I'm afraid of coming out to others...
EleanorIshmael
April 19th
Just as the title says. I'm afraid of getting hurt or violence directed to me... I don't know what to do, and not being able to come out as who I am (I am a mtf transfem) is... Tearing my heart apart every day. If anyone wants to reach out to give me tips, tell me whatever, or make fun of me, go ahead... I really don't know what to do.
Aayla
April 19th
@EleanorIshmael I'm so sorry about how you feel. I know how hateful and oppressive society can be, so your feelings are totally legitimate, but it's so unfair and wrong that you have to feel like this when there's literally nothing wrong with who you are.
I know it might feel like there's no way out, but time and resources you'll find along the way can help you figure out your own path. For example, building yourself a support network can really make a difference. You'll feel less alone, and you'll know you have someone to rely on if things go bad. You can try reaching out to the LGBT community, if there are any associations near where you live, or you can try coming out to people in your life that you know would be supportive (and you can maybe test the water first by bringing up LGBT related topics and see how they react). You don't have to start with the toughest coming outs first.
Even if it's not safe to come out yet or if you don't feel ready, you can still try to find the time and place to express who you are, even just by making changes in your appearance and the way you deal with your body. It might not be much, but it can make you feel a little more free until you'll be in a better place to show your identity openly to everyone.
Whatever happens, don't let anything or anyone make you feel like there is something wrong with who you are. Your identity is perfectly fine, the problem is intolerance and hate, not who you are. You deserve happiness and freedom too, and I wish the best on your journey to get there.
