OK– I apologize.
I recognize that "National Coming Out Day" was on Sunday. And it's Friday. But stick with me…
We all have our own unique coming out stories– or have heard from our LGBT friends about their unique experience. Mine involved lots of tears, lots of questions, and lots of laundry. But, that's for another day, and another blog.
You know I like television (even using the word "like" is putting it lightly). And ABC has been my network of choice lately–except when I am following those hot messes known as the "Real Housewives" on Bravo. I've been a big fan of Grey's Anatomy since the world was first introduced to "McDreamy." Even during the times of "Denny-gate," I've stuck with the show.
Right now, it's going through a bit of a creative slump. Too many characters, too many storylines. But the one supercouple that sustains my interest is Callie and Arizona, the lesbian powerhouse duo on the show. I like this couple for several reasons– including the fact that they represent a demographic rarely seen on network cable.
But what I really like about the couple right now is the journey of Callie. For more than 30 years, she identifed herself as a straight woman. Was even married. But, she met Dr. Erica Hahn, and started to question her identity. When she finally met Arizona, she met a true partner in love.
And part of this discovery process has been coming out to her family. On last night's episode, Callie was again confronted by her father about her relationship with Arizona. Her father brought the family priest all the way to Seattle Grace to talk to Callie about her life choices. In classic Shonda Rhimes (the writer) fashion, Callie screams to her father in the middle of the hospital corridor: "You can't pray away the gay!"
Best. Line. Ever.
I really appreciate the opportunity for mainstream television viewers to follow the coming out journey of a major character on a primetime network drama and the stuggles that we face to gain acceptance and understanding from those we love. While watching the show last night, it dawned on me that no matter your coming out story, we all know what it's like and feel a unique bond for going through the journey. I encourage other networks to give mainstream audiences similar education moments about the LGBT story. As NBC always said to me while growing up, "the more you know."
That's it. Unless you want to discuss the "boy in the balloon" story from yesterday.I mean, really?!?
(Photo courtesy of ABC)
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