When I began the journey to understand cross-dressing, my only goal was to resolve my personal problems. I was too needy myself to help others. Many organizations, books and people aided my quest and became my therapists on the road to understanding and acceptance. As my self-development progressed, I wanted to give something back to the community that had helped me.
My wife Marsha urged me to record what we were learning on our journey because she felt it would be helpful to others who were walking a similar path. I wanted to wait because I didn't have all the answers. Then I realized that no one else did either and nothing would ever happen if I waited. So I committed to start doing what I could.
At first I worried that one person couldn't do much but then remembered the movie, It's A Wonderful Life. George Bailey believed his life to be a failure but his guardian angel Clarence showed him the world as if he had never been born. The negative changes resulting from his absence were startling. Clarence told George that everyone's life touches many other lives and, if you aren't around to touch them, it leaves a big hole. I was determined not to leave a hole.
Many cross-dressers have serious issues ranging from excessive/compulsive behavior to guilt and denial. Many use clothing and makeup to block out reality. Others continuously suppress their true feelings. Tragic stories of addiction, depression, suicide and other destructive activities are commonplace so help is clearly needed.
While we probably can't become psychiatrists or social workers, we can show that we care. We can reach out in love and friendship and accept others as they are without judgment. We can show them how to express their feelings. We can encourage them to face their problems. We can be a coach, a cheer leader or a sounding board.
Although we can't do everything, we can follow Helen Keller's advice -- "I am only one; but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; I will not refuse to do the something I can do."
Someone, somewhere, is trying to take the same step you
just took.
If you don't help them, who else can?
You can help!
You must help!
We must all do what we can starting now!
