Perhaps that assertion isn't entirely fair; some have praised me for the role I play or once played in their lives. Daughter. Sister-of-sorts. Girlfriend. Confidant.
While it's wonderful to have the attention of others, it's frustrating having it if you're going to be put in some sort of categorial corner incessantly. It seems silly to lament the whole thing, doesn't it? We all do it to some degree.
I have come to recognize when certain people do it, whether consciously or not. Most of all, I am able to point out when I do it. It does make communication easier if you crave brevity, but it leaves lots of gaps as a result. The more gaps you leave, the harder it gets to fill them.
For the most part, I don't want to be a bother, so I don't mention that I'd prefer not to be called some things by just anyone. I shrug it off, and continue about my day.
This acquiescence may be seen as submitting, or even closeted behaviour. Be that as it may, I haven't got the time/patience to take issue with everyone that associates words or phrases with me out of their convenience.
I am alluding to gender.
I believe I have a mid-gender crisis, and I don't know how to convey this to people in a way that each of them (or even a good number) will understand. I'm still working it out myself.
Mind you, I said 'mid-gender'.
Genderqueer, or even genderblind, as I told a friend tonight. Neither male nor female. Don't want bottom surgery, but wouldn't mind top surgery if binding gets too tedious and if I can afford it.
That's right, surgery. I've thought it through that far.
Summer 2007, Los Angeles (Koreatown)
But there we are with the labels again. It all sounds so stereotypical to say 'I don't follow the norm', which is why I don't tend to say it. Saying such a thing would beg the question, 'what is normal?' and would you believe it, there are loads of ways one can answer. Fancy that!
All I know is that I wish to be appreciated for my non-physical traits first, and possibly forever. I also know the aforementioned is a lofty goal. It can't hurt to attempt to communicate that, and to tell those around me that femme is an act for me, a dramatic role. Femininity is a rare dish.
Summer 2007, Los Angeles (Downtown)
I'm working hard to find a balance while staying true to my core, as it evolves and takes shape -- that often starts simply keeping content with wearing the stuff I feel most comfortable in. I welcome opening up a dialogue with anyone who wishes to know more, and I feel as though I still have so much more to learn about this journey I'm currently on.
I won't cram my non-gender down your throat if you won't cram yours down mine. Deal?
