Reflection # 16

Reflection 16: What do you understand intersexuality and transexuality to be. Has your study of these topics been useful to you? How?

Several years ago I met a gentleman that informed me that he was having a sex change operation. This conversation took place while standing in line to register for classes. I remember wandering why this very tall, broad shouldered individual was speaking with such a feminine voice. This person was clearly a man dressed up as a woman in his gray knee length dress. I have to say that I thought he looked quite odd. He proceeded to tell me that he was taking hormones for his voice. His mannerisms and gestures were that as a woman. He further stated to me that he was saving up for a sex assignment operation. In my mind I was shouting what in the world is this person saying to me but I simply replied, very calmly, oh really , as if I had this conversation on a daily basis. A ton of questions was doing a 50 yard dash through my head but I felt not only uncomfortable with his announcement but also embarrassed for him and thought the polite thing to do was to just listen and fiend mild interest. I thought to myself that this person was insane. And I talked about that experience with my friends and I am compelled to say not very favorably.
Today, I am a more mature and educated individual. I have watched several television programs that address the topic of intersexuality and transexuality. I have read articles such as the ones assigned for this reflection and understand even more the plight of people with these transgender problems. They have difficult lives to live mainly because of society and very difficult decisions to make regarding treatment such as sex assignment operations. Many transsexuals do not even live to see their thirtieth birthday because they commit suicide. This is very disconcerting to me
In closing – people who are intersexual or transsexual are viewed on a vast spectrum where they are worshipped, idolized and adored or they are thought of as a freak of nature and are shunned. These perspectives stem primarily from cultural beliefs and ignorance. These transgender problems are bona fide medical problems that must be addressed so that the individual can live a good and productive life which is what we all want. I believe that education is the key to open minds and conversation regarding intersexuality and transexuality. Sometimes we must take the time and effort to understand something before saying off colored comments or passing judgment. I believe understanding of these disorders, acceptance and fair treatment will be appreciated by them and should in fact be the norm within an advanced society such as the world we live in.
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