Welcome
to Miss Laura's TransTerrific Advice Column
Featured
Dilemma:
Telling Friends and Family
Laura's
column is now open to all
Transgendered Subjects
Dear
Marcia,
Sure, ask me an easy question. I'll be honest with you many
Transsexuals
will tell you that for most the hardest Part of transition is
coming out to
friends and family. While some have no problem at all and
are accepted
easily, others are greeted with anger and denial. Usually
some will accept
you warmly and some will reject you. The ones you think will be
the most
accepting may not and others will surprise you.
Since you seem to have made up your mind to transition anyway
your best
bet is to plan for the worst case scenario. The thing to
remember is that it is
YOUR life not anyone else's. You are not disappointing them, you
are
becoming you. They can't possibly feel your pain and anguish so
don't expect
them to. They are more shocked that they didn't see it coming
since they
thought they knew all about you. Surprise!
Your best bet is to get involved with groups of people like yourself
and make
a few good friends first so you have someone there for you if
the worst
happens. Some have tried letters with facts gathered on
the Internet to help
explain your position. A couple of weeks after sending your letters
or e-mails
try to see your family and friends to see where they stand. You
might as well
find out who's with you and who's against you. Bear in mind
that others may
come around eventually even if they are against you today.
Hang in there Hon and I'm sure you'll dodge whatever obstacles
they throw
at you. Good luck.
Dear
Miss Laura,
I
am transitioning soon
from male to female so I need to
tell my family and friends. I dread
this task. How do I break the news
to everyone. I'm planning on
transitioning no matter what they
say.
