To Those in the Transgender Community Who Feel Unsupported

Dedicated to all men who stay in forms unfit to their true nature; this is for you.

I wake up every morning with a distasteful urge to get up, in and out of the bathroom, all before 7 a.m. and worry whether or not the shirt on my torso secretly screams “woman.” Far too many of us are held captive by the standards society has set in place. Many of us are so fixated on not breaking our parents’ hearts. I know what it’s like to wear layers upon layers, gazing at strangers who pass by and wondering if they too see the discomfort. This is uncomfortable, but we are beautiful beings.

Handsome could define a thousand other men, but here we sit distraught, suspicious and curious about the ways we can rise to be our truest selves. Some days the bandages are too much. I know what it’s like to stare at the sign of a bathroom and question which one will be the lesser of two evils. I have seen transgender friends cry because they have children who might not understand why Mom is, in fact, Dad.

Let me reiterate: we are human. If we have the power to love, let’s share it with everyone. Every individual is different in their compassion and their love language. I know what it’s like to be excited to start HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy), and to feel like it’s all falling into line. I know the dysphoria is strong most days and can consume the thoughts which scream the urge to finally fit what feels right on the inside. This struggle will go away. Some are luckier than others with their rate of acceptance among people. For those who may not have as much support, we are all here for you. You are brave, strong, light and love, and most importantly beautifully you. Don’t give up on this life.