Midtown Chris

Do I have a sign on my forehead?

I went to lunch with a friend this week. Venturing into the unknown - we headed deep into the hood - Midtown that is - center of Gay Atlanta.

Nothing like the feeling of having a bumper sticker pasted to your forehead – “Fresh Meat”.

Being the out and coming (coming out) straight guy getting in touch with the truth proved to be a real good time. Even though it was a slow Wednesday on the patio at Joe’s, there was still a nice crowd. And it was nice getting some attention - and looks. But that brings me to the real subject.

What happens to guys when they come out? Approaching this intellectually I want to think that I will come out, find a great guy, and have a long term, mutually rewarding relationship based on love and a deep soulful connection. But is that how it works? I want it too, without question. It’s the plan. But am I more likely, freed from my sexual repression, to dive into the pool – or become “Midtown Chris” (cape and all) as a friend of mine jokes?

Now, I’m no slouch – even at 39. I’m in the best shape of my life; masculine, lean, athletic, smart, successful, well read and a world traveler. (and I have a really nice scooter chair and AARP has a great health plan :) )

I have absolutely no clue how this works but what if Midtown Chris is given just a little bit of attention by the boys at Outwrite, or Einstein’s, or at some techno club I now so snobbishly claim to not be “my scene” – does he become the shirtless dancer-boy up on Ecstasy until 4 in the morning sleeping with whatever twink comes along?

So who knows – if any of you do, shout it out. But it’s not the plan – I hope to have more character than that. Let me know what you think, what you’ve experienced.