One of my goals for 2009 is to write at least ten essays related to transgender issues. I became somewhat of an activist last year. I was tired of people trashing us. I wasn't about to sit idly by while we are being murdered, denied our rights, and spat upon with hateful vitriole from the religious and social institutions.
I read quite a bit about things which affect us. I have related my experience as a transgender individual on this blog. There are so many stories out there that I would love to glean and comment about. The one criteria I have is to present gender variant people in a positive light. I see how much education of the public is greatly needed.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
GENEVIEVE'S GEMS
Remember those who are lonely. Call them. Visit them. Help them. Above all, tell them that you love them.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Yesterday, I loaded a picture of a lighthouse which you see on the right. I have a small collection of lighthouses from all around the country. The first lighthouse built in America was constructed on Little Brewster Island off the coast of Massachusetts in 1716.
I chose this particular photo over a more genteel scene. This scene may describe what some of us have gone through as gender variant people. Life can toss us around like the rough waves in the photo. The beacon warns seafaring vessels of rock jetties and shallow shoals. That beacon shining out in the dark and rough seas have saved many a vessel from a watery abyss.
God has been a beacon of light for me during those dark times in life. It doesn't have to be gender concerns only. It can be illness, financial difficulties, numerous decisions that have to be made. So many things can swarm around me, threatening to drown me in confusion. When I stop and see that beacon of light in Jesus, I keep my eyes on him until I arrive in safe port.
I can think of the many times when gender confuson threatened to swallow everything dear to me. I'll never forget the day when God confirmed to me so intimately that he accepted me as I am. I have a number of highlights and goals achieved this year, but this by far was tops.
My transgender and gender variant friend, when life is topsy-turvy threatening to drown you, look up! The beacon from the lighthouse is shining, guiding you to safe and calm port.
I chose this particular photo over a more genteel scene. This scene may describe what some of us have gone through as gender variant people. Life can toss us around like the rough waves in the photo. The beacon warns seafaring vessels of rock jetties and shallow shoals. That beacon shining out in the dark and rough seas have saved many a vessel from a watery abyss.
God has been a beacon of light for me during those dark times in life. It doesn't have to be gender concerns only. It can be illness, financial difficulties, numerous decisions that have to be made. So many things can swarm around me, threatening to drown me in confusion. When I stop and see that beacon of light in Jesus, I keep my eyes on him until I arrive in safe port.
I can think of the many times when gender confuson threatened to swallow everything dear to me. I'll never forget the day when God confirmed to me so intimately that he accepted me as I am. I have a number of highlights and goals achieved this year, but this by far was tops.
My transgender and gender variant friend, when life is topsy-turvy threatening to drown you, look up! The beacon from the lighthouse is shining, guiding you to safe and calm port.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Fringe Benefits
I have achieved many of the goals that set this past January. I also acheived some things I never expected. One of those benefits was to realize how intertwined my life is with the whole LGBT community. Five years ago, there was no way I could have envisioned that I would be a part of this diverse community.
During these days of reflection, I realize what things are really important to me. Coming out only three plus years ago, I feel that I have a pulse on many sides of the gender divide. Transgender people have a rich history that's always existed but was either hidden or ignored. I also have spoken out more about the mistreatment transgender people receive from social and religious institutions.
These benefits are something I never sought or thought of. It just was presented to me and I decided to meet the challenges. It been said that crisis can bring out attributes you never knew you possessed. That's certainly been the case with me. I have Native-American ancestry, so it's very possible that a Native-American prophecy is beng fulfilled in my life. I'm not afraid about where my journey will carry me. I just pray that other people will benefit from my example.
I find it odd that society says that we're an abomination and yet we've contributed more to the betterment of humanity than given credit for. It's very possible that we are debunking a lot of myths about gender and sexuality. I've said a lot here in this particular blog but encouragement and love are needed in great supply during this time of year.
During these days of reflection, I realize what things are really important to me. Coming out only three plus years ago, I feel that I have a pulse on many sides of the gender divide. Transgender people have a rich history that's always existed but was either hidden or ignored. I also have spoken out more about the mistreatment transgender people receive from social and religious institutions.
These benefits are something I never sought or thought of. It just was presented to me and I decided to meet the challenges. It been said that crisis can bring out attributes you never knew you possessed. That's certainly been the case with me. I have Native-American ancestry, so it's very possible that a Native-American prophecy is beng fulfilled in my life. I'm not afraid about where my journey will carry me. I just pray that other people will benefit from my example.
I find it odd that society says that we're an abomination and yet we've contributed more to the betterment of humanity than given credit for. It's very possible that we are debunking a lot of myths about gender and sexuality. I've said a lot here in this particular blog but encouragement and love are needed in great supply during this time of year.
Friday, December 12, 2008
GENEVIEVE'S GEMS
Reflection can illuminate the many blessings that have been showered on us.
The holiday season has been a time of reflection for me for fifteen or twenty years now. I remember as a young person I looked forward to receiving gifts, go to parties, and a festive atmosphere. Now I just reflect on what has happened in the past year.
This year I thought quite a bit about my mom. I thought about how I was raised and the lessons that were taught to me and my younger siblings. There's the saying that no one ever really strays away from their roots and that's very true. I realize how my feminine inclinations were formulated. I enjoyed learning fashion and color schemes because I wanted to be coordinated. Some of the chores associated with women I learned to do. Cleaning house, cooking, sewing (a little bit) were chores that never phased me as a male.
I am a transgender individual today and I suspect that I was always trans. This year I was out in public quite a bit. Wearing women's clothing feels natural to me. My parents were not around when I came out as trans but I have no doubt that they would have loved me regardless. My mom respected other people's opinions even if she didn't agree with them. I remember most when she would invite people over to her home who were alone during the holidays. Many times they expressed their deep appreciation for her hospitality. This is what I'll always remember about her.
Upon reflection this is what I wish to emulate; a hospitable and friendly spirit. I think about many of my transgender brothers and sisters who may be lonely or depressed during this time. I pray that they will be reminded that they are special and appreciated. I appreciate all of you who came before me. Most of all, I thank my parents for instilling in me the values that I follow today.
Gennee
The holiday season has been a time of reflection for me for fifteen or twenty years now. I remember as a young person I looked forward to receiving gifts, go to parties, and a festive atmosphere. Now I just reflect on what has happened in the past year.
This year I thought quite a bit about my mom. I thought about how I was raised and the lessons that were taught to me and my younger siblings. There's the saying that no one ever really strays away from their roots and that's very true. I realize how my feminine inclinations were formulated. I enjoyed learning fashion and color schemes because I wanted to be coordinated. Some of the chores associated with women I learned to do. Cleaning house, cooking, sewing (a little bit) were chores that never phased me as a male.
I am a transgender individual today and I suspect that I was always trans. This year I was out in public quite a bit. Wearing women's clothing feels natural to me. My parents were not around when I came out as trans but I have no doubt that they would have loved me regardless. My mom respected other people's opinions even if she didn't agree with them. I remember most when she would invite people over to her home who were alone during the holidays. Many times they expressed their deep appreciation for her hospitality. This is what I'll always remember about her.
Upon reflection this is what I wish to emulate; a hospitable and friendly spirit. I think about many of my transgender brothers and sisters who may be lonely or depressed during this time. I pray that they will be reminded that they are special and appreciated. I appreciate all of you who came before me. Most of all, I thank my parents for instilling in me the values that I follow today.
Gennee
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
RESOURCES
There are many resources available to those of us who are gender varient. Below is a few recommendations of mine which believe are helpful. Some of the sites are already posted on the sidebar. I will add more gradually.
Recommended Books
Transgender History-Susan Stryker
Gender Outlaw-Kate Bornstein
Transgender Warrior-Leslie Feinberg
Recommend Sites
www.lauras-playground.com a wealth of information about all things transgender.
www.crossdressers.com - some wonderful info here.
www.crossdresserclub.com
www.transgendershopping.com
Recommended Books
Transgender History-Susan Stryker
Gender Outlaw-Kate Bornstein
Transgender Warrior-Leslie Feinberg
Recommend Sites
www.lauras-playground.com a wealth of information about all things transgender.
www.crossdressers.com - some wonderful info here.
www.crossdresserclub.com
www.transgendershopping.com
Friday, December 05, 2008
Monday, December 01, 2008
WORLD AIDS DAY
Today is World Aids Day. There will be memorials to those lost to the disease. It affects every strata of society. Gay, lesbian, bi, transgender, and heterosexual. You don't hear much about how AIDS affects transgender people but the rates of infection are worse than in the gay and lesbian populace.
In the past year, I have been moved from indifference to great concern. I have read much about people who lives are affected by AIDS. What really grabbed me was that the grieving process can still go on many years after the individual's passing. How anyone can spew out hatred towards those afflicted is cruel and callous.
I salute those who are on the front lines and working behind the scenes to find a cure. As I am writing this blog at this very moment, strong feelings of sorrow are ruminating within my spirit. I've never lost anyone to AIDS but I do feel for those who have.
In the past year, I have been moved from indifference to great concern. I have read much about people who lives are affected by AIDS. What really grabbed me was that the grieving process can still go on many years after the individual's passing. How anyone can spew out hatred towards those afflicted is cruel and callous.
I salute those who are on the front lines and working behind the scenes to find a cure. As I am writing this blog at this very moment, strong feelings of sorrow are ruminating within my spirit. I've never lost anyone to AIDS but I do feel for those who have.
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