When I was a little kid, I was unapologetically curious and colorfully authentic until I was told to dim my feminine light.

Temporarily upstaged by war in the Middle East, last week’s Senate Armed Services hearings suggested war might be brewing closer to home. Trump seeks an unprecedented $1 trillion defense budget that will be used, in large part, on American soil.

When I was young, I was fascinated by gyroscopes, “a device used to maintain orientation and angular velocity.” I didn’t understand then, but I do now. I’m oriented not just to other men, but to kindness, truthfulness, nature, innocence, gratitude, and to the Spirit/Tao/Higher Power.

When border czar Tom Homan threatened to arrest California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Trump goaded Homan on, telling reporters, “I would do it if I were Tom. I think it's great!” adding, “Gavin likes the publicity, but I think it would be a great thing.”

Our streets pulsed with love, pride, and unstoppable resilience as thousands gathered for the Stonewall Pride & Street Festival on June 14.

I have always lived my life unapologetically; first "Gay & Proud," and then, "Trans & Proud." I am still proud, but now I am more afraid than ever. Trans rights are under unprecedented attack, as lawmakers push policies that specifically target us. I wonder why my, or our, existence provokes such fear and hostility.