I know a guy, who I'm sure is gay, who would never admit it to
anyone, not even himself. The repression of his real self has caused him
to completely stop developing as an adult. He is basically a 35 year old
adolescent with all of the unfulfilled fantasies and misconceptions that
would go with that. He is also very creative and has a good natural sense
of design. He has even made his own clothing. Much of his conversation
revolves around his supposed frequent near sexual contacts with
women, which, for some reason, rarely end in the story of doing the
nasty. When they do, his depiction of the heterosexual act is very lacking
in the real human experience. Will there ever be a day when a person
doesn't feel the need to kill their real identity and make up a fake one?
There is also a very large group of people who regularly portray
themselves as straight. Many are married, possibly with children. When
their natural desire for sexual expression overwhelms them, they are
driven to high risk behavior; possibly random encounters at highway
rest stops, parks, bath houses, or adult movie theaters. This puts their
entire family at risk.
Back in the 50s, 60s and 70s, it might have been cool to play the gay
card up your sleeve. With a nod and a wink, you could find yourself on a
secret rendezvous. I guess at that time the social climate called for it. But
that sort of culture just doesn't cut it anymore. Now the risks are far too
great. If we are ever going to bring about a change in the way our
government and society deals with gay people and put an end to gay
bashing, hate crimes, and total insecurity in the work place, we need to
have as many people rallying together as possible. The only shame there
is in being gay is not standing up for the rights you were born with.
Opportunity To Share Your Thoughts
The Beacon Journal has two stories in the works about gays. The first story is
being done by a business reporter and it is focusing on gays in the workplace. The
second story is being done by an education writer, and is focused towards teachers
and students in high school. If you have any interest in being a part of either of
these stories, and you live in Medina, Summit, Portage, Stark or Wayne Counties,
give What's Up a call at (330) 762 7137 and ask for Terry or James. Confidentiality is
assured. They would like to interview people who are Out and people who are not
out. Please help your community by contributing any information that you may have.
If you know of anyone who has had problems at school or work, call us.
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