Yesterday, I had a chance to drive across the border to Bellingham to pick up some clothes I ordered from Torrid. (Fyi, its the only place I will shop online, because I have learned to trust their sizing, I can try on in the store and get instant refunds for things that don't fit, and I avoid import duties on the things I decide to take home.) I was dressed in a floral skirt, crocheted top, black faux fur coat and my favorite black and red velvet pumps. I was in MIAD mode, not trying to pass.
So, partway down the highway after I crossed the border, I needed to stop at a highway rest stop to urinate. I parked next to a small truck where a middle aged man was fiddling with the door. As soon as I got out of my car, he called out to me.
"Excuse me sir, do you have a phone I can borrow?" He had locked himself out of his company truck with the motor running and needed to call his office for help. I fished mine out of my purse and dialed the number he told me. I handed it to him and he briefly told his boss his predicament, then handed it back.
He thanked me and then said "I just have to ask. What's the deal with the outfit?" In a respectful way. So, in an equally respectful way, I told him I'm gender fluid and he asked me which bathroom I planned to use. "The men's, of course, because I'm making no pretense about being a woman." Then I told him how the whole bathroom gender issue is just a political scare tactic. Conversation over, he thanked me one more time and I left him waiting for his help.
IMHO, this is how understanding happens. One respectful conversation at a time. I admit, I don't get many opportunities to have that discussion, so I think there's room for me to improve. But I feel like his first encounter with a crossdresser was positive and informative.
BTW, I enjoy Torrid for the same reasons.
