Wonderful meeting!

[Suzanne F]

Many of you know that I have been sober many years and am an active member in AA. I have been out and only attend as a woman for the last 2 years, well before I came out at work. For maybe the last year and a half I have attended a women only meeting on Tuesdays. I was apprehensive at first but many women in the group encouraged me to come. Gradually it has become no big deal. I am close to many of the women.

Yesterday I received a text from the secretary asking me if I would be the speaker today. I have been sober for 14 years and am asked to speak regularly. I have spoken maybe 5 or 6 times since transitioning. But this was the first time to speak at a women's meeting. I was both excited and nervous. How would they react to my story when they knew a big part of it had occurred as a male?

I spoke and the words just poured out. There was no need to guard any part of the story anymore. I was where I wanted to be all my life, with women as a woman. It was the best lead I have ever given I believe. Words and tears just flowed. At the end I looked up and said and now "I am ok, and hopeful!"
The applause was so loud and heartfelt. I know I was accepted as a woman in that moment. Sure that doesn't mean it will stay that way and that there won't be divisions felt between me and cis women, but for that moment it was right. What a moment!

Suzanne

[Zooey]

I am so happy for you, and proud to boot!

[pamela7]

that is fantastic Suzanne

i did have a drinking problem, but never got to the alcoholic stage. I stopped heavy drinking about 15 years ago, yet I'd still binge occasionally but since i discovered my gender identity the need to drink has gone!!!

[Marcelle]

Hi Suzanne,

Very nice story and a testament to your strength and resolve to not only stay sober but to be who you know you are . . . a strong woman.

Cheers

Marcelle

[PretzelGirl]

Suzanne, I can just place myself in the room and picture it and knowing the love and support that comes in speaker meetings, I can imagine the positive response. I am glad you were able to do this. A little more out? Maybe. But as you say, being able to wear our heart on our sleeves can settle our minds another level. Smiles!

[Claire Cook]

Suzanne,

Thanks so much for sharing this. To be accepted as a woman by other women -- especially in this context -- must be a wonderful feeling. What an affirmation!

[Jennifer-GWN]

Suzanne;

So awesome. Wow. This is a great example of making it, getting the validation, and from the heart giving back on many levels.

Do you have a new unrealized calling?

Good on you!!!!

Cheers... Jennifer

[Megan G]

That's awesome Suzanne!!

[Heidi Stevens]

What a great confidence booster, Suzanne! You've not only whipped your battle with alcohol, you placed your newly minted public female persona in front of a group that could be doubtful. Looks like you are well on your way to a very happy life.
I am very proud for you, congratulations!

[AllieSF]

Just you being you. Just where you belong. Congratulations.

[Rhonda Darling]

Suzanne:

Talk about embodying "To thine own self be true"! You make us all proud that youve taken this step in your sobriety and in your life as a woman.

Carry on.

Best regards,
Rhonda

[Cindy J Angel]

So happy for you?