Is it that "broad brushstroke" that you fear?

[Marcelle]

Hi Rogina,

Violence and hate is a sad fact of human nature and while we are capable of great empathy and kindness, the flip side of the coin is still prevalent. Yes, it is more likely that people will ignore us when out and about or they would prefer to mock us behind our backs but in the end we are a curiosity at best. Some people will be kind and empathetic (I have met them) but others can be overtly hostile in posture and look (have met them as well). The only thing that keeps them going all Spartacus Smack Down is the venues I choose (malls, family restaurants, public transport, daytime).

Short of having some mental malfunction I highly doubt some "knuckle dragger, tranny hating dude" is going to come running over and lay a slipper dance of death on my head in the middle of a family restaurant or mall. He is more likely to just stew in his juices and mutter under his breath. It doesn't make his hate any less (just subdued). However let's bear no illusion, if given the right environment/opportunity, his retribution might be fast and swift much to my peril. This is why a healthy sense of fear is required if you decide to go out and about "en femme" . . . it keeps you focused and alert.

I have been lucky . . . so far. The balance of probabilities do not weigh well in my favor. I am likely (when I least expect it) to have a physical altercation at some junction. Will it be vicious and life threating? Possibly, but it is more likely to be an "in your face . . . I hate you so do something about it" altercation. I am ready for that and luckily my training makes me capable of handling such a situation (obviously within reason). However, for those who are not ready . . . tread cautiously because it is not all sunshine, lollipops and unicorns out there. Sometimes you get lions, tigers and bears . . . oh my (especially if you wander off the yellow brick road) and there may be no ruby slippers to click three times and take you home.

I am not trying to frighten people but sometimes a little fear is a good thing as it keeps us from doing silly things we regret.

Hugs

Isha