Thank you for writing this article. I know I learned a lot about the struggles a trans-woman may have to face; and I think it’s both bold and respectable that you have decided to not follow through with any type of sex change, for the time being, at least.

I was literally just thinking, “If society dictates that having a sex change is the only way for young trans people to feel happy, then what’s going to happen to all of the young trans teens that can’t afford this type of therapy/treatment/procedure?” They’ll get depressed most likely.

One thing I’ve learned about depression is that unless you deal with it internally, then it will always linger. Having a major lifestyle change, or even getting a new job that you don’t hate so much, can definitely help with depression, but it won’t completely eradicate it. It’s not healthy to keep telling yourself, “If only I had a million dollars/if only I had that girl’s affection and love/if only I could be a girl/if only I had x,y, and z, then I’d be happy.”

Truth is, happiness needs to come internally first. I keep falling into the trap of thinking that if only I’d become a successful author (success meaning I’m financially secure enough that I don’t need to have a traditional job — I’m not talking millions here), then I’ll be happy. While I’m sure this would be nice, and that I’d appreciate it, I have to keep reminding myself that sometimes success destroys some people. Example: every young popstar… ever!

My first book wasn’t, and still isn’t, that successful. I used to get depressed because of this, but, truth being told, I wouldn’t be the author that I am today if it was a huge success. If I had millions of fans looking forward to my next piece, then I’d limit myself, my art. I wouldn’t be as bold as I am. I would be too scared to piss somebody off, and I can’t have that. An artist needs to be free — free to express themselves.

Success can sometimes be a shackle.

Maybe I’ll never be a famous author, but mark my words, people will talk about me and my work after I’m dead. I guarantee that my work will make a positive impact on this world after I’m gone… and my challenge is accepting that I’ll probably never see this fame or success during my time. But maybe I will. Who knows.

But anyways, enough about how awesome I am, best of luck to you in all that you do.

But back to me: I’d love for you to check out my book, 665, on Amazon.

Back to you: au revoir!

Back to me: I’m basically the second best author ever. (And if I’m not now, then I certainly will be in the future!)

(Note: I’d like to think I’m being sarcastic and that I’m not actually this self-centered… but perhaps I’m wrong.)

Take care! Look forward to your next post!