Chapter 1: The Foundation of My Teaching Career

In the early days of my teaching career, I found myself in a position where I couldn't openly express my identity. The notion of being "out" was not just a challenge; it was nearly impossible to even discuss my true self with colleagues.

As a child in the 1950s, my classroom resembled the photograph displayed above. Education was rooted in strict discipline, with desks affixed to the floor and ink-well holes long forgotten. Little did I know that I would one day stand as the teacher at the front of my own elementary classroom. Though I would later come to identify as gay, I now realize that this aspect of my identity was always a part of me.

When I embarked on my teaching journey, my classroom was a lively and flexible space, a far cry from the rigid setups of my youth. I frequently rearranged the furniture, much to the delight of my students, who would joke each Monday, “Where’s the SRA Activities Box?” My response was always playful, “In the same place it always is,” which meant it had likely been relocated yet again!

At the age of 30, I was teaching fifth graders in a suburb outside Chicago. My distinctive approach caught the attention of local media, leading to interviews with publications like the Chicago Sun Times and the Chicago Tribune. The principal and vice-principal often visited my classroom, enjoying the sight of students engaging actively in their learning without much oversight from me. After outlining the week's objectives, I focused on providing tailored instruction to individuals and small groups.

A recurring joke among my fellow teachers was that I could take a sick day, and my students would still have a productive day in my absence, even without a substitute. My classroom was illuminated with gentle table lamps instead of harsh overhead lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Soft classical music often played in the background, and various learning zones included a sofa area, a writing station, a quiet corner with rugs and pillows, and a listening station for group activities.

In addition to creative writing, my students engaged in memoirs, essays, and poetry. We had a unique tree structure adorned with seasonal decorations, where students would express their creativity through poetry. Each year, they crafted and illustrated a 32-page children's book based on their own ideas, which we transformed into professional-looking hardbound volumes.

Every week, our bulletin board showcased new assignments and independent study projects, while passes allowed students to visit the restroom or library independently. The classroom library boasted thousands of books from the Scholastic Book Club, fostering a love for reading. I encouraged students to choose reading groups based on their interests and abilities, supporting their literary growth.

Among their many assignments, students were required to maintain a personal journal, which they were encouraged to write in regularly. They often expressed frustration over the ambiguity of this task, yet it became a cherished part of their routine. On Fridays, they submitted their journals alongside other assignments, often discussing their writing with me.

Surprisingly, many students later reminisced about the significant amount of writing we did, often at the expense of subjects like science and history. Yet, I was proud to know that many of them cherished their books long after leaving my class, sharing them with their own children.

Beyond my experiences in elementary education, I also engaged in extensive writing for various college courses, workshops, and seminars throughout my 30-year career. Writing has served as a vital outlet for processing my thoughts, sharing my experiences, and documenting my journey.

Despite my lengthy career, I never felt free to share my LGBTQ identity with students, parents, or colleagues. This lack of openness is perhaps why I find such fulfillment in writing for Pen & Prism. Over the past two years, I've penned over 160 essays and poems related to LGBTQIA+ issues, reaching an audience of more than 25,000 readers.

Chapter 2: A Life of Reflection and Expression

Reflecting on my life, I identify as an older gay man who has navigated many challenges. My late husband, Gregory (RIP), and I spent the last 12 years of our 41-year marriage on a journey through dementia and Alzheimer's. He was not a victim but a hero, living as fully as possible in the face of this disease.

The diagnosis prompted me to document our life together through two blogs, generating hundreds of essays and poems, which garnered significant attention. I also self-published a 500-page caregiver's guide, which provided insights into our shared experiences.

Amid the emotional turmoil, I found solace in writing poetry, leading to the publication of three poetry books. My work is accessible, intentionally avoiding complex conventions, aiming to foster a sense of intimacy and connection with readers.

During the same period, I established "MICHAEL'S MUSEUM," a collection of small treasures that now resides in the Chicago Children's Museum. This exhibit represents my life, interests, and experiences, and reflects my identity as a gay man.

Following my poetry publications, I explored memoir writing, self-help books, and essays on various topics. All my works are available for purchase online.

Now, as I embrace my identity as an openly gay man, I am grateful for platforms like Prism & Pen that allow me to share my story. I write about the joys and challenges of aging as a gay man, the struggles faced by the LGBTQ community, and the importance of visibility and acceptance.

The past 79 years have been a profound journey, filled with lessons and experiences worth sharing. I feel fortunate to live my life authentically, no longer hiding any part of my identity.