"Miles Apart," A Short Film by Jon Guttman

One of the things that pleases me most about writing this blog is the opportunity it gives me to meet new people.  And I've met some amazing and wonderful people, literally from countries around the world.  Their generosity and kindness touch me deeply and confirm that what I do here does make a difference.      

Most recently, I met Jon Guttman, a young movie-maker from the United States, when he sent me an email to bring my attention to a short film he made when he was a student in 2003.  He asked me to take a look at the trailer for "Miles Apart," which I did.  I was so intrigued by what I saw, that I watched the entire short film on YouTube–several times, in fact.  

I believe Jon was right when he wrote to say he thought my readers would appreciate his short film.  Yes, "Miles Apart" is a little rough in places; it's an indie film, after all.  But, in my opinion, that doesn't take anything away from its positive portrayal of a gay male couple and its uplifting message.

And that's why I'm encouraging you to take a few moments out of your day to watch "Miles Apart."  It will make you feel warm inside, and it will show you that compassion and transformation are possible, even in the most seemingly difficult cases.

To view "Miles Apart" in its entirety, please click here.

Stop the Hamster Wheel

There are those who believe gay men are all about sex.  Why legalize gay marriage, they argue, why extend same-sex benefits, when all gay men want to do is have sex, anyway? They're already doing what they do. Let's not mock marriage by making it available to gay men.

My response to that is, if you'd been told forever that the feelings you have for someone are unnatural, disgusting, even immoral, you might be all about sex too.  Because, regardless of sexual orientation, all of us need emotional connection, validation, and love.  And, one way or the other, we'll find it.    

Unfortunately, in the case of many gay men, the form it takes is sex.  Because sex is often easier and faster and readily available.  Because you experience the warmth of another human being, even for a short time, and believe you've gotten what you need. But, of course, you haven't.  It's only temporary.  Until the need's there again.    

Sex isn't love.  No one can argue that.  Sex is a manifestation of love, but only when love is there to begin with.  Otherwise, it's just plain, old sex.  And, because we're told our love for another man is wrong, it's the only option open to us, the only option we allow ourselves.      

So how do we stop this hamster wheel?  By our culture accepting gay people for the complex and whole human beings they are.  By supporting same-sex marriage and benefits.  And by sending the clear message that our love is as valid, and necessary, as any.

"How Do People Do This?"

It gives me great pleasure to present a short video called "It Could Happen to You."

This is all that matters.  We have to get this, everyone.  We must get this.  The time is now.