I think a lot of us have had similar experiences, Annabelle. We spend the first few decades of our lives wondering when this urge will go away, and finally just have to embrace it when it becomes obvious it is not going to dissipate on its own. For me, this epiphany occured shortly after I turned 40, and I decided to jump in with both (high heeled) feet, so to speak, at that time. I think that's the reason you see so many 40- and 50-something sisters posting online and in transgender groups and events -- we are more inclined to become visible after we have exhausted all hope that the behavior will resolve itself. Those who come to understand the innate and lifelong nature of being transgender at an earlier age have a tremendous advantage over those of us who struggled with it, and I think there are probably more young people now -- thanks to the Internet, other media, and changes in social attitudes in general -- who will not have to question themselves quite as much or for as long.
- Diane
