I never cared for boyish activities, especially sports, and would get teased and bullied constantly. I was very sensitive and cried often. I think the worst part, though, was having to undress around everyone in the locker room. Nobody else seemed to be bothered by it, but I always waited until everyone was gone. Years later, in high school, I attempted to be a little more expressive and wore eyeliner and nail polish and these neon fabric bracelets. Of course, I had to deal with punks who would laugh and insult me, so I eventually stopped doing that. And I always hated those words "but you're a boy" when I didn't conform to whatever was socially acceptable.
We like what we like, and that's all that should matter, but no...you have to fit into a box that everyone can easily recognise and address accordingly. Those who let things slide when you're that young usually think it's just some kind of phase, and that you'll eventually join everyone else in "normalcy". Well, biology just isn't that simple. Everyone accepts every other kind of neurological difference without fear, but when it comes to gender it's off to the therapist with you!
For the most part, my interests as a kid were pretty gender neutral, so I never raised any red flags. Most of my emotional anguish was during school, but it certainly had a large part in how I developed. I wouldn't wish what I went through on anyone even if the experience makes them stronger. There are better ways to do things, and we're only barely seeing any progress in gender equality. We can't just sit back and complain, though, and hope the government does the right thing. They really don't care about anyone. They only do whatever is in their best interest. If making teachers ask kids what pronouns they prefer somehow fits their agenda they'll legislate it, but don't think for one second that it's because they care.
