Thought for the Day

[bcholmes]

When I was a young boy, my father took me to the circus. I don't remember anything about the circus performance. All I remember is the sideshow. And what I remember most is Olaf, the world's tallest man. He was so tall, I had to stretch my neck way back in order to see all of him. He wore a brown suit. I remember that part. His feet were as long as my arm. He was quiet. He had... dignity. But, his hands -- damn, his hands were enormous. On each of his fingers, he wore rings, which he sold as souvenirs. I remember I was standing up front, close to his stage, as he spoke of his life. I didn't understand a word he said, but I worshipped him. And then he bent down toward me. His already immense head grew larger and larger as his face drew near to mine. And I remember no fear. He knew me, and I knew him. He smiled. I smiled. Then he took one of the rings off his finger, and put it round my wrist. And I knew I was just like him. I knew I was a freak.

Freaks always know that.

-- Kate Bornstein, Gender Outlaw