Rescued

It felt the moment I came out, it was “welcome to the jungle, we got fun and games.” I was not ready for the fun and games. So-called friends told me I was confused and every bit a man. Close family gave up on me. But there was hope even in darkness.

A gender studies professor from Northern was by my side from the get go. So was a friend from work. However,  in Holland, it’s Dutch conservative Christian country. Can’t throw a rock without hitting a church. So, I kept on going, wondering who was by my side and who wasn’t.

In August, I heard about Out on the Lakeshore, and they have a community center in town. However, couldn’t go because of second shift.

In November, I heard about Gender SAFE, a trans support group. Couldn’t go in November because of overtime. PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians And Gays) was mentioned too, but because of OT, I couldn’t go.

Finally got on first shift, and the world opened up. Out on the Lakeshore had open hours from 5-7 PM on Tuesday, so one night, I went to check them out. Was welcomed with open arms. Decided I would keep going. Found they have drop in on Thursday nights as well, so now I go after work. Plus, one of the volunteers is a 6 time Ironman finisher, so I’m trying to befriend her.

Was told about Gender SAFE (Supporting All For Equality) on Saturday. First week of December, I went. Told them all about Amber Marie. Got hugged. They have a meeting the 3rd Friday of the month too, so I went. Told them that it was time to transition, and got a recommendation for a couple of endocrinologists.

PFLAG meets at 7 on the 3rd Friday of every month, and they welcomed me. A lot of parents kind of adopted me right then and there. We even go out afterward.

At work, in October, I came out to the HR manager at work. I work at Tyson Foods in Zeeland. She held me and told me I could come to work however I want.  The Chaplain and the HR Department all love me.

So I have hope, friends, energy, and allies. Transitioning to Amber Marie full time will still be living in the jungle, but now I know I’m not alone in the jungle.