I think there’s a certain amount of tragic one-upsmanship that goes on in the trans world. In some circles, the mark of authenticity is the degree to which one suffers for their right to live in another gender. Those whose transitions were successful, who experience happiness with few, if any, negative consequences, those who have passing privilege, satisfying relationships and acceptance from others are regarded as suspect, and often are accused of being dishonest about their transition.
More than anywhere else, among trans women (trans men hardly ever do this), there exists the notion that “if it’s not true for me then it’s not true for anyone.”
As with everything we experience in life, one’s experience is unique and different from all others. Some of us felt compelled to transition because the alternative was unbearable, and for others it was simply the logical decision as the arc of their lives eventually brought them to a clearer view of their own gender identity.
This.Originally Posted by Kaitlyn Michele
Don’t transition unless you have to? Well, of course not! It’s not a game, and the effects are profound. But for me, transition was the smartest decision I ever made. Every single thing in my life is better than before, and the only 2 things I have lost are male privilege and the ability to stand when I pee.
Losing male privilege is, I think, the adjustment that hits trans women the hardest and makes post transition life seem so difficult. I’ve learned how to deal with that, and I don’t miss it much.
