I know we are all debating the merits of gay marriage and what possible negative implications it will have for society. Debate is good, and healthy. However, for those of us directly affected by today's decision, you have no idea what it means.
We've been to dozens and dozens of weddings. We've given gifts. We've celebrated with the happy couple and wished them well because we were genuinely happy for them. All the time, we are sitting there never dreaming it could be us up there. You grow up knowing you'll never be up there, in front of friends and family, making a commitment to the person you love most in this world.
Today, that reality is just setting in. The act of getting "married" changes a relationship. I'm sure RT will agree with me when he says that people that live together aren't as committed to one another as those that are actually married. Well, today, we have the opportunity (in another state) to legalize that commitment. I won't lie; it is a scary thought. We've been together for over 21 years and have been good. Now, today, I've been thinking "Damn, we could have a wedding and I'd have to be in front of all of these people as the nervous groom". It's a little daunting. Reality is setting in. True, legal commitment is there. Palms are a little sweaty thinking about it. Should I listen to Mud and just date them and not marry them (I keed, I keed). We will get married and, I hope, live a long, happy, healthy life.
For those of you on this board (some of whom I've met and some are still faux internet Hobbes) that have supported Jamie, Cheap Bastard, me and others that I won't name, you have touched our lives whether you know it or not and we appreciate all of your congratulations on this day.
