Have you been reluctant to join a face-to-face group?

[sterling12]

I don't think of myself as a spokesperson for Tri-Ess, but when I read something that doesn't run quite true, I feel I have to say something about it so that others don't get the wrong impression.

I belong to 2 Tri-Ess Chapters. My understanding is that each chapter is allowed quite a bit of latitude on rules, so it's possible that a particular chapter may have some special rule I don't know about. However, NEITHER OF MY CHAPTERS HAS ANY KIND OF RULE THAT SAYS YOUR WIFE HAS TO BE INFORMED ABOUT YOUR CD! Tri-Ess encourages couples to participate, but we have many members in my chapters that are single, or the wives DO NOT KNOW. At least in the two chapters that I belong to, we do not tell anyone how to run their personal lives.

What you do outside of your Chapter is your own business. I personally know many Gurls who are bi-sexual or gay. What everyone is told upon joining is....1.) This is a Social/Support Group, keep your nose clean when you attend. This is not a place for predators, it is not a dating service. 2.) You need to respect the privacy of other members, if you want to bring a guest you will vouch for their behavior and you are to let some person on The Board know that they are coming to a meeting.

Someone mentioned TS Gurls. As far as I know, we have no problem with them, and I know many who are current and past members. WHEN they begin active transition, boob job, SRS, etc., they understand that they will have a change of status and become an associate member. Doesn't mean they are shunned, or can't attend meetings. Many of them still attend even after transition, because they have made a lot of friends and seem to get some comfort from being with people. All persons are asked to "cool it," about talking about hormone regimens all the time, or having sexual relationships. And that is done to placate other persons (wives,) who can be very turned off by that sort of talk. Many GGs view that sort of thing as a threat to their relationship with their hubby. Everybody understands the rules and we all seem to get along OK. By the way, The Orlando Chapter was originally started by a Gal who is TS and has since transitioned. The Board of National Tri-Ess had to give their approval for that Group's Charter 20 years ago. Does that sound like an Organization that spends a lot of time worrying about everyone's sexual orientation?

Peace and Love, Joanie