Setting the standard for Gay Marriage

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Manhattan, New York, United States of America (Free-Press-Release.com) December 18, 2011 -- Just four years ago, I was in the hospital on life support after another near-successful suicide attempt. If you would have asked me then where I'd be now, my immediate response would have been "dead". Looking back at my diary, I recall the feeling of hopelessness that ruled my life. Being pushed into a locker was "just another Wednesday" and medicating to deal with depression was a year round event. Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined being where I am today and getting married.

1 2 3

Setting the standard for Gay Marriage

With the legalization of gay marriage in New York, my partner and I decided to tie the knot for our 5 year anniversary. Aside from our commitment however, this wedding symbolized so much more. For once I wasn't a gay guy fighting against the grain, but a man who earned the same respect and rights of any other tax paying citizen. What a liberating feeling.

Born in 1988, I had the fortunate opportunity of seeing the gay rights movement at the height of it's transition. For those before me, they will never know how validating it can be to see a magazine or TV channel that caters specifically to the gay community. Yet, as a modern day gay man, I feel a certain responsibility to pay respect to those who paved the road I've had the opportunity to travel.

Something I've struggled to understand is how the gay community fights so hard to be accepted as a "normal" part of society, yet spends so much time defining itself as something much different. With marriage accessible to the gay community now, I see this as an opportunity to break the stereotype we've built and earn the respect of our straight neighbors. While I do not judge anyone who chooses the wild, club, sex filled night life, I would like to say: I have always heard that "with great privileges comes great responsibility". Marriage is a HUGE privilege that the gay community has spent a long time fighting for. For those who pursue the option, it is our responsibility to change the skewed perception we are too often generalized with.

Getting married will most likely remain one of the most memorable moments of my life. I never imagined my whole family attending, but regardless of their personal beliefs, they came together to show their support. I never imagined looking into the eyes of the man I love, planning the life we have ahead regardless of our past challenges. I never imagined the hope getting married could provide; knowing that things truly do get better... that this is just the beginning of a huge movement. I am and will always be so grateful.

Share your feedback on the authors personal blog: http://www.stevenbinko.blogspot.com

Special thanks to Sasha Chou for volunteering your amazing photography services and The Historic Chapel for accommodating the most special day of my life.

florida     gay marriage     glbt     lgbt     new york     Steven Binko     story     suicide