We are some of the luckiest people in the world!!!

[karenk1959]

I recently posted, "I DO HAVE A CHOICE", where I described my decision to not transition. I was moved beyond words by the incredible support I received and everyone's wishes for me to remain active on this website. I didn't want to just reply on that post because I wanted to make sure people read my deep words of gratitude and decided to create a separate post.

With that said, I wanted to express a sentiment that I also came to realize that gives me so much contentment. I fully believe that whatever anyone's path is, whether transitioning or not, we transgender women are some of the luckiest people. I am so overjoyed to have a strong feminine side that allows me to have a unique perspective on the world and gives me the sensitivity to enjoy my relationships and have real connections to people. I believe most cisgender men are caught up in their own testosterone-driven lives refusing to experience the true beauty of life. The world would be a better place if all men could get in touch with their feminine sides. I absolutely love ballet. I enjoy it on so many levels ~ the emotional music, the creative choreography, the beautiful costumes, the sensuality and grace of the dancers, and the beautiful bodies of the dancers, especially the male dancers. I feel sorry for men who are so caught up in being manly that they miss all of that incomparable beauty. There is so much beauty that surrounds us and I am so fortunate to experience it to the fullest.

We are also so fortunate because all of our struggles and challenges that are inherent to being transgender make us so very empathetic to the struggles of others, no matter what they are. We know that no one can totally understand our plight without being in our shoes. I can't fully understand others' challenges, but I know to treat everyone as a person deserving of respect.

We are all so very lucky because no matter what we look like or what we wear, we are all beautiful people inside and out. Whomever can't see that are once again missing out on the beauty that is all around us.

Finally, I have no plans to leave the discussion on this website. I hope that my perspective on being transgender can help support others with conflicts and issues, just as many of you have already helped me!

[SailorMars1994]

Its a long grueling road for most of us. You deserve as much support as anyone who asks and is repsectful. You may not transition now but maybe in a few years you will. There is never an expiry date on your transition (unless you fall into the extreme do or die senario). I am glad you will stay and hope whatever you do you are happy.

[Dani]

as you have so very carefully expressed, transition is not for everyone. We all must make our own decisions and that is where we are so lucky. We can make those decisions for our self. No one else needs to make a decision for me, assuming, of course, that I can make a decision. Sometimes when we get older and can no longer make a decision, a living will is in order and if not, a care giver will make decisions for us.

[Laurie]

Karen,

  I am happy you decided to not run away and hide from us. Though you have made your decision not to transition does not mean you are not part of this community. You are wanted and needed here, especially for those that struggle with their own decisions. Your perspective adds balance to the mix.
  Glad you are staying.

Hugs,
   Laurie