Six years ago in December my dad had a massive stroke that has left him in a nursing home. It has left him unable to walk, write, read and he has troubles finding the right words to say. Many peoples lives changed the day he had his stroke. I quickly became the decision maker and his friends have become more caregiver then friend.
Some of you don't know my dad or haven't known him since before the stroke. Let me paint a picture of him for you. He was a very outgoing person. He loved life and theater. I hear he was really something on stage. Lawrence, Kansas City and NYC were just a few places he called home. My co-workers remember the plates of goodies he would bake and bring in for us. My friends remember a fun person to visit while we were in KC. My parents divorced when I was five so I would see him on weekends occasionally. While he has always and will always be my dad there were times we didn't see each other or talk for long periods.
Since his stroke I have struggled being the person responsible for him. When it comes time to visit him I can't help but remember the times I wouldn't see him or how on my 16th birthday he didn't call. Perhaps I don't visit him as much as most children would visit their father's but my dad and I had a different relationship growing up.
Today the Supreme Court of the United States struck down DOMA and Prop 8. To many people this isn't a big deal. However, to me it is huge. The thing is, my dad is gay. While he can understand what is going on and talk about it he will never fully enjoy knowing the impact of today.
Many would say their dad taught them how to fish, work on cars or build something. My dad taught me something much more important in this world. Acceptance. He taught me to treat everyone equally. It doesn't matter if you are gay, straight, black or white you are still a person. Everyone should be treated with the same respect.
"No matter where you live, no matter who your parents are, no matter
what kind of family you're in, you are equal, you are as good as your
friends' parents and your friends." ~ Kris Perry
