DEAR ABBY: I am an accepting person who can make friends with just about anyone. Among my friends there are some who identify as homosexual. I value their friendship because they are caring, honest and funny -- traits I look for in any friend.
My grandparents -- whom I am close to -- are not so accepting. They have strict beliefs regarding homosexuality. So whenever I want to talk to them about something interesting that happened when I was with my friend and his or her partner, I'll catch myself hesitating. I want to be able to talk to them, but I feel like every time I mention a gay friend it causes tension. Is there a way I can be graceful about this without stirring up bad feelings? -- RAINBOW GIRL IN SPRINGFIELD, MASS.
DEAR RAINBOW GIRL: Yes. Ask your grandparents if they'd prefer you tell them all about your activities and whom you spend time with, or if they'd rather you remain silent about your gay friends. Explain that you sense tension when you're open with them, and ask if they'd feel better if you were selective in discussing your life, your friends and your interests. That way the choice will be theirs.