I'm beginning to see how much courage it takes to step up to the plate.

[Mike 03]

ON EDIT: My OP title came out all wrong. I didn't mean I "have courage", just that I'm getting to realize how much courage it takes to fight these fights. You have it. I'm trying to acquire it. It's hard. I don't have the courage yet, but I want it, badly.



I can only express my admiration for what it takes to fight these fights. Just in the past two weeks I've been making an effort to really question people I know about their feelings about the GLBT community and even why they feel as they do. And here on DU I've posted my first few posts arguing that these are essential, constitutionally-obligated rights owed to any citizen of our nation. And I've donated to causes and then worried who might find out that I did.

So, I'm getting a sense of how much courage you all have to face these issues and fight them. All the courage I am getting right now comes from the GLBT community here. You are giving it to me, and I am going to use it.

But I'm so motivated right now to be a part of this. I'm losing my fear, and I'm gaining my trust and belief that this is the right thing to do, no matter what. I'm not embarrassed or ashamed to be standing up with Gay people, Lesbians, Bisexual people and Transgender people to fight for these rights.

But I have to thank you here at DU. You were the ones who taught me, inspired me, and keep me going.

I love you all more than I can say. I will never stop standing with you, or appreciating what the GLBT community has done for me and how much I owe them.

We will win this fight. There's no going back. There's no other outcome but victory, because it is the right, moral thing to do.

[Midlodemocrat]

1. Welcome aboard.

The GLBT community here is incredible. I know that they will appreciate your support. :hug:

[readmoreoften]

2. You're awesome, Mike. And, yes, courage and en-couragement are what keeps us going.

And friendship, solidarity, and of course love. It's hard to argue with love.

[bluedawg12]

3. Thanks Mike 03 - you are always steadfast

and a good friend to us and actually to human rights.

:fistbump:

[terrya]

4. Thank you. You're a good guy.

I'm more of an asshole. I don't do as much as I should for the GLBT community. Sometimes, I don't think I should be allowed around here.

[donco6]

5. Cool. I've learned a lot too. n/t

[KitchenWitch]

6. FWIW, Mike, I have learned a lot over the past couple of months

about courage, about standing up for what I believe, and about not backing down, even in the face of ugliness.

Not only am I learning from the wonderful people here in the GLBT forum, but I am learning from you, from my life partner, and others committed to equality for everyone.

I am gratified that I am able to stand in solidarity. Sad that I have to, but that is a whole other issue.

I am glad you are here. Your enthusiasm really helps me to continue.

[LeftCoast]

7. You're doing awesome Mike

I'd also recommend you go to a protest because not only are you being active, but you are also empowered by the crowd. You actually experience in person how other many people are working together on this. Seeing with your own eyes how 'not alone' you are is a huge help - at least it was for me.

:hi:

[HillbillyBob]

8. Thank You, from a gay man who was stupid enough to stand

against the rpubes in Alabama 27 years ago. In Selma and Montgomery.
For years I have operated on the premise that if someone realizes they know some one who is gay they will be more likely to alter their outlook..
Then again there was that bunch who were attempting to set up to burn a cross on my yard and it took a 12guage pump to make them see the error of harassing me. Rock salt loads sting like hell for several days, its not fatal.

[RetiredTrotskyite]

9. Hi Mike!

:) :pals: Welcome from me as well. This is a great place. Anytime you need encouragement you will find it here.

[madmadmad]

10. thanks, mike! strength in numbers!

[foxfeet]

11. Thanks, Mike!

:fistbump: