.043 Jose Paz
About 3 and a half years ago, I was first introduced to Jose Paz. Prior to meeting him, I was informed of his big and beloved personality, his incredible sense of humor and pure talent, and the fact that he was (is still) one of my boyfriend’s best friends. I was nervous (and almost intimidated) to meet him, hoping mostly and practically only for “approval.” When we did finally meet, however, Jose welcomed me with unconditional kindness and loyalty. I quickly realized that there is no one quite like him, and perhaps more importantly, that I had found a new and wonderful friendship.
Since that moment, Jose has unassumingly listened to my stories, my jokes, and my passions in life. He did what I think I he does best; he accepted me and celebrated me, instantly and without question. Jose is what you want in a friend. He’s trustworthy, he’s supportive, he’s unafraid of being honest with you, and he’s a joy to be around. He’s wicked smart, can talk about anything in the world from serious to topics, to silly things, to if it’s “fashion,” and goals and dreams. He’s quite literally the life of the party, and yet, he’s extremely self-aware and knows when to listen, let others lead, and let others shine. He’s ambitious and has the actions to back it up! He built a drag and comedy show from the ground up, creating not only an audience, but something to look forward for over 100 queer people and beyond here in NYC. Jose is absolutely hilarious, out-of-this-world passionate about all-things drag, and the epitome of the person you want to have in your corner. In short, he’s someone I didn’t realize I needed in my life until, as I write this post, I can’t imagine my life without him.
Jose, thank you for being unapologetically and unabashedly you. Thank you for always laughing at my silly and ridiculous drag names, and for always backing me up when I need it most. Thank you for being a confidant and support system for Alejandro. I can’t tell you how much joy it brings me to see how much joy you bring him. Thank you for your passion and determination that inspires everyone in your life. Thank you for creating a show and experience that brought (brings!) us all so much excitement, joy, and the ability to break out of our comfort zone in a safe space. Thank you for your unstoppable energy and for your consistent ability to make me laugh.
I’m so grateful for you, to have you in my life, and to call you my friend. I’m grateful to have your thoughts and opinions on all of my ventures, and I’m grateful for your loyalty and compassion. Thank you for always laughing at “eyelashes!” and almost-always laughing at my Freaky Friday references. You truly are one-of-a-kind and the only feeling larger than the sadness of missing you while you start this new journey is the feeling of joy and excitement I get when I think of all the success that is to come from it. Good luck (though you won’t need it) and above all, thank you for just being exactly who you are.
-BD