When I first heard of this story I wasn’t sure what to think.

According to statesman.com, Mayor J. W. Lown – seen as a rising political star in the Republican party – resigned on the day he was to enter his fourth term as an openly gay mayor of a small West Texas town. He left his life and his career to live with his lover – a native of Mexico.

The plight of Lown and his immigrant boyfriend is one that being felt by thousands of cross-border gay couples right now: same-sex couples can’t secure green cards for partners and are left with the decision of splitting up or facing immigration authorities.

Lown chose to pack up and go south of the border. While any bleeding heart will be touched by this valiant gesture worthy of a Julia Robert’s screenplay, I’m on the fence about this one.

I know what it’s like to live in West Texas – the desolation, the almost non-existent dating pool for gay men – why do you think I moved to Austin?! So I can understand Lown’s decision to leave his life for a love – but here’s the thorn in this rose of a story. Lown and his boyfriend – whom he refuses to identify – have been dating for 2 MONTHS!

I can’t understand how a man with a budding career can throw it away for a man he’s known for such a short time. Don’t say I’m just not romantic. I am – ask my boyfriend – I get an A in that class.

I just have a tough time understanding the logic behind throwing away the kind of acceptance this 32-year-old politician gained. Maybe in his age is the key to his decision – Lown is young….and in love.

As a protective older brother, I wish he would have thought this out. As a man who cries at Julia Robert’s movies I do wish them both good luck in their life together.

Read the full story on San Angelo’s Gay Mayor in Mexico at Advocate.com