Tuesday night I drove down Portola and was treated to a panoramic of San Francisco. I had a physical reaction, a response in my gut as I took in the view. I love this city. It is the place that I struggled with and explored and eventually lived in while figuring out who the hell I am. I dated dozens of men while single in this city and eventually met my partner. I birthed a baby in this city. The relationship I have with San Francisco is one I don’t question; it will be with me for the rest of my life. It’s a love or love deal for me, there hasn’t been any hate in 17 years. There is some aggravation at what I see as growing pains, and at people who may be less susceptible to absorbing the beautiful soul of the City by the Bay. I feel confident that with its extremes, San Francisco will shake loose those who are skimming the surface, who are here for reasons that aren’t in keeping with the backbone of this town.