One of the Girls!

[EllenP]

I did it.  I told my therapist that I'm gender dysphoric.  I am one of the girls!  What a relief to finally get that secret out - even if it is just to the therapist.  I could hear my heart beating harder and harder as I went up the stairs from the parking lot.  But this is exciting, I can't wait until the next session to start working through it all.  I started reading the newer literature on gender dysphoria this past week.  Several decades ago I was reading Benjamin and others.  What a change in the past twenty years.  And I couldn't have done today without knowing that there were wonderful men and women supporting me at Susan's Place.

Hugs and Kisses to all!

[Maybebaby56]

Congratulations, Ellen!

You are so right - it is wonderfully liberating to finally tell someone, even if is only your therapist, that you identify as transgender. It makes it more real, somehow.  It's not just all in your head anymore, lol.

I am very happy for you.  There are many challenges to come, and some will feel insurmountable, but more often than not, you will be able to find the strength and courage in yourself to overcome them.

Blessings to you,

Terri

[EllenP]

Thank you so much Terri,
Indeed the future challenges look daunting and terrifying, but I think the hardest one was the first step.  No lightning bolts yet!

[KathyLauren]

Woo-hoo!  Congratulations!

Coming out is a huge step, one that I know very well, having just done it myself this week.  I know the relief that you feel to have the burden of secrecy lifted, even just a bit.  Way to go!

[jmyle]

Congratulations! Super happy for you. I wish you all the best going forward

[EllenP]

KathyLauren,

thank you so  much.  And congratulations to you as well!

[EllenP]

Jmyle,

Thank you!  that is the first step in what is going to be a long walk.

[kylie1]

Congrats Ellen! 
It changes when "someone knows" yay you!! 
Xx

[EllenP]

Kylie,
It was as if the burden of the world was lifted off me.  Thank you for your thoughts.

[kaitylynn]

The best part...it gets better for us as we see more and more external acceptance.  This is usually a boost to internal acceptance.  Congratulations on coming out!

[EllenP]

Thank you so much, KaityLynn.  I am excited to move forward after so many years just spinning wheels.

[karmatic1110]

Congrats!  I remember that feeling vividly of finally telling someone and what a huge relief it was. 

[kaitylynn]

You are ever so welcome.  This is a tough road, no doubt about it and acceptance is a really important aspect...both our own and that of others.

Went hiking today with my SO and while we were on the trail, we got lots of hellos from fellow travelers.  We were just a couple of chikas out for a morning trail walk.  In broad daylight, less then 5 feet separating and a gentleman hiking past says, "have a great day ladies!"

It is little things like this that bring about a sense that we are real and we are seen by others the way we see ourselves.  Heartening, gratifying and validating.  Keep to your course and practice self love!

[Janes Groove]

congratulations. being out makes a HUGE difference.
the day after I came out I started dressing full time and haven't looked back.
no regrets whatsoever.

[Willowicious]

Congratulations Ellen! I hope you have a wonderful transition and achieve everything you want to!