DistinctLonging

Rachel Ann Bovier is a Pittsburgh legend who has been publishing her poems in city newspapers for decades. In more recent years, she started putting up these bill boards along major roads. For what reason? I have no clue. But I would often pass them on my way to Oakland for therapy. They never failed to cheer me up.

As a young trans writer, they gave me this precious little spark of joy. There was someone like me, a writer, a Pittsburgher, a trans person, who was confident enough to put their face on a bill board! I would always smile as we passed by and my mom took note.

Fast forward a few years and it’s my 21st birthday. My mom has been super excited about my gift and teased me about it over and over again. She said it was the best gift she’d ever gotten me and in many ways she was right. It was a custom poem she commissioned from Miss Bouvier! It congratulated me on my birthday, my academic success, lots of little stuff. It was simple and sweet and perfect.

they could’ve given mike one.

stay alive

stay safe

Drink some water

eat something

get back into the things you love

Unclench your jaw

do some self-care

Take a shower or bath

If you haven’t heard the wonderful music of Ara Dinkjian, check him out!

I'm Still Alex - Webtoon | Tapas | Linktree | Patreon

He’s seriously such a nice person and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every time I’ve met him.  Having had the opportunity to photograph and record him is a privilege, and having had that privilege multiple times is an honor.

A few weeks ago, I brought up to our graphic designer that I should get my press pass remade with a new picture, and I’m definitely going to do that sooner or later, but I do kind of enjoy having the old one right now.  There’s so many folks that I see as part of my job that I’ve met over the years; having the old picture is a great way to jog their memories and also have a bit of fun.