We met the beautiful souls of the LGBT Center today. First off, this was hands down my favorite site visit of this quarter because the sense of community is so strong. There was nothing but respect and smiles in all the interactions I saw. Everyone knew each other’s names and joked with each other as if they were friends for decades. Only about half of my classmates could make this visit, so those of us who were there had the opportunity to talk with 3 older adults at each table over some yummy catered Chinese food!
I was lucky to share a table with 3 beautiful souls named Raven, Bill, and Nick. Although we had discussion questions at the table, we didn’t use any of them since our conversation just flowed from the moment we sat down. I got to hear personal life stories and perspectives on domestic violence, family perspectives about being transgender, portrayal of gays in cinema back in the day, development of the internet, and inability to relate to current, trendy music. Bill really went ham on expressing his disapproval on how young folks are obsessed with their phones these days. He recalled how he saw a group of girls at a restaurant play with their phones and take pictures of their steak instead of focusing on conversing and making genuine connections. I felt guilty because I’ve done some of the same things. I do agree that there’s a better time and place to use social media, but I don’t think Bill realizes how useful social media is in keeping in touch with friends and expressing creativity in general. His words made me want to defend my whole generation but I totally understand his perspective and believe that there should be a healthy limit.
Also, it was refreshing to talk to Raven. She was the first one Sabrina and I spoke to, so we had more time to share little things like how we’re currently feeling. She’s 61 years old but said that she feels 18. That was SO awesome to hear. Raven loves fashion, make-up, and hairdressing (and I could totally tell by her stylish outfit and accessories!) and lives life to the fullest despite her struggles. It was really comforting talking to Raven. It felt like I was catching up with an older sister. Her positivity and contagious energy absolutely brightened up my Wednesday afternoon.
I was lucky to share a table with 3 beautiful souls named Raven, Bill, and Nick. Although we had discussion questions at the table, we didn’t use any of them since our conversation just flowed from the moment we sat down. I got to hear personal life stories and perspectives on domestic violence, family perspectives about being transgender, portrayal of gays in cinema back in the day, development of the internet, and inability to relate to current, trendy music. Bill really went ham on expressing his disapproval on how young folks are obsessed with their phones these days. He recalled how he saw a group of girls at a restaurant play with their phones and take pictures of their steak instead of focusing on conversing and making genuine connections. I felt guilty because I’ve done some of the same things. I do agree that there’s a better time and place to use social media, but I don’t think Bill realizes how useful social media is in keeping in touch with friends and expressing creativity in general. His words made me want to defend my whole generation but I totally understand his perspective and believe that there should be a healthy limit.
Also, it was refreshing to talk to Raven. She was the first one Sabrina and I spoke to, so we had more time to share little things like how we’re currently feeling. She’s 61 years old but said that she feels 18. That was SO awesome to hear. Raven loves fashion, make-up, and hairdressing (and I could totally tell by her stylish outfit and accessories!) and lives life to the fullest despite her struggles. It was really comforting talking to Raven. It felt like I was catching up with an older sister. Her positivity and contagious energy absolutely brightened up my Wednesday afternoon.