By Donna Sachet–
Sometimes, one becomes known for certain random things … a color, an expression, an affinity, etc. And sometimes, that association sticks! Certainly, we are known to wear the color red, to toss out a signature phrase or two, and to favor certain charitable causes that have become near and dear to our heart. So, in looking ahead to the months to come of 2024, we plan to follow our well-known affinity for the number three.
Frankly, we’re not sure how it started, but that number has stuck with us for nearly three decades! (Oops, there we go again!) When delivering a speech, announcing the three topics one will cover is a tried-and-true device to capture and hold the audience’s attention. When presenting a toast, including three lines often serves the occasion well. And when the public elected us Empress of San Francisco, we became Absolute Empress XXX, three Roman numerals X, or 30. So, we’ve decided to concentrate on three areas of personal improvement for 2024.
First, we are determined to spend less time worrying about uninvited criticism and more time on commendation. We are still learning the lesson that we cannot change how other people act; we can only change how we react to their actions. Time and again, after a particularly noteworthy accomplishment, a remarkable performance, or simply a proud personal moment, we have taken home not the heartfelt compliments, but the bits of criticism.
Self-reflection and learning from criticism are invaluable, but obsessing over a word or a comment, wondering about its intent, and allowing it to damage our self-confidence are destructive and unnecessary. We are talking about the idle and often anonymous derogatory comments, especially those from the sidelines, from those not fully engaged in any activities outside of their own personal interests. “Who does she think she is? Isn’t she too old for that? She’s not really that pretty.” We spend entirely too much time concerned about those kinds of questions and comments. We plan to focus more on encouragement from close friends, compliments from people we know, and even random comments from strangers.
Second, we are going to make a concerted effort to stay in better touch with friends. Like so many people, we stumble into the mindset of “out of sight, out of mind.” There is such power in personal communication and it is easier than ever before. How hard is it to send a text, Facebook message, email, or other message? How often have we spoken about a person with others, pointing out their positive impact, their admirable traits, and their amazing actions, but does that message ever get to them? We are out and about so much, forgetting that some people do not and some cannot keep up such a busy schedule, but would benefit from a few kind words.
And we are not just talking about reaching out to someone who is sick or going through some particularly challenging time. Of course, they need an encouraging word, but we are talking about people in our lives whom we care about and appreciate who would benefit from an occasional communication, no matter what the reason. We have never been as active on social media sites as others, but the messages we all receive through Facebook, Instagram, or whatever tool are all invitations to respond. Not only can we also share condolences when the message is sad, but we can share a positive word or two when the message pertains to an accomplishment, a triumph, or simply a proud moment.
Third, we are preparing for a year of pleasant surprises, not over-planning things, but remaining open to unexpected opportunities, new friendships, and unpredictable possibilities. When we look back on 2023, many of our richest experiences came out of the blue. We went to Washington, D.C., at the invitation of Vice President Kamala Harris to attend a Pride Celebration at her home. We traveled to Croatia with our good friends CoCo Butter and a group of his friends to celebrate his birthday. And Sunday’s a Drag found a new home at Club Fugazi in North Beach, thanks to Patrick Rylee, greeted by sold-out crowds and standing ovations. Whatever short range or longer term plans we have for 2024, we are going to keep our eyes wide open for the endless possibilities that we can’t even imagine right now. Here’s to an exciting 2024! Donna Sachet is a celebrated performer, fundraiser, activist, and philanthropist who has dedicated over two decades to the LGBTQ Community in San Francisco. Contact her at empsachet@gmail.com
Thursday, January 11
Memory Keepers Initiative
New LGBTQ+ History Project of the SF Gay Men’s Chorus
First in a series, led by Donna Sachet
Panelists Derek Barnes, Selisse Berry, Alexis Miranda
Chan National Queer Arts Center, 170 Valencia Street
7–8:30 pm
$30 or pay what you can
www.sfgmc.org
Saturday, January 13
Celebration of Life, Michael (Shanté) Youens
Hosted by Sister Roma & Ethylina Canne
Join friends in remembering this special man
The Academy, 2166 Market Street
5–9 pm
www.academy-sf.com
Sunday, January 14
Imperial Gala Presentation of Candidates for Emperor & Empress
Watch your candidates perform
Ask questions and find your favorite
Recognition of 5-year Anniversary Monarchs
Beaux, 2344 Market Street
4:30–7:30 pm
Free!
www.imperialcouncilsf.org
Saturday, January 20
Imperial Crown Prince & Princess Masquerade Ball
King Khalil Munro & Nicole Duminie hostBenefits Hyde Street Community Services
Cat Club, 1190 Folsom Street
4–7 pm
$25 & up
www.imperialcouncilsf.org
Saturday January 20
Krewe de Kinque’s Bal Masque XXI
Two Decades of Decadence
Show, silent auction, celebrity grand marshal, & more
Hosted by King Mez & Queen Moxie
Benefits Urban Angels SF
6–9 pm
$15 & up
Friday, January 26
Divas & Drinks: 2024, Here We Go!
SF Bay Times presents monthly party
Donna Sachet hosts
DJ Rockaway courtesy of Olivia Travel, Bacardí cocktails
Additional guests to be announced soon
The Academy, 2166 Market Street
$15
www.academy-sf.com
Donna’s Chronicles
Published on January 11, 2024
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