this is!!! It is written that "The truth cuts like a knife! OR " The truth will set you free", now with all the name Calling and "bullying" I think I must say, just because they do not like the facts doesn't give them the right to offend another! This young lady is 100% correct. And no one can deny, not God or Nature that it takes a female and a male to create a child therefore "Mother" and "Father" are created! And ever child.... Yes, I said every child has the "right" to know both of whom created them!!!! Great Job young lady, I am very proud of your lion heart!!!
Charles E. MartinJune 28, 2013
78% of all black children are born to unmarried women. It is time for black males (notice I do not say black "men"), to MAN UP, and show some responsibility. Marry the girl before you bang her, and get jobs to support the children you are siring.
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