It's interesting to note that those who are not, themselves, in a committed relationship seem to be under the impression that couples who are, are constantly going at it like hyperactive rabbits. [I believe this stems from their own rich fantasy lives.]

The same-sex couple whom I have known the longest, and who have been together the longest—somewhat over thirty years (despite the fact that society and the law does not recognize their commitment to each other)—are as stable and monogamous as any heterosexual couple I am aware of. They each have their own professions and activities, but like any married couple, they do most things together, including taking a yearly extended vacation to England (where one of them is invited year after year to come and give lectures on theater arts—stage and costume design).

They are as devoted to each other as any heterosexual couple could ever be. And interesting enough—for those whose primary focus seems to be on the more prurient aspects of interpersonal relationships—one of the fellows mentioned to Barbara (he and Barbara were old friends, having known each other since high school) that he and his partner had been quite active sexually at first, but they have not had intimate relations for years. They are together, not for the sex, but because they love each other.

The same holds true for the same-sex couple who often join us for holiday celebrations.

For those who don't know, there is more to love that just having sex.

You might have that made into a sampler and hang it on your wall as a reminder.

People make a lot of assumptions based on their own vivid imaginations, and then, on that basis, want to dictate to others how they should or should not live.

Don Firth