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I think you're completely justified in your hurt feelings and stress.

Warren, I completely agree with Karen's comments, especially the need for medical support from somewhere for people who are suffering and can't afford what they need. At times I almost hope the republicans kill off Obamacare so that another push for socialized medicine might happen (with all of the people who would suddenly find themselves not covered it could happen). I found over time that most of my anger comes from a general feeling of powerlessness (pretty intense at times). And you're right, it's absurd to think that someone would "choose" to be transgender when that would only make the feeling worse. Ultimately I know the only thing I can really control is my own response to things - but that is far easier said than done. Please do keep writing! I think it helps to share feelings, and you never know when you'll get some helpful feedback. (And I think the way the system works now is that the latest blog entries do go at the time of the list, so no need to worry about people seeing your entries) xoxo Christie

Warren. I honestly feel for you and others who are in the same predicament, can't imagine the pain and hardship you are going through and pray that somehow things will get better for you. This is a clear case where there should be a program from the government or insurance that would take care of your needs as it seems other things that is done for people with aliments are handled that are not gender related. Society believes (because they are not educated on transgender) we who are transgender can shrug these feels off by flipping a switch if we really wanted to yet the reality is that switch is non-existing and that it only gets worst as we grow older.

Dear Brigsby, What you describe is not only transphobic insensitivity, but also adult sibling bullying, which is more common than you may think. Have three brothers and a half brother that bullied me as a child and as an adult. Children do not automatically outgrow sibling rivalry. The good news it, often, it DOES get better. Please give it time and do everything you can to not let her have the satisfaction of getting under your skin. Forgive me, but play deaf, dumb and blind. In one ear and out the other. My brothers would humiliate me in public (even as adults!) and they only made a fool of themselves. You have "brothers" and "sisters" here at TGGuide who accept you for who you are! Yours truly, Monica

"She called me by my birth name over text (because she doesn't like to hear the truth when she asks my opinion, apparently). I corrected her, and her response was, "well it's not official yet!"" While I'm sure this probably stung, maybe it's not as bad as it seems. I questioned my brother's actions a few years ago, but members helped me pretty much see that he most likely really didn't mean anything. I think the biggest problem was that I called him on something, and he became defensive. That could be where your sister's comment, "well it's not official yet," came from. That doesn't excuse it, but it might explain it. "This is the most shocking because she has actually had diversity and sensitivity training with her job, which included an LGBTQ section and focused on transgender discrimination." Now that I've somewhat defended her... I will say this much about employer-mandated sensativity training: such training is not going to change someone who doesn't want to be changed. And really, I'm pretty sure that sending employees to sensativity training is just a company's way of covering it's rear, to make sure their employees treat "anyone different" respectfully. It's to cut down on grievances and possible lawsuits. Sensativity training normally is not elective. Too often, many people don't like being forced to go to them. And most of them see it as a challenge to their [sorry] character. Hopefully she'll come around. -Michael

Karen and Eve, Thank you both for your comments! Fear is definitely the big thing, but I know I can work through that And Eve, the "o's" in "xoxo" are hugs xoxo Christie

Good idea Eve, I had a similar thought about going to a smaller size but had issues finding extra small in a style I liked. I did go with a smaller size gaff that I had made especially for me which worked and then improved on it by pulling a boy shorts Spanx on top which assisted with me teaching self-defense classes as without the Spanx no tucking would had worked for eight hours of hand to hand tactics training. Staying with thongs, I purchased two more pairs today via Amazon Prime since they had pink and none of the stores here did.

Christie, I bet that a great emotional high in regards to "is everything OK here ladies?" and especially when not in full femme presentation. In the beginning they are moments to treasure and down the road you will surely find it commonplace which should still bring a smile be it inside and/or outside as it makes us less of a role and more of the person you were striving to be but now it's simply a compliment that the waiter is being courteous to whom is at the table and you will forget about the passing aspect altogether.

Karen, This was such a great entry! I especially look forward to your new posts based on where you are in transitioning as I start to look much more seriously at my own. It's enlightening to see where I could be in a couple of years (obviously everyone's experience is different, but certain issues, concerns and joys are no doubt shared by many!) At lunch the other day the waiter came up to me and my co-worker and said "is everything OK here ladies?" I was quite happy about that, especially since I wasn't in full femme presentation! Xoxo Christie