subbing

I've been substitute teaching at the elementary school. Today I was a roving sub, meaning I went to about 5 different classes for 30 minutes each, while the teachers went to inservice meetings. I really enjoyed that way of subbing. It gave me more opportunity to meet and interact with a wider range and age of kids. I knew at least one child in each class, which made it fun. I got to sub in Saydi's class. That was great!!

Another thing on my mind is something Lindsay said when I was telling her how I wish there were certain resources for processing my experiences with LGBT issues and she said, Mom, maybe you are supposed to create those resources. I have thought it over and decided there is something to that. I know there are some great resources out there, but I hesitate involving myself in any one thing because of the religious and politically charged energy that goes into maintaining any one position. It is the practice, the application, the how of love and openess that interests me. I want to do that. For me, important social issues, are reminders given to show that love is not defined by outward appearances. To give us something with which to perfect our awareness. The universe repeatedly offers these courses in love, these opportunities, over and over.

I have a few ideas of what I would love to take an active role in doing. One idea is from a wonderful mentor and mormon friend, Carol Lynn Pearson. She has suggested that we reach out to each other and listen to each others story, experiences with LGBT issues. And that we start within ourselves, our families, our neighborhood and go out from there. Allowing ourselves to listen and love. That we do this especially within our religious communities. This position was echoed by Emma Lou Thayne, another wonderful mentor and mormon woman.

Before one year ago, I only knew one or two individuals and their families having experienced LGBT/religious issues. Alan, (my cousin) and his partner Mike, and Robert (greg's cousin). Since then, I know Elaine(my daughter) and her partner Kristen, Johann (Greg's son), Liz(my childhood friend) and her partner Nan, John (my neighbor), Gloria (6th grade teacher at our school), Lee (my therapist), Jamie (my friend), Cass (my friend), Caspian (my friend), Eric (my friend), Tim and Craig (my friends), A sister of two of my friends from church, A sister of my gospel doctrine teacher, Sara and Scott (blogging friends). So about 21 people and their families. These are people from my closest inner circle. (There are so many more that are now in my circle of knowledge). For now, my book could include a story from about 100 individuals (the 21, and their families).....if each one wanted to share their story with me. I think I will work on compiling that book. It actually sounds exciting!!