I grew up a country boy and fled to the city. I reveled in gay life in Berlin, Manhattan, and Montreal.

Currently, I’m sitting on my rural front porch on the fringes of a village of under 400 people.

I shop at the feed store and the Tractor Supply. So much of what you write strikes home with me. I’ve always been torn between the urban and the rural. I don’t seem to be able to live without both.

In consequence, I face a constant give and take. Some things are better in the country, some things are better in the city.

But truly, sitting down and telling our stories has to be crucial.