Yes, Kimberly, I can feel the love. NOT! I have started and erased a post to this thread two times. I think this time I will finish it.

First, Duana, please go re-read what you wrote in this thread and others recently. I have. You did say that those (not just Anne) lack guts and need to grow a sack. That to me alone is inappropriate for anyone to write here to another member. When you want to admit you said that specifically about closeted crossdressers and admit that it was too harsh, then maybe I will listen more to your opinions in the future. Using your words, not mine, if you want to show your guts, grow a sack, or better stated, be a mature caring adult, then own up to your harsh words, then apologize and let it be. Everyone has their own opinion and are entitled to voice that opinion on this forum. However, there is decorum and maturity associated with replying. Unfortunately, you did not show much of that in your posts.

On a positive side, I too believe that going out does help further our own cause to get the toleration and hopefully acceptance that we have every right to expect. I don't march in the Pride parades, but I am there on the sidelines cheering them on, hugging the participants and interfacing with whomever is lucky enough to be standing next to me. I really do talk to complete strangers every time I go out dressed as Allie. I also do some of those backroom activities, like voting for qualified candidates who also support LGBT causes and rights. Is being out there the most effective way to move us ahead? In my opinion no. However, much of the prejudice and mistreatment comes from people who are ignorant about diversity and about LGBT in general. So, getting out and meeting people, being recognized as a transgendered person, telling our side of the story helps erase that ignorance.

So, in summary, others and Duana, please respect others for who they are and what they can do, and do not castigate them for not following your own opinion of what they should be doing. The whole intent of this thread as I see it is to ask for tolerance among ourselves here and support rather than criticism.