What is one's legacy? How has my life been influenced by the gay people who came before me and how will my life influence and benefit those that follow?

Born in 1950 before there was a real presence of out and proud gay individuals, I didn't actually have much to go on. Growing up in a very small California town only added to the isolation and loneliness that came with not having any role model to look up to and emulate. As a teenager experiencing feelings that I didn't understand and emotions that I couldn't explain left me both confused and isolated. What was going on with me? But I persevered and made it through to adulthood. And then I read about others like me; I met others like me; I connected with others like me. I became part of a community where I could be myself, where I was safe, where I belonged, and where I felt valued. Bolstered by the early pioneering gay icons, my generation began slowly opening the closet door and venturing into a world where we were often met with opposition and resistance. But we have finally thrown open that closet door and emerged energized and empowered to be our true selves. My legacy is built on the shoulders of those that came before me. Those brave and fearless gay individuals allowed me to finally be open and proud of who I am after hiding for so long. They created a world where gay men and women can express themselves, be happy, love and be loved. I only hope that I too can leave this world a bit more open-minded, a little more accepting, and a lot more supportive of gays. We are your brothers and your sisters, your cool aunts, and your fun uncles.

I married my partner of over 20 years (at the time) once it became legal and we have now been together almost 35 years. When people see a happy and loving couple, it doesn't matter your sexual orientation. Our relationship is no less than any other married couple. That is the highlight of my legacy. By living openly and honestly, I hope to inspire those around me to see no difference in our lives than theirs and that of so many others. I hope to be an example to the next generation of what they can be and how they can express themselves to those around them. We are so much more alike than we are different. We just want someone to love and to love us back and be surrounded by people who accept us for who we truly are.