My son's fiancé sent me a text earlier today, which although not unheard of is at least unusual enough to catch my eye.
She sent me a short note that said, "Just want you to know that you inspire me. Love you!"
I cried when I read it, and I am crying now as I type this.
She reminded me of something. Today is Transgender Day of Visibility, and although most of us just want to live our lives quietly and peacefully, attracting as little attention as possible, please help those you can to understand who you are - who we are.
Yes, I just want to blend into the community, to be known as just another woman. I don't want my neighbors to think of me as "the tranny who lives down the street" or even as "the trans woman who lives down the street." I just want to be the woman who lives down the street, loves her family, keeps a nice house, waves to everyone in the neighborhood, is always willing to talk, or to help a friend or stranger.
But if my being out, if my being known for who I am, if my living my life openly, can help one person to be themselves, can help one person to live safely, then I will shout it from the rooftops.
In this world, ignorance feeds misunderstanding and hatred. Hopefully we can all spread a little knowledge and understanding - a little caring and hope throughout our communities. Please stand up for those who may be less fortunate than you are.
D
Comments
Friends
Having transitioned back in the dark ages I'm now surrounded by friends of all sorts of background who know nothing of my early years. The growth of social media does however give me evidence that they include many who are willing to stand up for those who are considered diferent including those who have transitioned or are transitioning.
Rhona McCloud
you are inspiring
huggles!
It's an individual decision
I value my privacy over being that open, not that I am stealth or something. I transitioned nearly 30 years ago when I took my first hormone pill and since then I honestly have done my bit in supporting my community. Alot of former activists have faded into the background so I don't feel guilty about it. Frankly, I can't afford the hassle of potentially being hassled and just want to live a quiet life.
Visible is good
I have yet to transition and will likely never fully transition. However, I've been visible in my community for years. I happily stop by the grocery store to pickup something for dinner, masquerading as male on my way home from work, and then the next day then the next day do the weeks grocery shopping totally en femme. I go to the same checker. If I had any illusion that they don't recognize me, that was shattered the day I stopped by the house because I forgot the list and took the time to change. When I was checking out, the checker asked, "Did you have the day off today?" When I told her no, she added, "Oh, I just expect to see you in your work clothes at this time during the week.
Hugs
Patricia
Happiness is being all dressed up and HAVING some place to go.
Semper in femineo gerunt
Ich bin ein femininer Mann