Talk about abominations. In one day both our nation and our state collude to deny the dignity and worth of transgender persons. How can this be? What do we do? When will it stop?

 

I haven’t even reached a point yet in which I can begin to formulate a plan of action. I’m still a little bit in shock. But let me say a couple of things.

 

To all transgender persons: Despite the injustice being rained down upon you seemingly from all sides, you are not alone. If you ever do feel alone, please reach out. Call a friend, email TENT ( info@transtexas.org), call the church or Deacon Care Line (512-291-8819), or call OutYouth ((512) 419-1233). Let us know the best way to stand with you and be an ally.

 

To everyone else: We have work to do. Last November, Rev. Elder Pat Bumgardner wrote a piece for the Transgender Day of Remembrance that impacted me greatly. One of the things she said that I can’t forget is this, “Let’s keep their memories alive, yes, and let’s keep the generation after them alive, too.” We cannot rest while God’s people suffer.

 

Here are some words of anguish…and hope to share in the meantime.

Psalm 13

For the director of music. A psalm of David.

How long, God? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
How long must I wrestle with my thoughts
and day after day have sorrow in my heart?
How long will my enemy triumph over me?

Look on me and answer,  my God.
Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death,
and my enemy will say, “I have overcome them,”
and my foes will rejoice when I fall.

But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.
I will sing God’s praise,
for God has been good to me.

Always in Hope,