I know a lot reading this post probably don't really know me since I was largely active in chat.
I've decided it's time for me to leave trans* spaces. I had planned to hang on for a bit more, having GCS in a few weeks (I've decided on partial-SRS for reasons of facts of my own life - being asexual) and planning to finally do some trans activism after that (a particular issue I had previously was that the transition providers available in my area were direct - if I engaged in activism and they learned of it, there would be repercussions for my access to medical transition.) However, a recent activism workshop/planning meeting I attended put an end to that.
The reality in my state (North Carolina) at present is that the legislature and governor are controlled by social conservatives who aren't inclined to support anything for any part of the LGBT. The only state-level legislative or executive plan is an effort that they don't expect to succeed for at least 6 years and, really, has more than enough people to help for what it is.
I've spent 5 years having transition heavily occupy my life, not so much by choice but as an effect of particular issues with doctors and therapists. In about 6 weeks that will finally be over for me, and it's time for this motorcycle riding, lesbian, dirty old broad to find her happily ever after. So much has happened that amazes me: I have found a blossoming career, now ride with two women-only motorcycle rider groups, etc.
One song has meant a lot to me since this time 5 years ago - when I was preparing to leave the only place I had lived - for the verse, "every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end." I've seen a lot of ends and beginnings in that span, and I'm excited for this one.
Y'all be your awesome selves and know that, if someone as screwed-up (and, often, frustrating) as me can get through it, you certainly can.
P.S. if you happen to come across a chick soloing cross-country on a motorcycle with NC plates in the spring-summer of 2015, she just might be me.
