The Blair Essentials

Just when you thought it was safe to go back in to the water...LOL.

I felt that is was appropriate to write one final brief "The Blair Essentials" to recap my week at Miss Gay America 2016.  First of all, let me reiterate what an amazing year I had traveling the country and representing the Miss Gay America organization.  It was indeed a life changing year, and I will forever be grateful that I was fortunate enough to join the elite list of men who have worn the Miss Gay America crown.

The week of Oct 7 - 11 was personal and celebratory.  My husband, Bob, made sure of that, and I could never ever thank him enough for the love, support and effort he put into that week as well. 

I cried numerous times as my emotions overwhelmed me again and again.  There were so many special moments like speaking to the contestants at orientation, the unveiling of the "Whoop, Blair It Is" t-shirt (an homage to my 1994 slogan at Miss Gay America), being surprised by my Cody and Marianna during the Trevor Project presentation, taking my final walk, and crowing a new Miss Gay America. I can't imagine a better give up, and I want to thank everyone there for embracing me in such a special and meaningful way.

Moreover, it was an incredible competition, and I hope all of the contestants are proud of the packages they presented.  I know I am so very proud of you all!  Congratulations to a stellar Top 10 and Top 5.  I want to wish our newly crowned Miss Gay America, Asia T. O'Hara, the very best.  Asia is a dynamic entertainer whose heart is as big as his talent, and I have no doubt he will leave an indelible mark as one of our best Miss America's yet. 

What’s next for Blair?  Knee and Hip replacement… ha ha.  Seriously, only time will tell, but one thing is certain:  Miss Gay America will always be a part of my future.  I’m looking forward to my new role as a “forever” Miss Gay America, and I sincerely hope to see all of you during our 2017 competition season. I understand firsthand the disappointment of not realizing your dream or achieving your goal.  But, luckily you all have a new opportunity to continue to work to make that dream a reality.  F. Scott Fitzgerald stated, “Strength shows, not only in the ability to persist, but the ability to start over.” Never abandon your dream!

Before I close, I thought it might be helpful to share some important lessons I learned (or in some cases re-learned) this year.  I think are relevant to “real” life:

• When packing for a trip, take out everything you think you want to pack, then put 1/3 of it back.  Trust me, you won't need it!
• Don't sweat the small stuff.  It will work itself out one way or another.
• Even when some people disappoint you in one way or another, there are always others to remind you who your true friends and support system are.  Focus on those people, not the ones who disappoint you.
• Embrace your setbacks and your successes.  They all teach valuable lessons.
• People respond to kindness.  So whenever you have the chance, give a little kindness away.  It will come back to you in immeasurable ways.

Thank you Jerry Peek, Norman Jones, Larry Tyger, and Terry Eason for having the vision and the heart to create, sustain, and grow this amazing system of pageantry “where the boys are boys and female impersonation is an art.” Thank you all for allowing me the privilege of being Miss Gay America 2015.  I remain humbled and incredibly grateful for the experience.

“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”   ~Seneca

​All my love and respect,
Blair Williams
Forever Miss Gay America 2015

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