A Peaceful Focus's blog

You know how adults are always asking kids what they want to be when they grow up?

No one likes to have challenges in their lives; however, stress is normal. How we handle challenges when they arise -- particularly the significant ones -- says a lot about who we are and about human psychology in general.

When I grew up, I was very proud to be an American. At the local airshow my heart would swell with pride as the song "I'm Proud To Be An American" played. I dreamed of flying a fighter plane off of an aircraft carrier when I grew up. I watched "Top Gun" so many times i wore out VHS copies of it without number.

One reaches a certain age and a certain amount of your life is spent driving. As such, purchasing gas in an unavoidable ritual. I've been driving for over 20 years now. Over the past five years I've kept track of gas prices, mileage. I've purchased gas (87 octane) largely from the same two stations.

When most people think of progress, they think of the newest computers from Apple, the hottest video game or home entertainment system, hybrid cars, their team getting into the super bowl or world series, a pay raise, going against the majority, or a new political candidate.

It's difficult to know you're lonely if you've no clue there is any other way to be. For over thirty years I had no idea there was such a thing as healthy touch. I grew up in a horrifically abusive household, a violent academic environment. I had no friends. I escaped in books, video games and daydreams.

People see the GLBTIQ/Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Trans, Intersexed, Questioning Community (or LGBTIQ, if you prefer that) as united, happy family to battle against homophobia & transphobia. In my experience, not so much. Though we are all heaped into one category doesn't mean we are all welcome in it.

My life has been difficult because of my gender identity. I was born with a female body. This works great if your mind is also of the female persuasion; however, mine wasn't. I grew up In Salinas, California -- a VERY conservative area. I nor my parents didn't know about transgenderism or transsexualism. I wouldn't be what I wasn't; I stole my brothers' clothes & toys.