Posts in Reflections
Rite of Transition: A Ritual of Rebirth

I created a ceremonial rite of passage that marked my gender transition. For me (and I hope for others who will build on it), it serves as a communal recognition, validation, and commemoration of the profound and spiritual experience that has been this journey. It proved to be filled with Spirit, utterly transcendent.

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Coming Out of the Closet 🏳️‍⚧️

I am a transgender woman. This fact is related to my resignation from the church. I have “known” it for a long time, but only recently put all the pieces together to the point that I fully KNOW and accept it. Paige and I are staying together. The kids know are doing fine. All of our family knows and has been supportive. My name is Esther, pronouns she/her/hers, and my kids call me “Mapa”. My faith is stronger than it has ever been and has been integral in choosing to proceed with transition. I am scared, angry, brave, grateful, and absolutely full of joy. I am going back to school to become a Marriage and Family Therapist. Please consider educating yourself if I’m the only (or one of very few) trans person you think you know. I cherish your friendship and support.

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Every Pizza is a Personal Pizza...if you work hard and believe in yourself

Too soon? (At least from a guy who had bariatric surgery just 15 months ago?)

The other day amongst some friends, the conversation floated to the subject of ice cream. We chatted about our favorite flavors and cafes. One person remarked how they could eat this certain brand every day if it were available. Everyone chuckled and nodded affably, myself included.

I have quite a long history with ice cream. I love the stuff. And I happen to be quite a discriminating consumer; at this point I literally won’t waste the calories, money, or time on low-quality product. Part of...

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