Coping with Uncertainty

Today is “Coping with Uncertainty" Day.

This theme repeatedly came up in the manuscript for a recent portrait assignment. I was impressed by Daniel Felsenthal’s courage in attempting to align society’s expectations with his own heart.

This first person account for the Guardian Saturday is the story of “coming out twice“—first as a gay man, and then as one attracted to older people. Now 33, he’s married to 77-year-old Jeff Weinstein, a partnership that defied not only societal judgment but also his own doubts.

May-December romances often spark questions of “daddy issues” or financial exploitation of the elderly—concerns Daniel had to confront to embrace his feelings.

I read the piece before meeting the couple at their Long Island home. Stereotypes melted away in person: Jeff’s curiosity balanced Daniel’s grounded demeanor, making them seem like two adults building a life together. And, as I teased Daniel, he’s “well into middle age” at 33.

As both work as writers, with a passion for visual arts, they were fantastic collaborators—open to creative ideas and playful in their wardrobe choices. Despite the age gap, I found a natural connection with each of them, sparking conversations that reminded me why I value friendships across generations.

Top Image: My favorite image from the day, in Bellport Long Island, NY. October 28, 2024.

Bottom Image: BTS shot by Sophia Pallwein-Prettner.