I have some anonymity at the convention. I appear to be just another middle-aged woman attending the convention. Only if a civilian examines my name badge, recognizes my call sign, and then puts two and two together, do they realize that I am not the ham I used to be.
Recently, I was invited to attend and speak at a meeting of the operators of a ham radio network that covers the Northeast. I will not be anonymous at the meeting. My name and call sign will be announced before I speak and I can see the jaws dropping already!
The meeting is this Saturday and I admit to you that I am a little nervous about it.
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| Wearing Fashion to Figure. |
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| Marie Sunshine. |
You'll be fine out and about...you always look fabulous! Be thankful you have these wonderful opportunities!
ReplyDeleteMandy
Thank-you, Mandy.
DeleteStana:
ReplyDeleteBe true to yourself. You've done Hamvention and been well received. You've spoken countless times at universities and other venues. You've gone to work multiple times en femme (Halloween counts when you're out to your boss, her boss, and several other colleagues). You've bared your soul online. This Saturday is no different. Walk into the room, heels clicking, and own the room. Get someone to take a couple photos as this will be another milestone for you.
Best regards,
Rhonda
Picking up on Meg's comments, you should start off by saying "Stanley couldn't make it today, so I'm filling in . . . . ." Then wait for their A HA moment. And, as Marian said, you'll need to write in a bit more detail about how this goes. We'll have the popcorn ready at my house as we prepare to read "the rest of the story" as Paul Harvey used to say.
DeleteRhonda
Good one, Rhonda! I need an ice-breaker and that may be it!
DeleteStana -
ReplyDeleteThen you'll be completely out to the world! I think it's great. You'll have to write in deeper detail than usual about this outing.
Good luck!
M
Thank-you, Marian. I expect I will have a lot to write about afterwards!
DeleteGood luck, Stana! You'll do great!
ReplyDeleteThank-you, Jenny.
DeleteI'm VERY excited for you!
ReplyDeleteDo you have a little elevator speech in case someone asks "Stan? What happened?" I'd have a short honest explanation and an over-the-top one (like "there aren't enough women in amateur radio and I'm trying to take up the slack"), for people who deserve each.
Are they announcing you as Stan or Stana? I hope it's the latter.
The fellow running the meeting will introduce me as Stana . I like your "not enough women in ham radio."
DeleteMeg -
ReplyDeleteI only hope that Stana"s experience is as pleasant as possible.
Marian
I can not believe you have been attending the convention for six years. I remember following your blog during that first year. Your successful outing has helped me gain the confidence to slowly come out.
ReplyDeleteI'm happy that I helped you, Susan.
DeleteGo Girl! Enjoy every blessed moment. Who know what tomorrow will bring.
ReplyDeleteRhonda
Thanks, Rhonda.
DeleteYou'll be amazing and inspirational, as always.
ReplyDeleteI hope so, Kate. (I'm sure I will amaze one way or the other!)
DeleteDear Stana,
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of a tall transwoman “coming out” to some unsuspecting civilians, a transwoman friend of mine who is 6'4" in bare feet, was in a large cruise ship elevator. A number of civilian men got on the elevator, and my friend noticed them eyeing her oddly and nervously. After a brilliant comedic pause, my friend looked right at them and said ... "Don't worry; it's not contagious". That broke the ice, and she had a lovely and educational (for them) conversation after they got off the elevator.
My friend's name is Maureen. She is a delightful person, and a natural comedienne. My favorite line of hers was when she was the last person to speak at a round table discussion of what each girl's favorite makeup brand was. The other 6 or 7 girls all offered their favorite makeup company. Then it was Maureen's turn. She said "Well, my favorite makeup is ... Sherwin Williams ... and I love their large roller applicator".
Love,
Sheila.
Live your life honestly as it is short and fleeting. You will be awesome!
ReplyDelete