Emma(September 2012)

This summary recounts the experience of Emma, a 20-year-old from Aotearoa New Zealand who identifies as bisexual and admits to having some degree of social anxiety. Speaking candidly in a 2012 recording from Manawatū, Emma shares insights into their personal journey, including their background, identity, and experiences relating to their sexuality.

Originally from Taranaki, Emma has resided in Manawatū for approximately a year and a half. They took a hiatus from their studies for medical reasons and are currently training to become a personal assistant. Emma clarifies that this role does not involve working in a "dungeon," indicating a boundary set against certain expectations people may have about the position.

During the conversation, Emma also discusses their gender identity, affirming their female identity, while expressing a fluid sense of cultural identity, noting a particular fondness for Asian culture despite not being of Asian nationality. In terms of gender expression, Emma leans towards a more feminine presentation, albeit not extremely so.

The revelation of being attracted to the same gender occurred at the age of 14, as Emma recalls feeling attracted to cheerleaders seen on television. This moment of self-realization did not result in any significant internal conflict but was more of a calm acknowledgment of their own sexuality. At the time, Emma was dating a male partner who expressed concern that they might leave them for a woman, a situation they had previously encountered. Emma's subsequent handling of relationships suggests a blend of open-mindedness and sensitivity.

Emma has been open about their sexual orientation with friends, but has not disclosed it to family members due to a lack of closeness and uncertainty about possible reactions. The exploration of their sexual identity with friends seems to be an organic process, often emerging in casual conversation without a need for formal "coming out."

Despite the freedom experienced among friends, Emma has kept their sexual orientation hidden from their family. They suggest that they might only inform their family if they enter into a significant long-term relationship with a woman. The decision appears rooted in the current lack of necessity rather than from fear of negative consequences.

With a network of supportive friends, Emma does not tolerate discriminatory behavior based on their sexuality. They have not personally experienced abuse or negative treatment as a consequence of their sexual orientation, partly due to their private approach toward the matter.

In terms of LGBTQ community involvement, Emma admits to wanting to attend youth groups but is hindered by social anxiety. Moreover, Emma's relationships with individuals of the same gender have mostly been casual, with no serious romantic encounters to date barring affections towards an acquaintance met in Japan who did not reciprocate Emma’s feelings.

Finally, Emma provides their perspective on virginity, viewing it as a primarily physical concept regarding one's first sexual experience. This stance reflects Emma's broader attitude towards sexuality, which seems practical and individualistic.

Emma envisions a future involving extensive travel, hoping for a position that would allow working in various countries, especially within Asia. Their love of travel is evident in their past trips to nations like Fiji, Tonga, and Vanuatu, with further ambitions to explore more of the world.

This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.

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