I’ve been blessed my entire life. You can’t put words to my family’s kindness, generosity, and just damn amazing love.
I recently married the woman of my dreams (now, Stephanie Jackson – she took my last name, even though it’s totally not hip these days ;) ). I never imagined I’d get married… but this woman is out of sight.
After being married 10 months and being with her for 9 years now, I can say without a doubt that marriage was a *big* deal. It wasn’t just rings, or cake, or vows, it was a magically transformative part of my life. It’s been hard as hell. But wonderful as anything imaginable. It let me personally and publicly express my love for Steph.
So what the fuck California? Pardon my french (especially Mom, if you’re reading this.) But, holy jesus what were you thinking California (and all the other states that are stuck in the 50’s)?
My sister is gay, my brother is gay, people I work with are gay. And you know what, they aren’t any different. They aren’t some cyborg waiting to take over the world. They aren’t going to try and make all the heterosexuals in the world “switch.” They just want the same rights as every other heterosexual person.
I’m frustrated. Fucking hell I’m frustrated beyond belief. I sit and watch as people I love are oppressed because of who they love. Is that not the most inane thing? Is not all love allowed to be equal?
In 2009 I can buy a 1TB hard drive for $80, but my sister can’t legally marry her partner and get equal benefits. Um, wow.
So California, if you’re reading this. Please check yourself. You gave this world a chance for a breathe of reality, of sanity, or normalcy – at a time when we really really need it. As the Beatles said, “All you need is love.” So let us love. Let everyone love!
People are people. We should not determine their rights based upon what’s between their legs.
Barb G-C, 
ryan are discussing. 
Glass 5:00 pm on 29 May 2009 Permalink
I’m gay and I love awesome people that have the gumption to stand up and support equal rights.
Very much appreciated kind man. Very much indeed.
nonotate 5:05 pm on 29 May 2009 Permalink
Amen Jackson!
Erin 11:46 pm on 29 May 2009 Permalink
Thanks, Noel! And President Obama, if you’re reading this, please take a hint… Civil Rights for ALL!
maya 11:48 pm on 29 May 2009 Permalink
Amen.
Hugo Baeta 5:45 am on 30 May 2009 Permalink
Completely agree with Chris! I’m also gay and love awsome people that stand up and support equal rights.
Right now, in my country – Portugal, the debate is intense around the equal rights for same sex partners. The country right next to us, Spain, has already allowed same sex marriage years ago, so I hope things change around here too…
Thanks for this post man!
And have a great time at WordCamp (I wish I could be there this year again).
Barb G-C 6:44 am on 30 May 2009 Permalink
You always make me proud. I love you. (And I don’t think there’s any reason to worry that Mom won’t approve of your phrasing…)
MT 1:11 pm on 30 May 2009 Permalink
I honestly kinda feel like there’s going to be a sad can’t-look-my-grandchildren-in-the-face moment for those among us who still feel like the institution of marriage can survive Henry VIII and Darva Conger but still needs to be protected from every homosexual in the world. It doesn’t pain me like it used to, though, because the overwhelming inevitability of it all is too apparent even now. I mean, come on, Iowa? I feel for all the gay couples who do want to get married now, and I’d probably feel the same way if I were in a serious relationship. It’s going to happen in our lifetimes, though. And that rocks pretty hard.