Stuff 105: Brown Shoes

By J.J. Atwell

Ole, Lonesome George

In days of olde, well not that old for some of us, Johnny Carson was the host of The Tonight Show on TV. On one particular night in 1969, Johnny had quite a group of famous, glamorous movie stars, all of which were well-dressed. Then out comes George Gobel who looked over the group and quipped to Carson, “Did you ever get the feeling that the world was a tuxedo and you were a pair of brown shoes?” Of course the panel broke up in laughter. For the younger crowd or those with shorter memories, you can click here to view that episode on YouTube.

But that telltale joke revealed a tender spot. Something that I think many of us have. Do we sometimes feel like a brown shoe when en femme? Do we envy some of our sisters in how well they present? I’m asking about other CDs here, not GGs. I know when JJ goes out, she always strives for her best look, but like lonesome George, you can only do so much with what you have. 

Cope With Reality

So, here we are, a pair of brown shoes. So what? I know it’s disappointing not to measure up to your own high standards. Do we have unreasonable expectations? I think that’s true. I think that all the societal pressures that are put on women about how they should look and act have found their way into our Femulate world. How do we reconcile those ideals with the reality of who we are? Ideals that even GG’s struggle to meet. 

Too Philosophical?

I fear that I’ve let this edition of Stuff stray into some philosophical quicksand. At this point, many readers have turned to other things. Sorry about that. But for those who have stuck with me, I invite you to follow my current thinking. And to offer your own thoughts in the comments section. 

I deal with the reality of being a pair of brown shoes by acknowledging it and by taking it as a challenge. I know I can do better than what I do now. My girl self hasn’t reached her best presentation. Being reminded of that is a good thing. I think the worst thing that could happen in my femme world would be to just accept being a pair of brown shoes. Unless they go with your outfit of course. Apologies to those in the shoe business. 

Encourage Others

Let’s take the opportunity the next time we are with other CDs to encourage each other to continue down this fascinating path we have embarked upon. If you see a pair of brown shoes, maybe comment on how nicely they match the bag. Be positive. A few kind words cost you nothing and can mean much to the recipient. Support your femulating sisters. 

I’ll Be Back

As always, comments are welcome either here on the blog or by email to Jenn6nov at-sign gmail dot com. JJ is always looking for more stuff, so if there is something you would like to read about, please let me know!

Wearing A.L.C.

Jai Rodriguez femulating on television's Detroit 1-8-7.