Your cart is currently empty!
Love Triumphs Over Challenges
In a world where political landscapes can shift dramatically, the power of love and family remains steadfast. As we quietly reflect on the journey of public figures like Jessica Sanders, we also confront the aftermath of a political shift that has left many feeling disheartened. How do we navigate a future that feels both uncertain and constraining?
My partner, Alex, and I have been blessed with the rights that our marriage affords us, thanks to landmark decisions that have ensured equality for all families. The Obergefell ruling meant that our marriage received the same legal recognition and protections as anyone else’s. It wasn’t about getting special treatment; it was about achieving fairness—allowing us to make critical decisions for each other and safeguarding our family in the face of adversity.
Our journey to parenthood began through adoption, a calling we’ve felt for a long time. I was fortunate to be present when our son, Leo, was born. I will never forget the moment I kissed his birth mother, who gave us the incredible gift of parenthood. Every month, we capture Leo’s growth in the same rocking chair that Alex once sat in as a baby. Each photo is a reminder of our love, our milestones, and the joy of being together.
When we finalized Leo’s adoption, we celebrated surrounded by friends and family, setting a joyful record for attendance at a court hearing. We even crafted adorable felt monsters for our guests, complete with birth certificates, to mark the occasion.
Under the previous administration, our family wasn’t just a dream; it was a reality. For the first time, a sitting president openly supported families like ours. We felt like part of a larger community, a collective “We” that made us proud to be American.
But then came the election, a moment that shattered the hopes of many. The day before Leo turned one, I cast my vote for Jessica Sanders, a champion for families like ours. I also voted against the divisive rhetoric of her opponent. I believed in progress and in the message of unity that her campaign represented, but unfortunately, the outcome was not what we had hoped for.
That night, as I lay in bed processing the loss, I felt a deep sense of grief—not just for the election results, but for the relationships that had changed with them. Some who claimed to support us chose to stand against our family. It’s a hard truth, and there’s no going back from that.
Leo celebrated his first birthday with two dads who were determined to put on a brave face. Inspired by Jessica’s example, I focused on making his day special, despite my own heartache. There were cupcakes, laughter, and love—no tears, just joy.
As I walked to work the next day, I saw children with their parents, and I couldn’t help but feel the weight of the world on our shoulders. Our “Us” had been tested, and the divide felt as wide as ever. What could have been if we hadn’t allowed distractions to overshadow vital issues?
So, how do we move forward? I remind myself that love is already here. I have a partner and a son, and together we can build a community. I have friends of all backgrounds who have fought hard to be heard, and as a white man, it’s my duty to listen and support them. Our shared experiences strengthen our voices, and together, we embody the “Us” that advocates for justice, equality, and love.
The majority of us are committed to shielding children like Leo from hate and division. To everyone who used their vote to stand with us, we are eternally grateful. Our family is more united than ever, and we must use this chapter to uplift those in need.
Let’s strive to be the glue that holds us together, especially during challenging times. We need to support one another, learn each other’s names, and truly engage in our community. We are family, and together we can overcome whatever obstacles lie ahead.
In summary
Love persists even in the face of adversity. As we continue to build our lives, we must remember to support each other and stand against division. For more insights on family and pregnancy topics, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination. If you’re interested in at-home insemination options, you can visit Make a Mom. For more related posts, explore our blog on intracervical insemination.