PRIDE!

Saturday I went to PRIDE in Columbus, Ohio. I was first introduced to PRIDE, two years ago by a big group of friends. I immediately fell in love! It was full of people, beer, children, parents, single people looking for love, dancing, and smiles. I couldn't’t believe how happy everyone was! There are tons of festivals every summer, but no one smiles as much as they do at PRIDE. This year, I went with a different group of friends, which happened to include a one year old (cutest baby ever).
Seeing PRIDE through a baby’s eyes was a lot like experiencing PRIDE for the first time. Other couples and parents were constantly guessing his age and wishing his parents well in the midst of one of the best parades around. Let’s just say this baby was quite pleased with being the center of attention at the same time Lady Gaga played in the background.
It was a reminder that PRIDE is fun and campy but it’s a lot more than just that. PRIDE is the one escape each year where families can enjoy the festivities without someone shoving the Bible in their faces. There were protesters there but we managed to avoid them quite successfully with very little effort. In a world where LGBTQI rights are…well…non existent (depending where you live, work, etc)…it was a welcome change.
It was incredible to see so many kids enjoying themselves and seeing all around them that whatever “form” their family is, it’s wonderful! So, while I didn’t go dancing late that night (I was exhausted and asleep by 9:30 pm), or drink more than two beers, I had the most fun I’ve ever had at PRIDE. This year, I was reminded why the parade means so much. It’s all about love and celebration of life.