Q:I think I'm the only person who feels like I'm a boy but not really a boy. Is there anyone else out there?A:
There are lots of people who feel like you. It may be hard to find them, though, because it can be hard talking about this kind of stuff. And, you won't know about someone else unless they tell you - there could be someone right in your city or town, or even in your class, but they may not feel comfortable sharing that part of themselves yet.
Some people aren't so good at talking about these sorts of things, and may even react with fear or violence. This makes it even harder for gender different people and their allies to meet each other. For this reason, sometimes people wait a long time to even try telling a very close friend.
Some schools have Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) or LGBT student clubs - groups for students who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, or allies. If you live near an LGBT community center or a college campus that has an LGBT Center, these might also be places to find out more.
A trusted supportive adult who cares about you - like a parent, family member, close adult friend, clergy person, counselor or medical provider - can sometimes be a great help in thinking things through. They may also know of trans youth groups, local LGBT centers, and other resources and ideas to help you connect.
The internet also makes it a lot easier to connect with other people just like yourself. Here are some places to start looking:
On the Web:
Books:
- Trans Forming Families: Real Stories About Transgendered Loved Ones, edited by Mary Boenke
- Mom, I Need To Be a Girl, by Evelyn Lindenmuth
- 'O Au No Keia: Voices from Hawai'I's Mahu and Transgender Communities, by Andrew Matzner
- Transgender Warriors : Making History from Joan of Arc to Dennis Rodman, by Leslie Feinberg
- Two-Spirit People: Native American Gender Identity, Sexuality, and Spirituality, edited by S. Jacobs,
- My Gender Workbook: How to Become a Real Man, a Real Woman, the Real You, or Something Else Entirely, by K. Bornstein
Many societies throughout history have recognized and celebrated gender diversity. With increased understanding and education, this society can be a more inviting and comfortable place for you to express all the parts of yourself. Start that process now by learning to understand and love yourself.
