While many other cities celebrate gay pride in June, Atlanta does it in October. This month coincides with National Coming Out Day and acknowledges the anniversary of the National March on Washington for Gay Rights. Another reason for holding Atlanta Pride in October is the cooler temperatures. Despite the fall breeze, the celebration doesn't stop from heating up here in the big peach. 

Atlanta has become a melting pot of diversity from all over the country. It attracts many young professionals because of its career opportunities; the median age is only 33. Also, many members of the LGBTQ community have migrated to Atlanta from smaller Georgia cities and towns and from neighboring states. This may partly be why Atlanta is known as the gay epicenter of the South. There is broader acceptance for being gay in Atlanta because of the combination of youthfulness and familiarity.

However, in contrast, it is still a city in the Bible Belt and a major center for traditional religious denominations, such as the Southern Baptist, which is alive and prolific in the South. This incongruity creates an interesting mix of similarities and differences.

If religion preaches love, and Pride does the same, they are not opposing beliefs at the core. Where they become disconnected is in the use of power. One belief system is about having authority over others, while the other is about empowering ourselves. You gain control over another by convincing them your way is the only way. In contrast, you evolve by enabling others to grow by honoring their individuality. 

Pride is more than rainbows and parades. It is about being authentically yourself, regardless of what others think. There is no deeper blasphemy than not being true to ourselves. We are here to express our unique abilities. Helping the world evolve and expand is our natural state for our souls and planet.

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Quick sketch of my power couple <3

The longer you wait for something, the more you appreciate it when you get it. Asia and Nicole know this all too well.

Asia writes:

"Being single for years, I tried my best to work on myself. I also prayed often during that time, hoping to find real love someday. Just when I wanted to stop looking for love and give up, I saw Nicole on Zoosk. Nicole too had been single for several years and was looking for real love. When we met each other for the first time, we knew we wouldspend the rest of our lives together! My life has changed forever, and I cherish every moment we spend together. She means the world to me."

Congratulations on finding each other! We wish you two a lifetime of love. 😀