December 31, 2007 1:27 AM GMT
Hi Carolyn,
I also live in a very small community. One which has absolutely no understanding of the TG world, but thats another story.
I know Sue [hi hun!] said your profile stated Southend, when I just looked it said Douglas. Not being the brightest candle on the birthday cake, I racked my teeny brain and can only assume thats on the Isle of Man. Or a suburb of Southend.
Whatever it is, you want to go out.
Ok, you have a couple of choices. If you feel uncomfortable stepping out your front door as Carolyn then clearly you need to plan ahead and go by stealth.
I don't know what your income level is or your access to your own transport. But I'll assume its moderate and you have a car. Then the first thing I would do is find a decent gay venue a little way from where you live but close enough to commute to. Check it out. It does'nt matter if you're straight - just say no if the occasion arises! But its a place you can start being you. It may mean changing in your car or booking into a cheap B&B but you'll get to go out as you. And if you have a friend who knows and supports you as a CD, take him or her along too.
There's also a myriad of places - hotels, B&B's etc - catering exclusively for CD / TV's. So if you can't get to go out regularly, you can at least save up for a weekend away as you - and have something special to look forward to!
And these experiences, however you achieve them, will help build up your confidence and knowledge.
Like work, if you live in a rural or small community, sometimes you have to commute!
And take Nikki's advice [hi hun!] - keep out of the dodgy places!
Much love
Rae xx
January 1, 2008 12:56 AM GMT
Advanced senility is definitely setting in.
I have no idea where I got the Southend from. Please ignore everything I said, and I will quietly go away.
(My badge says Sue, so I guess that must be me)