We were born the same, you and I. Born to loving parents. Born and brought into a world of hope and possibility.

We were both raised in good families. Taught by people who inspire others.

We took the same classes, read the same books, knew the same people.

We laugh at the same things. You bring me smiles and joy. I hope I do the same for you.

We have similar ways of looking at the world.

We love the same. It comes from our hearts. We search for the best in everyone.

We look to the same people for comfort. We hold hands through terrible moments.

We hang on to each other in dark times.

We cry together. Our tears are just as poignant as the others’ tears.

We became family. We will always be family.

We are the same.

The first person I loved was the opposite gender, and I was accepted.

It was celebrated.

The person you loved was the same gender. And you were questioned.

You were ridiculed. You were doubted. You were asked to justify and defend.

I hold my husband’s hand in a crowded room and no one is concerned. No one is offended.

I’m not afraid.

You hold your wife’s hand. You receive looks. You hear questions. You see hatred.

You should not be afraid.

My life for my husband is just as pure and flawed as your love for your wife. Yet some- see my love as valid. And yours as different.

I want to protect you. And protect you from the words you hear and the actions you see taken – just because of who you love.

My heart weeps. At the unkindness of those who don’t understand – or don’t want to understand.

We are the same, you and I. Born and brought into a world of hope and possibility.

The person we love, should only enhance that hope. Should only enhance that possibility.

My heart is broken, just like your heart, because some do not see our loves as equal. Only because they are blinded by fear and misunderstanding.

I stand with you my dear friends, my dear sisters.

We are the same, you and I.