I went to the hospital this morning to bring my wife home after a hysterectomy and walked in with her purse thinking she would want it with her. Since I only underdress and have never considered going out en femme (my moustache!) I carried it from the parking lot uncomfortably like any man would, hanging straight down, held by the straps (?).
As I approached the front door of this rather large/busy hospital I thought of all the girls here who face their fears and go out and thought, if they can do it, I can certainly try this, even if it is a baby step. So I pulled the purse up past my wrist near my elbow, and carried it in with my forearm parallel to the floor like a real girl would. I tried to carry it naturally (like I'd done it all my life) and was dismayed as I made the long walk to the elevator and passed no one.
The elevator door opened to reveal a nice-looking woman riding from the lower level to the third floor. I could feel her watch me as I stepped in, tilted my hips slightly and held my purse up proudly with my wrist naturally limp. I was about to offer her a soft/sweet hello, but she spoke first.
"That purse looks wonderful on you!" she said, admiringly. My mind raced for something to say but I was at a momentary loss for words until I just blurted out (honestly) "I'm looking for a dress to go with it!" and smiled.
We both laughed and I had to step out on the second floor, but she had no idea how much I really meant it and since joining this site a month ago I now know the girl inside of me is real. I am now scared as hell where this is going, but in an instant I got some real respect for all of you who do what you have to do to overcome your fears and grow up to be big girls.
Gianna