GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

It takes courage to admit when one is wrong.

Internet Back On

After more than a year I finally have my own internet. I've been using the library computers and there are days that I don't feel like leaving the house. I hope to post more and read more. 

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

How can someone tell me what I should be when they don't even know anything about me?

Transgender Day Of Remembrance

Last night, I attended the Transgender Day of Remembrance ceremonies at the community center. Well over 100 people attended. There were speakers with some interesting stories about how the work they are doing to end transphobia. It was both somber and yet encouraging to hear so many stories of struggle, discovery, and victory.

A transwoman named M* shared her story about her unhappy life as a male and is now transitioning. M* shared the story of her friend Venus, who was murdered 20 years ago. Venus was instrumental in M* deciding to transition. A transman shared his story of being attacked and seriously injured. I took many of these stories to heart because there's such a long way to go.
I spoke a few words to the audience about my coming out at my place of worship and my family's acceptance. I encouraged them to be themselves. Afterwards, a number of folks thanked me for the words that I spoke. I was invited to speak at one place and the possibility of a portrait of me and my wife from someone else.
I felt this was the best TDOR I've attended because the resolve and determination of folks to fight against transphobia and discriminnation was definitely there.

Thanksgiving Dinner

Today, Thanksgiving dinner will be served to those in need at church. My wife and I will be helping out. There are many folks in need in the neighborhood and we do whatever we can to help. 

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

The fight for equality requires knowledge, information,determination, and perseverance.

Documentary

This past Saturday evening, I watched DVD named Out Of The Box. It is the stories of transgender people of faith. Interviewed were a cross dresser, two trans women, and a trans man. Each shared their stories of discovery, struggle, transition,  loss, and redemption. Each individual is now serving in the ministry. It was a positive story to show that transgender people have a vital part in God's kingdom and work.

Afterwards Vivian, a transgender woman, shared her own story. I was fascinated how she broke the news to her family. During refreshments, we talked for fifteen minutes or so,sharing our desire to affect the spiritual community that transgender people are God's people also.  

Coming Out Later in Life

I have been reading the stories of folks who discovered later in life that their sexuality or gender expression were different. Many of the people who commented discovered in their thirties, forties, fities, and even sixties. I was in my mid fifties when I discovered that I love wearing women's clothing.

I took note that not everyone knows that they're gay when they are children. A woman could discover that she attracted to women when she married. A man or woman may realize that they would be much happier as the other gender. Circumstances varied with each person but the results were life changing. What I see is the evolution of each person into their authentic and true identities. When they embraced it, they were much happier and complete.

I came out as a crossdresser then later saw that my feelings ran deeper than clothing. When I researched about my my concerns, that's when I discovered that I  was transgender. From time to time, my gender identity undergoes a shift. I have no desire to fully transition but I haven't closed the door to it. Some may think that I missed out on a lot by coming out late. I just believe that it was the right time for me to coming out in the world.

It's been over seven years since I came out as Gennee. This year I came out to more people. I will be coming out to more people in the future. 

Survived Hurricane Sandy

I survived Hurricane Sandy. Where I live, there was only some downed trees, a little flooding, and a few power outages. My residence is on a hill so was spared much of the flooding. Some other neighborhoods were really devastated. I used to live in Coney Island and was born in Staten Island so I know how vulnerable these places are. New Jersey was really decimated.

I thought the news coverage was spotty in that they showed the same pictures over and over. Also the poor areas and the projects were virtually neglected.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Discontent is the first step in the progress of a man or a nation.


~Chinese proverb