To Doug

When the law does not allow you to get married, gay couples need to declare their anniversary date. Doug and I chose February 1^st, the date Doug moved to Indiana from Wisconsin, and we began our life together. That was 19 years ago.

Like all relationships, we have had our ups and down, but all in all I’m a lucky guy. Without wearing my feelings on my sleeve, I will publicly state how much I appreciate Doug’s support of my journey to Seattle and my six-month sabbatical away from Bloomington. Because of Doug’s work as Coordinator of the GLBT Student Support Office, he is unable to join me except for one or two visits.

I miss him a lot. And on this day, on our 19^th anniversary, I want to send him my love.