Hi CharBee My name is
Sarah and I would also like to formally, Welcome you to Susan's Place!
I see that other members of Susan's have also welcomed you as well.
Thank you for your thoughtful and honest introduction. It takes a great deal of courage to open up about something so personal especially after years of keeping it buried. What you have shared will resonate with many members here.
Regret for not exploring these feelings earlier in life is something several members deeply understand. When it involves your own identity that regret can weigh heavily. It's important to acknowledge it without letting it define what comes next. You are facing it now and that matters.
Many have tried to suppress their gender feelings but for most that suppression only delays the inevitable. These feelings often return with greater intensity. You are not alone in that experience and there are people here who can personally attest to how hard that can hit later in life.
It's very encouraging to hear that you are working with a therapist. A supportive and knowledgeable therapist can be instrumental in helping you understand what you are feeling and what steps might be right for you. It's one of the most positive things you can do to help you to understand yourself.
You are absolutely right. It's later now. But it's also not too late. You have the power to choose how far you go and how quickly you take each step. No one else can define that for you although there will be plenty of support along the way from people who understand.
There are many small daily things that can bring relief from gender dysphoria. Some members have found comfort in things like waxing their legs wearing clear nail varnish or removing body hair. If these things bring you peace or joy then they are worth considering. I'll try to locate the thread where members shared more examples because it contains several helpful suggestions.
Whether the steps you take are visible or private what matters most is that they make you happy. Susan's is the place that can support and help you with your needs
A good place to start exploring would be the "Introductions" board where you will find posts from others at different stages in their lives. "Transgender Talk" is also excellent for deeper discussions and shared experiences. Both sections are welcoming and insightful.
Once you feel comfortable here, it would be appreciated if you add a little bit more about yourself in the other forums and threads. I would appreciate it very much as, I'm always interested in learning something new about new members.
In addition members of Susan's will more than likely will discuss problems or issues that are similar to yours as most have experienced these issues as well.
Please keep in mind when posting that this is an
ALL AGES PUBLIC Forum and the internet never forgets. Do not post anything that you do not want to be made public.
Take care and all the best for the future.
Once again, Welcome to Susan's Place!Best Wishes AlwaysSarah BGlobal Moderator@Devlyn @Jessica_Rose @Mariah @Northern Star Girl @Lori Dee @CharBee
