Hi Rachel,
I can empathize with what you said about wanting to experience an authentic feeling. For the last couple days I fell into one of my nihilistic periods, and after reading a post by a transgender woman planning suicide, I felt I shouldn't write anything here, until I was sure I wouldn't post anything detrimental. I've come out of it now though, because even though everything we do is relative, selfish, and meaningless, the delusion of love is essential to my existence, and is as much a part of me as my arms and legs, so in a way, love exists.
Thank you for helping so many. You responded to my first post on this forum, and were one of first people to acknowledge me as transgender. I will never forget that. I wish I could reach through my screen and give you a hug, in order to express my feelings of appreciation and camaraderie. 🙂