Kjeungskjaer Lighthouse

This the first time I have featured a lighthouse in Scandanavia. I was fascinated by this red brick structure located on a small island which, at high tide, reveals only the lighthouse. It was built in 1880 and automated in 1987.

www.lighthousesofnorway.com

A Clean Slate

One aspect of ending the year is letting go of the things that didn't go well. I was asked the question what I wanted to let go of from 2013 and want to do in 2014. I was letting go of all the negative influences. Letting go of negative people, thoughts, and activities will release me from all the negative energy that can stop me from accomplishing my goals. 

For 2014, I want to speak out more about issues that concern me. The Gender Employment Non-Discrimination Act is one issue that's dear to me. Here in New York State transgender employees can be denied employment or be fired from their jobs just because they are transgender. I have other concerns but this one is really important to me. 

I look at the new year as beginning with a clean slate. It's the chance to start over and achieve those goals we never accomplished or forgot. Think positive! You can do it.

Genevieve's Gems

Always be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself, do not go out and look for a successful personality and duplicate it.

~Bruce Lee, actor (1940-1973)

2013

I will say that 2013 went by very, very fast. Much has happened for me, personally. I was out more than ever enjoying life. My wife accepts me 100% as transgender. I never danced so much in my life as I went a couple of parties, a wedding reception and my first prom.  

I am happy about the many achievements accomplished in the trans community. I will list some in a future post. The increased visibility has had helped people see that we are human and deserve respect and dignity. At the same time, those who seek to erase us from existence have increased their attacks on us. I attended Transgender Day of Remembrance last month and still remember the evening as if it was yesterday. It renewed my commitment to see the Gender Employment Non-Discrimination Act become law here in New York State.

As 2014 comes upon me, I will continue to educate people about our role in the Stonewall Riots in 1969 and other events. I have a degree in education and always believe that I would not teach in a conventional way. May be this is what my calling is.

History Lessons

I find myself having to give history lessons about the role transgender people played in the 1969 Stonewall Riots. There are powerful forces who want  to erase our participation in these events. I've taken it upon myself not to let that happen.

Transgender people were front and center in the beginning. People like Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera and Miss Major stood in the face of way police batons. Yes, we were there. Thought transgender people were pushed to the margins no one can deny our participation. I taken the task of gathering information about transgender people of color and their participation in many of the social topics throughout history.

Point Robinson Lighthouse

The 38 foot structure is located on Puget Sound in Washington state on the easternmost part of Maury Island. I love the view of the mountain in the above photo.

Genevieve's Gems

We are more frightened than hurt, and we suffer more from imagination than from reality.


~Lucius Annaeus Seneca, Roman Statesman (5BC-65AD)

Goals For 2014

It will shortly be time to set goals for 2014. I have accomplished some goals this year, some others haven't been met. Just have to get at it and try again. I will let you know what they are when I have them.

Many Reasons Transgender Rights Are Behind In The Equality Race

I was reading an article about how transgender rights is twenty years behind gays and lesbians rights. What the article neglected to say is why. Well, I'll highlight a few.

At the Stonewall Riots in 1969, it was transgender people and drag queens who stood fat the police. Later, when the leadership positions were secured by predominant middle class, white gay males, transgender people were shunted to the margins. Why? We didn't look 'presentable'. It was feared that we would hurt the movement for equality. To this day I fail to see how. 

Many gay and lesbian groups threw up roadblocks so we could not join their organizations. Trans people had a difficult time during seventies and eighties getting the resources that they needed. In my mind, groups like TERF and people lie Janice Raymond are complicit in the deaths and suicides of transgender and gender variant people. Strong words from me but I stand by them.

I find even more disturbing is that our history(and especially people of color) is being whitewashed and erased regarding our involvement in Stonewall and other movements. I'm proud of my trans history and we should be. I'll be damned if that's going to happen. 

 

In the drive for marriage equality, transgender rights were either ignored or 'conveniently forgotten' in the euphoria of the passage of marriage equality. That was the case in New York State in 2010. 

Lastly, social and religious institution haven't been receptive to the idea of transgender rights. Misinformation, lies, and fear rule the day. 

One thing I don't want to hear is that we were never involved in the fight for equality and respect. At Stonewall transgender people were front and center while many gays slinked back in the shadows. 

This is a very touchy subject with me because it didn't have to happen. It's true that many lives have been affected from without; however just as many were affected from within. That, I find disturbing.

Shared My Transformation At Church Coffee Hour

I was sharing my transformation with three ladies at church who I know rather well. One of them has a friend who is trans. I was able to share more of my experience with them. When asked if I was happier, I replied in the affirmative.

Genevieve's Gems

Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.

~Booker T. Washington, educator (1856-1915)

Congratulations To Shreveport, Louisiana

Shreveport, Louisiana is the second city in the pelican state to implement protections for TGLB people. It joins New Orleans as the only two cities in Louisiana to have such protections. Congratulations, Shreveport!

How about it, New York State! GENDA has been on the docket for over a decade now. Time to quit the politics and pass this act.    

Two Transgender Women Murdered In Cleveland

Two transgender women were killed in Cleveland, Ohio in two consecutive days. Betty Skinner, a 52 year old disabled woman, was found dead in her apartment with head injuries. The next day Brittany Stergis, 22, was found in her car dead from a gunshot wound to the head. There have been no arrests in either case. The news media, as usual, mispronounced the victims' name, referring to their male names instead of their female names.

I understand the fear and concern of the Cleveland transgender community. If anyone has any information, please call the local authorities.  

Genevieve's Gems

Sometimes our light goes out but is blown into flame by another human being. Each of us owes deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this light. 

                                                                         ~Albert Schweitzer

Reflection

Transgender Day Of Remembrance was two weeks ago and I'm still thinking about it. It's part of my time of reflection which occurs during this time of year. I'm thankful for many things; family, friends, a roof over my head, health. I'm thankful for being a transgender woman.

Ever year there's progress as transgender people are stepping up and stepping out and working to secure the equality that is rightfully ours. There is much opposition in the form of vitriol, ridicule, misinformation, violence and death. Still we march on, we must continue moving forward. No matter what has been thrown up against us we move forward.

As we reflect this holiday season, let's be grateful for who we are. I'm thankful to be living in a time when many trans people are living authentically. Though change has been slow but it's happening. That, I'm thankful for.

Christmas Season

I have been battling high blood pressure the past couple of days. The sudden change in weather (cold to warm) didn't help. I feel better to day than I did yesterday. I'm taking it slow and if it doesn't get better then I'll see the doctor.

I attended a seminar of Rich Dad. I've attended in the past and today decided to take the will taking 3 day seminar in January in real estate investing. It looks interesting and I'm excited about it. I trust that your Thanksgiving was a joyous one. Now it's Christmas season. My granddaughter already told me what she wants. Too bad my pockets aren't unlimited. 

Genevieve's Gems

When you rise in the morning, give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength. Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason to give thanks, the fault lies in yourself.



~Tecumseh (1768-1813)

Thankful

Thanksgiving is upon us again. Yesterday at church my wife and I volunteered feeding folks who were hungry. This is the second year we've done this. I pray that they felt God's love.

This time of year I reflect on the year passed. I'm thankful for being alive to see others being blessed. I'm thankful for being in my right mind and for having a roof over my head. I'm thankful that my wife and I can help others experience the joy of this season.

TDOR-It is Still Relevant

As you notice, I haven't posted here in several days. I wasn't feeling well, my sister was admitted into the hospital and found out that she had pneumonia. She home now and has a home aid to help out.

I did attend Transgender Day of Remembrance this past Wednesday. There were speakers, testimonies, and conversation. There were candles lit in remembrance of those we lost. I was moved by the testimony of a man who was taught many things by a transgender woman. The woman committed suicide. He paid his respects, thanking her for making a difference in his life. I hugged him before I went on. After the event, I saw him sitting on a bench in the hallway. I encouraged hi to stay strong. I told him that she will always be in his heart. 

I met a young cross dresser in the beginning stages of her transition. Elsie was happy to have come because she saw the many expressions of gender. I have been attending these events for the past eight years. Time has seen much progress but there's still a long way to go. It still hurts that so many are lost to violence and suicide. I said a few words encouraging every one to stay the course. People have taken notice that we mean business. 

Speaking On Wednesday At Day of Remembrance

I will be Transgender Day of Remembrance services on Wednesday. I do so every year. I'm thinking about what I will say because so much has happened in the past year. I've dedicated the year to Islan Nettles, a 21 year old transgender woman of color who was murdered about a mile from my residence.

It is important that transgender people stay vigilent. Our enemies have ramped up their efforts to deny us equality and we must continue our efforts not to let them keep us from having the same protections and rights they enjoy.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

From the equality of rights springs identity of our highest interests; you cannot subvert your neighbor's rights without striking a dangerous blow at your own.

~Carl Schurz

Windward Point Light (Faro Punta Barloventa)

This 60 foot tall structure was built in the U.S. in 1904, then shipped to Guantanamo Bay in Cuba. It remained here until 1955 when it was decommissioned. It is currently at the Coast Guard museum, where it is in serious disrepair.


www.unc.edu~rowlett/lighthouse  

Veteran's Day

As a veteran, I am reminded of what my service to the country was. It is something that I am proud of. It also bring to mind the one million homeless veterans around the country. This is a national disgrace. The VA isn't doing anything for these men and women and the politicians still keep beating the drums for war.
 
On this day we pay homage to the men and women who served. Regardless of your own beliefs and persuasion, you are to be honored and cheered.

HAPPY VETERANS DAY!

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

No struggle can ever succeed without women participating side by side with men.

~Muhammad Ali Jinnah

Those Folks Who Are In Denial

I'm feeling much better today after a bout with high blood pressure.

Over the past few days I have thought about men and women who are in denial about who they are. I'm sure there are some who want to live their authentic selves but for one reason or another do not or cannot.  I can understand why some don't come out. There are those folks who need to come clean for their on sake. I was in denial for several weeks before I came out as a cross dresser. It was a very stressful time but when I made the decision to live authentically all that stress and tension dissipated.

Denial can cause friction within the family, among coworkers, friends, and colleagues. The worst is when some politicians and high positioned folks deny TGLB people their rights, then we find out that they are struggling with the same issues. Coming out is a personal decision and I cringe when I hear some people and group who try to out those folks who haven't come out. The common reasoning I hear is that if they came out they could be an example to young people. People are more influenced by those people around them rather than some celebrity.  

In conclusion, if you have come to the decision to reveal your true identity, do it. Denial is like being on a torture rack. I understand that some cannot reveal themselves and I pray that one day you can.

Coney Island Lighthouse

I remember hearing the foghorn and bell on foggy nights from the Coney Island (Norton's Point) Lighthouse when I lived in Coney Island (1965-1979). I lived across the street from the private gated community of Sea Gate, where the light house stood and still stands today.

Coney Island Lighthouse is located on the western tip of Coney Island along Gravesend Bay. The last gatekeeper of the lighthouse was Frank Schubert who maintained the lighthouse for over 40 years. When Schubert died in the 2003, it was the last time the lighthouse was manned.

Under The Weather

Spent the day in bed. Pressure is high so I need to take it easy.

This past Friday I read poems at an open mike in a bookstore. I recited a poem titled Lily*. This is a true story about a homeless woman found dead on the street three or four years ago. Lily's plight reminds me of the many transgender people living in the streets because their families do not want them.

It's getting colder here in the northeast. When the rains and snows come, I have a warm place to retreat to. Lily didn't and neither do a lot of transgender people. With the increased visibility trans people are getting this and other needs will come sharper into focus. I wish that more TGLB organizations would discuss and address this crisis.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Choosing the lesser of two evils is tantamount to making a deal with the devil.

The Needles Lighthouse

This lighthouse is located on the southwestern end of the chalk rocks off the Isle of Wight. Needles was first constructed in 1786. A second construction was made in 1859. A helipad was built on top of the lighthouse in 1987. The Needles Lighthouse was automated in 1994. In 2010, work was done on the underpinnings of the lighthouse so it wouldn't fall into the ocean. 

I was struck by the location of the lighthouse. One would think that The Needles Lighthouse is in a very precarious situation but it has stood tall all these years.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

If you do not tell the truth about yourself you cannot tell it about other people.


~Virginia Woolf

Conference On Aging

Today my wife and I attended a conference on aging. Many topics were dicussed; everything from where you could learn about how to use a computer to accessing Medicare to benches being put on sidewalks so senior citizens can sit down and rest. Nothing about TGLB issues were brought up however I will broach this subject at future meetings. There's so much info out there; the issue was finding it.

There's an opportunity for me to attend a community board meeting in a couple of weeks. This will be my first time so it should be interesting. I will be keeping an eye and ear out for anything TGLB folks.

New Computer In The Future?

I was hoping that I could hold off from purchasing another laptop. There are a few things coming up with this one I'm using. If the right price circumstances come up I may have to break down and purchase one.

Genevieve's Gems

Wars are poor chisels for carving out peaceful tomorrows.

~Martin Luther King, Jr.

Greek Poets and Being Transgender

I spent much of the day at the library. I was researching poetry of ancient Greece, a topic I have a keen interest in. I read some of the works of Sappho, Homer, and Sophocles to mention a few. The freedom they expressed themselves was most revealing.

Reflecting on being transgender I am doing much the same. I overcome some fears (using the lady's restroom, for example) and feel much freer in my spirit. I'm sure that there were transgender people back in ancient Greece. I wonder if they were freer to express who they were?

St. George Reef Lighthouse

Located eight mile north of Crescent City, California, St. George Reef Lighthouse is the northernmost lighthouse in California. It is near the California-Orgeon border. It was first opened in 1891 and lit in 1892. One of the dangers of St. George Reef was the high tides and waves. Some lives were lost as a result. St. George Reef Lighthouse was also an assignment not everyone clamored for.


www.lighthousefriends.com

Gender-Varied and Complex

Today I have thought much about gender and how complex and varied that it is. It can't be pigeon holed because of these variations. I n a way that good because God looks at us as we are. Over the past few weeks I've wondered if there is still more experiences I need to go through? I've always left the door open for changes that need to make. I'm curious as to where my journey will take me next. I'm doing some exploring and research about gender and sexuality. I wonder if the latter is as fluid as gender.

Exploring

As a child I often wandered in the woods near my home enjoying the trees, animals,and the streams flowing. I spent hours exploring the wonders of nature. Children explore many things around them trying to make sense of the world around them.

I have thought much about how as adults we lose the sense of wonder. I question many things, particularly within the past decade or so. It seems that conformity is trumping critical thinking and curiosity. I am still as curious now as I was when I was a child. When I was a scout, I loved the two week camping trips we went to during the summer months. We learned so many things about the outdoors. I tended to wander off during my free time and enjoy my natural settings.

With my gendered life, I am free to explore and experiment. One aspect of my journey is to be open to new experiences.

Computer Issues

Computer issues cropped up again,so I'm using a tablet. Love this thing!

In my humble opinion, EVERY member of Congress (and Senate for that matter) should be fired! They are an embarrasment to the constituencies they allegedly represent and rehensible to all Americans. Besides shutting the governement down, they want to get the US in a war with Syria. They do not talk about the 18 million children who go to bed hungry every night,the seniors (18-20 million) who really struggling, the one million homeless veterans, and the financial crises they and their cronies on Wall Street put us in. I could go on but it may take a lifetime to mention them all. I do have some solutions but telling them is like talking to the wall.

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Journey To The Promised Land

Life is filled with trials and tribulations. Some are pleasant, other not so pleasant. Whatever lessons we glean from this trials will serve us in the future.

I listened to a sermon yesterday touching on this subject. Trials are like studies in school; they are the basic training that we receive before going on our own in the world. Afterwards that training is put to the test. We all travel on our own roads in life. Sometimes we may have to go it alone. My road to self-discovery was one that no one else could travel for me.

There may be detours along the way that serve us and help us to embrace new things in our lives. We may discover that there are some things that we can do without. People who mock and ridicule us because we're different, who desire to keep us from being the people we know that we are and need to be. We wrestle through seasons of doubt. Are we on the right path? Are we what people say we are? Can I be a Christian and transgender? There are so many other doubts that we may need to wrestle with.

It is alright to have trails and tribulations. It is alright to have doubts. This is a part of our growth and education. There have been times in life I needed to research, to pray, and question my belief system. 

We do not have to receive and accept other people's negativity no matter how well meaning others claim to be. Being what God created you to be makes life worth living in contentment and happiness despite what others think or say. That feeling is priceless. 

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

LIFE'S MANY ROADS

I have traveled along many roads.
Some were smooth and straight;
Others were crooked and rocky.
Some roads were winding and wooded;
Others were barren and empty.
Each road brought me somewhere.

RETIREMENT DINNER

Last night my wife and I attended a retirement dinner honoring the senior minister of our church. Many people came to pay their homage to a man whom they loved and cherished. We dined at an Italian restaurant in the Bronx. There were coctails, a five course dinner, music, a skit, and words of praise.

When we arrived at the church nearly two years ago, we felt at home when we walked through the door. That has never happened to me personally. I learned much later that Pastor Charlie was instrumental in the congregation being opening and accepting a few years earlier. What he did took courage and coviction. Some folk left while many stayed. I have noticed that more young people and families have filled the pews and become members.

When I shared with him that I was transgender, he welcomed me with open arms. Later, I came out to the whole congregation as Gennee. At the end of the affair, I shared with him how much I appreciated him and making my wife and I feel welcomed.

Transgender Day Of Remembrance

With the murder of Islan Nettles last month I am thinking what to say at Transgender Day of Remembrance in November. Recently transgender women were murdered in Los Angeles and Baton Rouge. Islan's murder happened a mile or so from my residence. While I'm not afraid I am wary.

There have been a number of transgender women of color killed this year. With transgender visibility on the uptick, I'm not surprised by all the transphobic vitriol being spewed out. I also see transgender people standing up, not going to take all this junk anymore.  I'm not taking any of it either. I am out in my neighborhood and in other parts of New York City. Been so for over eight years now.

 I encouragetrans people to be who they are and be bold. We are on the right side of history. I have dedicated TDOR to Islan.  

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

DREAMS
by Langston Hughes

Hold fast to dreams
for if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird
That cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreams
For when dreams go
Life is a barren field
Frozen with snow.

My First Gay Wedding

This past Saturday I attended the marriage of two gay friends. It was a grand affair with families from both sides present. At the reception the mood was festive with great food, drink, conversation, and plenty of music and dancing.

What I was impressed with was the hearfelt love everyone had for Thos and Joe. One of the best men confessed that he had received quite an education and understanding about his gay relative. To me,that made everything worthwhile. I paid for my festive time the following day with sore legs and tired body. I never danced so much in my life. I have to remind myself that my 60+ body isn't as young as it used to be.

TOUGH LOSS

It was a tough grinding game. The Jets had opportunities to win the game but were sabotaged by dropped balls and Geno Smith's three interceptions in crunch time. The Jets lost a tough 13-10 game. He made some rookie mistakes and made some plays. Smith looks like a promising quarterback.

 My Jets were supposed to be blown out but the defense stuffed Tom Brady and stood their ground. Special teams, ususally a Jets strength,was nonexistent. The offense didn't do its part, either. The Jets have 10 days  until the next game against the Buffalo Bills.    

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

When you rise in the morning, give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength. Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason to give thanks, the fault lies in yourself.

~Tecumseh

J-E-T-S JETS! JETS! JETS!

I am a rabid fan of the New York Jets. I was happy when they beatthe Tampa Bay Buccaneers 18-17. Tonight they are playing the New England Patriots, a whole nother animal. As I post, the Jets are trailing 13-3. Don't think they'll win this game but I hope that it's not a blowout.

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse

Located in Bristol, Maine,this structure went into service in 1827. A second structure was built in 1835 because of poor workmanship on the original structure.

Pemaquid was Maine's first land based lighthouse opened to the public and draws over 100,000 visitors annually.

Remembering 9/11

I viewed the 9/11 memorial service on tv this morning. I listened to all the names being read and kept thinking of all the folks lost that fateful day. After twelve years the feelings still resonates with many people.

I can remember that day as if it just happened. I was supposed to be in the north tower at precisely the time the first plane hit but was delayed.  While lives were affected negatively there were many positive aspects also. One is to settle any issues you may have with others. Be a positive influence on another person. Live life with passion and joy.

This day we honor those who were lost on 9/11. Say thank you to the police/firemen/EMS personnel.Their jobs are thankless, dangerous at times, and stressful but where would we be without them.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

What we need is people who specialize in the impossible.


~Theodore Roethke

Active Start to September

Well, September is here! Today is a cool day but I prefer cool days. I have been out since last Friday. My wife and I took my sister out for her birthday. It was a surprise fo her and she realy had a great time. My little granddaughter also came along.

On Saturday, I went to see a documentary about the 2008 economic collapse. THe reporter doing the interview really turned up the heat on the players responsible for it. Some of the other players refused to be interviewed (surprise!). Alan Greenspan, Paul Voelker, Timothy Geitner, Obama, the Bushes, Clinton and others were all responsible for the collapse. ALL should be brought up on charges and prosecuted.

On Sunday, we attended services at our church. Later, we ate dinner at a Dallas BBQ, a popular rib joint here in New York. I was a little buzzed by the pineapple dacquari I ordered (I neglected to tell them no alcohol).  

We went to a local shopping district downtown on Labor Day. It rained much of the time but it didn't deter us.We purchased a few things then ate dinner out.

Can't remember the last time we were out this much but we enjoyed it.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Writing is an exploration. You start from nothing and learn as you go.

~E.L. Doctorow

Summer's Unofficial End

This summer has really flown by. The blistering heat in July has been replaced by mild comfortable weather in August. Come Saturday the month will be history. How was your summer,by the way?

Everyone's getting in the last fling before the end of Labor Day (unofficial end of summer). I wonder who coined the term because I've experienced some pretty hot Septembers. Some good things happened to me this summer. More finances, wathcing my granddaughter grow up, meeting new people, and the reopening of a bookstore in my neighborhood.

As autumn approaches we can reminisce the good times we had. The good times don't have to end though. Summer is just one season. Autumn is a time of reaping the harvest that has been produced.

Old Harbor Light

Looking at this structure, you wouldn't thinking that it's a lighthouse. The design coincided with the structures of that time. Old Harbor Light was built in 1858 as a rear range light to the front range light on nearby Fig Island to guide ships safely into Savannah Harbor.THe light was reburished in 2000 and re-erected and relit on January 11, 2001.

Also known as Beacon Range Light and Savanah Harbor Light.

65!

I turned 65 on the 4th of this month. I guess you can say that I've hit another milestone. I'm not oficially retired because I'm seekig part-time work. Things are looking up financially, so my spouse and I will be able to live comfortably.

I look forward to the future with my spouse. Travel, social activity, exploring new activities and living life is something we both anticipate. At the same time, if one of us gets seriosly ill or disabled, will there be avenues for us to get the help that we need? I'm exploring many options presently. I'm loosely invloved with SAGE, an advocacy organization that has senior TGLB people in mind. Over the past few years I have thought about this because TGLB seniors are sometimes forgotten in te decision making and innovations that may be needed. I know that medical care is a huge concern.

I read an article today which struck a chord with me. The site is posted below.

http://www.elderbranch.com/blog/lgbt-senior-living-nursing-home-settings/ 

www.sageusa.org

Week In Review

The need for more education about the difference between gender and sexuality is still needed. I'm amazed that even in GLB circles this is still a problem. I also see that transgender people need to have a clear understanding of what it is to be transgender. We need not be ashamed of who we are nor do we need to justify our existence.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

If you are happy with who you are,
what others say against you doesn't matter.

Holland Harbor Lighthouse

I saw this lighthouse during some research a couple of years back and fell in love with it. The Holland Harbor Lighthouse is affably known as Big Red to the residents of Holland, Michigan. This structure reminds me of  the Little Red Lighthouse here in New York City.

www.lighthousefriends.com

Confusion Between Gender and Sexuality

Gender discrimination is still a problem here in New York State. Passing the Gender Employment Non Discrimination Act (GENDA) has been on the docket for over a decade. It has been passed in the asembly numerous times only to be stalled in the senate numerous times.

Twice, transgender people have been thrown under the bus. Once, in 2007 and in 2011 when marriage equality was passed and the transgender bill ignored or forgotten. I read an article the other day that there is still the perception that gender and sexuality are the same. Even some in the GLB community confuse the two. As I see it, there's still some education that's needed.

What I'm happy to see is transgender people are taking control of their own matters and that's good. It's important that discrimination be dealt with. One of the faults that I see is that shortly after Stonewall Riots, the GL faction pushed trans and queer people to the margins. Subsequent actions led to these two groups causing more harm to transgender people than outsiders. This is just my own feelings. 

Seeing that GENDA is passed is one of the goal I had for 2013. While that's not going to happen, maybe the bill needs to be reworked. It's amazing how many people still confuse gender and sexuality, even the TGLB conundrum. More work needs to be done.

WEEK IN REVIEW

The anti gay law passed in Russia is an all out attack on TGLB people in that country. Here in America, many'religious' people believe that granting transgender people their equality is a danger on religous freedom I pose the question how? 
 
It is time to answer the latter because I am a person of faith who is also transgender. It has made me pause and think why people are so interested in what we do. What are we, monsters? No! We are people who work, pay taxes, love, help others, and productive.

Keeping an eye and ear on happenings around the world has helped to remind me that what affects my TGLB people in Russia affects me here in New York. We must support one another because we are all in this struggle together.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Justice will overtake fabricators of lies and false witnesses.

~Heraclitus

A Question

I have asked the question: how does giving the TGLB community their right hurt religious freedom? I have researched some of the bogus reasons how it does. There's  no excuse for discrimination and bias just because someone doesn't look, act, or think like you. I will be expounding on this subject infuture posts because I'm tired of the opposition saying that transgender are against religious freedom, and THAT is not true at all. 

Cape Agulhas Lighthouse

Located on the southernmost part of Africa, Cape Agulhas Lighthouse began operating in March, 1849. The lighthouse was greatly needed because of the numerous shipwrecks in the treacherous waters around Cape Agulhas. Cape Agulhas is also the point where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet.

http://www.sahistory.org.za/

Russia's Anti-Gay Law

Russia's new anti-gay law could put a crimp into the upcoming winter Olympics. What it is that Russia is saying that they don't want 'gay propaganda' shared with people under eighteen years of age. Mr. Putin, Russia's leader, signed this draconian law. Any athlete or person, citizen or foreign, risks arrest if caught sharing anything about TGLB.

There have been calls to boycott the Olympics by some, others say a boycott would not have any benefit to anybody. What I see is that Russia is cracking down on the impact of TGLB people and organizations. When your leader is an ex-KGB agent I'm not all that surprised by the move. I wouldn't be surprised if some groups in the US are involved, but I'm not sure about this.     

What I'm concerned about is that my TGLB brothers and sisters are being harassed on a par in places like Africa, parts of eastern Europe, Turkey, and some Asian countries. Personally, I haven't decided if we should go to the Olympics or boycott it.

Struggle

Struggle is a part of everyday life. The struggle to making a living, to work for peace, or just to make sense of what is happening in the world can be taxing and troubling. Struggle doesn't need to overwhelm us.

I have found that struggle can develop perseverance and stick-to itness. It can help to discover talents in us that were either dormant or may never known we possess. When you start a new job, you're not going to know everything about it. You're going to have some setbacks and failures. Eventually you will be able to handle the tasks assigned to you. The idea that one will not struggle to is pollyannish and short sighted.  

When I was an athlete I believed that practice was part of the struggle to become a better athlete. There were weakness pointed out and corrected. There were some changes that may have been needed to be made. Come the competiton, when what you learned turns into victory, it is a most satisfying feeling.  

Look at struggle a part of the process to become the sperson that you desire to be. Ask what can I learn from all this struggling. Act on the areas that need developing.  Above all keep pushing ahead.

WEEK IN REVIEW

My wife and I celebrated our birthdays last Sunday. Last night I attend a open mic venue as Gennee. Another hurdle has been overcome though it really isn't one. It's more like another coming out.

Femininity was on my mind this week. Some discover it early, others late but it is dscovered nevertheless. People see as a woman and I'm pleased about this. How a person carries themselves, gender variant or not, can be picked up by others. Being positive and confident is important.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Every year on your birthday, you get the chance to start new.

~Sammy Hagar

Open Mic

Tomorrow my wife and I will attending an open mic at the local bookstore near our home. I will be going as Genevieve. I have been there as Gennee before. My trans friend has been to the bookstore before and loves it. Maybe some day Genevieve will read some of her poetry.

Coquille River Lighthouse

Located on the Coquille River near Bandon, Oregon. I find this particular structure fascinating  along with its easy accessibility. Coquille was once inhabited by the Coquille Indians. Built in 1896, the lighthouse provided warnings to vessels during storms and fog. It was abandoned in 1939. In 1976 the US Army Corps and Oregon State Parks renovated the structure. 

Located in Bullard's Beach State Park the exterior is accesible to the public. Whenever I visit the west coast I will make a visit here.

For more info:
http://nwcoast.com/lighthouses/oregon/coquilleriver.asp
www.lighthousefriends.com

Seen More As Feminine

Over the past several weeks I notice people view me as a woman. When I'm with my wife, people call us ladies. I've had doors opened for me, called 'ma'a m, and treated with respect. I think that it's that I'm comfortable with myself and it shows in my countenance.

I'm really pleased about this development. I encourage others to go out in public and enjoy life.  

Celebrated Our Birthday Yesterday

Yesterday my wife and I celebrated our birthday. Our birthday is on the same day. We celebrated with cake and coffee at fellowship hour at church. Later, we went on to dinner. Many people ask how we get along? We get along great. I tease my wife telling her that we have no excuse to forget each other's birthday.

WEEK IN REVIEW

Taking advantage of the opportunities we have and pursuing our dreams was the focus this week. It's very nice to have dreams. It takes courage and perseverence to achieve them.

Every day each one of us has the chance to do something different that they didn't do before. The joy we may feel from helping someone else or achieving a goal gives us confidence and courage. This is something we should do every day. Unfulfilled dreams can leave a person frustrated, defeated, and bitter. It's never too late to do the things we have put off for so long. Delay no longer! Get going and pursue your dreams.