Geez, I was reading other people's introductions, and I feel a bit akward not having much of a story to tell.

Umm, well, I first found out about transsexualism about 5-6 years ago while doing research for some kind of school project, and at the time, it piqued my interest for some strange, unknown reason. I read about the GRS procedure and I wasn't fascinated by it, but it was one of those things that made me go, "something like that exists?" After about a week, my interest in the topic waned, and the whole subject was forgotten; or so it seemed.

Move forward to about two weeks ago. Something drew me back to searching about transsexualism, and in my searches I stumbled across Susan's Place. Needless to say, I found a TON of resources about TS, and again found myself drawn towards the topic. I read alot of the site, including the forums and the Youth section (I'm not even into my twenties yet ), and what I read was encouraging.

I don't know 100% if I'm...whats the word/term for it, gender dysphoric? I have been noticing the girls around school more and more, but not in a sexual manner. When I look at some of my classmates and their friends, I see something that makes me envious. I see them being open with each other on an emotional level that is nigh impossible to establish with any of my male friends. I have one or two really good friends that I'd trust my life to, but none of my secrets. The self-censorship I go through many times a day, the constant competition and the picking on other's insecurities is just not how I want to live the rest of my life by, and its these reasons that I've given transsexualism some interest.

I've learned a lot from this site, but there's still more to be done before I think I'll know whether changing my gender is right for me. I'm just glad this site is here to learn from

Wow, I actually did have a bit to say. Who'd have guessed. Oh yeah, and hi everyone!

Hello Solerno,

Welcome to Susan's.  Glad you found the site, and that it has been such help to you so far.  I hope it continues to be so.  As you've probably discovered we are a pretty friendly bunch who all have a wide variety of views and opinions on just as wide a variety of topics.  Of course we are also here to help, and provide support and fellowship as our own personal skills and experiences permit.  Take advantage of us and be sure to take part where you can.

Chat later,

Steph

Hi Solerno,

Welcome to Susan's. It seems you have been perusing the site and it would be pointless to tell you about the Wiki as you seem to already know that so I will simply welcome you and encourgage you to respond to posts and even to start your own topics. As you have found we are a friendly bunch and encourage expanding ones knowledge. So fix yourself a cup of tea or other relaxing beverage, sit down, take your shoes off and set a spell.

Good Journey,

Hi Solerno,

                    Welcome. There's lots of information here to help you in your search. Feel free to join in the discussions or start topics of your own.



beth

Welcome Solerno,

Many that come here to Susan's Place come in search of answers. Thankyou for sharing your story. It's not how much or how long the story. You are very articulate and able to word it all persicely and clearly. You may not feel clear where you stand but from your post you are on the right track in finding out how you feel. I think maybe you might find it useful to talk with a Therapist to help you figure out more of your feelings. It's a good thing to share here in private and not share with your friends untill you really know what you want to do. The people here are very caring and knowledgeable and will share with you any answers to your qustions they are able.

Take a few minutes and read the site rules. Share where you feel the need and start topics of your own to help you become more clear in your needs and search for answers.

Again welcome and enjoy your stay.

Smiles,
Peggiann

Hello Solerno,
I was every confused when I first came here too, but Susan's is a great place to learn not only from the Wiki but also from asking us questions
Oh and many of the people here aren't changing their bodies phyically eventhough their TG or even GID.
I am both.
Good to meet you Solerno.

Jillieann

Hi Solerno and welcome to Susans.  It sounds like it's time to go for a journey of introspection.  You need to go through your thoughts and memories of all your life and see what your heart really says and the reason why.  When I first accepted that I had a gender problem, I wasn't sure exactly where I fell.  In fact, I didn't even know transition was possible.  I did some massive research on exactly what the definitions of everything were and when I learned enough, I realized I had buried a lot of stuff.  I had remembered many things from my introspective journey about my past that really made me go "Duh!  I can't believe I didn't realize I was transsexual."  As a warning, this journey of thoughts will probably not be easy because you will most likely dig up some pretty painful stuff.

It actually turns out that I had heard of transsexuals, but I had forgotten that and I had blocked myself from attempting to learn anything about it.  Many people start seeing a therapist to help them with this journey through their mind and decide if transition is the right path for them.  I'm kind of a cheapy sometimes, so I wanted to find it within myself of what I was before I started investing time and money into transition.  Overall, I'm happy with the path I am going down.

Melissa

Quote from: melissa_girl on February 15, 2006, 11:37:13 PM...
It sounds like it's time to go for a journey of introspection.  You need to go through your thoughts and memories of all your life and see what your heart really says and the reason why.
...
As a warning, this journey of thoughts will probably not be easy because you will most likely dig up some pretty painful stuff.
...

I agree with Melissa's thought but I'd also like to mention that not all such journeys are overly painful. It really depends on the person in question and what they've had to live though and survive though. My path has been relatively painless (ignore the ocean of tears) as an example.

However, it should be noted that such musings and questions are often helpful to yourself, regardless any problems. It's just for the GID afflicted we've had to hide it deeper than most other things for various reasons.

So, by all means look around and join us in the conversations, be at ease and if you have questions, well, we tend to be a talkative bunch

Hi, Solerno, Welcome to Susans!

I think that everyone has given good advice and I'd like to amplify one piece, Peggiann's sound advice - If, after you've read, studied, meditated and asked questions of us, you are still not sure?  Then it's time to find a good therapist who is knowledgeable about gender issues.  A good therapist, even if they're not specialists in gender issues, will help you find your self, if need be.  You don't mention how far along with school you are but some schools and colleges have counsellors and/or GLBT groups that can be contacted for help and information.  If you live in or near a major population center there may be some low cost or free couselling available.  Check the phone directory and something might turn up there.

I hope your visits to Susans are as fun and profitable to you as they have been for me (I just love visiting here, ya know!)  I'll be looking forward to reading more from you and I'm happay to again say,

WELCOME!
helen

Haha, wow, what a community! Thanks everyone for all the encouragement. I'll be sure to post more, and I'm sure I'll be able to learn a lot from all of you.

Thanks for the welcomes