I didn't realize how fortunate I was on Cruise II until sitting through presentations by Grethe Cammermeyer, Diane at her side, General Smith, and her wife at her side, and the vibrant Ms Edie Windsor. My knowledge level of Dont ask dont Tell, as well as Doma and the upcoming March 27th 2013 arguments to the Supreme Court will be high on my radar for follow up. (detail: Ms Windsor will argue to the Supreme Court next month, with an expected date for an answer by this summer 2013). This is such an interesting and important story for all LGBT persons).
As well, Billie Jean King was informative from a humanitarian and transformational standpoint. Ms King talked about her life for about 45 minutes, her youth, and her desire to improve this world we live in. She has been so instrumental, not only in tennis, but more over regarding equal rights, than probably any lesbian this century. She was stellar, and so engaging, IMO. I gained an understanding of her life motivations, and her desire to see all of us lesbian's take up the torch for human rights. No goal is too big for us to tackle. As stated in the Q&A, Ms King feels the biggest and most important human rights cause for the 21Century is Equal Rights for the LGBT persons in this country.
After the presentation, I was fortunate to get digital pics of numerous of the presenters from both days. I stood next to Edie as she grasped a piece of bread at the buffet later, and I stood in line near Col Cammermeyer and Diane FLL to drop bags with the Delta sky cap. Just being near these wonderfully giving persons has given me a new lease on life. As well, there was a spiritual song by Meg Christian, that spoke to me in many ways. My blessings during Cruise II were many, they will last with me, and have inspired me to act in some beautiful endeavors. And to think, I signed up only four weeks advance, without knowing about any of this, is phenomenal. Sandy