Living Boldly, Loving Fully: A Milestone In My Transition Journey

    Recently, I did something really big, for me. It was YUGE, as a certain asshole would say. I decided that since my breasts are getting big enough to be recognized for what they are, it wouldn't make any sense to act like they aren't there. I needed to get some yard work done and, as I was getting dressed to go outside and tackle the task, I told my wife that I wish I had something feminine to wear suitable for the task at hand. I started going through my drawers. Suddenly, there it was; a top I'd forgotten I had... a woman's pink, sleeveless polo. I exclaimed my joy... probably a bit more girlishly than I had intended. I immediately put it on over my salmon bra. I put my hair back, grabbed the key and a battery for the electric lawn mower and boldly stepped out the front door. After getting the lawn mower out of the garage and inserting both the battery and the key, I took my phone out of my pocket and took a couple of selfies. I just felt that the moment had to be documented. I sent the pictures to a handful of friends and family members who support my transition, and then set about the work I had to do. Even though the lawn mower ran quietly, I wasn't paying any attention to my phone and didn't notice when I got notifications in response to my pictures. When I had finished my morning's work, I took the time to check on my phone. A few people had already responded to the pictures, but none was as special as the reply I got from my youngest daughter who told me, "you look beautiful today." My heart soared! As you can probably imagine, that emboldened me. I went in and took a shower after which I put on a cute pair of jogging shorts and a form-fitting top with spaghetti straps. The top made it very obvious that my breasts are growing. I went out to sit on the front porch and enjoy the breeze. I didn't care who saw me, or what they thought of me or my breasts. I was happy!

    This moment represents a milestone in my journey—not just in how I express myself outwardly, but in the comfort I’ve found within. To step outside as a trans woman, dressed fully as I want, and to bask in the affirmation of loved ones, felt like claiming a piece of freedom that had been waiting for me all along.

    Beyond the personal significance, I think this milestone also highlights the importance of living authentically. When we give ourselves permission to express who we truly are, we open doors—not only for ourselves but for others who might be walking similar paths. Authentic living, while deeply empowering, is not always easy. It takes courage to stand up to societal expectations and to risk the judgments of strangers or even loved ones. But the rewards—the inner peace, the sense of self-worth, and those moments of connection with others—are immeasurable.

    Equally important is the support we receive from those around us. My daughter's simple yet heartfelt compliment, “you look beautiful today,” reminded me of how much even small gestures can mean. Affirmation and encouragement are powerful; they have the ability to lift us up when we might doubt ourselves and to propel us forward in our journeys. For those who want to support a loved one transitioning or exploring their authenticity, never underestimate the impact of kind words or actions. Just listening, validating their feelings, and expressing your pride in them can make all the difference.

    As I continue on my journey, I am learning to embrace these moments—not only for myself but for what they mean in a larger context. They are reminders that our identities, our truths, and our happiness matter. They matter deeply.

    So here I am, living boldly, loving fully. May this serve as a reminder to anyone reading that authenticity is worth celebrating, and support is worth giving. Let’s keep lifting each other up and making the world a kinder, braver place for all.