Embracing My Identity: The Journey of Being True to Myself

REFLECTION

12/28/20232 min read

person holding blue green and orange beads
person holding blue green and orange beads

Since I was a young child, the idea of being a woman has always fascinated me. While it may be common for some men to explore their sexuality and later identify as gay, my interest in presenting as a woman persisted as I grew older. I never felt a connection to gay culture or the art of drag; instead, I longed to live a normal life as a woman, pursuing my dreams and career.

Despite the incredible advancements in medical science, I soon realized that biology and genetics would ultimately present a barrier that I couldn't overcome. Accepting this reality was a challenging journey, but it led me to discover a different path towards embracing my true self.

As I navigated through life, I found solace in exploring my identity and experiencing brief social and sexual periods of life as a woman. I immersed myself in literature, art, and conversations with others who shared similar experiences. These interactions helped me gain a deeper understanding of the diverse range of experiences and perspectives within the transgender community.

One of the most empowering realizations was that being a woman is not solely defined by biology. It encompasses a multitude of qualities, strengths, and experiences that transcend physical attributes. Embracing my femininity became less about conforming to societal expectations and more about embracing my unique journey.

While I may not have been able to physically transition, I found ways to express my true self in other aspects of my life. I focused on developing my music career, experimented with non-binary fashion, and found exciting ways to contribute to society and develop my skills. These efforts allowed me to feel more connected to my authentic self and helped me cultivate a sense of confidence and empowerment.

While there may still be moments of frustration and longing, I have come to realize that my identity is not solely defined by my physical appearance. It is a culmination of my experiences, emotions, and the relationships I build. By embracing my true self and finding strength in my unique journey, I have been able to live a fulfilling life and have hope for the future.

So, while biology and genetics may have presented a barrier, they haven't defined me. I am proud of the human I have become and continue to grow into, and I am grateful for the incredible support system that has helped me on this journey of self-discovery.