It's been nearly a month since Carol Dee asked if we are doing OK. Today I feel more apprehensive than usual, just a general anxiety, which is pretty rare for me.
Actually, my barely-teen grand daughter announced this week that she feels like she is really a boy, inside. She would like to be referred to as "he" and "him", rather than feminine pronouns. That is all that is being asked for right now. I have noticed for several years that she (he) is not thrilled with all the girly things that is usually exciting for girls that age. She is athletic, blunt and a little obnoxious. That sounds like a barely-teen boy, right?
I know that this could be a phase she is going through. Figuring out how much advantage boys have over girls in so many areas, she was depressed about growing up even 3 years ago. Things could change with time. I don't want her to burn any bridges while she figures herself out.
I am still trying to digest this, fearful for what it will mean to her in school, in trying to get a job later on, in all aspects of life that we take for granted.
And, it's not "my problem", really. I will still love that child no matter what happens. The pain and frustration she will go through will hurt me, too, though.
"I feel your pain" is not just a catchy phrase.