Be thankful to be alive

that walking down the street

didn’t kill anyone

remember when bats and pipes

seemed to define hatred

more blatant

more in your face

more homophobic reaction

to misunderstanding.

That was long before the numbers grew

well ahead of the closets and hidden coves

the saunas and back alley shows.

Remember when we were hoping for a display

some distinguishing attitude

made us stop and realize we were ok.

Seems today we really are

ok

seems wherever we look

we see more signs of being just that,

ok

Seems we are all ok, today.

So, celebrate with us

with you, with them, each other, every one

has a moment to recall

when a day like today

couldn’t exist no matter the patience

fortitude, resilience, honor, confidence …

trust

That today can be like any other

and we can walk the streets

with smiles that are real

rather than tucked behind well-coiffed banners.

Pride

is that measure of delight

in recognizing who we are …

who we have become …

human beings that hold compassion

before fear and confusion.

We are one standing before you

much like our world truly is

One.