Crossdressing is definitely more accepted today than at any point in my lifetime. I also remember the 50's and 60's when hazing was a big part of school life. The big difference between then and now is that hazing was a friendly way of ushering a freshman class into high school or a first year player to the high school team. You were made fun of and ridiculed in a fun and respectful way. You didn't have to fear for your life, break the law, consume alchohol or drugs. It was a simpler time. I remember Milton Berle, Red Skelton and others dressing as women while doing comedy routines. I don't remember any crossdressing in the Baptist church I attended.
Life for the closeted crossdresser is probably about the same now as it was 40 years ago other than the fact that it is easier to buy clothes and makeup anonomously on the internet and they realize they are not alone because of forums such as this one. For some of us who are not in the closet we are accepted by our friends and family. When my friends invite me to a party or barbeque or some other function, they always say, "Please show up. We don't care if you come as Glen or Glenda. We just want you to come."
We all strive for acceptance.........well, some of us hope or wish for it. I believe the only way to gain it is to expect it. To be open and honest and to gain it by being ourselves. We may be different, but we're not really that strange. We're still the same people.......just in different clothes. Truth be told, I haven't lost any friends because of my crossdressing. Personally, I am not 24/7 so I do believe there are times when it is not appropriate to dress. However, if I was 24/7, I do believe that I would be accepted at the functions which I choose not to crossdress at now.
