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Justin Clouse |
Justin's was the first web journal I ever read, back in about 1995. His story is that of a lonely gay college freshman transplanted from his home in Kentucky to school in Boston and then Southern California. I consider him a friend, although we only occasionally exchange e mail and still haven't gotten around to meeting in person.
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John Johansen |
A while ago John's name started popping up in many of the journals read. I decided that if the Journaling Community was interested in what he had to say, then I maybe I should give him a read too. I found an interesting guy living in Spokane, Washington, with a big, but wounded heart. More than any of the other journals I read, John has had a difficult time being gay. He's on the road to becoming whole again by gaining the self confidence it takes to find love, and that makes his journal interesting reading. He's also a really nice person and I'm happy to count him among my net friends.
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Mat "Fozzy" O'Mara |
I just love reading Mat's journal because he's such a character. He's sooooo English - a statement wich might offend him because I think he's from Wales. In any case, Matt has a great optimistic point of view and a healthy sense of adventure. He's got a cute hairstyle too, which I can only describe as "Calvin" He'd prolly describe it as "happy floppy bunny".
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Bryan Phillips |
Bryan is a Junior at the University of Missouri at Kansas City. His journal tells of the ups and downs of college dorm life, and the difficulties involved in coming of age and coming out at the same time. Over the last few months he has become an important factor in my life, someone I care about very much. My relationship to him in someways feels like that of a loving older brother, and someways it's different (he flirts with me shamelessly and I kinda like it!). In any case, I've got a lot of affection for Bry, and I'm sure he's going to be part of my life for a long time to come.
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Robb Rush, a.k.a. Desidono |
Robb used to be two people - Desi and Robb. When I first found his home page, before it became a journal, Desi was running rampant, but you could find Robb in his e-mails too. Robb is smart and ambicious, Desi wants to play and be the center of it all. His boyfriend Chad seems to have managed the impossible, forgeing together the two sides of his personality. They've moved to Seattle to take over the city. They probably will.
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Micheal Taylor, a.k.a. Mickey |
When I discovered Mickey he was living in Japan, teaching school kids English. His journaling was emotional and touching. I *had* to write to him. I'm now proud to count him among my friends. I think our spirits are similar, although we express ourselves differently. Mickey is one of those who knows. His story has taken him to Seattle, on a journey to find something within himself that he hasn't quite yet defined. He'll get there, and when he does it's going to be very worthwhile. He's completely adorable right now, with his new BOYFRIEND!
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Andy Zupscan, a.k.a. Zup |
Andy's journal was inspired by Desi's (OK, Andy so had a crush on Robb!)and it was through that connection that I met him. I relate to Andy quite a bit. We're both more or less a bit geeky and brainy, but otherwise we're normal-type, rational guys. And we're both perhaps a little surprised to find ourselves attracted to the members of the same sex. I enjoy chatting with him and following his journal. He came to visit me in Monterey last summer and we had a great time. He's another friend I plan on keeping.
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Benn |
An interesting guy from Hobart, Tasmania, Australia, Benn's story is similar to mine. He never expected to be gay, and spent a long time closeted to the world and is now discovering the full force of his personality. Also in common with me, Benn enjoys the outdoors and spends a fair amount of time in the wilderness. He's also an excellent web coder and has a smooth, appealing page.
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Chris |
Chris is a very gifted and intelligent guy, living a somewhat isolated life in West Texas. His writing is outstanding. He never fails to impress me with his congenial personality despite how mentally tough he has to be to endure the many challenges presented in his life so far. My heart just bursts with pride for this young guy. I just know he's gonna make it. The world needs Chris, and it's my pleasure to be his friend.
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