In the six years since that event, the Pangborns have helped other stunned parents cope with their children's unnerving revelations. They are directors of the Kitsap County Chapter of Parents and Friends of Gays and Lesbians. Still, the couple was stunned again three months ago when their oldest daughter, Adriana, told them she was a lesbian. But it's amazing how a person blossoms when that burden comes off them. Not all parents see the upside of their children's revelation that they've broken a major sexual taboo.
Reactions range from anger and outrage to disappointment and confusion.
While the responses vary, many families go into the closet when their children come out. Gradually, the couple learned who they could tell and how. At the office, Pangborn tipped off his co-workers with a photo of his daughter and her partner or a mention that they were over for dinner. Ten years ago they couldn't live peacefully in the community and now they can. And that's a beautiful thing.