For my second pride parade in a row; I am sans assistant.
But this year, I also have no official contingent to march
with as the Green-Rainbow Party didn’t form one.
I roll through the crowd
of happy, rainbow clad, chatting queers;
looking for my own place to join the march
eager to enjoy a little down time
before I have to put on my seller hat.
But searching yields no immediate place:
Parents with kids – maybe in 5 years,
Students – haven’t been one since I left UMass,
and I certainly don’t ride a motorcycle or dress in drag.
But then I spy a former UCC pastor surrounded by
fellow GLBT folks and allies gathered to march
in this parade and honor God – proclaiming that pride in both
who we love and our faith are not mutually exclusive,
whatever some misguided bigots might say.
I even discover an Open and Affirming,
wheelchair accessible church, close enough for me to
drive my chair to in time for Sunday services.
I breathe deeply
and feel the Lord’s presence.
- Martina Robinson
© Martina Robinson Finding Self IV
