Hi GraceMy 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.
I'm really glad you found your way here and I'm grateful you felt safe enough to share where you are right now. Reading your post, what stood out most was how much work you have already done just to stay afloat. Spending years in survival mode takes a toll, so the fact that you sought therapy, stayed with it for two years and are now beginning to reconnect with yourself says a great deal about your strength. I was thirty when I changed my life around and my life has been amazing ever since. So what I'm saying is that it is truly not too late for you to pursue your dreams.
Several members have already expressed this, but it truly matters: there is no pressure here to move fast or have everything figured out. Many of us learned the hard way that this journey unfolds in its own time. You are allowed to take small steps, pause when you need to and simply observe for a while. This space is here whether you feel like posting every day or quietly read in the background.
Others also highlighted how valuable your work with a gender therapist has been, not only for gender-related questions but for your overall quality of life. That kind of support can be foundational, especially after years of putting your own needs second. A few people shared how familiar your story feels, how common it is to prioritise survival first and only later realise how much of yourself was put on hold.
Moving from surviving to actually living can feel strange at first, but it is also deeply healing. This theme of survival I had already expressed while talking to one of my nieces, this morning. There are three things you need to survive according to Maslov's theory. One you need shelter, two you need food and three you need clothes after that; "the world is your oyster" and you are in that position to move forward.
I also loved reading that you have begun exploring clothes and personal expression. That gentle curiosity about what feels right is important. You do not need to make big declarations or dramatic changes. Many of us started exactly the same way, quietly trying things, noticing what brings comfort or joy and slowly building confidence from there. Those small moments of matter more than they might seem.
Looking ahead, it might help to think about a couple of straightforward things. What are your plans going forward, even in the short term? Are you considering any specific next steps such as social changes, medical consultation or simply continuing therapy for now? And is there something practical you would like support with at this stage, whether that is information, shared experiences or just encouragement?
You don't need perfect answers. Just being here, telling your story and allowing yourself space already counts as progress.
Thank you again for sharing, Grace. I'm glad you are here and I hope you find warmth, understanding and connection as this next chapter unfolds for you.
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 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 @Charlotte_Ringwood @Neuroflora
