The GLBT community is in the process of great change. In the 35 years since Stonewall, our community has made huge strides establishing itself in society. Yet, ironically, as we have carved out a clear public profile, we have simultaneously lost track of one another. The GLBT community is broad and diverse, but in many respects we have splintered into factions whose paths rarely cross.

“Portrait of a Community” aims to correct this imbalance. Each portrait will be a snapshot of an individual in his or her unique environment, and will include a conversation about the substance of that person’s life and the cornerstones of his or her GLBT experience.

In this way, in time, this column will create a complete portrait of our community – one member at a time.

Name: Lynn Pender

Age: 34

Self Definition: You’re never too old to do anything.

Where were you at 9 a.m. last Sunday morning?

Having breakfast at the Big Kitchen with family

What person has influenced you more than any other, and how?

My father – I remember him as always being so sad and depressed. He was a smart guy but never did what made him happy. I live my life today making sure that I’m always doing what makes me happy and living with no regrets.

When don’t you feel equal?

Not getting the same benefits and tax breaks that heterosexual couples get when they marry

Where were you last Wednesday at noon?

Nothing exciting, just working

When was the last time you felt proud?

When I got my job offer from the San Diego Police Department

If there was a defining moment in your life, what was it?

When I stopped drinking and stopped being so angry about life, I finally realized that despite my not so great childhood, the world owes me absolutely nothing. If I want something I need to do the work to get it, and not make excuses for why I can’t.

Where were you at 10 p.m. last Friday night?

At the drive-in in Imperial Beach. My wife and I watched I Am Legend and P.S. I Love You.

What is your most immediate goal?

Graduating from the Police Academy

When do you feel total joy?

When I’m skiing. It’s just you and the mountain. Nothing else matters.