Yesterday we had a pot-luck at the trans group I belong to, and what happened there opened my eyes a bit. See, there was a new person there, who had just started to come out, and was getting harassed for it at work. But it was her attitude that made an impact. She seemed to be resigned to abuse, and in fact acted like she deserved it. She called herself a "freak", and all I wanted to do was give her a big hug and tell her, "You are not a freak. You are precious, and beautiful."
That's when it really hit me.
How many times have I called myself names?
How many times have others wanted to hold me and tell me I'm worthwhile?
Too many.
So I'm going to make a concerted effort to make sure I stay off the path of self-pity from now on.
Comments
Good resolution.
Good resolution Dot, in part it show's that your making progress, more importantly it helps the new comer to your group to find support.
Well done dot and good luck for the future.
XZXX
Bev.
You just need to appreciate yourself!
It can be hard, I know. We've heard every joke there is about us, and we just want to be part of the crowd, to just be accepted.
I appreciate you, and I'm sending you lots of virtual hugs. I'm also including an armload of virtual strength, to help you when things become too hard to handle.
Lastly, I'm sending you all the love I can, so you know that you ARE lovable.
Wren
Amen
Now and then I catch myself muttering "I hate me. I hate my life."
Half of that is true at least.
I respect your strength in doing what you feel have to do.
I wonder how many folks feel that self loathing because they can't really fit in?
But you tell it to friends
Dear Dorothy
When you are down on yourself and full of doubt, you usually mention it here. So then your friends are able to help you. It maybe sympathy, telling you are on the right track, giving you suggestion, and maybe even a few times giving you a kick in the ass. But you have a place to go with lots of friends and I guess some cousins and a least one aunt.
By helping the new girl you have paid forward the love you get here.
Rami
F
RAMI
compulsory reading....
... for your new member at your Trans group......
Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let not this blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore, be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams; it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful.
The poem ends.......
Strive to be happy.
---
It was written by a man, no less, nearly 90 years ago...
And every word applies!
Max Ehrmann, 1927