One of my goals for 2009 is to write at least ten essays related to transgender issues. I became somewhat of an activist last year. I was tired of people trashing us. I wasn't about to sit idly by while we are being murdered, denied our rights, and spat upon with hateful vitriole from the religious and social institutions.
I read quite a bit about things which affect us. I have related my experience as a transgender individual on this blog. There are so many stories out there that I would love to glean and comment about. The one criteria I have is to present gender variant people in a positive light. I see how much education of the public is greatly needed.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
GENEVIEVE'S GEMS
Remember those who are lonely. Call them. Visit them. Help them. Above all, tell them that you love them.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Yesterday, I loaded a picture of a lighthouse which you see on the right. I have a small collection of lighthouses from all around the country. The first lighthouse built in America was constructed on Little Brewster Island off the coast of Massachusetts in 1716.
I chose this particular photo over a more genteel scene. This scene may describe what some of us have gone through as gender variant people. Life can toss us around like the rough waves in the photo. The beacon warns seafaring vessels of rock jetties and shallow shoals. That beacon shining out in the dark and rough seas have saved many a vessel from a watery abyss.
God has been a beacon of light for me during those dark times in life. It doesn't have to be gender concerns only. It can be illness, financial difficulties, numerous decisions that have to be made. So many things can swarm around me, threatening to drown me in confusion. When I stop and see that beacon of light in Jesus, I keep my eyes on him until I arrive in safe port.
I can think of the many times when gender confuson threatened to swallow everything dear to me. I'll never forget the day when God confirmed to me so intimately that he accepted me as I am. I have a number of highlights and goals achieved this year, but this by far was tops.
My transgender and gender variant friend, when life is topsy-turvy threatening to drown you, look up! The beacon from the lighthouse is shining, guiding you to safe and calm port.
I chose this particular photo over a more genteel scene. This scene may describe what some of us have gone through as gender variant people. Life can toss us around like the rough waves in the photo. The beacon warns seafaring vessels of rock jetties and shallow shoals. That beacon shining out in the dark and rough seas have saved many a vessel from a watery abyss.
God has been a beacon of light for me during those dark times in life. It doesn't have to be gender concerns only. It can be illness, financial difficulties, numerous decisions that have to be made. So many things can swarm around me, threatening to drown me in confusion. When I stop and see that beacon of light in Jesus, I keep my eyes on him until I arrive in safe port.
I can think of the many times when gender confuson threatened to swallow everything dear to me. I'll never forget the day when God confirmed to me so intimately that he accepted me as I am. I have a number of highlights and goals achieved this year, but this by far was tops.
My transgender and gender variant friend, when life is topsy-turvy threatening to drown you, look up! The beacon from the lighthouse is shining, guiding you to safe and calm port.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Fringe Benefits
I have achieved many of the goals that set this past January. I also acheived some things I never expected. One of those benefits was to realize how intertwined my life is with the whole LGBT community. Five years ago, there was no way I could have envisioned that I would be a part of this diverse community.
During these days of reflection, I realize what things are really important to me. Coming out only three plus years ago, I feel that I have a pulse on many sides of the gender divide. Transgender people have a rich history that's always existed but was either hidden or ignored. I also have spoken out more about the mistreatment transgender people receive from social and religious institutions.
These benefits are something I never sought or thought of. It just was presented to me and I decided to meet the challenges. It been said that crisis can bring out attributes you never knew you possessed. That's certainly been the case with me. I have Native-American ancestry, so it's very possible that a Native-American prophecy is beng fulfilled in my life. I'm not afraid about where my journey will carry me. I just pray that other people will benefit from my example.
I find it odd that society says that we're an abomination and yet we've contributed more to the betterment of humanity than given credit for. It's very possible that we are debunking a lot of myths about gender and sexuality. I've said a lot here in this particular blog but encouragement and love are needed in great supply during this time of year.
During these days of reflection, I realize what things are really important to me. Coming out only three plus years ago, I feel that I have a pulse on many sides of the gender divide. Transgender people have a rich history that's always existed but was either hidden or ignored. I also have spoken out more about the mistreatment transgender people receive from social and religious institutions.
These benefits are something I never sought or thought of. It just was presented to me and I decided to meet the challenges. It been said that crisis can bring out attributes you never knew you possessed. That's certainly been the case with me. I have Native-American ancestry, so it's very possible that a Native-American prophecy is beng fulfilled in my life. I'm not afraid about where my journey will carry me. I just pray that other people will benefit from my example.
I find it odd that society says that we're an abomination and yet we've contributed more to the betterment of humanity than given credit for. It's very possible that we are debunking a lot of myths about gender and sexuality. I've said a lot here in this particular blog but encouragement and love are needed in great supply during this time of year.
Friday, December 12, 2008
GENEVIEVE'S GEMS
Reflection can illuminate the many blessings that have been showered on us.
The holiday season has been a time of reflection for me for fifteen or twenty years now. I remember as a young person I looked forward to receiving gifts, go to parties, and a festive atmosphere. Now I just reflect on what has happened in the past year.
This year I thought quite a bit about my mom. I thought about how I was raised and the lessons that were taught to me and my younger siblings. There's the saying that no one ever really strays away from their roots and that's very true. I realize how my feminine inclinations were formulated. I enjoyed learning fashion and color schemes because I wanted to be coordinated. Some of the chores associated with women I learned to do. Cleaning house, cooking, sewing (a little bit) were chores that never phased me as a male.
I am a transgender individual today and I suspect that I was always trans. This year I was out in public quite a bit. Wearing women's clothing feels natural to me. My parents were not around when I came out as trans but I have no doubt that they would have loved me regardless. My mom respected other people's opinions even if she didn't agree with them. I remember most when she would invite people over to her home who were alone during the holidays. Many times they expressed their deep appreciation for her hospitality. This is what I'll always remember about her.
Upon reflection this is what I wish to emulate; a hospitable and friendly spirit. I think about many of my transgender brothers and sisters who may be lonely or depressed during this time. I pray that they will be reminded that they are special and appreciated. I appreciate all of you who came before me. Most of all, I thank my parents for instilling in me the values that I follow today.
Gennee
The holiday season has been a time of reflection for me for fifteen or twenty years now. I remember as a young person I looked forward to receiving gifts, go to parties, and a festive atmosphere. Now I just reflect on what has happened in the past year.
This year I thought quite a bit about my mom. I thought about how I was raised and the lessons that were taught to me and my younger siblings. There's the saying that no one ever really strays away from their roots and that's very true. I realize how my feminine inclinations were formulated. I enjoyed learning fashion and color schemes because I wanted to be coordinated. Some of the chores associated with women I learned to do. Cleaning house, cooking, sewing (a little bit) were chores that never phased me as a male.
I am a transgender individual today and I suspect that I was always trans. This year I was out in public quite a bit. Wearing women's clothing feels natural to me. My parents were not around when I came out as trans but I have no doubt that they would have loved me regardless. My mom respected other people's opinions even if she didn't agree with them. I remember most when she would invite people over to her home who were alone during the holidays. Many times they expressed their deep appreciation for her hospitality. This is what I'll always remember about her.
Upon reflection this is what I wish to emulate; a hospitable and friendly spirit. I think about many of my transgender brothers and sisters who may be lonely or depressed during this time. I pray that they will be reminded that they are special and appreciated. I appreciate all of you who came before me. Most of all, I thank my parents for instilling in me the values that I follow today.
Gennee
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
RESOURCES
There are many resources available to those of us who are gender varient. Below is a few recommendations of mine which believe are helpful. Some of the sites are already posted on the sidebar. I will add more gradually.
Recommended Books
Transgender History-Susan Stryker
Gender Outlaw-Kate Bornstein
Transgender Warrior-Leslie Feinberg
Recommend Sites
www.lauras-playground.com a wealth of information about all things transgender.
www.crossdressers.com - some wonderful info here.
www.crossdresserclub.com
www.transgendershopping.com
Recommended Books
Transgender History-Susan Stryker
Gender Outlaw-Kate Bornstein
Transgender Warrior-Leslie Feinberg
Recommend Sites
www.lauras-playground.com a wealth of information about all things transgender.
www.crossdressers.com - some wonderful info here.
www.crossdresserclub.com
www.transgendershopping.com
Friday, December 05, 2008
Monday, December 01, 2008
WORLD AIDS DAY
Today is World Aids Day. There will be memorials to those lost to the disease. It affects every strata of society. Gay, lesbian, bi, transgender, and heterosexual. You don't hear much about how AIDS affects transgender people but the rates of infection are worse than in the gay and lesbian populace.
In the past year, I have been moved from indifference to great concern. I have read much about people who lives are affected by AIDS. What really grabbed me was that the grieving process can still go on many years after the individual's passing. How anyone can spew out hatred towards those afflicted is cruel and callous.
I salute those who are on the front lines and working behind the scenes to find a cure. As I am writing this blog at this very moment, strong feelings of sorrow are ruminating within my spirit. I've never lost anyone to AIDS but I do feel for those who have.
In the past year, I have been moved from indifference to great concern. I have read much about people who lives are affected by AIDS. What really grabbed me was that the grieving process can still go on many years after the individual's passing. How anyone can spew out hatred towards those afflicted is cruel and callous.
I salute those who are on the front lines and working behind the scenes to find a cure. As I am writing this blog at this very moment, strong feelings of sorrow are ruminating within my spirit. I've never lost anyone to AIDS but I do feel for those who have.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Sunday, November 23, 2008
TDOR
On Thursday, I attended the annual Transgender Day of Remembrance ceremonies at the community center here in New York. About 200 people marched around the block carrying candles in honor of those lost to violence. Back at the center, there were speakers and comments from people in the audience. Many related their experiences as transpeople and what the day meant to them. One trans man shared that he is still recovering from being attacked and raped.
I have ambivalent feelings about TDOR; I mourn for my brothers and sisters lost to violence and yet I am encouraged by the progress we have made. There were many young people present so I am confident that the future will be bright for transgender people. They are open about who they are and will not go into the closet.
On reflection, it is my duty that I attend TDOR. It's time for transgender people to stand up and make our presence felt. TDOR encourages me to keep pressing on in the march to transgender equality. I had the chance to read reports of TDORs in other parts of the country ad the world. Some places such as Africa have it worse tan we do here in the states. I am in full supports of my brothers and sisters all around the world. I pray that in the next year equality will be closer to reality.
Genevieve
I have ambivalent feelings about TDOR; I mourn for my brothers and sisters lost to violence and yet I am encouraged by the progress we have made. There were many young people present so I am confident that the future will be bright for transgender people. They are open about who they are and will not go into the closet.
On reflection, it is my duty that I attend TDOR. It's time for transgender people to stand up and make our presence felt. TDOR encourages me to keep pressing on in the march to transgender equality. I had the chance to read reports of TDORs in other parts of the country ad the world. Some places such as Africa have it worse tan we do here in the states. I am in full supports of my brothers and sisters all around the world. I pray that in the next year equality will be closer to reality.
Genevieve
Friday, November 21, 2008
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Changes
"Changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter another."
I posted this quote by Anatole France on another site that I maintain. I ruminated on this quote for a few days and concluded that these words speak to everyone. It is true to those of us who are gender variant. As a transgender and cross dresser, my perspective about life has changed. These changes needed to be made if life was to be joyous; not tension-filled.
For a year I was learning who I was. Gender was now part of my own personal well being where before it was never an issue. I was apprehensive and yet I continued on my journey. Changes were more on the emotional level. I discovered the feminine side of my personality. To deny it was to succumb to the wishes and desires of those who say that I'm suppose to do male things. I needed to leave some thought patterns behind and develop new ones that were untapped and undeveloped. I realized that I may incur the wrath of some people but change can do that.
During the presidential election, a recurring theme was 'We need change!'. The question I ask is that are we willing to change? Am I willing to make the changes in me that are necessary? I cannot ask others to do something that wouldn't do myself. My heart goes out to my transsexual brothers and sisters because the changes with much sacrifice. Some have lost many of the things that were dear to them. I'm sure transitioning wasn't easy, but the change was for their well being.
I lost some things from the old life; but I have gained a new perspective about gender and sexuality. I have fallen in love with people who society has scorned and ridiculed. As a gender variant person, I better understand that change helps me to grow and see life from another point of view. I know more changes will be in store. If my changing will benefit someone else's life, in the battle cry I heard during this current administration; 'Bring It On!'
I posted this quote by Anatole France on another site that I maintain. I ruminated on this quote for a few days and concluded that these words speak to everyone. It is true to those of us who are gender variant. As a transgender and cross dresser, my perspective about life has changed. These changes needed to be made if life was to be joyous; not tension-filled.
For a year I was learning who I was. Gender was now part of my own personal well being where before it was never an issue. I was apprehensive and yet I continued on my journey. Changes were more on the emotional level. I discovered the feminine side of my personality. To deny it was to succumb to the wishes and desires of those who say that I'm suppose to do male things. I needed to leave some thought patterns behind and develop new ones that were untapped and undeveloped. I realized that I may incur the wrath of some people but change can do that.
During the presidential election, a recurring theme was 'We need change!'. The question I ask is that are we willing to change? Am I willing to make the changes in me that are necessary? I cannot ask others to do something that wouldn't do myself. My heart goes out to my transsexual brothers and sisters because the changes with much sacrifice. Some have lost many of the things that were dear to them. I'm sure transitioning wasn't easy, but the change was for their well being.
I lost some things from the old life; but I have gained a new perspective about gender and sexuality. I have fallen in love with people who society has scorned and ridiculed. As a gender variant person, I better understand that change helps me to grow and see life from another point of view. I know more changes will be in store. If my changing will benefit someone else's life, in the battle cry I heard during this current administration; 'Bring It On!'
Friday, November 14, 2008
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Veterans Day
Yesterday was Veterans Day. I am a veteran of the U S Army. I am also a transgender veteran. Like my straight brethren, LGBT men and women serve their country with dignity. It's sad that the military doesn't recognize that. 'Dont' Ask, Don't Tell' has forced thousands of intelligent people out of the service just because of who they are.
It's belated but I salute ALL veterans. I especially salute LGBT veterans for your service under sometimes difficult circumstances.
Genevieve
It's belated but I salute ALL veterans. I especially salute LGBT veterans for your service under sometimes difficult circumstances.
Genevieve
Friday, November 07, 2008
GENEVIEVE'S GEMS
Love is desiring the best for my neighbor, whether or not we see eye to eye on everything.
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Obama Wins; Propositions Lose
I was riveted to the tv while I watched Barack Obama deliver his speech to an enthusiastic crowd of supporters in Chicago. My parents never had the chance to see this historic day. People want to see that they have a future in which THEY can help shape and create. Obama gives them that hope.
When I read my e-mails today I saw that the propositions in California, Arizona, Arkansas, and Florida had passed. This was a blow to gays and lesbians. It's true that Obama was opposed to gay marriage but he was against Prop 8 in California; something that was not brought out to those trying decide which way to vote. Looking ahead, I see how this could affect transgender people and their families. We catch enough hell as it is and this defeat demonstrates that there's still much work ahead.
Just as I encourage my GLB bretheren to stay the course, it behooves my transgender family to work unceasingly for the legislation that will affect us. ENDA is a start. Education is still needed in the black community and in the white community. What rattles around in my brain is did some of these people really understand what these propositions were about? Sadly, many rely on what others say about something rather than doing their own homework.
I applaud Equality California, Equality Arizona and Equality Florida for their efforts. I applaud the many volunteers who were out canvassing households to educate them. Don't feel discouraged; you no doubt have gained some allies. You have gained one in me.
When I read my e-mails today I saw that the propositions in California, Arizona, Arkansas, and Florida had passed. This was a blow to gays and lesbians. It's true that Obama was opposed to gay marriage but he was against Prop 8 in California; something that was not brought out to those trying decide which way to vote. Looking ahead, I see how this could affect transgender people and their families. We catch enough hell as it is and this defeat demonstrates that there's still much work ahead.
Just as I encourage my GLB bretheren to stay the course, it behooves my transgender family to work unceasingly for the legislation that will affect us. ENDA is a start. Education is still needed in the black community and in the white community. What rattles around in my brain is did some of these people really understand what these propositions were about? Sadly, many rely on what others say about something rather than doing their own homework.
I applaud Equality California, Equality Arizona and Equality Florida for their efforts. I applaud the many volunteers who were out canvassing households to educate them. Don't feel discouraged; you no doubt have gained some allies. You have gained one in me.
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Speaking for Transgender People
I was asked by the leader of our bimonthly fellowship if I would like to teach a lesson. I said that I would. I am the only transgender person in the group so this is a welcome opportunity share what it is to be a gender variant individual. Transgender basics about the different expressions of gender and the role transgender people have played in history are a couple of topics that I have in mind. There are probably other topics that could be discussed. I'll have to think about it.
I welcome the opportunity to share what it is to be transgender and a cross dresser. I love to share my experiences in hope that others will be encouraged.
Gennee
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