A New Year for an Old Queer

It didn't hurt my feelings to usher 2009 out the door. It was a year that changed my life in so many ways. But after all is said and done, we move on. I ushered in this next 365 day calendar with little fanfare choosing to spend it with my partner, snuggled into our easy chairs watching a couple movies and sipping tea. Even so, we entered 2010 hopeful.

My hopes are simple ones:

Each human being will know peace and personal freedom.

Adequate shelter and food for everyone.

All people are treated with dignity and respect.

Every child experience safety, love and the opportunity for education and health.

Diversity is valued but hate and injustice is not tolerated.

Are these things so complicated, so difficult and complex? Why is it that these simple things are not already part of our experience. Why is it so difficult for us to live together? I cannot imagine hurting people, taking life, assuming that what belongs to others is mine to take or presuming that my life, my beliefs, my anything! is more important than that of another.

And so I wonder if this is the year we will finally get it.