Just a few days ago, I was feeling like the most blessed man on earth. I was on top of the world. In fact, on more than one occasion this year, I’ve become overwhelmed with happiness as I’ve reflected on everything I have going on in my life. I have been blessed with an incredible husband, a fantastic career, two crazy puppies, a beautiful home, a sense of warmth and security, and a community that has welcomed me with open arms and shown me what love in action can look like.

Now that I’m married and off the market, I can say — without a single doubt — that I was one hell of a sexy man. Getting someone’s attention or getting a guy to buy me a drink was never an issue. I could be in a crowded bar and have my pick of man. Sadly, however, many times they thought they could pick me without my consent. For years, I‘ve held back on sharing many of my experiences because, for the most part, I’m a pretty private person and I usually just deal with things on my own. With the recent events in our country, I feel I can no longer be silent.