Here’s a question for you: would you treat me differently if I was gay?

Sitting in a local pub last week, I looked across the table and saw another human. A regular, warm-hearted, loving individual that has suffered the irrational, and hurtful fear of someone else.

I suddenly realized how lucky I was to not only call Jasper my home, but have another place where I will always find support, comfort and unconditional love from my family.

I grew up in a very accepting, open household. People who were different were celebrated, not condemned. For the most part, I’d like to think I grew up in a society that was mostly the same.

But that’s where my optimism may be confused for reality – and I don’t think I’m alone.

As Jasper embarks on celebrating the inaugural pride weekend we need not pretend that it’s not met with a little skepticism, confusion and fear.

Why do they need a weekend to celebrate? Why don’t heterosexuals have the same occasion? Why, why, why?

I think these are valid questions. So, I put them to my fellow human sitting across the table from me.

As we shared a beer, we shared the truths and I suddenly realized that:

Not once have I felt that when I walk into a room I need to explain my sexual preferences to anybody.

Not once have I been judged for holding hands with a boy as I wander down the street.

Not once have I needed to hide my true feelings from the rest of the world about who I am.

I can only imagine what it would be like to live the way many gay, lesbian, and transgendered people have.

The old proverb, “before criticizing a man, walk a mile in his shoes” rings in my ears.

I won’t try to imagine what it would feel like to be forced to leave your home, because of who you are – something you cannot change.

Instead, all I can do is offer the support, unconditional and open-armed, from one human to another.

For those who have been ostracized from the community, be it ours or another, we should allow them the opportunity to stand up and be proud of who they are. Moreso, as my friend explained, it helps to ensure that those people still afraid to show their true colours know that they are not alone, and there are people who have been through the same situations and feelings.

Businesses, individuals and the community as a whole, should embrace the GLBTQ community for who they are. Are they questioning your sexual preferences? Why should you question theirs?

The upcoming pride weekend should be a chance for Jasper to forgo the homophobic rationale held by some, and demonstrate to our neighbours that the GLBTQ are more than welcome here too.