This is a weird one, but I am just in the mood to hear some uplifting stories I guess. I am trans (ftm) and have one friend whos family I am out to. I have a very conservative and intolerant family myself, so the fact that theirs treats me like an extra son is just the most incredible feeling in the world. They ask me to help carry in groceries, call me masculine terms, and the dad always asks “So… any new girls in your life?” whenever i come round to visit. The brother talks to me like I’m one of the boys.

Being trans is not easy at all, both in real life and online. And I’ve seen a whole lot of negativity (albiet often jokingly) directed toward tguys especially. Even in the most lefty feminist spaces. Ive often been told that me transitioning means the world is “loosing another lesbian” or like I’m somehow ashamed of my birthsex. It makes me feel rubbish if im honest. It makes me feel like I’m just trying to take the “easy way out” even though all I’m being is myself. I know its all jokes, but I no longer feel comfortable coming out to people and having the immediate reaction being “ew, so youre a straight man now?”. I know its in jest, but it just feels like transphobia hidden behind a veil of feminist values. I sometimes use mascara to add fake fluff to my face and my sibling says I look like a pedophile or something. I just want to feel like myself.

But having a family like that supporting me, treating me the way I want to be treated… it just feels so nice and comforting. It makes seeing my own younger brother (cis) begin to have the body and voice I desperately want but cant have just a bit easier.

Thats all, man. I love masculinity when its utilized in healthy ways. I cannot wait to finally be myself and have the body I want. I know this isnt really the place for “trans joy” but. I dont know. I guess its just some thoughts I have on the demonization of masculinity whether intentional or not.