Hi Wren
I noticed that you have popped back onto Susan's and I hope you found something interesting to read.
I did read your original post and it was certainly enlightening.
Well if you come back again then I hope the following story will help you.
Like you I do not associate with the 'community' in fact I avoid it like the plague, so you are not alone in this sense.
We associate with who we feel comfortable with. In my case I'm just another another woman in the suburbs so I really do not feel isolated. I sense you are very similar to me just another woman with her partner in the suburbs. Please correct me if I'm wrong.
In fact, I have only needed help from the 'community' once and that was for two weeks (and that was for a roof over my head) while I set myself up in Sydney.
The reasons why I avoid the 'community' are as follows:
- Inside of three months I was working full time and had a place of my own, hence I did not need their help, because I'm a very independent individual.
- Several incidents occurred and without going into details, once bitten twice shy, as they say.
- I'm a very private person and I do not tell anyone whatsoever about my 'medical condition'. So if I associated with the 'community' I put myself at risk of being outed. So there was "no fracking way". I was going to associate with any 'community' and put myself in harms way.
So the question is why am I here at Susan's? After arriving in Sydney in 1989. I was in the woodwork so to speak for 21 years, living my life like any other female.
Then I heard about a Barbara Walters doing a 20/20 special called "I am Jazz" and the topic was about a girl named Jazz. This was roughly around 2010. So I searched, found the episode and watched it. Which opened my eyes and ears, as to what was going on in the world about us.
While searching the internet I came across Susan's Place, she is very lucky that I came across her website first, so I took the plunge and joined.
The information I learned answered all my questions and even ones I did not know at the time. Like I have always been a female. Learnt that around 52 years old at Susan's, I was so niave then.
I did join two other groups, however Susan's has been the main 'community', were I feel safe and being able to let my hair down. I can contribute to the collective and also learn.
Yes there is a need to associate with others like us and this environment provides what I need in terms of safety, security, an outlet for me and still maintain my privacy.
Take care and remember you are among friends.
Best wishes and hugs
Sarah B
