Tag Archives: photography

Greg, Singing Artist and Teacher, New York City

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

Greg, in his own words: “First I want to thank Cheryl King, actress and owner, of Stage Left Studios in Chelsea for providing the space (to shoot).”

“Being an HIV positive gay man means that I am NOT an HIV positive gay man. What I mean is, those labels don’t define me, but add brilliance to my life.”

“There’s already too much unnecessary segregation in the gay community, that can serve both a good purpose and a not so good.”

“I’m at a really peaceful stage in my 42 year life, where left and right dreams are coming true. Both as a singing artist and a New Thought leader teaching singing artists how to make their voices matter in the world.”

“If I could leave with any words of wisdom, I would say define who you are at the core, what you value and let go of any labels that you might have attached too.”

“They helped at one time, but eventually labels fall off and will then leave you with space to be who you are meant to be.”

photo by Kevin Truong

Reverend Roger Anthony Yolanda Mapes and Glen, Performer and Truth Teacher, New York City

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

Reverend Roger Anthony Yolanda Mapes’ own words “(Being gay) simply means that I am sexually attracted to masculinity in general, and specifically, sexually and emotionally joined to my husband Glen. It doesn’t mean that I belong to any particular “gay” stereotype.”

“I am Spirit having a human experience in a body that society and culture says is “male” and more specifically “gay male”. Neither of these identities define me. I am both male and female, profane and Divine. I am Human and that is a profound and enlightening experience.”

“I have found that what I think of anyone is a reflection of what I think of myself. There were times that I didn’t have a lot of love for myself and that was reflected back to me in the community around me, LGBT or otherwise. I have resolved so many of my own issues that the community around me has changed. The people that surround me, now, reflect the love that I have for myself. I have created renewed, loving relationships with old friends in the LGBT community, and I have also made new friends with LGBT people that hold the same goals as I do. I also have established and strengthened relationships with life affirming people in other communities besides the LGBT community. All of my circles now intersect easily with each other.”

“(One of the challenges I’ve faced) is believing in myself despite the opinions of others. Other people have always told me what I was “supposed” to do, and what the life threatening consequences would be if I did not follow their instructions. Guess what!! I’m still here !! I’m still doing it my way.. the way my inner Spirit directs me… and I LOVE my LIFE! thank you very much!”