Perhaps, though, the biggest and most valuable difference about coming out "then" versus "now" is best explained by O'Connell: the day has passed when the most interesting thing about you is that you're gay. If that's true, then it should be of great comfort to those who want just to get their sexuality out there and move on to more important things. Like Jazz Choir.
Sara Faith Alterman sometimes answers to the name Sam. She can be reached at salterman@phx.com.
Related:
Pride at 39, Ho-Hos and air guitars, Out of the closet, More 
- Pride at 39
Not to downplay this year's Pride Week or anything, but the annual weeklong mélange of events geared toward New England's lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community is just one year shy of its 40th anniversary. Which makes it sort of like the night before Christmas.
- Ho-Hos and air guitars
The fact is, most couples argue in the early stages of wedding planning. My partner, Diane, and I are no exception to this rule. Currently, our biggest argument surrounding plans for our wedding is whether or not she can slide into the ballroom during our reception, performing Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" on her air guitar.
- Out of the closet
I don't believe in gay stereotypes. With one exception.
- Benign neglect?
If you are gay or lesbian, or if you care about realizing social justice, you must be wondering when Obama is going to turn his attention to the fact that one in 10 of the nation's more than 230 million adults are second-class citizens.
- Letters to the Portland Editor: July 10, 2009
A recent EqualityMaine campaign letter claimed that gay marriage is "the fight for our lives." I wonder whose lives they are talking about, when AIDS service organizations and community health/reproductive clinics across the state have been tightening their belts and desperately trying to crunch numbers.
- Go back in time
Last weekend was Pride weekend here in Portland, and though rain made its own appearances occasionally, it didn't stop hundreds — even thousands — of people from, well, coming out and celebrating.
- Gay deceivers
The California State Supreme Court just upheld Proposition 8, denying gay people the right to marriage. This should disabuse the complacent of the illusion that the religious right has relinquished its death grip on America. So, too, should Kirby Dick's documentary about the homophobic power of closeted right-wing politicians in America.
- The rain in Maine
If you're planning a trip to Vacationland this summer, be sure to bring your galoshes — the "gay storm" that's been satirized all over the Internet rolled into Maine last week.
- After the battle
In a fast-moving and historic couple of days in Augusta (pity they don't move so fast on other important issues), the Maine Legislature last week approved same-sex marriage, and Governor John Baldacci ended weeks of speculation about what he would do by signing it that very day.
- Trans fact
Aiden Quinn used to be a woman. Now he's a man. It's a titillating detail — but is it news?
- Play-by-play
On the front lines at the gay-marriage hearing
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Lifestyle Features
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