Without the Mask

 This is my first review of a non-fiction book.  So please bear with me.  

Without the Mask came into the bookstore where I work, I thought it was just another book.  I don't normally read inspirational/non-fiction.  When I do I have to re-evaluate my life and do that changing thing. It pushes me out of my comfort zone.  I figure my life is hectic and crazy enough with out adding to my need to make changes.  But something drew me to this book.  Maybe it was the blurb in the front from Alyson Deussen, Maybe is was the fact I was one of the 60,000 fans cheering Cosmo the Cougar in Cougar stadium.  I don't know, but I was drawn to it.

I started reading this book and found myself drawn into Charlie Bird's life.  My heart broke for him when reading about his early experiences.  But my heart soared with him when he "came out" to his family and found love and acceptance there.  The thing that I find interesting about this book is the road Charlie has to traverse is not that much different than the road that most people have to traverse.  The way he has to find out God's plan for him, is the same way we all have to find God's plan for ourselves.  The principles he teaches us in finding his way help us to, not only be more understanding and accepting of other people, but also of ourselves.  We each need to be more sensitive to the feelings of others.   

I had a best friend in high school, his name was Rhett.  He was handsome, kind, giving, caring, funny.  We got along very well.  I had the biggest crush on him.  He was in choir with me, he also was a clogger, and the just about the best dancer around.  He honored his Priesthood and was on Seminary council. I wanted so much to go out with him.  He did give me a kiss on my birthday, but he never did ask me out.   I didn't know why.  I found out after he died, some 20 years ago now, that Rhett was gay.  I'd like to think my 17 year old self would have been a support to him if he'd told me.  But it was Utah County in the 70's, no one would admit to being anything out of the "normal".  The funny thing is I don't think there has ever been a thing called "normal".  Everyone is carrying a burden, everyone needs a support group. 

I loved this book.  Charlie Bird is an inspiration. I applaud his courage and willingness to share his life with us.