About the Book
The decision to write my life story began as an exercise to make sense out of it all. But it moved quickly to being a tool that would help me put it all in order. My life has been punctuated by some pretty dramatic events. I wanted to recall stories that had been forgotten or buried. I wanted it all out there.
I have always used humor to cover some of the deepest pain; we all do that, of course. I honed the skill. Yet I wanted to make sure my story is authentically Tim. Most of all, it absolutely had to bring joy to the reader.
For some, the adage "Change is the only thing constant in life" may relate primarily to the weather or one's outfit. Those have not been my changes, although I do worry about both. Joys and tragedies have steered my direction. These have certainly been big changes--some that I asked for, most I did not.
The theme "liberating change" rang true and authentic. As difficult as these experiences were when going through them, each turned out to be a blessing or a launching pad to greater things. It also had the world to do with what no one could ever take away: music, humor, truth.
That's why I wanted to write a book about me. By sharing my roller coaster journey, perhaps others' twists and turns, ups and downs may seem a little tamer or at least conquerable. So take this ride with me; I promise it won't be boring! At the end, I hope you are smiling.
Review :
Anyone who's seen Tim Seelig in concert with his chorus knows that he has the soul of a musician, the sass of a true activist, and the flawless timing of a standup comic. You'll find all of that and more in this brave, zany, sometimes heart-breaking memoir about one man's journey towards the light.
--Armistead Maupin, Best-selling author of Tales of the City series
No life is easy, and Tim Seelig's amazing life has had more than its share of vicissitudes and tragedies, as well as triumphs. All are recounted here with humor and insight. Tim is someone I feel fortunate to know and proud to have worked with."
--Stephen Schwartz, Broadway composer
Tim Seelig reminds us, in this heartfelt book, that it's never too late to be who you are. He reminds us that in this discovery there is only the truth of real happiness. As Tim discovers who he is, we begin to celebrate who we truly are.
--Sheila Nevins, MTV Documentaries
This book is funny because Tim is funny. It's interesting because Tim is interesting. But what surprises, much like Tim himself, is how quickly it grabs your heart. He turns words into music, music into memory, and memoir into magic. Simply put: I was deeply moved.
--Andrew Lippa, Broadway Composer
Tim Seelig has written an inspiring, sometimes heartbreaking and often very funny account of his remarkable journey from conservative Texas Baptist roots to visionary artist and leader of the LGBTQ community. Spanning seven decades, his story is a powerful account of personal struggle, complicated love and spiritual liberation.
--Cleve Jones, Author, When We Rise: My Life in the Movement, and AIDS activist
OMG! This book is a must read. Tim is not only an incredible man, but his story is one that speaks to many of us who have lived his life, well, similar lives. Tim offers hope and insight to us all. Yes, many lifetimes wrapped into one incredible journey that continues on to do even more extravagant and wonderful things to the benefit of the world.
--Reverend Dr. Neil G. Thomas, Senior Pastor, Cathedral of Hope, UCC
Wickedly funny, poignant, tragic, deeply human and celebrative earth, this memoir of Tim Seelig demonstrates resilience and grace. The arc of the narrative from exclusion to welcoming the true self offers a vision of hope. Sharing his ecclesiological DNA of origin and friendship since college allows me to witness a life of liberative resolve that continues to make an impact.
--Molly Marshall, Retired President and Professor of Theology and Spiritual Formation, Central Baptist Theological Seminary
Tim has taught us that a good concert should result in laughter, tears and chill bumps. If the same criteria apply to memoirs he has a hit! In telling his truth Tim has encouraged us all to reflect on our lives and examine the places where we are not yet living our authentic selves. Bravo!
--Robin Godfrey, Executive Director--GALA Choruses, Gay and Lesbian Choruses
Every great story reveals a transformative moment in someone's life. Tim's story has a revealing transformation on every page. Two extraordinary tales in one epic saga--much like the Old and New Testaments, but different and with more glitter.
--David Charles Rodrigues, Award-winning Filmmaker, Gay Chorus Deep South
This book has Tim Seelig's singular voice in full display--irreverent, deeply felt, the God's honest truth. As I read each chapter, I was inspired by Tim's courage and perseverance as he faced each new challenge. This book is, as Tim writes, a hymn of hope. It is also a love story to all the people and all the angels in his life.
--Rev. David Cowell, UCC Minister, Board Certified Chaplain
