Two’s company: young & gay at 90-something

by Florentine

This morning, like most mornings, I sat at my desk doing as all conscientious employees do before their first coffee of the day - perusing the internet for cheap, yet tasteful (and entirely legal) thrills.  Simultaneously, I waged the usual battles against an influx of predictably depressing news concerning Pork Flu, Katie Price’s most recent interview blunder and Boris Johnson’s face.

What I couldn’t have predicted however, is that the news equivalent to fluffy white bunnies and candy floss was sitting patiently with it’s legs neatly crossed, awaiting my impending arrival.  Behold fellow news-hating citizens, the heartwarming and inspiring tale of two Florida-based lesbians preparing to celebrate their 70th anniversary together on this here planet, despite a testing lifetime of prejudice, oppression and enforced-secrecy.  Love conquers all?  You bet’cha it does.

Caroline Leto, 96 and Venera Magazzu, 97 finally let out all the secrets of their impressive 7-decade-strong relationship in an interview with the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, during which they affectionately bickered and talked about their struggles as young lovers during the 1940′s and onwards.  “You just couldn’t tell everyone we were lovers” said Leto.  “You tell people we’re friends, and some thought we were sisters”.

It’s hard to imagine having to live such closeted lives now that we are blessed with a great deal more acceptance and recognition than ever before.  But the bravery and determination these women have shown by refusing to waver in the face of societal norms, is an inspring and uplifting tale for us all.  I certainly enjoyed it anyway.

For all those who wish to make their hearts go all warm and sing-songy and squidgy and that, you can read the full article here.