Relationships between fathers and their gay sons can often be difficult. Today, Nerve publishes an essay by Michael Joseph Gross (author of Starstruck) in which he discusses how role-playing comes into our daily lives and the role it plays in creating harmonies between gay and straight life, between father and gay son. It's also a touching reminder of how attempting to understand the world through someone else's eyes can make a world of difference.

While defending a lawsuit in New York state banning gay unions, gubernatorial candidate Eliot Spitzer signs on to endorse gay marriage. Spokeswoman: “Eliot is personally in favor of gay marriage but believes that the state law right now doesn't permit it. In his current capacity as the state's lawyer, there's no conflict with defending that claim in court.”

New California poll shows growing acceptance and tolerance of homosexuality. Experts say visibility is key: “What's driving that attitude change is that more and more Californians say they personally know someone who is gay or lesbian.”