Aww, thank you very much!!!
I don't want this thread to be about regional differences at all, however towards GBJoker's comments - that is too bad you've had this experience, especially noticing you're from St. Louis which is now where I'm living. I've only just recently moved here, and while I really don't care for the area, I have been well embraced by the LGBTQ community here. I feel like the LGBTQ community here has been much more open and positive than the rest of the St. Louis community.
Like I said early, this weekend is pride weekend for us here. It'll be my first time really taking an active participation, and I'm really excited. Even though pride is for the LGBTQ community, I feel like Pride can and does have a greater impact as just an equal rights for all of humanity. It's a movement for love and respect for one another. That is what I'm really excited for!