Genevieve's Gems

Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds you plant.

~Robert Louis Stevenson

Thanksgiving Wishes

Be Thankful

As I have mentioned in past years, this is the time of reflection for me. Much has happened both personally and in the lives of others. 

Over the past year a number of folks in my church have moved on to greater things. I'm thankful that they have pass. Acknowledging them for their contributions and what they meant to you demonstrates a grateful heart. I am mindful that some folks who were here last year aren't with us now. It's easy to take our family and friends for granted until, one day, they aren't here. 

What are you thankful for? I enjoy the feast that I will  have and being with family and friends. I'm thankful for their kindness and hospitality. Thank the people who have meant much to you.

Thanksgiving Thoughts

Early thoughts on Thanksgiving.

Genevieve's Gems

The tree that is beside the running water is fresher and gives more fruit.

~Saint Teresa of Avila

Transgender Day Of Remembrance 2014

On Thursday evening I will attend the Transgender Day of Remembrance vigil at the community center here. I'm not sure if it get easier attending but I go nevertheless. I usually encourage the audience, sharing my experiences and at the same time challenging them to be who they are. 

This has been a tough year for transgender people especially in the last five months. With increased visibility has come attacks verbally and physically from politicians, churches, anti-trans groups and others. It won't stop us though. We've always existed and have a right to be treated with dignity and respect. 

This year I'm dedicating my TDOR day to Alex Medeiros who was beaten to death by his father to make a man out of him. Alex liked to wear his hair long, belly dance, and wear women's clothing . Alex was 8 years old.  

Genevieve's Gems

When I came out as transgender I was liberated and completed; liberated from what society says I'm supposed to be, completed because this part of my journey made me feel whole.

~Genevieve 

Eshaness Lighthouse

Eshaness (also Esha Ness) is located on the northwest of the Shetland Islands in Scotland.It is located on the Northmavine peninsula which is a remote place. It was built in 1929 by engineers David and Charles Stevenson. It was fully automated in 1974. Eshaness is used for an accommodation for the public during holidays.

I am charmed by the remoteness of Eshaness which can possibly generate some great stories and tales and artistry. American author Sharma Krauskopf spent time there and wrote a book entitled 'The Last Lighthouse'.


www.shetlandlighthouse.com

Honoring Our Veterans

Today, I went to Veteran's Day Parade. I have marched in several parades in the past but this day I was a spectator. It was wonderful that the spectators positively to the men and women who served our country. All the service branches were represented. I took special note f the WWII and Korean vets. Some of them may not be here the next parade.

I also thought of the TGLB men and women who served. Some made the  supreme sacrifice while others are struggling with a number of issues. Let's particularly remember the homeless vets (about one million) who are struggling to get the basics for their lives.

If you haven't, congratulate a veteran and thank him or her for their sacrifice. When I marched, I felt the deep appreciation the spectators have for us. Happy Veteran's Day!  

November

November is traditionally an active month for me and this year's no different. I'm taking care of the household needs while my wife recuperates from knee replacement surgery. She is coming along slowly. On Tuesday I will be at the Veteran's Day parade. I have marched in a few in the past. This time I'm going as a spectator. As a veteran I feel honored to be part of unique group of men and women. 

The Transgender Day of Remembrance vigil will be held at the community center here in New York City. I go every year because its important that I do. It' s not that I have to but I NEED to. I'm thinking of what to say at the event. I'm taking my wife out to Thanksgiving Day dinner at a restaurant. I take this day to be thankful for all things. 

As I get older I appreciate life much more because each day is precious. I have made it a concerted effort to enjoy life. 

Genevieve's Gems

Bad politicians are sent to Washington by good people who don't vote.

~William E. Simon, Public servant (1927-2000)

Post Election Toughts

The mid term elections are over. The question that comes to mind is-will anything change? I'm of the opinion that we , the people, will have to change AND do the changing. WE need to step up and make the changes that need to be made.

What we are seeing here is a transition. I see a transition of the way we do things. I's sad that many people vote out of fear rather than knowing what the candidates really stand for. I make a habit of doing my home work on each candidate running. Things I look at are their voting record, where they stand on issues, who they get their financing from and so forth. People need to really do their homework on the candidates. I never tell people who they should vote for-that's an individual choice. 

Regarding transgender concerns, I believe that it will be a topic that will have bearing in future electrons. However, WE must work together to foment change. NO one politician can do that-only us. Change will not come from the mainstream organizations because they take money from the government and thus are compromised. It will be the grassroots organizations, people of color, women, young people, the disabled, elderly, and immigrants would will lead the change. 

Some states will be very tough (Texas, for one) but progressing is being made, albeit slowly. We must not give in to disappointment, despair, and bitterness. Another election is coming in two years.

My Spiritual Birthday

It was on this day in 1972 that I accepted Jesus Christ an as my Lord and Savior. It was a life changing event for me in that my whole worldview was changed. I had a a love for all human beings and looked at each person the way Jesus would-with love and compassion. . It has been and continues to be an interesting journey. 

My journey as a transgender person mirrors my Christian journey. Actually its the same journey but Christ gives me the strength to continue and inner peace that I feel. God is still the same today as He was when I made the decision to follow him. I wouldn't change a thing about that decision.