More states are allowing same-sex marriages, but most do not. As a result, there remain significant differences in the rights of gay and lesbian couples who enter into a marriage or a domestic partnership from those afforded to “traditional” marriages.

LGBT couples have options to protect assets when considering either a domestic partnership or marriage, and prenuptial agreements are more common these days for both straight and same-sex couples. This is because people are waiting longer to form a serious relationship, thus each has accumulated significant assets.

Several summers ago I went to a local ski resort (yes, in the summer) where I took my mountain bike up the ski lift to the top. It was a beautiful view with a bright clear sky, wind blowing on my face and nature surrounding me. It was breathtaking.

When I first stood there looking down the steep mountain, I was nervous about my novice biking skills, but I was up for a good challenge.

A new study suggests more emotional benefits to coming out as lesbian, gay or bisexual than previously thought, but only if there is a supportive environment.

The study is published in the journal Social Psychology and Personality Science.

Researchers say the finding underscores the importance of creating workplaces and other social settings that are accepting of all people, but especially gay, lesbian or bisexual individuals, said psychologist and coauthor Dr. Richard Ryan of the University of Rochester.

Editor's Note: This column originally ran in January of 2010, but due to the timeliness of the topic, we decided to run it again. Enjoy.

It started with a flirt, a simple flirt.

This harmless friendship crossed the line; flirtatious text messages, anticipation for the next contact, or simply a shoulder to cry on when things weren’t going right in your relationship.