Typically, Friday night's TV menu includes a "Dateline" murder mystery. We often watch. According to advertising hype, though, this week's "most anticipated" show would be the Bruce Jenner interview with Diane Sawyer. With a going-to-the-circus attitude, we watched. Well, I did. Joe fell asleep about midway through - he was exhausted and disinterested. I, however, quickly lost that circus-y feel.
The age-old question of "How?" or "Why?" gender confusion happens was not (and never shall be) answered. But the effects of it are as obvious as the day is long. And I don't mean just the visuals. 'Tis a sad story.
Mr. Jenner appeared for the last time as a male. Next time we see him, he'll be as a female. So, with that vision yet to be fully completed, it's tough to get Olympic Bruce out of my mind's eye…
Same as when Chastity Bono became Chaz. I could only "see" that little blonde girl with her famous parents. That smile. It never did change.
The numbers of people afflicted with gender confusion are staggering. The challenges are often beyond description. The suicide rate is high. Society's acceptance level is low.
It was pointed out during the show that by now, we all know a gay or lesbian couple. Most are "out" and mainstreamed and part of a society that no longer flinches, but rather accepts. Not the case for transgender men and women. They've a long way to go… and so do we. For starters...
Bruce Jenner accomplished something in our living room. He, soon to be she, found empathy. I speak only for myself! It's still impossible to understand the "…but what happens when…?" unanswered questions. But while we wait for understanding, maybe we can start with tolerance and hope that he and others find peace. Happiness is another story.
