A strange kind of celebrity.

[Jamie-o]

Ever since I came out at work, people from other shifts, whom I've never met before, have made a point of greeting me by name at company functions.  Don't get me wrong.  It's nice that they are going out of their way to show their acceptance.  But it's  still a bit disconcerting, if nothing else, because I can't return the courtesy. 

Them: "Hi, Jamison!"

Me: "Hi, er, whoever-you-are."   

Just doesn't seem to cut it.   

Anyone else find themselves in the position of being the local, lovable, eccentric?

[rejennyrated]

Yep - absolutely. I am a consumate showman.

I've learned to play to the gallery somewhat too. Enjoy and embrace it - it can be the makings of you if you do.

I have gotten places and been able to do things that only the priviliged few normally do and a lot of it I've done it by sheer pzazz - by playing at being me! By being the one they don't forget, and who therefore gets the call when they suddenly need a stand in etc...

Make the most of it. It's a fabulous opportunity to shine.

[Cindy]

Yep,

And always smile, never look dour. Stand tall, walk slowly but steadily and be thankful that people accept you. I was told at my first TG meeting, by a lovely lady, make sure everyone who meets you knows you are a nice, polite, person. Never ever leave the idea that we belong under rocks. Remember to keep the culture, eg cake day join in, birthday, weddings, maternity leave, etc make sure you are part of the community. Enjoy life.

Hugs
Cindy 

[Jamie-o]

Good advice, Cindy.  I think if you're likable, people will get over the strangeness pretty quickly.  If you make an ass of yourself, they'll go away thinking all TGs (or fill in your own minority) are a bunch of sick-o losers.  It's sad, but true.  Just look at the way most of the world sees Americans, just because they've had some bad encounters with certain brands of tourists, soldiers, and politicians.

Fortunately, according to one of my co-workers, I'm "one of the nicest guys around." 

[rejennyrated]

Yeah - just to clarify - when I said play to the gallery and be a showman - I absolutely didn't mean be a weirdo.

Just use the opportunity to as I said SHINE - AKA be a real nice person, and again as I said, the one they don't forget - because they have been surprised by how likeable you are.

I'd hate to think anyone thought I was advocating being deliberately awkward or anything...

[Jamie-o]

No worries, Jenny.  I knew what you meant.