From a Mother
by Nancy Rodriguez

Paul grew up in Warner Robins, Georgia, a small town 100 miles south of Atlanta where we still live. He was an Eagle Scout and played the clarinet in the school band and the church choir. He graduated with honors, 15th in a class of 469. He paid his own way through college by working two jobs. He graduated from Texas A&M with a degree in finance. Before he was brutally murdered, Paul was working with Nations Bank—Bank of America, specializing in retirement accounts. Paul was a cheerful and outgoing young man with hopes and dreams. Everyone who knew him liked and respected him. He was a very good son and I was very proud of him. We all miss him terribly.

I am saddened at the thought of a family/school atmosphere that might ignore or condone gay bashing, whether it be verbal or physical. We have to start somewhere teaching our children to value people and life. That it is not acceptable to use language like fag, queer, fairy. If Paul’s story has touched the life of even one young person and made them stop and think about their actions, then maybe his death will not have been in vain. We should all accept people for who they are and be more open to diversity. I encourage everyone to get in touch with PFLAG [Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays]. This organization educates others about gay and lesbian issues, and all of us need to learn and grow.

The 10 young men who murdered Paul received sentences ranging from probation to 45 years in prison. I, like the rest of my family, received a life sentence. I am a firm believer in "truth in sentencing" and will continue to be involved in all parole hearings. I will always cherish my memories of Paul, and no one can change or take that away.