I’m very proud to be an American today.
With a 5-4 vote the Supreme Court has ruled that same-sex marriage is now legal and just like that, history is made. Now everyone, regardless of their color, creed, or sexual orientation can truly realize the American Dream, not just parts of it.
Justice Anthony M. Kennedy writes, “No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family. In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than they once were.”
Did you see that word ‘people’? I sure did. Doesn’t say straight people or gay people, just people.
Yes American ‘people’, please meet someone, fall in love, get married, have children, grow old together, and seek the fulfillment sharing your life with someone brings because today, your Supreme Court finally got it right.
I’m very proud to be a friend today.
I don’t think this radically changes how many of my gay friends will live their lives on a daily basis. I’ve been very blessed to be surrounded by some amazing gay people. Friends that have allowed me to share in some of their biggest life moments including one I’m especially excited about, being the godfather of their son. These moments started long before today and didn’t need anyone’s approval. Together we’ve experienced the same ups and downs, the same struggles, the same reward. I’m happy for all of you, but I know your lives are much more than one Supreme Court ruling.
I’m very proud to be a husband today.
When I met my wife over a dozen years ago and I got to look into her pretty green eyes the rest of the world disappeared. She had a child from another relationship and I can recall people questioning my decision to court her. A blended family isn’t exactly how society would draw it up, but that didn’t matter to us. For us, it was just right and 9 years later we are still making history.
The ruling today cements that no matter what order, method, or person you fall in love with, you can. And if that love becomes marriage, then go get married and enjoy the benefits a union recognized by this country brings.
Seems ridiculously simple, but I feel more grounded in my marriage today than I ever have, because I don’t feel like it is some exclusive venture rather something all of us can enjoy as freely as a Summer day.
I’m very proud to be a father today.
My first text this morning was to my daughter. ‘Supreme court voted for marriage equality today!’ Her reply, ‘That’s awesome!!!!!!!!!!!’. It’s moments like these that make me optimistic that even though our country can still experience great tragedy due to bigotry and racism, there is still hope for the future if we teach our kids to be tolerant. Both my son and daughter are a fortunate lot surrounded by people of all walks of life, color, creed, and sexual orientation because that is who my wife and I want to be around. They don’t fear different, they embrace it. My wish is today’s ruling will inspire more mothers and fathers to encourage their children to stand up for what’s right and support those who need our help regardless of where their from or who they choose to love.
Lenny couldn’t have said it any better. ‘We gotta to let love rule’.
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