Brett Jones.JPG

Brett Jones

We first

when he talked about his new book "Pride: The Story of the First Openly Gay Navy Seal."

Jones, who lives in Huntsville with his husband, has been traveling around speaking about his military experiences and his life as a gay man in the deep South.

In May, he will be the speaker at the American Military Partner Association's second annual National Gala in Washington, D.C. AMPA is the nation's largest organization for the partners, spouses, and families of the country's LGBT service members.

So that catches you up with what Jones has been doing. That doesn't mean he hasn't been paying attention to what is going on in Alabama, however, especially in the wake of a judicial ruling that cleared the way for same-sex unions in the state. That was followed by statements from Chief Justice Roy Moore telling state probate judges not to issue the licenses.

That left many people in a state of limbo as some judges issued marriage licenses and other didn't.

What does Jones think of that situation? He shares that here:

"I see it for what it is. (Moore) is the bully on the playground. Like all bullies that I have ever come across in my life, there are ways to deal with them, and ways not to.

Bullies like feeling powerful; they gain that power from intimidation and the validation from it. They do not like seeing any success other than their own. They believe their skills and abilities are superior to others. Statistically, people like this usually suffer from some type of personality or mental health disorder.

The key to dealing with bullies is to not allow yourself to become emotionally involved. I know this can be difficult, especially when it is your family that is being threatened, but you must try and focus on winning the marathon versus the race.

Do not expect to change a Roy. That level of change requires people to do some really hard work. Unfortunately, his history has shown that he is probably not up for that challenge. With that being said, our family will continue to pray for him.

Be better than him. His actions will seem more justified to those who would subjugate you if we lower ourselves. It is incredibly important to show restraint in this matter.

Most importantly, know there is nothing wrong with you or your beliefs. Do not allow him or those like him to steal your self-assurance. Remember this is not about you. This is about a bully."