Things transphobes have said to me

Reading back on my initial rant about the transphobic comments I've received, it's clear how deeply these words cut. It's more than just a passing remark; these statements, whether it's 'being trans is sick' or 'you're gonna burn in hell,' chip away at your sense of self and safety. It's an exhausting reality for many trans individuals, and I wanted to delve a bit deeper into why these specific phrases are so damaging and what they often miss. Let's tackle the religiously charged comments first, like 'Jesus can save you' or the outright threat of 'you're gonna burn in hell.' For many, religion is a source of comfort and guidance, but it's often weaponized against marginalized communities. As I mentioned, not everyone believes in the Bible, and even for those who do, interpretations vary wildly. The idea of 'transgender in the bible' is complex because the concept of gender identity as we understand it today simply didn't exist in ancient texts. Many faith leaders and theologians now argue that compassion, love, and acceptance are core tenets of their beliefs, and that God's creation is diverse, including trans people. These comments aren't about spreading faith; they're about judgment and control, aiming to instill fear rather than offer genuine spiritual support. Then there are the comments that attack one's very existence and understanding of self, like 'I'll never be a real man' or accusing me of 'rejecting my biological self,' often coupled with 'don't understand basic biology.' This is where I feel so much frustration. It's crucial to understand that gender identity is distinct from biological sex. Sex assigned at birth is based on physical characteristics, but gender identity is a deeply internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere else on the spectrum. Being a trans man isn't about rejecting my body's biology, but about aligning my physical and social presentation with my authentic internal self. Science increasingly supports the neurological and psychological basis of gender identity, showing that 'being trans biological' is a valid area of study and experience. It's not a choice or a delusion; it's a fundamental aspect of who I am, and to deny that is to deny my humanity. These remarks aim to invalidate, to make us feel lesser or confused. They reinforce harmful stereotypes and create an environment where simply existing as a trans person can feel like a battle. It’s hard enough navigating the world, and having strangers impose their narrow views, often based on misinformation or fear, makes it so much harder. But my body is my choice, my identity is my truth, and these comments, while painful, only strengthen my resolve to live authentically. To anyone out there facing similar remarks, know that your experience is valid, your identity is real, and you are not alone.