On Transfolk

I couldn’t help but write a post here after I read the following quote (emphasis mine):

Everyone is in the process of becoming who they are; we all start as rough drafts and through the act of living and choices we make, refine who are [sic], hopefully getting closer to who we imagine we could be as we go. None of that is easy. Some people have further to go with that process than others, because of their own set of circumstances. I think if you’re a good person or are at least trying to be, when you see someone on that sort of journey, you encourage them when you can. And if they have come to a place where they are happy (or even just happier) with who they are, then you celebrate that with them.

I love this quote because although John was writing to explain what he meant by saying that he is supportive of transsexuals, the quote can be applied to pretty much everyone. I’ve held onto a similar sentiment for a long time with regards to getting older, actually: I feel that with each passing year I am coming to understand myself better and thus approach what I would consider to be my “true self.” I’ve certainly made a few missteps along the way, but as I look back I realize that I have undeniably made progress. Life really is a story that we tell ourselves and each other, for better or for worse.

Finally, for what it’s worth, I should say that I am entirely in agreement with John’s view of transfolk. I would be lying if I said that I understand how they feel, but I fully support their right to do so.