Reading some of the responses makes me sad. It would seem that the range of reactions are represented, and unfortunately some of them are dangerous. Some of my best friends are trans men and trans women, and they only want to be left alone to live their lives. They know their lives are in peril in many situations in public; even a peremptory look at the news gives all the evidence needed for this. As for being heroes and heroines, they are literally in a position where they don’t have any choice. It takes courage to live life this way, and even more to be an advocate. And they need all the allies they can get.

For anyone reading this who is on the other side of the fence from me do yourself a favor and read a few books. Start with Becoming Nicole, and then read She’s Not There. You may have a better understanding of the trauma involved in being a trans person, before and after transition. And the expense, both financial and personal. This is why I say they have no choice; I have heard that from my friends. No one would choose to go through what they have to go through. And yet with all that, and what the world throws at them, these people are among the most gentle, compassionate and intelligent that I know. I am blessed to know them, and I’m blessed to be able to learn from them.