2024 NCAA CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONS

 

MEN

DIVISION I

DIVISION II

DIVISION III

NAIA

WOMEN

DIVISION I

DIVISION II

DIVISION III

NAIA

2024 NCAA FIELD HOCKEY CHAMPIONS

 DIVISION I

                                   Northwestern University WILDCATS

DIVISION II

DIVISION III

COMMENTARY

The past week has been an emotional ride for me; the Transgender Day of Remembrance vigil and a memorial paying homage to a woman who was a part of the women's group I'm involved with. There was the annual community Thanksgiving dinner after last Sunday's service. Couple that with some intense moments of sorrow and reflection, it left me drained.

Twenty-nine transgender and gender nonconforming people were murdered over the past year. One was a fourteen-year-old transgender girl. I can't get her out of my mind because she was only a kid who was living her reality.  

With the uncertainty looming in the coming months, the only to do is to keeping moving ahead and stay informed. I'm not going to stop being me, that's for sure.    

  

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 

BE WARY OF THEIR WAYS

 The incoming administration is very active in getting their people in place so they can unleash their diabolical laws against those they deem unworthy. The attack on trans people and the LGBT community is to divert attention from what their real plans are.

I learned from working in the financial sector that if they make job cuts in one area, they will find ways to cut other things. This is what could happen in 2025. The incoming administration is about power and control. They could care less about the citizens they allegedly represent. Also they are spiritually and morally bankrupt.

It is up to us to be there for each other. It is up to us to stand to all these devious plans because our lives are at stake. Be vigi.ent and stay informed. 

TDOR

 

COMMENTARY- HEALING IS NEEDED

Now that the elections are over much healing is needed on all sides. All the vitriol hurled at each other has created distrust and hatred. Some family members won't speak to each other because of his/her political beliefs. Things have gotten so tribal that no one wants to talk about anything.

Time has come for folks to put aside their differences . I'm sure there are folks who were wounded by someone else's remarks about the elections. A family breaking up because they have a different viewpoint is truly sad. Whatever happened to the day when people could  agree to disagree?

People need to ask for forgiveness and restoration. Yes, the election is over but wounds of hate and anger cut deep. Let's apologize to those we have hurt by our words/actions. We must treat each other as fellow human beings. We have to come together as a nation and as fellow citizens. 

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 

BE OUT AND UNBOWED

 

STAND UP!

A lot of my friends are disgusted and sad about the results of the election. I'm not happy either, however, we must not be overcome by anger and fear. We must carry on. 

Do whatever you need to do to stand up to the bullying and lies. You be you and let no one disrespect. Go about life as you do now because someone may be looking up to you and you may not know it. Stand up and advocate for yourself and others.

HONOR VETERANS

 

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Taking an interest in what others are thinking and doing is often a much more powerful form of encouragement than praise.

~Robert Martin, 

AFTERMATH

 The elections are over. Donald Trump will be the 47th President. Do not despair. Don't be discouraged. Work for the things that you believe in. There are needs to be met. What this means for transgender people, I don't know. I do know that I'm not going to shrink and disappear. I'm going to live my life!

TRANSCESTOR

 

DO YOUR PART

 

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

We need to give each other the space to grow, to be ourselves,to exercise our diversity. We need to give each other space so that we may give and receive such beautiful things as ideas, openness, dignity, joy, healing, and inclusion.

~Max de Pree, Businessman (1924-2017)

BE THANKFUL

 

HALLOWEEN

 

TRANSCESTOR

 

CHRISTINE JORGENSEN (1926-1989)

Actress, singer, recording artist, transgender activist

POEM FOR TDOR

I'm still working on a poem for Transgender Day of Remembrance. I have read poems at TDOR in the past. This year I see the need for healing and humanizing. 

Trans people are put down by politicians, pundits, and social media in this toxic political climate. I encourage others to be themselves and that they are worthy. This poem is a work in progress.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 

VOTE!

Be sure to vote. Not only for the next president but for your local representatives. There are numerous proposal on the ballot which will have an impact on life as we know. Be informed. Get involved.

CALLING CRAP OUT

I'm pleased when people call out stuff that is untrue or inaccurate. I remember Tomi Lahren confidently boasted that "all men are trash". Three days later she went back on that statement because people challenged her. 

Transgender people are under attack by many in power. We are called dangerous, pedophiles, and enemies of the family unit. Transgender people are challenging and speaking out against this negative and dangerous rhetoric.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

You're only here for a short visit. Don't hurry, don't worry. And be sure to smell the flowers along the way.

~~Walter Hagen, Golfer (1892-1969)

TRANSGENDER DAY OF REMEMBRANCE

Preparations are being for next month's Transgender Day of Remembrance. I am working on a poem that will recite. I will also read about the history of TDOR and how it came to be. November 20th is the day of remembrance.

TRANSCESTOR

 

ROBERTA COWELL (1918-2011)

British racing driver

WWII fighter pilot

Transitioned in 1951

First known British woman to undergo gender-affirming surgery

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Live life to the fullest, and focus on the positive.

~Matt Cameron

TRANSCESTOR

 

black transgender woman, midwife who delivered over 1000 children  

AM WHAT GOD CREATED ME

 When I hear or read 'God doesn't make mistakes' it is said by 'Christians' who believe we are all wrong. God didn't make a mistake with me. I am a born again Christian who happens to be transgender.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 Don't let someone else's opinion of you become your reality.

~Les Brown, Speaker

HOME STRETCH

This last month before the November election will be a doozy. The vitriol from both sides will flow like a raging river. I'm tuned in because America will face some daunting challenges after the elections.

I wish race would not be at the forefront of  all this. Unfortunately, it's shaping up that way. Singling out the Haitian popullation in Springfield, Ohio is a step in the wrong direction. Most of the Haitian residents are here legally. For Donald Trump to say that they are eating dogs and cats is gross and false. 

I rarely post anything political on my blog. However,  this is a crucial time in our country. I am going to stay tuned to what is going on AND what is not being said.

TRANSCESTOR

 

MONICA K. ROBERTS (1962-2020)

Blogger, transgender rights advocate, writer

Founder of TransGriot, a blog focused on transgender women, particularly black women and other people of color.

UPCOMING

 

ENCOURAGEMENT

"Let no one define who you are."

"Let no one try and put you into a box. Be who you are."

I hope that these words encourages someone.

AUTUMN IS HERE

 

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 

TRANSCESTER

 

LORENA BORJAS (1960-2020)

Mexican-American transgender and immigrant rights activist

TRANSITION JOURNEY

 A friend on Facebook recently started her transition. To all of you just began or are presently transitioning, I wish you all the best in your journey.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 

9/11

 

TRANSCESTOR

 

LUCY HICKS ANDERSON (1886-1954)

socialite, chef, philanthropist

Assigned male at birth, she acknowledged that she was a girl as a child. Her parents were very supportive. of her.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 

QUESTIONING MY IDENTITY

I generally don't question my transgender identity. With all the negativity toward trans people one can fall into that questioning trap. I have accepted that this will always be the case.

Despite how others perceive me, I am comfortable with being trans. My transition was subtle, having discovered my transness in my mid fifties. Some may think that just woke up one morning and decided to be transgender. This is not true at all.

Though I did not have surgery, I transitioned emotionally and spiritually. I was not always easy but this is the course that was set before me and only I can walk it. 

Each person has his/ her own journey to travel. I don't pay any attention to  the naysayers. I just live life. I'm thankful that my Christian has kept me grounded. 

HOMAGE TO LABORERS

 

FALL BEGINNINGS

 

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 Don't worry about what's cool and what's cool. Authenticity is what's cool.

~Zac Posen

TRANSCESTOR

 

Gloria Allen (1945-2022)

Transgender activist, 

Ran a charm school for transgender youth

Was a licensed practical nurse, then a nurse's aid in private homes

ACCEPTANCE & GROWTH

I am happy with myself as a person. Each I wake up anticipating learning something new. Growth is part of life's process. I want be better than the previous day. I have learned not to be too hard on myself.

BOOK

 

I'm interested in purchasing this book. I have read excerpts about this.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

When you encourage others, you in the process are encouraged because you're making a commitment and difference in that person's life. Encouragement really does make a difference.

~Zig Ziglar

BE YOU

TRANSCESTOR

 

International Chrysis (1951-1990)

Transgender entertainer

VISIT OF REMEMBRANCE

 

I posted this photo back in June during pride month. It is one place that is instrumental in my gender transition back in 2008.

Yesterday, I stopped in here to rest and pray. I sat here over an hour as memories of that spiritual experience flooded into my brain. I see how how far I have come. I'm grateful for the things that happened, whether good or not so good. It was an experience I needed at that particular time in August of 2008. Reconciling my faith and being transgender is one of the highlights of my life.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 

 I do not support anyone who trashes the trans community.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 

TRANSITIONING DAILY

 Though I didn't have gender reassignment surgery, I did transition. Perhaps because I'm a septugenarian, some things are not as important as they were in the past.  

What is important is the well being of my trans sisters and brothers. It's enough that we navigate in a world that doesn't view us as human beings. Whenever I share something about myself, I sharing my humanity. Iam fully human, something no one can deny me.

WONDERFULLY MADE

 Yesterday, a lovely transgender woman delivered the sermon at Sunday service. L* was humorous, having her own twist to the scriptures. 

Some of you may have heard some well meaning "Christians" declare that God doesn't make mistakes. They elude that my transgender self is a unacceptable. God has chosen me for this particular journey. I have been affirmed and confirmed by his spirit.

With the vitriol being spewed against transgender people it would east question myself. Am I wrong for being who I am? Then I'm reminded this is the course set for me. No one can run it for me. I a not fearful of what others will say or think. 

WRITING HAS OPENED MORE DOORS

Today I read a post from a facebook friend that reminded me about what transgender people deal with. Contrary to what some may believe, we have lives with all theconcerns and cares of everyday life. . 

Writing has opened up areas in my life that I never knew I had. the yearnings, doubts, and challenges that I face each day. I transitioned in my mid fifties as it was my time to introduce Genevieve to the world.. I am the more than the the sum of my parts. At times I can't comprehend why my life has gone this route but it is what it is. The door behind me is locked forever. I can't stay staionary in the same spot. I must keep going. 

One aspect of writing is that it will plant a seed that, at a later time, will sprout. I acknowledged that I was queer when I first came out. It was many years later that I embraced it. That act is still taking to new dimensions. I blive that gender is more fluid than I realize. I want to see where my transgender journey will lead. I'm open to anything that comes my way. 

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 

COMMENTARY

This past Friday I celebrated my nineteenth year of transition. Looking back, there were times of frustration, joy, relief, acceptance, and completeness.  

This journey was a part of God's plan for my life. It was hidden from me for years. The belief that I was different kept me on track as to what would unfold later. Those feelings didn't bother me 24/7 which I am thankful for.  

I was most concerned if my being transgender could be reconciled with my Christian faith? The answer came back in the affirmative. I felt no guilt or shame wearing women's clothing in a church. 

The statement on my blog of 'not completely male and not completely female' is true in my case. When asked if I am male or female, I reply I'm transgender. It was case of me preferring the feminine; not hating the masculine. 

I am looking to the future to see what life will bring. I want to do much to help other LGBTQ people.  

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

 

I'M NINETEEN TODAY

 This is my nineteenth year as Genevieve.

PROJECT 2025

How is it that LGBTQ+ people are a threat to society? We are just living our lives. I have read some of Project 2025, a blueprint of how Donald Trump and his minions will shape the policies of the country, if elected. 

LGBTQ+ people are the targets of the right. It would deem us as criminals and perverts. They wish to take away our rights. A lot of things will be on the chopping block. I'm most concerned about LGBTQ+ people and how this will do harm to our communities. 

BE GREATFUL

 

EXCELLENT ADVICE

 

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

I believe that it is better to tell the truth than a lie. I believe it is better to be free than to be a slave. And I believe it is better to know than to be ignorant. 

~H. L. Mencken, Writer (1880-1956)

DOESN'T SPEAK FOR FREEDOM LOVING AMERICANS

I am reading about J. D. Vance, Donald Trump's choice for running mate. Vance is a young buck, who would become president if something happens to Trump. I admit that it was a smart move by trump selecting a young guy who would further advance his agenda.  

In my view, Vance is dangerous for freedom loving people. He is also anti- LGBTQ which concerns me and my friends.  Anyone who wants to deny me and others their rights is an enemy to my freedom.

BE VISIBLE, STAY VISIBLE

Folks are watching us. Some want to know what we are  about. There is someone out there who is struggling with gender issues. They may be watching our every move. They see how comfortable we are in our own skin. 

"I wish I could be like her." they ask themselves.

Just as we stand on the shoulders of our trans ancestors, this generation will be standing on our shoulders. Imagine how many folks were encouraged to continue their journey to transition because we dared to live authentically. 

There are those forces who are railing against us. However, I will not be moved by their hate and vileness. 

I WILL NOT BE INVISIBLE!

CURRENT READ

 

I've read just a few pages and there are so many people, articles, and books to research. I am writing down my thoughts in a notebook. It may take two books.

GENEVIEVE'S GEMS

Your attitude is like a box of crayons that color your world. Constantly color your picture gray, and your picture will always be bleak. Try adding some bright colors to the picture by including humor, and your picture begins to brighten up. 

Allen Klein 

INDEPENDENCE

 

POST PRIDE THOUGHTS

I enjoyed numerous pride festivitiess. Services. Parties. A former intern's ordination (also does drag). The month culminated with the big parade (marching days are over, I'm afraid).

I posted much on my blog of some of the places which were instrumental in my transition. I visited the Stonewall Inn a few day after the riots. I believed that it was the start of something big.

I am mindful of the political climate in the country. The LGBTQ+ communities are under attack with all the anti-LGBTQ bills being brought forth in legislatures around the country. If conservatives win the presidency, there will be an all out attack on us. Our hard fought rights are in danger of being taken away. A somber reminder of what's at stake.

JULY WISHES