(Written Late Nov. 2002, but Published Jan. 2003 in "The Frequency," the magazine of CSCR Cable FM 90.3, published at University of Toronto's Scarborough Campus.)

DISCLAIMER:  You are about to enter the strange world of Garth Jensen!  If you don't know me, or have not read my previous columns, I'm the openly gay, actor-singer-songwriter-scandalmaker on campus!  Read on if you are brave and adventurous.

In my previous column, I mentioned that last year, life was simpler when I ran around chasing a straight accounting student.  Luckily for me, he was open minded, and the journey I took to meet him became a metaphor for breaking down barriers, and living life to the fullest.  This is what inspired me to write my play, "Searching For Adonis."  In November, I was able to hold a staged reading with a talented cast and crew.  (Thank you to the UTSC Drama Society, and especially Alex, Ankur, Erlend, Julie, Kevin, Marsha, Michelle, Sam & Sancha.)

As for a full production, I submitted my play as one of five proposals to be considered for this year's Hart House festival.  A first year student named Matt Riley emerged victorious with his play "Normality."  First off, I give Matt congratulations, and I wish him and his play well.  Yet, it's starting to feel impossible to do a full staging of my story on this campus.  With the limited opportunities available, we're at a point where many original works are having a lot of difficulty being staged.  This is due to many legitimate factors, yet no alternatives have come up, or have been discussed as a solution to this problem.

I didn't fare much better with my latest trip into an online message board devoted to clubbing.  One person dared to post a question that asked, "Are you prejudiced against gays, lesbians or bisexuals?"  Some of the responses were hilarious for all  the wrong reasons.  The most common example seemed to be guys insisting they were "cool with it" but that if any guy tried to hit on them they would "punch them out."

Another question asked what people would do if a same-sex friend "came out" and revealed they had a crush on them.  Again, the men won hands down for hilarious, ignorant comments.  One guy wrote that he'd have trouble staying friends with a guy who wanted to "stick it to him."  Well, since most magazines at this time of year promote tips to have a happy holiday, I'll throw in some of my own advice so that gays and straights can share a wonderful, safe season of joy!

Contrary to popular belief, gay men do not automatically jump on any man they see, know or like.  It's a big misconception that we're out to "convert" guys, and kind of insulting.  If a gay person admits that they like you, take it as a compliment and just remind them that you're straight.

So, this being my last column before Christmas, I wish everyone Happy Holidays!  I'm hoping to spend this December working on new songs for my soon to be completed CD, titled "Searching For Adonis" (just like my play, but the CD covers many of my different interactions with men!)  I'm also gearing up for a performance of my song "King of the Clubs" at the Cultural Mosaic, happening this February!