Remembering My Awesome Kid Brother

My brother Sean and his friend Jeff, also gone. © Jesse Miller

A year ago today my 18-year old little brother Sean died of an accidental drug overdose. I'd like to remember him here because he was such a loving, sensitive kid, and because he was definitely down with the gays. Though he was undoubtebly unique, I also imagined him to be part of a generation of kids who are refreshingly compassionate and accepting.

Sean was straight but he looked like really tempting jailbait to guys, and that didn't seem to bother him a bit. He was also uncommonly affectionate with all his friends, boys and girls. Nor did he mind when I publicly compared him to The L-Word's Shane. Maybe having two older lesbian sisters helped, or maybe he was just naturally wonderful, or maybe the youngins are better-adjusted nowadays in matters of affectional and sexual expression. If more dudes like my brother managed to make it through the perils of adolescence, the gays wouldn't have much to worry about anymore. So, thanks to all the people who teach and mentor the kids, and if you've got sibs you love make sure to tell them so.