I've enjoyed one-on-one time with straight and gay friends hundreds of times over the years--business lunches, runs, hikes, rides. On various Utah mountains I've gained more than altitude. I've seen the world around and below me in greater perspective, and sometimes, particularly with lyrics like these in my earbuds, I've wished that I could tell a few of those close friends how much they mean to me, without confessing that, "Yeah, I've got Judy Garland and Rufus Wainwright concerts on the iPod."
Alone together, beyond the crowd
Above the world
We're not too proud to cling together
We're strong as long as we're together
But then I end up using straight-guy language. The unambiguous language of actions not words. Saying "I like you" with invitations accepted or invitations offered. Saying "I choose to be with you," by showing up and making our way to higher ground together.
Nothing like a great hike into the mountains to lift the spirits and expand the view. Nothing like sharing a great hike into the mountains with a friend to "cling together" and bind together. :)
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