Coming Out To Strangers

[Carolyn Marie]

I used to fear coming out, to family, to colleagues and to strangers. I was afraid of negative reactions, of being ridiculed,

of being rejected or worse.

My experiences have nearly alleviated those concerns. As time has passed, and I've come out to family,

co-workers, and even strangers, I've not only rid myself of those fears, I've come to enjoy the

experience. People have been supportive and friendly, and I greatly enjoy answering their questions

and educating those who don't know or understand TG issues.

Last Friday I had my monthly laser session. I get a new nurse/technician almost every time, and this

young lady was also new to me. Strangley, no one in my 7 previous months of treatment had asked me

why I wanted my beard gone. The technician on Friday was the first. I didn't hesitate to tell her

about my being trans. She was curious, friendly, and very nice, and we shared some laughs and good

conversation.

Perhaps my experiences have been out of the ordinary. Perhaps not. But I hope that this helps reduce

your fears and anxiety about coming out. There are never guarantees, but I've found people to be kind.

Carolyn Marie

[Guest sarah f]

Carolyn I have had the same results so far other than my wife. I don't mind telling strangers but still can't bring myself to tell friends and family yet. I don't worry what strangers think but am still fearful what family and friends will think. I don't think there will be any problems but just can't bring myself to doing it.

[Guest Elizabeth K]

Wow - you are gettng there!

I find most women accept us easily. If we are well transitioned and look female, a man seems to accept us - in a surprised and slightly amused way.

What you may soon find, and my four year post-op friend Veronica told me this happens, is we go back to being 'mundane.' We simply have nobody asking because they see us as women anyway - we obviously are what we should be.

I like to NOT be seen - except a another woman in the street - or restauarant - or store.

The few times I DO have to show ID (which is still M marked) the person gives me an embarrased look and says sorry! Like they didn't know and had to do it because of company policy. (I cannot change my name until AFTER my divorce - no judge will approve it now.)

YEAAAA

It gets better and better after that terrible andrognous period is done.

Lizzy

[Guest Donna Jean]

.

LOL...Yes, Carolyn...I don't have trouble talking about it anymore either...questions are welcome and I answer all...

But, Like Lizzy, I want to get past this and on into the "mundane" life of just being myself (a woman)...

In the meantime, I have no problems talking about it at all...

Huggs

Donna Jean

[Paula ult]

Just like everyone above i have had mostly positive experiences coming out to people, that boosted my confidence, i have no problem telling people if they need to know, a new doctor or such does need to know my status.

Oh and that "mundane" life i have been living it for almost a year and it is wonderful.

Paula

[JenniferB]

After the first month when I started shopping I had little trouble coming out., especially to chose in which I will be a client. It is part of my personality though to be outgoing. On a persoal basis.

I'm happy for you Caroln. I believe this is a major step in accepting who we are.

Love Jenny

[Guest Opal]

Hi Carolyn,

I must admit that my eyes opened wider when I read the title to your post. However, so far with the very few people I have come out to, the reaction has mostly been positive.

Wish you the very best on this, and hope others have similar results.

Huggs,

Opal