A Story with a Happy Ending

With all the negative talk in the world about one thing or another, I thought I’d post a story about something very positive; just being yourself.

A few months ago, during a debate over whether government workers should get benefits for same-sex partners, Passaic County Sheriff’s Department Detective Cpl. Douglas Laverty revealed that he is gay -- something he had kept secret from even close friends. [...]

In July, when New Jersey’s domestic partnership law went into effect, Laverty began wondering whether the policy extending benefits to same-sex couples would extend to the county level. He has been in a committed gay relationship for three years, and refers to his partner of three years, James Roche, as his spouse and husband.

Laverty asked for a meeting with Passaic County Sheriff Jerry Speziale, telling the sheriff’s aide only that he wanted to discuss a personal matter. The sheriff didn’t flinch when Laverty said he was gay, and immediately put him in contact with county freeholders to discuss the possibility of granting same-sex benefits. (That hasn’t happened yet.)

Soon, a newspaper got wind of his inquiries and profiled him in a front-page article. The night before it was to be published, Laverty couldn't sleep, fearing what he might have gotten himself into.

When he got to work the next day, his desk was filled with cards and notes -- all offering support. (source)