IN THE BEGINING Oct 2009 - As gay men in KY, there is a certain discretion that must accompany a romantic encounter. It is unfortunate, but necessary. With more time comes less need of that discretion. But during that period, a social website made for romance was the best way to flirt with a man, confident that he would flirt back. One man (an attractive Michael Phelps) seemed to be a fairy tale with a famous name. A mutual meeting was arranged on MSU's campus. One that would have caution on one end and nervousness on the other. Once acquainted, differences between the two would create intrigue for years to come, keeping the conversation going to this day. THE MIDDLE 1. Fight. Anger. Yell. Poor. Homeless. Breaks. Move. Silence. Sadness. Jealous. 2. Apologize. Talk. A job. Family. Another job. Try. Grow. Try again. Another freaking job. 3. Explore. Work. Loss. Gain. Trust. Hugs. Cat. Dog. Dates. Adult. Spend. Save. House. TOGETHER. We have learned many things in 10 years.. One loves purple, and the other hates it for no reason. One hates "sportsball" but the other religiously cheers for his team. One makes sure that the others purple shirt is clean for tomorrow. The other makes sure that the Patriots games can be watched, someway, without cable. We do it together. We don’t give up. We do it for each other. We have made that promise to one another for 10 years. It is now time to make our promise out loud, before all of those we love. Our promise to love and help, push not shove. NOT THE END.