Your Best TG Thing?

[JJ]

We rant and moan-with reason -about all the pain and stress of being TG but I have found some things I am thanful for as well.

Not saying I'd rather be born TG than Cis to have them ( Though I will say I may be a better person for it) but the fact is I am TG and I am not betraying my desire to be my true self or anything to embrace what is good about it. Sometimes it seems some almost feel that way. As though anything positive about being TS or TG is somehow a threat or an anathema. But everything in life almost has two sides and I think this does too.

We paid a heavy price so lets look and see if we had any benefits.

For one I learned to express myself better and more fully because of female socialization and I am grateful for that. I can also better understand how women feel and appreciate many things I might not even have been aware of otherwise. And skills-so many skills.

Given where and when I was raised I would probably not have started cooking 54 years ago-and I would have missed so much pride and pleasure that way. The same goes for creating garb for Renfest or my Granddaughter's special occasions and trips to Disney World. We were complimented to the point it became difficult to tour the parks sometimes. people wanted pictures-at Renfest it was hundreds of times a weekend-literally non stop.

I would never have had that.

I have greater skills for sure and a broader picture of the world.

And an interest and enthusiasm for life now that most my age are losing. A self-awareness and a deep appreciation of things I would have taken for granted

There has been a lot of good along with the bad

What are your gifts?

Johnny

[Guest Shari]

Hi Johnny,

I really had to think about this, tough question. Had I been raised as a female, I would have missed going to sea. Not because girls can't do that, but it was more or less expected of me so I did it. I guess experiencing some things reserved for males with my female brain gave me some extra insight or perceptions about things and people. It is one gift that I am proud to have. I think I am a more accepting and supportive person because of it.

IDK, like I said it sure does provoke some thought.

Hugs,

Shari

[Carolyn Marie]

Interesting thread, Johnny.

Let's see. If I had been born female, I might not have become interested in law enforcement, and thus missed out on all the great experiences and friends I had during my avocation as a reserve police officer. I might not have become as adept at using tools, because my father might not have taken the time to show me.

Being TG permitted me to show my sensitive, empathetic side, even as a male. I put that to good use during my work life, in particular, and it made me a much better supervisor, and a better friend. I once knew a girl I wanted to date, who turned me down because she already had a boyfriend, but who told me in parting that I was the most sensitive man she had ever met.

Being TG allowed me to show my interest in art and music, more so perhaps than I would have otherwise. I know that sounds a bit stereotypical, but that's how I feel.

HUGS

Carolyn Marie

[Guest PhoebeJoan]

I think being TG, having experience and being witness in both genders does have it's pros.

As a male, I was good at sports and (partly because of the despair and pain/anger of being TG) developed a very high work ethic for work and exercise.

Also, being seen as male, I drew respect from men for being very sympathetic (sometimes lol) and a great listener and advisor, as someone with good gut instincts. Also I was acknowledged as having an encyclopedic knowledge on many subjects. These might not have been recognised as much by men if I grew up as a woman.

Something that hasnt been mentioned yet is the freedom that young males are given, in comparison to being female. Young males are allowed to go off and play, do dangerous activities, and have lives their parents really know nothing about. So in childhood terms, there are probably more options and a wider range of experiences.

I was always seen as more thoughtful, and one never to get into trouble or be violent. I never really liked getting dirty, or rude jokes. This has all somewhat helped people I've known for a long time understand why I may be transgender and would want to transition, so thats a start.

Also, being TG and at times in my life preferring isolation to socialisation, the arts have naturally been a big hobby of mine. None of my friends growing up were really into the same things as I was. I think being TG has influenced my intelligence and appreciation of the arts.

Also, we tend to cringe at sexist jokes, from both sides. They can be funny sometimes, but we generally have a greater understanding and are above the battle of the sexs.

I agree wholeheartedly with the following assessment. A greater appreciation for life and all it holds (especially once starting to transition). A broader understanding of the world we live in. And generally we are more sympathetic, accepting and supportive people.

It would have been better for me to be born into a female life, but I wouldnt exactly throw away my history. I havent been embittered, and am who I am. I'm not killing 'him', I was always there.

[MackenzieB]

My favorite thing about being Trans? It's the peacefulness (is that a real word?) and the calm that have entered into my life. Being a round peg in a square hole just isn't a comfie place for me.

[Guest Lacey Lynne]

My favorite thing about being Trans? It's the peacefulness (is that a real word?) and the calm that have entered into my life. Being a round peg in a square hole just isn't a comfie place for me.

Johnny:

Excellent thread, man!

Gifts? Heck, I ain't got none. However, like Caitlintg quoted above, I just love feeling normal.

Yeah, okay, right. I know. Lacey? Normal? That's an oxymoron if ever there was one. However, you know what I mean. Seeing things from both gender perspectives IS an amazing opportunity. This very unique perspective lets one see and realize just how silly and unnecessary many social constructs actually can be.

Peace Lacey

[Guest Lucidrez]

It is truly a gift to see things from both sides, then to realize there doesn't really need to be "sides" and if the paltry amount of maleness I have can be used to help my sisters and brothers and ???'s then I'll not regret having started out that way. (even if sometimes its just refusing to acknowledge sexist jokes from either side)... some of you neandrathal men make it so hard not to make fun of you, but they will never be reading this site so../end rant.

Star shaped peg and still learning how wonderful this world is.

xoxoxo Luci

[Guest Elizabeth K]

Actually, I hate being transsexual. But I transitioned. I like being me.

Lizzie

[Cyndee]

I would not have my family as it were today if I were born female. They are my greatest gifts in this life. My life paths have brought me here to this place and time. My daughters are growing into 2 beautiful, strong and independant women. My wife is so beautiful, I love her dearly, she truely is my compliment and we were meant for each other, it's just way it is.

This subject came up in a way at the support meeting I attended this week. I can honestly say no regrets for the way things have turned out so far. I have lived a full life despite having to hide my girl for so long. Now that she is out, it only gets better.

Being transgendered does not make me bitter, it's a gift actually, a gift with many lessons attached and life is for learning.

Cindy -