Wow! What a wonderful evening celebrating California's high court decision to say "yes!" to gay marriage. I could borrow a line from Aude's post -- like her workmate, I too was "giddy with glee" all day and night. It probably showed in my earlier posts, right?
People were celebrating all over the city. Couples who have been together for decades were so happy. Some sharing their experiences. A lesbian couple who had been together for 34 years spoke; one of them said that all they've ever wanted was the same rights that any 14-year-old-girl in Arkansas has. [No offense to anyone living in Arkansas.]
There were women in wedding dresses; there was wedding cake; people had signs. One couple had two signs. One said "Susan will you marry me?" and then, I guess it was Susan, had one that said "Yes!"
An older African-American man (maybe in his 50s ?) said with tears in his eyes said he had a similar joy when he saw the US president sign the Civil Rights Act way back in the '60s.
Answering Aude's question: It's my understanding that the marriages that occurred under Mayor Newsom were officially nullified and that those couples have to now re-marry.
What really impressed me was the wide variety of people: young, old, every race; business people to hipsters. One thing I thought was really great was that committed couples brought their children to share in the celebration. I actually saw a guy from high school -- he's always had two moms. He was always popular and one of the "cool" kids. He came with his little sister and his girlfriend (whom I kind of knew). He introduced me to his family.
Yes, I know that some people strongly object to homosexuality and gay marriage. We all know that malignant religious people have already began mobilizing to destroy these civil rights. And it's difficult for me to understand their militant objections. I mean, if you don't like the idea of gay marriage -- then by all means marry someone of the opposite gender. Whatever happened to "live and let live"?
I tried to attach some photos -- don't know if they'll come through (I have to use one of my landlord's computer; really nice guy).
Hey, love to all of you!
Ben (really happy)