So not only did I come out to a lawyer friend, we're meeting tomorrow for coffee to talk about doing the legal transitioning for my ID and stuff. But I also sent an email to my instructor and here it is ladies: (I'm taking out their name to protect them)
"Hey instructor (real name omitted),
I just want to start out by saying thank you for being such an amazing instructor. I have learned a lot from you. Even with the struggles that I've had throughout this quarter, I definitely feel like I have accomplished a lot.
I will probably need those 3 days that are "finals days" sorry to be that "guy". I also want to ask if it is possible to get in a couple extra hours during the afternoon lab time to try to catch up. I have both my overheads and 1.5 vertical ups to do along with all my wabos plates. I don't think I can get it all don't in the next 9 days. (These are welding assignments)
Now I'm going to get a little personal and ask that you keep it confidential until such a time as I'm ready to share.
The last few years have been tough and I never really understood why. Last Thursday's event really started solidifying things for me. With financial stresses and questioning my identity I was losing my focus and started falling into the same dysphoric destructive tendencies. I sought out some like minded individuals and discovered I am in fact a transwoman. Upon coming to this realization everything has started to make sense and my got my focus back.
I would hope that this knowledge does not change how I'm treated. Right now I want to be treated the same as before I came out to you. I will understand if you are uncomfortable and am willing to switch to another class/lab time for next quarter.
I have not told many about how I truly identify. In fact I can count them on one hand. I am open to speaking in within the confines of a closed office, but I am not publicly out by any means yet.
Cheers,
Clark"
This was his reply:
"Clark,
I think you have plenty of time to complete your assignments, I am not worried about that; we will look at the last three days when we get closer.
My personal feelings are irrelevant compared with how you feel about yourself. Do not be a victim to other's feelings or opinions.
For my part, I am honored by the fact people come to me for instruction and even at times counsel (I am not a counselor).
I would feel disappointed if you felt you had to leave my class."
I almost broke down in tears when I read his reply. But I feel better with each person I tell. I get to be a little more of the real me.
Love you all 💋❤️💋
