Being different makes it more difficult to resolve internal conflicts when the general population has not understood who we are.  Now that they are learning more that we live like they do and are not a threat to them as once believed, most of the population are accepting us and supporting equality for us.    This makes us feel that we are a normal part of our society and we can move on and achieve our dreams.  My lifetime partner of 54 years, married almost 12 years, are now both retired and living the American dream.  we had a 50th anniversary party and our friends, gay and straight, married and single, claimed it was one of the best parties and the food was terrific!