Mostly Amused...An introduction
Does the world really need another Substack/blog? Probably not, but I’m doing it anyway.
Even though I don’t consider myself a writer, I enjoy it and as many friends would attest, I usually have something to say. As an out, gay, cis-gendered, (and middle-aged) male that lives with his husband in the often unwelcoming state of Florida, I have opinions on the impacts of the current political and social climate.
My days are spent supporting people as a licensed therapist and coach. They are a mix of supporting people through the worst traumas of their lives, providing gender-affirming care, and facilitating online communities for the LGBTQIA+ community. Each appointment is a chance to learn no matter how hard or intense it is – and they can be hard and intense. They can also be immensely rewarding and an honor to learn from these amazing people.
Why write now? The short answer is ‘why not?’ The combination of my work, navigating COVID, and the political climate has been overwhelming for years. Trauma is everywhere and continually perpetrated through the news cycles and vitriol that comes out of social media. But, there are more perspectives than just the hate and division. That is what my clients have been teaching me – look for more than just the bad. They have an amazing ability to find good in even the hardest of situations.
While not wanting to contribute to the feeling of division, I’m not going to “other-side” politics either. There are bad actors everywhere, but my community is being threatened. I refuse to give credence to the political players actively working to take my rights away. My politics and beliefs are proudly liberal and I’m not going to debate them. There are plenty of places on the internet to do that.
That is what brings me here writing this to share the lessons from supporting people growing into their real selves whether it’s their gender, sexuality, getting through trauma or all the above. They are an inspiration and seeing them be themselves, their unique and amazing selves, is a joy. We need more joy.
Few topics are off the table. I don’t claim to have all the answers or the ability to always be positive (positivity can be toxic and dismissing of real life). My intent and goal are that with the lessons from my clients and the experiences of an aging queer guy (me), some hope can grow. Or maybe just get a laugh.
If you’ve made it this far, thank you for taking the time.
With Gratitude…
Mark