Quote from: Northern Jane on April 08, 2010, 04:38:10 AMThe thing about all this is that you have to make your own life in a way that is good for YOU. Anyone who tries to poison the waters of you new life needs to be REMOVED from that life pronto! Don't let ignorance and prejudice ruin your future Muffin.

Very well said.

I always love reading your posts Jane.

Thank you.

.... gotta have gained something from all these years and doing things the hard way LOL!

lol
Graduating from the school of hard knocks is a common theme around here, eh?

CM,

Remember that you have many friends here on Susan's that love you. We wish you peace and happiness.

You are a healthy person. Those with poor self esteem don't know how to handle those who are healthy and well. When your family judges you, it is not a reflection of you, but of them.

I would run to find a good therapist. If you are a f/t student, many campuses have free or no cost counseling. This will help you sort out your feelings, and will help your perspective on your situation.

During therapy, I developed the courage to leave an abusive marriage. I got away from someone who was hell bent on taking me down with her. Thankfully, I was able to escape this intolerant situation. You can do the same.

We all want to have a healthy, adjusted family. Truth is, that they need intensive therapy to get well. They willingly choose to remain ignorant of your gender condition. This is what unhealthy people with low self esteem do.

I, like you CM, have "lost" my family. At least for now. My own mother and siblings refuse to have anything to do with me. Again, I see this as their issue, and not mine. When they finally get well, and come round, I will be there for them. I accept the situation for what it is. I cannot change them, nor "convince" them to see things my way. Someday, they may change. I hope so. Until that time, I will not be in their life if they say and do things to hurt me. I, like you, need to protect myself. If you are going to be shooting arrows at me, I can't come by to visit you or call you.

Hang in there, and get the help and support you need. There are many support groups for TS/TG people out there. If you are younger, there are many support drop -in centers to be around like minded people as you. Seek out these resources.

Remember that you are a lovely, healthy woman deserving of love. Many people are out there, who will accept and love you. Your family, perhaps, may someday join the rest of us in loving you. Until that time, avoid their toxicity. They may get well once they choose to start healing themselves.