Doors only close if you let them

Sixteen years ago, I met a guy and decided that my life needed to finally move in the direction it was supposed to. I needed to be the man I really was. It was the best decision I ever made.

But in doing so, I closed a door I figured would never be opened again.

I never understood how I could be so paternal if I wasn't going to have kids. It was what I had wished for all my life. People always said I was great with their children. A good friend at that time made me godfather of her son. My favorite line of all came from my friend Karen, "Steve's the only gay man I know who carry on two conversations at a restaurant and still cut my kid's food up."

If that was as close to fatherhood as I could get, so be it. The cards were dealt and who was I to question things.

And then 6 years ago today, the call came. Two wonderful women who had asked us to parent with them, were on the other end of the phone announcing that our son was born.

Regardless if you are at the end of a telephone line or an umbilical cord, to hear you've become a parent is the greatest thing life has to offer.

My son, you constantly amaze me with the things you say and way you think. It scares me to think you trust me enough to be your dad. You should only know how important I take this responsibility. You are the greatest gift I have ever received.

May this year be as happy as the previous five. I hope you be feel challenged, rewarded, exhilarated and loved. I know I do.

Happy Birthday, Corey.