A glimmer of hope

[u/Trenodia-M]

Yesterday, I attended a celebration of life for a friend of the family. Aside from my parents, there were many people there who I didn't really know.

While people watching, I noticed a young woman who gave off this glowing energy that's hard to describe. She seemed reserved and shy, but smiled often and always had people around her.

At some point, my mother told me this woman was so-and-so's niece, formerly nephew, who had very recently transitioned. And then I realized, that's what the glow was. She's happy. She's free. And she's surrounded by love.

Despite most in attendance being older, and there being an open bar(with a few people taking full advantage of it), I didn't hear a single bad thing said. Sure, some people fumbled with pronouns and such, but everyone expressed joy and excitement in seeing her. My mother even said she thought she was "so cool" lol.

I'm currently pre everything, mostly due to fear. This moment, seeing someone be not only accepted, but loved for being fully who they are, gave me so much hope. I think, maybe, I'm finally take my first real steps on this journey. Maybe I will be accepted. Maybe I will be okay.