Though I am far along in my medical transition, there are still constant reminders of where I came from. My somewhat feminine shape is something I may always have to work on. I do find solace in seeing cisgendered males who have a similar shape to mine. I need to remember that all bodies are good bodies.

Every week I have to give myself an intramuscular injection in order to maintain and facilitate further physical changes to that of male representation. I've come a long way from the soft, young "boy" who was terrified by needles.

When I first started to notice facial hair growth, I was excited about the "necessity" of shaving. Though I still find the process somewhat soothing, I hate nothing facial hair. I think my bare face hinders my ability to be read as male. I really wish my father taught me the correct methods for shaving and facial hair care so I would feel less insecure about it.

I am very thankful to be able to use the bathroom of the gender I identify with... I'm not grateful for the mess that other people leave in said washroom. I'm constantly having to clean up after previous users just to do something all humans have to do.

When I first came out as trans, I ignored and sought to erase the fact that I had been born female and lived most of my life as one. I now embrace my childhood and past because I know they have helped me become the man I am today.