March 20, 2011

Rae

Rae, age 5
Barstow, California (1974)


I was always the one girl who wanted to play cops and robbers with the boys,
or build forts in the desert. I loved getting dirty.

I loved watching "Masters Of The Universe" because I thought Teela was cool. But the real reason was I thought her father, Man-at-Arms, was even cooler.

I knew I was gay around age 10. I was having  giddy feelings for some of my girl friends. I knew I was different, but I just didn't know in what way.

Seeing this picture of myself decked out in a dress, now makes me realize just how uncomfortable I always was in girls clothing. It was a nice feeling to be dressed up, but I would have been happier in a little suit and tie.

When I came out in 2009, the majority of my family's responses were:

"We have known forever, but we were waiting for you to be comfortable enough to tell us."

None of my family members, including my own children, have bad feelings about me being a lesbian. In fact, they all know I'm happier now, because I don't have to hide who I really am.

My message is: Be true to yourself, and do not hide who you really are.

Yes, it might be difficult. But don't miss out on the life you could have, because you're too busy living the life someone else wants you to have.

I missed about 20 years of true happiness, because I was too afraid to be myself. So don't live in fear.



Rae's first, famous-person same sex crush:
Lynda Carter (as "Wonder Woman")
Seeing her in 'Wonder Woman' made my little heart flutter like crazy
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Lynda Carter Wonder Woman Poster- Color 2'x3' From Stumbling Blocks to Stepping Stones: The Life Experiences of Fifty Professional African American Women Masters of the Universe

5 comments:

GMa said...

Rae is my daughter and I am very proud of her and I Love her with all my heart. Linda

Anonymous said...

I love you Mom!!!! So so proud of you! xoxo

Anonymous said...

Thank you for posting my story. I have been one of the lucky ones and have full support of my family and friends. To those of you who are not as fortunate ~ remember you always have family and friends beneath the rainbow.

Unknown said...

Ray, I don't think you missed 20 years of your life... You have children as a proof! =)

Unknown said...

I'm so happy to see you happy. I love you always and forever.
Daughter #2 :)