Pass, I spend too much time in macho land (I work construction) and I fell back into an old mindset. When Sandy's friend made that comment I soared. For a moment I felt bullet proof. Then when we are in a straight place and some guy gives me "that look" (okay maybe it was a hit and not a read) I let it get to me.
I know what you're saying about situations too. I read that when two or more TSs go out together the odds of being read increase proportionally and I believe that. No matter, it's water under the bridge now. I don't let those kinds of things bother me for long.
Kristi, you are right about validation, it has to come from within. Since coming out of denial I've been working on just being me, letting it happen, not forcing it. And when I just let it flow I don't need outward validation. I know who I am and if someone has a problem with it, it's their problem, not mine.
I've got half a century of brainwashing to undo so I know it's not going to be as simple as flipping a switch. But when you get those moments when someone let's you KNOW (as opposed to wondering) it's pretty neat and I don't have a problem letting myself revel in it.
Julie