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.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.


~Henry David Thoreau

AUGUST IS HERE ALREADY

July went by very fast. Had two heatwaves to boot. Can't remember the last time that happened. August has started off rainy. Oh, well.

I was talking with my wife about composing a book of short stories together. I have written a few short stories with transgender people as the main characters.Writing positive and uplifting stories is what I aim to do.

My wife will be ot of town this Saturday so I'll be out and about. Don't know what I'll do but I will enjoy myself. There are some protests upcoming and I'm looking to see which ones I will be participating in.

Minot's Ledge Light

Located off Scituate, Massachusetts, Minot's Ledge was one of the first lighthouses built in the area. First constructed in 1850, the current structure was built in 1855 and complete in 1860s were lost . Previous to a lighthouse being built here many ships, property and lives were lost along the rocky coasts.  

For more on the history of Minot's Ledge, go to http://www.lighthouse.cc/minots/history.html

OPPORTUNITIES

Over the past couple of days I have thought about the opportunties each of us have. Each day we wake up there's a new chance to do something that we want to do. The main point is to take advantage of those opportunities. 

When my son was young, I encouraged him to do something that he is passionate about. He designs video games and is into web design. Now that I'm near retirement, I have the opportunity to the things that I really love. Writing is one of my passions, however I didn't have the confidence that I could be a success at it when I was younger. Well, later this year I will have a chapbook of some of my poems published. An opportunity deferred is now an opportunity to be realized.

Opportunity can be anything. It can be creating a recipe, traveling to a foreign country, building a piece of furniture, learning how to use a computer, and many other activities. Regardless of age or status people are taking advantage of the opportunity to do something that could change their lives.

WEEK IN REVIEW

I discussed everything from eunuchs to lighthouses to an anniversary. It was a very varied week in that life seems to be that way. I enjoy weeks like this because I'm usually out and about anyway. My sister had a heart operation this week (she's doing better). This kept things in perspective. Never tak anytingfo grante because before you know it something can be lost and never retrieved.

ANNIVERSARY

It was eight years ago today that I came out to myself as a crossdresser and transgender person. My life went in nother direction and it get better. the journey has been interesting and challenging at times. I wouldn't change anything that has happened.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.

~Walt Disney

A Young Sixty Five

I will be sixty five years young in ten days. Sometimes I have trouble convincing some that I'm my age. I see it as a compliment. Some might its a time for me to relax but I have no such notions. I will be aactive mre than ever.

I believe that learning is a lifetime endeavor. New experiences and thoughts can help shape our lives and make life worth living. I had a friend who was active and productive until he passed. I know a number of people who are the same way. Now I can do the things that I really enjoy and have a passion for.

My issue is that I have so many interests that sometmes I don't know where to star. It's a nice 'problem' to have, though. One of my goals is to get a master's degree in creative writing.  I will have a chapbook of poems published later this year. I will be going to support group meetings where I can help others with their gender issues. As you see there's much on my plate.

Many will be retiring soon however it's not the end of your life. New skills can be learned. New discoveries can be made. You have the skills and the experience to influence the younger generation. I may have retired from a job but not life.

My Love Of Lighthouses

One of my passions is reading the history of lighthouses. To me there's a mystical allure of an angel bringing light and illumination in dire situations. I can only image how many seafaring vessels were saved from a watery grave. Each week I will feature one lighthouse and a brief overview of its history.

The structure above is a mile from my home. It is simply known as the Little Red Lighthouse. Situated under the George Washington Bridge, it provided a warning to vessels on the Hudon River of treacherous currents and rocky shores. It stands at the crook of Fort Washington Park (formerly known as Jeffrey's Hook). Constructed in 1889, it has been at its current location since 1921. When the bridge was opened in 1931, the little red lighthouse was rendered obsolete.

There was a proposal of dismantling the lighthouse in 1951, but a public outcry stopped any such plans. Today, the light is a historical landmark and the only lighthouse in the New York City proper. 

A book about the lighthouse was written in 1942 by Hildegard H. Swift called The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Grey Bridge.

EUNUCHS

At the present time, I'm working on a project for my radio show in August. I'm doing research on eunuchs in the bible and throughout history. I reminds of the project I did on crosdressing and the bible which was insightful. This should prove equally as challenging.

Change Right Before My Eyes

The heatwave finally broke this weekend. It was the second one we've had this month and there's still August to contend with.

I can't remember the last time so much is happening our world in July. The economy is really bad and people are standing up and protesting. I'm also happy that there are grass roots organizations that are implementing paradigms which empower and give folks life sustaining skills.  I've grown herbs on my fire escape. I wish I had a garden where I can grow fruits and vegetables.

Protests

Since the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the Trayvon Martin case, people all over the country have made their voices heard. On Tuesday evening my wife and I were going to a restaurant when we ran to groupof people protesting the verdict in the Martin case. About 100 or so people carried signs and listened to some speakers. Different areas of the city had similar protests. What's needed now is some action against the 'Stand Your Ground' law in Florida and the stop and frisk laws here in NYC.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

NEVER ACT YOUR AGE.

~GARY NULL

JULY

It seems that after the 4th of July, life is less hectic. June is pride month and usually full of activities cultimating with the big pride parade. I don't mind the slower pace because me time to reflect on the successes and analyze the areas that failed.

I like July because I can explore nature in the parks and places outside the city. You can keep the heat, though. Give me 80 degrees yearround I'm happy. There's many film festivals, outdoor performances in the park, picnics, street festivals, etc. This begs the question; does life really slow down as the summer progresses? I guess it depends upon one's perspective.