"I Wish You Were My Real Father."

www.ImFromDrift...
Larry Bennett always loved children and wanted to mentor them and be a father-like figure. His dream came true when he became a Big Brother--and eventually an adoptive father--to a young child.
(Gay | Adoption | Big Brothers | Gay Parenting) [TV-PG]
www.imfromdriftwood.com aims to help lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people learn more about their community, straight people learn more about their neighbors and everyone learn more about themselves through the power of storytelling and storysharing.

[@andrebennett1858]

You are my real father!

[@Louis-in2og]

+Andre Bennett , you are right! You have both been so very blessed.

[@nirvanasanctuary7691]

I love how he said how you turned into his best friend too. He probably taught you a lot about how to love & support people & you gave him that back after his loss, despite you grieving too. That's an amazing thing. My 2 boys didn't have their Dad around & I didn't have a partner, but I had some very good male friends around. They helped my guys grow into wonderful young adults. Some of those men are gay, some not. All of them are 100% awesome & so is Larry. Love to you & all your family, thanks for sharing your story.

[@HHwCameronStiehl]

❤️

[@ascott2168]

Andre, you're soooo very blessed and fortunate to have a dad ! I've never had one and that void has caused a few issues in my life.

[@SarongGoddess]

More proof that LOVE & "FAMILY" is NOT about blood!!! What an AMAZING story!! & an AMAZING MOM your mom was to see Larry as just a person & not by his sexuality!! What a blessing ALL of you have been in each other's lives!

[@kaythompson7941]

As Andre's Mom, I have to say how blessed we have been that Larry has been in our lives! He has an amazing big heart.

[@DebUSA]

+Kay Thompson .... This is a beautiful story. As I was watching this video and listening to Larry, I thought my own brother (nearly 60) would have done well with a Big Brother. Our father deserted 3 children (2 daughters and one son) as well as our mother, very early in the 1960s. I can see where that heartbreak and disappointment still has some affect over us at our current age. The one basic foundation every child needs is to know they are loved. From that solid base, they have the opportunity to build a full and beautiful life.

[@ixtaflores3724]

Kay Thompson An open hart and an open mind brings many blessings.

[@jscho8674]

Kay Thompson This story is so beautiful. So so so beautiful.

[@Reunion4ever]

Ah-hah ❤️! From the story that Larry told, I could tell that you all 3 were kindred souls. I was moved that you asked him to give you away at your wedding 👰🏻 + invited him to stay. I’ve never heard of such a beautiful connection : loyalty, trust, patience, understanding and selflessness. I’m so happy for the whole family. Lucky André ❤️🌟!

[@wednesdaylb]

How beautiful - what a gift you've all been to each other ❤️

[@greg_216]

They tell you to never scroll down into the comments. Well, this time they're wrong. Love wins.

[@Lepewhi]

Here I am drinking my morning coffee, crying like a baby. What a great story.

[@azullyudi]

The calm maturity with which this all was handled is very, very impressive.

[@TigerPrawn_]

This beautiful story just goes to show that "family need not be defined by those with whom you share your blood, but by those for whom you would give your blood" (my favourite quote from the 2003 film, Nicholas Nickleby) peace x

[@ixtaflores3724]

This story makes me think about my journey as a single mother of two sons. To me, a man is a man regardless of who he loves and how a wish I could have provided my sons with a mentor, friend, father figure. It was really tough but I managed, and fortunately my sons are great men. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you did for this beautiful child and the support you gave his mother.

[@shiteyanyo1111]

I want to thank you for how strong you are to be a single parent! I can't stress enough how proud your sons must be of you!

[@Gene63]

What a beautiful story. Andre is a very fortunate young man to have someone like you in his life. I'm so glad everything worked out positively for you both!!!

[@jealousofmypuddin]

Beautiful. Many times the closest people in our lives, are not blood related to us. THIS is the meaning of fanily. THIS is love.

[@rc5chi539]

It just goes to show , being the sperm donor does'nt automatically earn you the title of Father ! I'm also curious if Andre ever reunited with his biological father through the years ? . Thank you Larry , for being so courageous in taking on such a huge responsibility in a young mans life

[@MCWalter126]

I know I'm 5 years l8 but I want to know the same thing

[@SSJRanulf]

So beautiful. Some completely beautiful. A story of love, and a story of a beautiful father and a beautiful son.

[@CASALIBUSHERMIT]

I hope you will get this message: I think you are absolutely wonderful; the world is a better place because of you.

[@roberttrepagnier9149]

WOW. Andre hit the dad jackpot. This story is an inspiration and proof that gay men and women should be allowed to adopt kids.

[@ocheltree1]

This is one of the most wonderful stories I've ever heard. How astute of that mother to not let Larry's sexual orientation MATTER in finding a gentleman to mentor Andre. Whose life WASN'T enriched by that experience? Larry, Andre, the mother and the step dad even, apparently had no issues with continuing the relationship.This is good.

[@MCWalter126]

i agree

[@mikaelabowen5781]

This beautiful story has totally made my day. What a wonderful, special man Larry is, the world needs more people like him in it. This video is going straight onto my favourite videos playlist where I shall revisit it whenever I feel down or my faith in humanity needs topping up again. Thank you so much for posting it.

[@bobwaldorf3712]

Larry, Cuz, you know how much Toby and think of you and love you. As someone who has been involved with the Jewish Big Brother program in LA, I can appreciate what you have done for Andre. The fact that you stepped up and adapted him makes even more special. Both of you are very lucky to have each other. We both loved being at Andre's wedding.

[@samray3297]

Can I join the Jewish Big Brother program online? I will allocate time DAILY to my Young Brother.

[@Reunion4ever]

Larry, what a wonderful man you are, kind, selfless, patient, understanding, giving, and honest. It was a joy watching you tell your story because I could feel a lot of heart in all you described...You and Andre (and his mother) are a perfect match, kindred souls ❤️👍🏻☺️🔮!

[@SarongGoddess]

What an AMAZING story!! & an AMAZING MOM you were Kay to see Larry as just a person & not by his sexuality!! What a blessing ALL of you have been in each other's lives!

[@derekstynes9631]

It is very easy to see What a great Father You are!

[@samfeder7194]

Andre is not only a blessing to you but rather you are truly a blessing to him!! Hope to see you in Fla. next winter!

[@kawaiipusheenlovexoxo5352]

God bless you 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈✌🏾

[@JamesAllen-im6eq]

Kay, Andre, and Larry appear to have aligned in the universe to create this love story. Kay deserves much credit for the catalyst she was in pairing Andre and Larry. She has a good eye for people and was wise with empowering Larry to enrich Andre's life. And he did. And his own. And Kay completed the collaboration. Great story.

[@brucass93]

wonderful story love has no limits

[@okimlistening2u]

Larry, what a beautiful story of love. You two and all those around you have been blessed by love. You are fortunate and gifted by this. Thanks, man, for sharing this. Kudos to you both..................Ray

[@michae_ak47]

This is really awesome Larry... I'm so proud of you!

[@magdalenawilliams1692]

I'm happy for both of you. God doesn't make mistakes. He got both of you to meet and have a great relationship. Love,laugh,live. God Bless ! I hope Andre's mom found happiness too! 😍😉

[@ohiorich1]

You are a beautiful man, for doing this. Opening up your life and heart. This touched me deeply, and I am happy I finally saw this video.

[@jwalt8019]

Wow, such an amazing story. I am so happy that everything worked out.

[@TheHoodmailbox]

I'm not crying. I just got smoke in my eyes.

[@giadesplas1314]

I'm thankful to have had a big sister program.i was raised by my father.no biological mother in the picture.Melanie taught me about life.i was involve in her wedding and baby showers.im 45 yrs old and still see her and her young adult kids for xmas.the big brother and sister program is a great organization.im glad for u that it work out lovely.it really shows how children don't care about sexual orientation,race,socio economic,etc.bc of Melanie,I got married and have a 10yrs old son.melanie taught me alot of things about having a friendship,family values,and love.i now have 2mother like older women,who I'm like a extended daughter to them.one is a lesbian,who a pastor.she is my guardian 👼.overall 17yrs of friendship, spirituality​, acceptance.my second mother like is a artist ,that is still mentoring me and small business partner.we are potters,we met in college,she is a lovely woman,who calls me,my daughter in spanish.she gives me advice ,love and understanding.i too lost alot of friends,over 20 including my favorite uncle due to AIDS.i stop going to funerals.i stop wearing Gothic black color,I don't care too much for black clothing.i wear alot of colors in everything.i have made new friends of LGBT community.

[@RobertFleming]

This has to be one of the sweetest stories I’ve seen. I wish you guys the best of luck! Hearing this warms my heart.

[@DanielSantana-fs1nr]

This story is Awesome.

[@jamesrobiscoe1174]

Larry, you and Andre and his mother have accomplished what a hundred books can only represent. You guys are love in action. Love is not a "thing" but an active verb.

[@scottbritton1586]

What a great story! Thank you for sharing it!

[@peterconway6565]

That moved me to tears...and I don't cry easily.

[@i.n.c.productions4494]

Is that a picture of Harvey Milk in the background?

[@seamus7585]

Looks like it to me, too!

[@moreira7daniel]

What a beautiful, heart-warming story!

[@michaeldriggers7681]

I watch a lot of videos on KZbin that make me question my faith in humanity. Then I find a story like this and (once I am through crying) I realize how much good there is in people. This man is amazing, Andre and his mother are amazing! Thanks for sharing.

[@andrewaway]

Beautiful story. Thanks for sharing.

[@chocksoldier4376]

Renews my faith in humanity

[@gaynormartin7803]

You are a twinkle star. Love your story.

[@00Licorne00]

What a beautiful story ! Thanks for sharing

[@brendastarr7816]

Damn.... My mascara has mixed with tears... What a beautiful and remarkable love story... We can never give up, never give up on the human race!!!

[@annettehenry2083]

What a wonderful example of a father. Such a kind and loving man, any child would be so proud to call him dad.

[@skadi6750]

This is such an amazing powerful story!

[@amberianetti2138]

This is so beautiful. No other words. Just beautiful.

[@theilliad4298]

what a handsome man, beautiful story

[@tickycup]

This was so beautiful.

[@Megaredronin]

wow beautiful and amazing!!!

[@roxanne7325]

tearing up, absolutely beautiful

[@DC-vw7yf]

Family is not always defined by blood...

[@caleblauber1441]

WOW! Great uplifting story of a dad & son!

[@sw651]

what a sweet story

[@cibonthesaint8903]

What a lovely story you’ve shared with all of us! All you need is love!

[@pjtribble7214]

Out of ALL the stories I've watched....this one brought me to tears... I'm so happy for both of you!! Peace & Blessings

[@alaskafan21]

This is the finest telling I have heard on Driftwood. Blessings to you both.

[@mannyphommachanh3193]

What a beautiful story. Thank you for sharing

[@dwj77]

It’s September 2020, this kind of great story is definitely needed right now.

[@JoshBWeaver]

I love this story.

[@drbob528]

Another incredible story from "I'm From Driftwood". Lary Bennett's willingness to give so much of himself to a boy in need has both generated and returned a long-lasting and potent relationship. Indeed, an amazing man with a big heart ... the real thing.

[@foreveravocado4792]

😭😭😭😭😭 this is the greatest story

[@travisgrant5608]

WOW ... one of the most beautiful stories I've ever heard. 💞👍💞

[@samray3297]

I was inspired by this interview. How can I be a Mentor to any fatherless child? Due to distance, I can only be a Big Brother online. Please advice.

[@jamesk1027]

Great story. I am so happy you told it.

[@kawaiipusheenlovexoxo5352]

Am sorry for your loss 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@1533ramsay]

God blesses in all ways... What an inspirational story ..

[@misterhot9163]

There should be a screenplay written about their remarkable lives for the whole world to see!

[@sunnyb1185]

This was such a great story!! It makes me really happy to see great things like this😃

[@AmorVitae93]

omg I cries

[@donnariggs1567]

My x had two gay brothers...they are the most lovely guys I know, even to this day . We have never thought that they would bother any nieces or nephews ever! Gay and pedo are two ends of the spectrum.... Love is love no matter where it comes from.I have never understand why any one would begrudge any one from sincere healthy love!!! BLESSINGS TO ALL OF YOU ...GOD IS GOOD!! THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR STORY!!!

[@riccardo50001]

Thanks for your story. I'm glad you had such a positive experience as a Big Brother. I was also a Big Brother. Matt's Mom was comfortable with gay people because she had been involved with theater folks. I was gay and professional singer, so she accepted me. I was very nervous about taking that step and also wanted and still miss being a parent. We did not become father & son though we had many fun and interesting experiences together. One of the things I found frustrating back then, in the 70s was that many gay men did not like children, probably because they assumed they would never be a parent. Big Brothers/Big Sisters was open to gay people by the time I was matched. After several years they actually did a write up in the newsletter. Your description was very touching and I kind of wish that I had been as close as you were with your LB, but we did have a very positive experience. If you see this, I would be interested in comparing our experiences. I assume you live in San Francisco and so do I. Richard Fey

[@agirlnamedbrett.]

beautiful BEAUTIFUL, so there are still good ones out there on this big ole marble...

[@franci.f.]

Such a beautiful story, we never hear of beautiful stories like that. They all let themselves be guided by trust and optimism and created something very special.

[@mamabird1953]

I know this is an older story but Im crying with joy.

[@MM2PuppyDog]

I LOVED this story!!!! Very happy for Larry, Andre and Kay....

[@earlydable]

This is an incredible story, thank you for sharing about your incredible life

[@alanmlange]

Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful story. You all sound like an amazing chosen family!

[@Imsuper656]

I am NOT crying!....I've just got something in my eye.....

[@dandoescreative]

I love it when adults come together and make decisions in the best interests of children - and each other! I currently get to babysit one of my neighbours little ones and boy oh boy - it's the highlight of this 58 year old gay man's life! Larry Bennett you are an inspiration!

[@driverain2]

When God takes pen in hand, nothing stronger exist in this ole world....witness the grace and love of these men......

[@hmrhuang]

LOVELY story!

[@TrailBlazer46]

I wish I had a father like you sir!

[@tonilavey1128]

You’re an angel

[@ahhh4117]

This video was actually a huge inspiration for my decision to volunteer at youth centers

[@ijustfartedonyourmcdonalds1513]

I think it'd be wonderful if Larry & Andre were lovers.

[@lotrelljones7312]

What a beautiful story about you and your family awesome 😎 stay safe and be blessed always

[@gwhiz1459]

No word on Andre’s life? Married, kids, etc?

[@Gendo.]

Greatly appreciate you sharing your story

[@denniskavanagh1649]

Larry, you are a very, very special guy

[@tonyoB]

What a beautiful story. I couldn't be happier for your happiness. ❤️

[@chifreaginnania3233]

This is so beautiful and amazing.

[@totaro-o4s]

Thank you. These stories need to be told as it demonstrates that with love you create meaningful relations that make the world a better place. No matter gender identification or sexual orientation.

[@paullytle246]

woop woop go dc

[@tonyvargas368]

Wow.

[@shannonokeefe9456]

This is wonderful truely heart warming

[@ohmy5650]

How nice. Larry sounds just elegant. And his adopted son Andre knows it, i bet. Best of everything, Andre & your Dad Larry.🍀

[@sorryfortheinconvenience5216]

This MELTS my heart

[@kawaii.koneko.kiya.]

This story made me chill, in such a beautiful way. I don’t remember the last time I cried this much over a KZbin video. Truly heart warming! Thank you for being such a wonderful father figure to this boy, now man! ❤️

[@herseem]

Tears in my eyes, for good reasons

[@roberthurley6860]

We should all have a Dad like this.