After transitioning, MtoF, in 1993, I've explored many sides of the issue. These days I find it amusing that people are still having their various insecurities tweaked and lashing out at each other. Some have enough self-control to remain scholarly in their 'deportment', some react a bit more primally, but they both scream out their major insecurities loud and clear.
Because I get my medical care from the VA, I sometimes go through a period of suggested therapy,(with therapists who know nothing about the subject).
The last one, a few years ago, asked me, "Louise, do you think that you were born this way, or that your childhood environment made you this way?"
I replied, "****, the question is irrelevant. I am who I am, right now. The only important question is, 'what do I do now?' Right now, this very moment, is the only time I have available to me to do anything. My purpose is to take care of myself, mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually, so that I can be a productive and useful member of society. Hopefully I can help a few people along the way. Perhaps leave my little corner a bit better than I found it. 'Chicken or Egg' questions I'll leave to those who enjoy arguing."
I should make a disclaimer sort of statement: I never had much in the way of testosterone, just below the lower level limit for men. Consequently, I never developed brow ridges or especially broad shoulders, or anything else that screamed "male". I was a pretty boy and a pretty young lady. I simply took estradiol and in several months...poof! It's a girl!
A genetic anomaly? Screwy hormones in the womb? We'll never know, and I don't need to.
I love me just the way I am.
Thanks for the essay/shout;)
--weezi--💜🌈🙏🏼🌻