Today is the one year anniversary of my brother's death. Steve lived a courageous life; growing up gay during a time when being gay meant being bullied and ostracized, and was much too frequently dangerous. This was also a time where there weren't any supports to speak of for kids or parents around loving acceptance. My other siblings and I knew Steve was different, but we didn't know how, or how to give him loving support.
Despite the challenges, or maybe because of them, Stephen was on a quest to find beloved community. No matter how many times the world and some of the bad inhabitants pushed him around, Steve bounced back; he was so resilient and full of love. Steve made a habit of filling the hole in his heart by freely giving others what he so desperately wanted.
During his funeral service, so many of his friends shared their stories with our family. To them, Stephen was the life of the party; the friend who showed up when things were darkest; the friend who showed up to share joy; the advocate who worked tirelessly on marriage equality and access to health care. Stephen was so many things to so many people.
I miss him. His memory is a blessing. I love you Steve.
