The landmark, bipartisan, and congressional action I witnessed the president sign last week may prove to be the tipping point when it comes to gay rights in America. A sense of optimism and hope was truly palpable among the several hundred at the signing ceremony. My gut told me it was genuine. As proof, I was able to look into the eyes of and speak directly to the president, vice president, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, Adm. Michael Mullen, Sen. Susan Collins and Rep. Barney Frank. Rather amazing they made themselves available. Convening on that bitterly cold morning of Dec. 22 was...