I’m a 43-year-old trans man. I transitioned nearly 20 years ago. It took me years to have the language. It took me even more years to access care.

But if I could, I’d simply just be. I wouldn’t have to come out. I wouldn’t have to find any language because I was who I’ve always been. I didn’t go from one thing to another thing.

I’ve always been right here - I just was able to make modifications to my body and identity so others could see me better.

I definitely didn’t ask or expect to be at the center of a national debate. In the time since I transitioned I’ve:

- had three different careers, including 5-10 freelance gigs.

- finished two degrees

- became a parent

- bought two houses

- paid an insane amount of taxes

- got married and separated

- been brokenhearted

- been betrayed

- wrote and wrote and wrote

- celebrated many birthdays and holidays

- cried at every single dog recovery video

- been rejected too many times to count in a variety of ways

- been held

Simply lived.

I’d like to continue to keep doing that. Just live without the constant chatter about what I do and don’t deserve.

I’ve had this unshakable sense of self since I was small.

Trans or not, I’m still here and I’m me.