Buenos Tardes from San Miguel. I...am...tired. As I can't seem to turn my mind off or even down to a lower level, sleep has not come easily. Fortunately, I can now experience how being in love with where one is and what one is doing can have the power of overcoming one's fatigue. This morning I attended a meeting for the "prometores" or youth counselors in the auditorium here at CASA. Migue and Maggy, the leaders of Colectiva 41 gave a presentation on the project. They discussed the significance behind it's name and then asked the group specific questions about their knowledge of issues regarding LGBT youth and people living with HIV. There were two pieces of poster paper on the wall and they proceeded to write down the thoughts of the students. Themes such as discrimination, stigma, police violence, struggle, fear, taboo, machismo, rejection, lack of information, and public health were all brought up. A question regarding the meaning of homophobia was asked, and skillfully answered by the leaders. I sensed a lot of curiosity and desire to learn on the part of the prometores. They were being educated about a subject that is considered taboo in much of the society and culture in Mexico and they all seemed incredibly open to asking questions. I also felt like I was going to bubble over with my own excitement regarding this incredible project and even though I couldn't understand 99% of the jokes that were exchanged between the prometores and the leaders, I laughed along like a great big nerd because I just wanted to be a part of it. There is A LOT of work to be done and being a part of the genesis phase is...ineffable. I was able to interview Maggy and Migue later, for an article that will appear in The Atencion, the paper for English readers in San Miguel. The leaders spoke of the need for this project, especially the funding. They also talked about what their own personal experiences were and why they were determined to fight for the equal rights of all those that face discrimination. Migue and Maggy are the type of people that will, little by little, help create the change that is so desperately needed on this planet. Why is there a limit as to whom one can love? Why does the freedom to love, to marry, to kiss, to make out with, to make love with, to dry hump, to hold hands with in public, to spoon bites of chocolate mousse over a restaurant table with... reserved for these people waiving over here and denied to these people waiving over there. I realize that these questions have been asked before, and that the reasons for resistance are complicated, but... I still believe this question must be continually put forth to those that resist the freedom to love who you love. Yes, it will take a lot of work to persevere even in the face of the extreme adversity that comes in all different forms. Whether it be homophobic and/or racist slurs or denial of services to one's spouse because their union is not recognized, there might always be a path obscured by obstacles. My admiration is reserved for those that know about and have experienced the obstacles...and continue, with all their heart, beautiful vulnerability, and strength of character.