OPEN LETTER TO MY MOM
December 2, 2004

Dear Mom,

It's been said that mothers know their sons better than anyone else in the world. I tend to think you know me better than I think you do, but I often wonder if you truly know me. Back in 1998, I told you I was gay. Your response? You already knew. Ever since then, you have been nothing but supporting of me and my goals in life. Your one true wish (I believe) is for me to be happy, and I thank you for that. You have never been overbearing as a mother, and you have never disowned me for making my own dreams, rather than meeting yours for me. For that, I am thankful you are my mother.

You have instilled in me many virtues that I am proud to possess, such as responsibility, character, honesty, courage, trust, faith, love, patience, humility, pride, and the thirst to better myself and those who surround me. Those are the gifts you have given me, and I keep reaping their benefits. I have used these virtues to achieve a lot in life. I successfully completed college with a B.A., secured a job in a nationally known corporation, and am working my way out of debt. I am also using what you have taught me within the community... the community at large and the gay community. I volunteered with the Charlotte Gay Bingo as a photographer for three years, and I am currently on the board for Charlotte's One Voice Chorus (our gay chorus). I even sang one semester in the "Sing for the Cure" concert. That was an awesome experience! Just last week, I rode in Charlotte's Thanksgiving parade as a singer with One Voice. It was the first time in it's 60 year existence that a gay-affirmative float was in the parade. Even though we were expecting picketers or hecklers, none of that happened. And for once, I was proud to represent my community and my family in a public display. I hope you are proud of me.

In the coming months and years, I will begin exploring my 30s as a man in the South -- who happens to be gay; who chose to be Christian; and who was blessed to be your son. I may find the love of my life. I may finally buy a house. I may achieve more in the next ten years than I have so far in life. As your second child, I know it may be difficult for you to accept the fact I am growing older, but know you have taught me well in all aspects of my life and set a rock-solid foundation of standards by which to follow.

I may not be able to give you a present this year or next. I may not even be able to visit you this holiday season or next. But I want you to know you have been a great influence on my life, and I owe your more than you could ever know.

I love you.

Your son,
Brandon