Faith, Reason, and the Journey to Authenticity

    When I shared that I believe God put me on this path to accepting my gender, I knew I was speaking my truth. It was a moment of authenticity, of embracing the journey I believe is meant for me. But like clockwork, the responses came—messages filled with scripture, videos from ministers who speak with certainty yet seem to understand so little about the realities of trans life.

    It’s a pattern so many of us know: faith wielded not as a source of love, but as a weapon of authority. But faith, at its core, should be an evolving dialogue between the divine and the self—not a rigid doctrine passed down without question.

The Intersection of Faith and Reason

    Thomas Jefferson once wrote:

"Fix reason firmly in her seat, and call to her tribunal every fact, every opinion. Question with boldness even the existence of a god; because, if there be one, he must more approve the homage of reason, than that of blindfolded fear."

    His words resonate deeply in this moment. Faith should not demand blind obedience; it should invite exploration. If there is a higher power, wouldn’t they want us to seek understanding rather than accept dogma without question? Wouldn’t they want a faith based on love, growth, and truth rather than fear?

    And yet, so many who claim moral authority over trans lives operate from precisely that fear—fear of difference, fear of change, fear of questioning the narratives they’ve been handed.

The Reality They Refuse to See

    What is often missing in these religious arguments is lived experience. The ministers flooding my inbox with videos do not know what it is to feel at odds with their own body, nor do they know the joy of finally stepping into their truth. They do not understand the courage it takes for trans people to embrace who we are despite societal pressure to conform.

    Yet, they speak with certainty—as if scripture alone can replace the reality of human experience. As if faith is meant to be rigid, rather than evolving in response to the world around us.

My Faith, My Path

    I cannot say whether those who preach at me will ever come to understand that trans people are not rejecting God, but rather walking toward the divine in a way that feels true. What I do know is that I will not let their fear-based doctrine dictate my journey.

    Faith should be a conversation, not a closed door. And reason is a gift—not an enemy.

    For those willing to listen, I welcome the dialogue. For those locked in dogma, I hope they one day find the courage to question. Because, as Jefferson wisely stated, "the homage of reason" is far greater than the fear of uncertainty.

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