I am Veronica Haylee McSwain.

I am 47, and a transsexual.

I did not choose this role in life, yet I cannot shy away from it either.

I hurt. Often. And it's not a physical pain, but a pain of indifference, intolerance, and bigotry.

I do not want, nor do I have the unyielding need for, your acceptance.

I do, however, require your respect. Not because of WHAT I am, but rather because of WHO I am- a fellow human being.

I DO NOT ask for anything unseemly, nor do I require preferential treatment. I just want to be treated the same way you you'd treat your mother, sister, daughter, or girlfriend.

I will try my hardest to treat you with kindness, dignity, and respect. As a fellow human on this tiny blue ball, you deserve no less.