I just wanted to tell about my experience last night in the hope that if someone else is considering coming out there are great people out there.
I belong to a Jewish philanthropy group that is just for women ( there are associate (men) members that also do tons of work but the organization is for women) Up until last night when I stepped down from my position I was the communications director.
As I have begun hormone therapy and living full time as male I knew that there was no longer putting this off and as the planning for the coming year was the topic of the meeting I felt now was the time.
I spoke to the president of our chapter and we made the plan that I would resign at this meeting. (BTW she was a great source of support) I wrote a letter saying I was resigning and the reason why. I attempted to explain as best I could. When it came my turn, I said that I was stepping down and of course folks were wondering why?? The President read my letter aloud to the group (about 10 members). At the end everyone and I mean everyone was saying we are with you, you are not alone. We support you. They then quickly moved on to how I could move to be an associate member and what I could do in that role. Like it was seriously no big deal and this was the major concern. As that came to a lull one of the other members said "well was that good and welfare because I don't think I can follow that...my kid is just going to camp" Which of course broke the seriousness of the meeting and everyone had a good laugh. As the meeting broke up several members came up to ask me what was my chosen name and could they begin calling me that now. Saying if I or my family needed anything to just call them.
I really respect this group of women and all of the hard work that they do. I knew most would be just fine but there were a couple that I was unsure of and even they were hugging me and saying how they would support me and stand with me. It was an amazing experience. I truly am so lucky to have such a supportive community that seems to really get that I am still exactly the same person they have always known I'm just going to look a little different.
Now as I am also on the board of officers at my shul, I will also have to come out to them. They are a MUCH bigger board but I think it will go the same with them. Thankfully I do not have to resign that position, only let them know what is happening. Which I think is fair.
I hope everyone has a beautiful weekend and that you find the love and support that I have
Shalom