After following this thread for a while, it occurs to me that we are talking about various values of "bad", when it comes to "bad experiences". No one wants to experience a genuinely dangerous encounter, myself included. We can all agree that such things are universally regarded as "bad". Fortunately, given the observance of common sense guidelines for female safety, the odds of such occurrences fall to insignificance. On the other hand, I live for the opportunities to make those who are "uncomfortable" with us squirm. Most of the time, eye contact and a pleasant smile is all it takes to make them realize that they are the only one having a problem. The pattern of behavior at that point is remarkably consistent. First, they break eye contact, and look down. Then they'll look around, at others in the room, restaurant, lounge, whatever. It's like they're seeking validation for their hatred. Finding none (almost always), they'll just sulk.
But that's me. Many here are just like Star01, and have never been out anywhere. No one goes out the first time (or three) with full confidence, and that is perfectly understandable. But if the mere possibility of being read or laughed at is that "bad", why subject yourself to it? Yes, that's a rhetorical question, my point being that some introspection may be in order. If you want to be out, fine, but why? What are you willing to sacrifice in order to do that? The perception of dignity should probably be high on your list. You will almost certainly be clocked, maybe even laughed at. If you can not abide that from complete strangers, stay in the closet. If you are willing to take such a "risk", you're likely to find a new kind of dignity, the kind that comes from holding your head high while being the person you want to be, despite the occasional boorish response to your presence. If you are not prepared for that kind of "bad experience", avoiding it altogether is, as I've said, perfectly understandable.
