My name is Shal (easier than trying to pronounce Shaloxeroligon), and I'm non-binary and DMAB. My pronouns of choice are singular they and she/her.

I came to this place because I'm currently feeling very confused about my gender identity and what I should do about it. I feel like I'm not happy with the male body I've been given, and I want to change, but I don't know how, or even if it's the best idea to do so. I have a lot of questions about whether transitioning is right for me, as well as understanding what it would mean for me if I did transition.

I am intending on seeking a therapist in the near future, to help me address these things. However, I believe this community could be a helpful resource in the meantime. I'm mainly looking for support and validation. And, honestly, just someone to talk to, because right now, it feels like I have nowhere to go, no one to turn to. I am very much in the closet about all this, and I'm kind of afraid to talk to the people who DO know, because I don't want to seem like I'm just coming to them for help and nothing more.

So, suffice to say, I'm stuck. I hope this community can help me become un-stuck.

Welcome Shal!
Yes to the therapist.  Try to find someone who understands dysphoria and has lots of experience in trans issues.  Sadly many are a bit clueless and I can attest to that from my own experience. 
To transition is to be reborn with all the joy, angst, fear, and glee that entails.  It doesn't fix everything, but it can save your soul.  Only you and your therapist can figure that out for you.  This place (Susan's) can provide insight, information, and friendship but should not be confused with professional guidance.  That said, the women here are wonderful, and an anchor to my continued sanity.  I started the journey to authenticity feeling lonely, angry, different and afraid every day of my life.   That feeling of isolation and despair has left, and I am hopeful and filled with love.  This has been a pillar for me from which I gave grown.
Again - Welcome,
Julie

Hi Shal,
And a very warm welcome... As to your questions, you have come to the right place. We try very hard to be open and honest, along with being very supportive. So ask away. This site for me has become a major part of my support system along with therapy. So your on the right track for sure. So welcome to Susan's...

Hugs
Veronica

A big warm welcome to the family Shal! You will see in no time at all this is a family. We have our ups and downs, but come together nicely to help as best we can. Feel free to ask anything you need to and we will do our best to answer. Here is a BIG HUG to welcome you and make you feel right at home!

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Hi Shal and welcome to Susan's!

As you can already tell you've joined a very big and warm family of brothers and sisters that are here to help you along your journey.

Welcome to the family Shal !! Here's a cup of hot chocolate and some cookies to help you settle in. 

Hugs,
Gloria

Thank you all for the warm welcomes. This sounds like a very nice community. I'm very optimistic about my future here.

Also, for the record, I am somewhat new to the world of being trans*, so if I say or do anything that offends or upsets anyone, don't be afraid to tell me.

Quote from: Shaloxeroligon on April 01, 2014, 11:52:17 AM
Thank you all for the warm welcomes. This sounds like a very nice community. I'm very optimistic about my future here.

Also, for the record, I am somewhat new to the world of being trans*, so if I say or do anything that offends or upsets anyone, don't be afraid to tell me.

Your very welcome Shal... Don't worry about tripping up or say something stupid... We all do that on occasion.