GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Just because something has never been achieved does not mean that it cannot.

Remembering Our History

My own personal theme for this pride month is to remember those who came before us. After reading the stories of the many of the pioneers of transgender and gay movements, I am heartened by their steadfastness, courage, and determination. Three people who really inspire me are Miss Major, Marsha P. Johnson, and Sylvia Rivera. 
I am presently making up a portfolio of their lives because I hope to share it with members of my church. 


I recently read about Dewey Lunch Counter Sit In of 1965. African American transgender people spoke out and prevailed a full four years before the Stonewall event in New York and a year before the Compton Cafeteria Riot in San Francisco.  To say that we have no history is tantamount to saying that we never existed. This I will NOT take lying down.


As we celebrate our pride, take time to think of those who stood up in the face of hate, violence, and suffering and said Enough! 

Touched By Angels

      I attended two memorial services this weekend. On Saturday we celebrated the life of

my friend, Bruce Gerig, a man who came into my life shortly after I came out. He made me feel welcome when I first came to the bible studies at the community center. He was generous, bigger than life, knowledgeable about many subjects, and had an infectious laugh that warmed up a room. What I remember most about Bruce was how comfortable he was with himself as a gay man. It helped me to be comfortable with myself as a transgender person.

     On Sunday I attended a second memorial for a woman affectionately known as “Rookie”. I never met or knew her but I felt that I did. She was helpful and used what talents she had to the utmost. Rookie had been a greeter in church. I remarked to someone that I believe that Rookie paved the way for my wife and me when we arrived last fall. We felt welcome and comfortable.

     I am reminded that life is full of seasons. Seasons gradually come, stay awhile, and then gradually leave. Seasons can last moments or years. People come into our lives at particular times. Our lives can be seasons for other folks. We may never realize the affect they have or the impressions we make but it does happen.

     Bruce demonstrated warmth and realness. He demonstrated to me that I should be comfortable with myself. Rookie encourages me to use whatever talent I have to the fullest. These two wonderful people touched lives in ways that we will always cherish.

Bruce, Rookie, thank you for coming into and enriching our lives.  

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Being authentic takes courage.

Coming Out As Gennee In My House Of Faith

This month has been blessed and my spouse has been a part of it. I mentioned a couple of posts back that she attended service with me when I was Gennee. We have gone three times since.

Last Friday, we attended a gathering where other churches in our denomination came to our place. It was wonderful chatting with other LGBTQ folks about our experiences and lives. This past Sunday it was service and honoring the graduates. On Monday we went to film viewing in which the director of child ministry, his wife, and son were in. the DVD is called 'An Ordinary Family'. I'm going to purchase the DVD. I recommend it to churches and schools because more of these institutions are dealing with this issue.

Some folk were asking my wife where I was because we are usually together. She just pointed to me. They were so surprised! They didn't recognize me. I received a number of compliments, also. I was accepted and embraced by them. It has been a wonderful time for us.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Either everybody is equal or nobody is equal.

Wife Attended Church With Me

Yesterday, a milestone was achieved. My spouse and I went to our place of worship with me dressed as Gennee. I was very calm and relaxed. as we entered the church. We attended the adult education class where a few people didn't recognize me until I told them. They were so surpirised. Once again Louise revealed that she has accepted in my transgender identity.
Sunday was also the beginning of our new LGBTQI ministry. After service there was a luncheon to kick the event off. I received a number of compliments from other worshipers. This was something that I hoped and prayed for-to attend church with my wife as Gennee. Another Milestone was reached as I strolled with Louise through my neighborhood. Louise would never go with me when I was dressed but she did on Sunday. I'm so thrilled and look forward to doing more things as Gennee.