Being trans isn’t a bad thing. I was reminded of this

Recently, I told my friend’s girlfriend (my ftm boyfriend’s close friend) that I’m also trans ftm. It was to reassure her that I understand the trans experience and will respect my boyfriend no matter what, but we weren’t explicitly talking about that. It was more like me nervously un-stealthing myself at a time I felt more comfortable. And her reaction will stick with me forever.

She said “Really? That’s so amazing. Congratulations.” She said it with such genuineness, and hugged me with what I would describe as excitement. She was happy for me.

Usually I’m met with disbelief, pity, or disgust when I out myself. Never in my life have I been met with that reaction. She was truly excited for me. She wasn’t condescending, and she didn’t treat it like it changed anything. She was just happy for me. For the progress I’ve made in my transition, for the self-advocacy I’ve learned to do, and just in general.

She reminded me of something I still have yet to fully learn: being trans isn’t a bad thing. It’s not just a minority status, or a medical complication that fucks you over. It’s an aspect of what (and/or who) we are. And it’s pretty damn cool.