I used to want to be married all while growing up. But coming out in my teens, raised a Christian who believed gay people and gay relationships were inherently guilt-consumed, uncommitted, and miserable, I mourned ever having a family of my own.

A few years went by, though, and I questioned the teachings I'd been given. I saw gay people going on to be happy and committed to each other, despite my church's judgements.

So now I'm back to looking for what I've always wanted. My mother said I can give her engagement ring to my girlfriend when I ask the question, since she has no son to pass it on to. When I get married, it will definitely going to be an event with my family there--I just hope hers is accepting by then.

I'm the same person as I was before I came out. I want the same things: a marriage, a family. And now I can get married on either coast and have it recognised in three states. It's like my life is opening up.