Reply To: Dating While Transgender
clewisHi Angela,
In my days of being closeted, I occasionally dated. Over the years, there were a few women that I went out with for a few weeks at time, but nothing that ever really blossomed into what could be called a relationship. It was all rather unsatisfying.
I have been semiregularly active on traditional dating sites since the dawn of internet dating.
After I started coming out, I began to work this into my online profiles – photos, a passing but clear reference to being TG, etc. I felt it was only right under the circumstances.
Before long, straight men began to make contact and introduce themselves. I found it quite flattering and would always respond, as long as they were polite. (I quickly discovered that many men weren’t looking past the profile photo. But some did and I would occasionally receive very gracious compliments.)
Eventually a genuine gentleman did ask me out, having made clear that he had read my profile in detail. I accepted his invitation to meet for coffee one afternoon. It proved to be a very nice time. He was punctual, held doors for me, bought me a drink, and was respectful, courteous, conversational and attentive throughout. He even gave me a casual hug afterward, and we texted politely for a few days after that.
Even though it didn’t lead to a second date, it really was an eye opener, as I felt completely at ease and genuinely enjoyed the experience. The entire process seemed much more comfortable to me than how I had been doing things up to that point.
That was three years ago and since then, I have dated men exclusively. I’m amazed at how smooth the transition has been, and how natural it seems. No serious relationships have yet developed, but there’s always hope. Quality people are quality people, regardless of gender.
