To Alex Sanchez
Ξ October 22nd, 2007 | → | ∇ Gay, Philosophy, Writers |
I wrote this to Author Alex Sanchez a few minutes ago. As I re-read it, I realized that these words are meant for him, but also meant to be shared. Thus, it is now and open letter of appreciation.
Dear Mr. Sanchez,
Thank you for your book Rainbow Boys, and for the rest of them (which I will be reading shortly).
I, like so many gay men, did not have the resources, awareness, or support of a community during my adolescence. For me, the result of this has led to years of discovery, exploration, and an intense focus on supporting and healing the wounds of the gay community, most particularly I feel drawn to the support of gay youth.
Having finished Rainbow Boys today, I say with only slight sadness that I wish I had been able to read it when I was in High School. I have long since grown to forgiveness and even found strength in the challenges I faced growing up, but there is always this part of me that would like it to have been different.
Reading your portrayal of strong, scared, courageous, and loving young men touches a part of me that cherishes the strength we must each find to write our own coming out stories, every day of our lives. It reminds me that the world changes, through the efforts and work of every brave child, through the shared suffering of generations, we are changing things for the better. I am reminded how much work there still is to do, and how many scared, loving young men there still are in this world today.
Thank you for reminding me that the stories don’t always end badly, and that sometimes, they end rather nicely. Thank you for helping to bring resources and courage to young men everywhere, for helping them to realize that they aren’t alone. It is words like yours that give me hope for myself, and my family.
Ta kya te, (My heart is open to you)
Theo Geer
