I am a real American.

I am a real American. I have lived in seven US states and the District of Columbia, and in every one of those places - from New York and San Francisco, to the small Midwestern towns - I have met people I love and remain in awe of. I have never earned anywhere near $250,000 dollars a year, and never expect to. My parents, both the first in their families to go to college, and both professionals with advanced degrees, have never earned $250,000, separately or combined. I made $50,000 last year, through a combination of grants and the $30,000 a year job I am thrilled to have, because it means that for the foreseeable future I'll be able to pay my rent, be an artist, and have health insurance, all at the same time, which is rare. I've been uninsured for various periods of my life, and have had both my best and worst medical care experiences
at city run free clinics. I have never owned any property, or a car. I don't have a license and have never learned to drive. I was called a nigger twice before my 18th birthday. I was sexually assaulted twice before my 18th birthday. I blamed myself for the latter, but not the former. I was raised Christian, but have been agnostic for most of my adult life. I have three university degrees, one from an Ivy League university, and two from Midwestern state schools. I can't drink coffee. I'm a vegetarian. I go to the gym three days a week. I weigh more than charts say I should. I make a bad ass homemade blueberry pie, and an even better buttermilk chocolate cake. I never wear flat shoes, because I like the sound heels make when I walk. I've been a registered Independent since I was old enough to vote, because I think the Republicans would rather I didn't exist, and the Democrats take me for granted. I want all of my gay friends to be able to get married if they want to. I lived in New York on September 11th, and knew three people who but for uncanny coincidences would have been in World Trade Plaza that morning, and after seeing that destruction, and briefly experiencing the fear of not knowing where someone I loved was, and whether they were hurt, I don't see how anyone could ever wish that experience on anyone else. I have been to three other countries, two through free travel programs, and speak one language other than English. Seventy languages were spoken at my public high school. I can't remember what life was like before the Internet. I'm not big on beer or wine, but I'm a fan of rum, vodka, and tequila, though not all at the same time.