The following is pretty much a repost of something I wrote last year.
I am reposting due to it being rather timely all things considered.


If this year is anything like the past, then we can expect a raise in the number of people coming out and looking for support over the next few months.
We will be answering the same old questions over and over and it will get tiresome.
However, lashing out at the newcomer that we have already answered that question in anouther topic the other week is unhelpful at least and could trigger a depressed person to the final solution.

Please keep in mind that although WE know the terms, paths and reasons of transition, many who come to us in the next few months will not. They will need mentors and friends and a non-hostile environment. Gental guidance and admonishion instead of vindictive and bile is what they need.

The end of the summer and the coming of the fall and winter festivities seems to trigger many trans folks. The added stress of the season combined with trans* ideation adds up to a breaking formula that sends many of us into transition at a time of year that is hostile and deadly in many areas. They will loose families and homes, just like many of us did.

Remember where you were when you first came out and how well you dealt with stress when dealing with the incoming newbs.

hugz and luv,
Cynthia Lee

"life goes on, but it's still not changed in the slightest..."
i wonder if this is the realization that makes us suddenly seek out places like this when everything's back on track after long holidays.
but shouldn't there be more australians in spring then...?

umm, whatever it may be. you're still as right as you were last year, cynthia. a support community works best when offering support.

Quote from: cynthialee on September 18, 2013, 09:24:03 PM
Remember where you were when you first came out and how well you dealt with stress when dealing with the incoming newbs.

Oh, I remember those feelings - cold, shivering, essentially like a piece of garbage. Tnx for reminder

Quote from: Taka on September 19, 2013, 04:02:07 AM
i wonder if this is the realization that makes us suddenly seek out places like this when everything's back on track after long holidays.

My guess is that people can hide a lot more under clothes after the summer.  Changes aren't so obvious.

I recently had the opportunity to help a woman with a place to stay after she was thrown out of her apartment... she is further along her transition (in fact, beginning to look seriously about going stealth, while I just had to reschedule my first gender-based psychotherapy appointment).  Sometimes a place to stay or a helping hand is all that is needed.  I certainly hope that, should I be in need, help will be available to me... but if I never do, I intend to be certain to help as many people (trans or otherwise) as I am blessed with the opportunity to help.

I challenge all the brothers, sisters, and others on these forums to join me in helping someone out.  We really can make a difference, even if it is just to one or two people. 

Hugs to all!