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I don't believe in a one size fits all prescription for transition. I was never a fan of the Benjamin Standards of Care. I recall flipping back and forth between male and female in my early transition stages. Like you, eventually I was passing as female even when I was trying to pass as male. One day I made the decision to transition completely and I never looked back. My life has been more fulfilling and successful since my transition than it ever was prior. I believe one of the keys is acceptance of responsibility for my own happiness and success. It's been a matter of doing what I need to do. Being female hasn't always been a perfect fit for me, and my transition certainly wasn't perfect -- but I have worked it out and life is pretty darn near perfect now. :)

Good for you, Karen, good for you. We have to always be our own advocates and not simply accept what authority dictates. Fortunately it sounds like yours was open to discussion. If not it's time to move on. I'm excited for you. What a great 2015 to look forward to! Emma

Hey Warren, Yes, these forms and so forth are a drag. And I agree that the people at the clinics can be kind of weird and intimidating. Like you said, if you're going there what does that say about you? Nothing, nada, zippo. You're you, you're here, and we love you. That's all I have to say. Well, not everything. Like I wrote the other day, take a breath, have a cup of coffee. Smoke 'em if you got 'em. (If you do smoke; don't start because I said so!) One idea is to think of some of the things you can be grateful for. Such as: - Your mother. Sure, she's a pain at times, but like you said, you love her. What is it mostly that you love about her? - Your father. I guess it's been a long time since he died. But maybe you have some good memories or stories about him? - Your boss at work. Hey, he didn't fire you, right? I don't know, Warren, shoot, I'm sitting here at my computer and thinking about you. Watch the video at the link I sent to you. The woman, Brynn, is an MTF so she's not exactly like you, sure. But she speaks the truth for all of us, I think. I hope you'll find some inspiration there. You're a good person, Warren, I can tell. Best, Emma

RachealDenae, I feel that the transgendered are among the strongest people I know, and I am very familiar with the entire LGBTQ spectrum. Strong people are neither independent (I don't need anyone!) or dependent (constantly seeking reassurance), but INTERDEPENDENT, recognizing no one is an island, that everyone sometimes needs help and also has the obligation to reach out a helping hand on occasion. You are wise to be here at TGGuide, as most of the people here are trustworthy, and ALL the moderators are definitely trustworthy. My experience with TG support groups has only been in Tampa Bay, Florida, but found them to be a very positive experience. Think everyone needs a mix of online support as well as face to face support. It will take time, but it will be well worth your while to explore this website, even posts that are several years old can be informative and useful. Do come here every day, if you can. We care.