First let me say that I already feel that, no matter what I say about this topic, it will be inadequate. (And now I hear a little voice saying, “You certainly will, with that attitude, Little Missy!” And she’s probably right, too, whoever she is.) But it’s really important to me, so I am writing anyway (now there’s a risk already)!
It’s Gay Pride weekend here in Atlanta, and in just a little while, I’ll be going into town to participate. I went once before, waaaay back in the 90′s. I even got up on stage and sang as a part of the program, proudly while wearing my “STRAIGHT BUT NOT NARROW” t-shirt. It was fun, and I was happy – and proud - to share in the celebration of diversity and acceptance and the fact that between adult humans, love is love is love. So there.
This year, everything is different. Or is it? I am no longer straight, that’s true, but I’m still not narrow. And I am already “out” in so many ways and have been for some time. And yet, for some crazy reason, I am nervous about it. (OK, I won’t call it crazy. It’s just a feeling, right? Right!)
I am still going, though. Because it’s kind of like writing this post: it’s important to me. We’ll see how it goes, what other feelings it triggers. And unless those feelings kill me (which we all know they won’t), I’ll write again later and let you know how it went.
So there you have it, my risk for the day: going to the Gay Pride celebrations a lesbian, with my girlfriend. Will I see you there? I hope so!
Laura Biering has an infectious zeal for coaching people who want to do
enlivening work and live inspired lives. She's fired up about the power of taking risks - great and small - and the rewards that come as a result. She's also passionate about (1) creativity and authenticity and their potential to change the world, (2) frolicking with her adorable four-legged children, and (3) retreating with those she loves at her farm in Southeast Georgia, Brinson's Race. Visit her website at True Voices.
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I dream of a time, throughout the world, when supporting or participating in Gay Pride events is no longer considered “risky”.
Amen, sistah!
Sorry I missed you there, Laura, but we were in good company with some many tens of thousands of other celebrating. It IS a brave thing to be a lesbian. I take it for granted every day, only because I can’t remember NOT being a lesbian, but coming out is one of the biggest risks a person can take, so a big WOO HOO to you and anyone else who takes that giant step!
Thank you, dear Randy, for the reminder and encouragement, to all of us, no matter what it is we are “coming out as.”