FROM ROB: Introducing Our "People We Love"

The past year has been momentous — for gay rights, as we welcomed nationwide marriage equality, and for Metrosource, as we’ve celebrated our 25th year. But as I look back at these milestones, I can’t help but think of what made it a year to remember for me personally, as well.

For the first time that I can recall, I felt really comfortable walking down the street holding hands with my partner, Willie. After the announcement that the Supreme Court had ruled in favor of gay marriage, we headed, hand-in-hand, to NYC’s Stonewall Inn — the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement — to join the celebration. I generally find public displays of affection rather odd — even though they seem to be a non-issue for so many people nowadays. But even though it’s something I don’t normally do, I felt caught up in the euphoria of the moment; the feeling reminded me of the night that President Obama was first elected president.

Metrosource continues to make me proud, as well. Even as the world changes, I believe the magazine is still as relevant today as it was 25 years ago. We’ve continued to provide our readership a valuable service: creating something that unites us and gives our community a voice. It’s a platform from which we can speak to an audience of like-minded people — offering them an opportunity to celebrate what we have in common and a chance to support those people and businesses who share our values.

Of course, I also think of what this year has meant for my friends and family — in particular, my mom. At the beginning of the year, she had knee replacement surgery, and this December, she’ll have the other knee replaced as well. Though she’s always been strong, active and with a positive outlook, seeing her go through these procedures reminds me that the people we love — our family and friends — are not invincible.

Perhaps the most important lesson I’ve learned in the past year is to focus on what’s important (for me, it’s people such as my partner, employees and family) and to not sweat the small stuff.

By Rob Davis